• Access Duration:  2 Years
• Awarded by: ATHE
• Qualification Level:  Level 5
• Qualification Number: 610/5953/5
• Guided Learning Hours (GLH): 480
• Total Qualification Time (TQT): 1200
• Credits: 120

• Understand and apply legal principles in more complex situations.
• Analyse legal issues critically and communicate reasoned responses, using evidence.
• Use practical legal skills like legal research, drafting documents, advocacy, and presenting legal arguments professionally.
• Analyse advanced areas of law like tort, land, equity and trusts and EU law.
• Develop professional legal communication with clear writing and legal reasoning

• Students aiming to enter the final year of a law degree (LLB)
• Aspiring paralegals or legal professionals
• Learners from a Level 3 or Level 4 law qualification.
• Professionals who want a deeper understanding of how the law affects business, compliance, or public services.

• This qualification is designed for learners who are typically aged 19 and above.
• The entry profile for learners is likely to include at least one of the following:
  • A Level 4 qualification in law or legal studies.
  • Equivalent qualifications or prior learning that demonstrate readiness for Level 5 study.
  • Relevant work experience or professional experience may also be considered for mature learners.
• Learners must also have an appropriate standard of English.

• This course can be completed through two flexible study options to suit your lifestyle:
  • Standard Course Plan (6 months) – ideal for learners balancing other commitments.
  • Fast Track Option (3 months) – perfect for those who can dedicate intensive study time.
• Most learners complete within their chosen timeframe, though some may finish earlier depending on personal circumstances and available study time. We accommodate your pace with unlimited support for 24 months. This Level 5 Extended Diploma requires approximately 480 guided learning hours.

T&C apply

• No formal exams: There are no end-of-course exams.
• Assignment-based assessments: Assignments may include written analysis, application of legal principles and use of relevant case law and legislation.
• Internal Assessment: Your work is marked internally by South London College.
• Grading: Each unit is graded as Pass, Merit or Distinction, with the final qualification grade determined by the total points achieved across the qualification.

The ATHE Level 5 Extended Diploma in Law gives you a strong foundation in the UK legal system and essential legal skills. This course is perfect for anyone aiming to progress in law or law-related fields.

Next Steps for a Potential Academic Progression Pathway  

• Step 1 – LLB (Hons) Bachelor of Laws
• Step 2 – Master of Law (LLM)
• Step 3 – PhD in Law / Doctoral Research

Alternative Pathways:

• Level 5 Diploma for Senior Associate Paralegals
• NALP Level 6 Diploma for Paralegal Practitioners

Completing the ATHE Level 5 Extended Diploma in Law builds on your existing legal knowledge and helps you move closer to professional legal roles.

Here are some career opportunities you could pursue with this qualification, along with approximate UK salaries. (Source: Glassdoor UK)

• Paralegal – £38,000
• Senior Legal Assistant – £40,000
• Legal Executive (in training) – £35,000
• Compliance or Regulatory Officer – £45,000

The Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation (Ofqual) is a non-ministerial government department responsible for regulating qualifications, exams, and assessments in England. Ofqual ensures that all qualifications offered by recognised awarding organisations meet rigorous national standards, giving you confidence that any Ofqual-regulated certificate is high-quality and widely accepted by employers and universities.