0

ATHE Level 5 Extended Diploma in Law

Advance your legal knowledge with the ATHE Level 5 Extended Diploma in Law. Develop critical thinking, understand legal systems, and enhance career prospects with practical, career-focused learning designed for aspiring professionals.

ATHE Level 5 Extended Diploma in Law

Overview Of ATHE Level 5 Extended Diploma in Law

The ATHE Level 5 Extended Diploma in Law is an Ofqual-regulated, 120-credit qualification designed for aspiring legal professionals who want a flexible, cost-effective route to a UK Law degree. Equivalent to the second year of a university undergraduate programme, this course bridges the gap between foundational knowledge and the final stages of a Bachelor of Laws (LLB). 

The course covers key areas of legal study, including Equity and Trusts, EU Law, Land Law, and the Law of Tort, helping learners build a broader understanding of legal principles and their application in different contexts. It also develops critical thinking, legal research, and analytical skills that are valuable for further study and professional development.

Special Offer: A discount on course fees is available on request. Please contact our admissions team to see if you are eligible.

Take the next step in your legal journey. Earn your diploma, save on tuition fees, and graduate with a full UK Law degree.

The course was audited and updated on: 18th May, 2026

Learning Outcomes of ATHE Level 5 Extended Diploma in Law

  • Evaluate the principles of the UK and EU legal systems.
  • Analyse legal concepts, cases, and legislation using appropriate legal reasoning
  • Critically analyse legal theories and apply them to complex scenarios.
  • Strengthen critical thinking and academic study skills relevant to higher education
  • Develop the academic writing and research techniques essential for a legal career.

Guided Learning Hours (GLH) & Total Qualification Time (TQT)

The ATHE Level 5 Extended Diploma in Law requires 1200 hours of Total Qualification Time (TQT), equivalent to 120 credits (where one credit equals 10 hours of learning).

This time is divided into two categories:

Guided Learning Hours (GLH): 480 Hours

These are the hours where you are under the immediate guidance or supervision of a tutor or training provider. This includes, Structured Learning, Tutor Support, Assessment Guidance and Review sessions following the submission of your internally assessed work.

Independent Study: 720 Hours

These are the estimated hours you will spend learning independently to meet the qualification standards. This includes, Your research, Assignment Preparation, Self-Directed Study etc. 

Note: The actual time taken may vary. These figures are estimates based on the average learner; your prior experience, learning style, and depth of engagement with the material may result in you completing the qualification in more or less time.

Accreditation & Certification

It is important to understand the roles of the organisations involved in your studies:

This qualification is awarded by ATHE, an Ofqual-regulated awarding organisation that owns the qualification, sets the standards and issues the final certificate. One Education delivers the course through flexible online learning, providing study materials, tutor support, assessments, and learner support throughout your studies.   

Method of Assessment

There are no formal exams for this qualification. Instead, you will be assessed through internally assessed assignments for each of the four units. This practical approach allows you to demonstrate your legal expertise through real-world applications rather than memorising facts for a single test.

How Assessment Works:

Unit-by-Unit Evaluation: Each of the four units is assessed independently. You will complete one comprehensive assignment per unit, designed to showcase your understanding of key legal outcomes.

Constructive Feedback: Your dedicated tutor will review your work against the official ATHE criteria, providing feedback to help you refine your academic and legal writing skills.

Diverse Methods: You won’t just write essays. To prepare you for the legal profession, assessments include:

  • Legal Reports: Draft professional documents on complex legal issues.
  • Case Study Evaluations: Analyse real-life scenarios and apply relevant case law.
  • Research Projects: Conduct deep-dive investigations into specific legal frameworks.
  • Portfolios of Evidence: Compile a body of work that proves your competency across multiple legal disciplines.

Grading:

Your overall qualification grade is calculated based on your performance across all four units. The grading structure is:

  • Pass: 160–198 points (40 points per unit at pass level)
  • Merit: 199–250 points (53 points per unit at merit level)
  • Distinction: 251+ points (66 points per unit at distinction level)

Who Is This Course For?

This qualification may be suitable for:

  • Learners wishing to progress towards an LLB top-up degree
  • Individuals interested in developing legal knowledge and academic skills
  • Adult learners returning to education
  • Professionals working in legal or administrative environments
  • Learners seeking an Ofqual-regulated law qualification
  • Individuals considering future study in law, business, public services, or related fields
  • International learners seeking a UK-regulated qualification

The course is designed to support flexible online learning and can suit learners balancing study alongside work or personal responsibilities. 

Entry Requirements

This qualification is intended for learners aged 19 and above. Applicants should typically hold a Level 4 qualification in Law or a related subject, or an equivalent international qualification.

Learners whose first language is not English should have English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 5.5, CEFR B2, CAE 162+, or PTE Academic 42–49.

For Mature Learners:

You may present a more varied profile of achievement that is likely to include relevant work experience (paid or unpaid) with levels of responsibility and/or achievement of relevant professional qualifications. This may be used for recognition of prior learning (RPL). For example, experience as a paralegal, legal secretary, court staff, or in compliance and regulatory roles can demonstrate the foundational knowledge needed.

Initial Assessment:

Our admissions team will review your prior qualifications and experience to ensure you have the necessary background knowledge and study skills for Level 5 study. We will discuss any support you might need, including study skills development or subject-specific tutoring. If you have exceptional circumstances or non-traditional entry, we encourage you to contact us to discuss your individual situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. A Level 5 Extended Diploma in Law is a recognised pathway to university. Because it is equivalent to the second year of a degree, it typically allows you to enter the final year (Year 3) of an LLB (Hons) “Top-up” programme at several UK universities.

It is equivalent to the second year of a UK undergraduate degree. In academic terms, it sits at the same level as a Diploma of Higher Education (DipHE) or a Higher National Diploma (HND) on the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF).

To get a UK law degree (LLB), you can either take the traditional three-year university route via UCAS or fast-track your studies through our ATHE Level 5 Extended Diploma in Law. Our pathway covers the equivalent of the first two years of university, allowing you to enter directly into the final year of an LLB. After graduating, you simply complete professional training like the SQE or Bar Practice Course to qualify as a lawyer.  

Yes. The ATHE Level 5 Extended Diploma in Law is an Ofqual-regulated qualification, meaning it meets robust quality standards and is recognised across the UK and internationally. Employers in law firms, in-house legal teams, and compliance functions recognise it as evidence of serious legal knowledge and study capability.

Yes. If you have prior learning or experience that is relevant to specific units, you may be able to claim RPL, which could reduce the volume of work required. We recommend discussing this with our admissions team before you enrol. ATHE has a detailed RPL policy that we can discuss with you.

Whilst a Level 4 law qualification is the typical entry route, mature learners with substantial relevant work experience may be considered. For example, experience as a paralegal, legal secretary, court staff, or in regulatory and compliance roles can demonstrate the foundational knowledge and study capability needed. We encourage you to contact our admissions team to discuss your individual situation.

Course fees vary depending on the payment plan you choose. A discount on course fees is available on request. Please contact our admissions team to discuss pricing options and to see if you are eligible for any discounts.

Course Curriculum

Induction form
Induction Form 00:05:00
Registration Entry Form
Registration Entry Form 00:05:00
Unit 1: Equity and Trusts
Learner Manual
Learning Outcomes and Assessment Criteria 00:00:00
Indicative Contents 00:00:00
Suggested Resources 00:00:00
Assignment
Assignment 00:00:00
Unit 2: EU Law
Learner Manual
Learner Manual and Assessment Criteria 00:00:00
Indicative Content 00:00:00
Suggested Resouces 00:00:00
Assignment
Assignment 00:00:00
Unit 3: Land Law
Learner Manual
Learning Outcomes and Assessment Criteria 00:00:00
Indicative Content 00:00:00
Suggested Resources 00:00:00
Assignment
Assignment 00:00:00
Unit 4: Law of Tort
Learner Manual
Learning Outcome and Assessment Criteria 00:00:00
Indicative Content 00:00:00
Suggested Resources 00:00:00
Assignment
Assignment 00:00:00
Submit Your Assignments : ATHE Level 5 Extended Diploma in Law
Submit Your Assignments : ATHE Level 5 Extended Diploma in Law 00:00:00
sidemoneyBack
Trustpilot
top
Home Courses Search