ATHE Level 5 Extended Diploma in Law (2025)
Introduction
The ATHE Level 5 Extended Diploma in Law is a 120-credit Ofqual regulated qualification and is the equivalent level to the second year of a university degree.
Learners looking to achieve a Level 5 qualification should be advised of all the opportunities available at this level (eg Higher Apprenticeships, Higher Technical Qualifications, Undergraduate Degree programmes) and the possible funding (ie loan opportunities) available for these.
Grading
Each unit is graded pass, merit or distinction.
Total points required for each grade:
Level 4 Extended Diploma in Law (120)
Pass 360-431
Merit 432-539
Distinction 540+
Delivery Mode
This qualification can be delivered either in the classroom, via distance learning or blended.
Qualification Specification
To view the specification, please click here.
Typical Age
This qualification is designed for learners who are typically aged 19 and above.
Qualifications
For learners who have recently been in education or training the entry profile is likely to include one of the following:
- a GCE Advanced level profile with achievement in 2 or more subjects supported by 5 or more GCSEs at grades 4 and above
- A Level 3 qualification in law or legal studies such as the ATHE Level 3 Diploma in Law
- an Access to Higher Education Certificate delivered by an approved further education institute and validated by an Access Validating Agency
- Equivalent international qualifications
Language
For those whom English is not their first language we recommend the following standards of proficiency in English language skills or an approved equivalent for this qualification:
- IELTs 5.5
- Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) B2
- Cambridge English Advanced (CAE) 162 or above
- Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic 42-49
Learners must achieve mandatory Unit 1 Law of Tort plus any other three units.
| Unit Name | Unit Aims | Credits | Mandatory |
|---|---|---|---|
| Law of Tort | This unit aims to develop learners’ knowledge and understanding of general principles of tort and the associated practice area, including key aspects of professional practice. Learners will focus on the tort of negligence, gaining knowledge and understanding of the elements required to prove a claim in negligence, the unique approach of the courts to claims for psychiatric injuries and availability of damages and defences. | 30 | Yes |
| Family Law | This unit aims to develop learners’ knowledge and understanding of family law and practice in England and Wales, including how adult relationships can be formalised and dissolved and the financial and property orders available on the breakdown of a relationship. Learners will be able to explain and apply key principles of law and private practice in relation to children, explain the orders available in cases of domestic abuse and develop an understanding of funding, key principles of ethical conduct and application of technology in family practice. | 30 | No |
| Land Law | This unit aims to develop learners’ knowledge and understanding of key principles of land law including the concept of registered land, land as property, how title to land is acquired and held by more than one person. Learners will develop understanding of easements as rights over land and key aspects of conveyancing practice, including client due diligence, professional conduct requirements and the application of technology in conveyancing. | 30 | No |
| Criminal Law | This unit aims to develop learners’ knowledge and understanding of inchoate offences and the doctrine of joint enterprise, including criticism and reform of the doctrine. Learners will develop their understanding of denials of liability and how these operate as general defences in criminal law. Learners will also develop their understanding of legal professional practice in representing clients at the police station, and specific legal and regulatory issues relevant to dealing with vulnerable clients and witnesses. | 30 | No |
| Equity and Trusts | This unit aims to develop learners’ knowledge and understanding of general principles of equity and trusts, the associated practice area, including key aspects of professional practice and the influence of technology in practice. Learners will focus on the creation of trusts, gaining knowledge and understanding of the elements required to create a private express trust, an implied trust, and purpose trust; the role and responsibility of trustees; and the availability of equitable remedies. | 30 | No |
| Legal Skills | This unit aims to develop learners’ key legal skills including drafting, case analysis, oral presentation and self-evaluation. Learners will develop their understanding of the key principles of drafting, including the importance of suitable language, style and tone and observing legal formalities. Learners will develop and apply the skills needed to deliver an effective oral presentation, learn to reflect critically on their strengths and weaknesses, and set SMART goals for further development. | 30 | No |