ATHE Level 4 Extended Diploma in Law
Course Introduction
The ATHE Level 4 Extended Diploma in Law is a 120-credit Ofqual regulated qualification and is the equivalent level to the first year of a university degree.
Course Objectives
Learning Objectives
- Develop a comprehensive understanding of the UK legal system, its institutions, sources of law, and key principles including the constitution, rule of law, and separation of powers.
- Gain foundational knowledge of major areas of law — contract law, criminal law, and public law — including their principles, key cases, and practical applications.
- Build skills in legal research, reasoning, and analysis, enabling accurate interpretation and application of legislation and case law to real or hypothetical scenarios.
- Enhance abilities in legal communication, both written and oral, through constructing coherent legal arguments, presenting evidence, and drafting structured legal documents.
- Prepare for progression to higher legal studies (e.g., Level 5 Diploma or LLB Top-Up) and for roles requiring sound legal understanding and critical thinking skills.
Entry Requirments
This course is intended for individuals aged 18 and above. The typical entry requirements include:
A GCE Advanced Level profile with achievement in 2 or more subjects, supported by 5 or more GCSEs at grade C/4 or above
A Level 3 qualification in Law or Legal Studies (e.g., ATHE Level 3 Diploma in Law)
An Access to Higher Education Certificate
Equivalent international qualifications
English Language Requirements (if applicable):
IELTS 5.5
CEFR Level B2
Cambridge English Advanced (CAE): 162+
Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic: 42–49
Eligibility Criteria
Intended Learner
Entry Profile
This diploma is suitable for:
- School leavers interested in pursuing a career in law
- Adult learners or professionals seeking a formal legal qualification
- International students looking for a pathway to a UK law degree
- Aspiring solicitors, legal assistants, or paralegals
Key Insights
Summary-Key Takeaways
- 120 Credit Hours
- 4 Mandatory Modules
- Graded: Pass, Merit, Distinction
- Ofqual-Regulated Qualification by ATHE (UK)
- Equivalent to Year 1 of a UK LLB Degree
- Flexible Delivery: Classroom, Distance Learning, or Blended
- Eligible for Advanced Learner Loans in the UK
Course Summary
Study Modules
Mandatory Units
- Contract Law: Develop knowledge of the key principles of contract law, including contract validity, terms, breach, and available remedies.
- Criminal Law: Understand general criminal liability and major types of offences, including their elements and applicable defences.
- Legal Methods: Learn how to identify, interpret, and apply legal sources and materials to real-world problems with clarity and precision.
- Public Law: Explore the foundations of constitutional and administrative law in the UK, with emphasis on parliamentary sovereignty, separation of powers, and human rights.
Pathway
Graduates of this course can:
- Progress to the ATHE Level 5 Extended Diploma in Law
- Advance to an LLB Top-Up degree with a range of UK universities
- Begin a career in legal support roles such as legal assistant or paralegal
- Pursue further qualifications in areas such as business law, criminal justice, or international law