Does it really matter where your GDL/LPC comes from? - Training contract and trainee solicitor information and resources

BigAl1916 · #1 (**permalink**) 17th June 2008, 12:20

I've been accepted onto the GDL at both Bournemouth University and the College of Law, its going to be about £5k cheaper overall (inc. living expenses) to study in Bournemouth. Obviously the College of Law has a superior reputation but Bournemouth isn't bad, does it matter that much where I study?

insufficient experience · #2 (**permalink**) 29th July 2008, 12:31

It doesn't matter anywhere near as much as how much legal experience you have.

I would take the less expensive one, but if you want to pay the extra then CoL, like BPP, spoon feed their students to the extent that it is certainly easier to pass with them than at an average institution.

I don't know anything about Bournemouth, but the best way to find out about a course is to ring/email/meet the course leader. Their attitude and ability will be reflected in the course, to some extent.

Bhaal1985 · #3 (**permalink**) 29th August 2008, 02:10

CoL and BPP are exclusive providers for particular firms. DO your research first, find out which firms prefer which one, and choose based on that.

Having said that, if you've already done your LPC, and are applying for TCs, they may not care. I know people who came from the CoL and got interviews with firms which had BPP as their exclusive provider!

I think BPP and CoL are better known, and perhaps have better standing in the legal community. Having said that, they are NOT learning instituitions, but BUSINESSES!

battenburghat · #4 (**permalink**) 2nd November 2008, 21:54

I studied my BA(Hons) at Bournemouth - in Business Studies - There were some law modules but obviously i did **not study** in the law school.

However, you may find it helpful to know that I had a brilliant time, got a 2.1, found the teaching standards excellent and the couse administrators extremely helpful. the university has a very professional reputation and feel to it. depending on what sources you look at the reputation as far as employability (% of graduates in full time employment relevant to subject within 6 months) goes is one of the best... i would heartily recommend a visit to them... Open days for postgrad students are running in November 2008, Jan and June 2009.

Good luck!