Professional Diploma in Professional Skills for International Lawyers (DPSIL) PGDip
- Level(s) of Study: Practitioner
- Start Date(s): At any time
- Duration: At the student's own pace
- Study Mode(s): Part-time
- Campus: City Campus
- Entry Requirements:
More information
Introduction:
Are you a law graduate from an international jurisdiction and English is your second language? Do you want to learn about and practise transferable legal skills which build on your academic study of the law and will equip you to develop as an effective international lawyer?
If the answer is yes, then this course is for you. It will provide you with the knowledge and skills that are relevant to a career in international professional legal practice.
The course focuses on your journey from learning about the fundamental English law of obligations to the enforcement of that law in the jurisdiction of England and Wales and internationally. You will be introduced to the practical legal skills needed by every international lawyer to be effective in the delivery of legal services to clients.
No prior knowledge of the English Legal system is required. You will learn about this as the course progresses. The course also incorporates the teaching of English language skills relevant for communication in an international context.
What you’ll study
The course is designed to incrementally build your confidence in the performance of your legal skills.
There are three stages:
You will consider legal systems, business structures, commercial awareness, and the basic principles of the English law of obligations and also in the EU. You will also practise your English language skills.
You will be immersed in the skills of drafting, for example – letters, legal documents, and emails. You will engage in legal research, case analysis, advocacy, interviewing clients, and negotiation. You will also practise your English language skills.
You will practise the skills learnt in stages 1 and 2 in the context of two short modules: (i) International Dispute Resolution and (ii) Intellectual Property Law within the context of WIPO.
How you’re taught
Throughout the course, you will engage in workshops and group work which include real-life simulated problem-solving exercises. The short lecture sessions are led by tutors to introduce you to the subject and skills that you will then practise in the subsequent group work session.
You will be encouraged to reflect upon what you have learned in each session, noting what went well and/or how your performance in the skill might be improved next time you practise the skill on the course or in your own legal practice.
Teaching will be supplemented by additional activities including guest lectures and visits to court.
In order to optimise your experience in this course, specialised English Language and Study Skills sessions have been designed and will be delivered by the expert faculty of the Nottingham Institute of Language and Intercultural Communication.
How you’re assessed
At the end of each stage, you will be formally assessed to establish your progress on the course and any additional support you might need.
Stage 1 is assessed by online multiple-choice questions.
Stage 2 is assessed by a reflective e-portfolio containing your reflections on the skills you have learned in each session.
Stage 3 is assessed by a Reflective Report where you will build upon your reflections in stage 2 within the context of the advanced skills exercises in stage 3. You will also consider how the development of these skills will be transferred into your own legal practice.
Careers and employability
Successful completion of this course will enhance your legal practice in your jurisdiction and create opportunities for legal practice internationally.
Campus and facilities
Entry requirements
- IELTS 6.5 with minimum of 5.5 in each component
- Completion of academic stage (i.e. a first degree in law) in your jurisdiction
Find out more about English Language requirements at NTU.
Fees and funding
For the 2024/2025 academic year, the fee is £24,000.
Living costs
Get advice on the cost of living as an international student in Nottingham and how to budget:
Paying fees
Find out about advanced payments, instalment plan options and how to make payments securely to the University:
How to apply
This course is for law graduates from an international jurisdiction with English as their second language.
Apply directly to the University online using the NTU online application portal.
Apply for your course as early as you can so that you have time to prepare for your studies. If you need a visa to study here you need to plan this into your application.
For a step by step guide on making an application to the University please visit our how to apply page.
For advice on applying for a visa please visit our visa information page.
Keeping up to date
After you’ve applied, we’ll be sending you important emails throughout the application process - so check your emails regularly, including your junk mail folder.
Would you like some advice on your study plans?
Our international teams are highly experienced in answering queries from students all over the world.
- Complete this simple form to keep in touch with the International Office.
The University's commitment to delivering the educational services advertised.