The OTHM Level 3 Diploma in Law provides foundational knowledge of the English legal system, key legal principles, and academic research skills, preparing learners for higher study in law.
This Ofqual-regulated qualification provides a broad introduction to the legal system of England and Wales through six mandatory units and coursework-based assessment.
Awarded by OTHM and regulated by Ofqual
120 credits in total
1200 hours Total Qualification Time (TQT)
480 Guided Learning Hours (GLH)
6 mandatory units
Pass/Fail qualification assessed by coursework
The OTHM Level 3 Diploma in Law is designed to provide learners with a grounding in the legal system of England and Wales. It helps students understand how the legal system operates, how law functions within society, and some of the key laws that underpin the system.
Provides a broad introduction to the English legal system
Covers key substantive areas of law at Level 3
Develops academic research and legal writing skills
Builds understanding of courts, Parliament, and the legal profession
Supports progression to higher-level law qualifications
Prepares learners for undergraduate-level legal study
Learners will gain official knowledge and skills across all mandatory units, building both legal understanding and academic competence for future study in law.
Understand the structure of the English legal system
Understand the principles of contract law
Understand the principles of criminal law
Understand employment law and equality issues at work
Understand key aspects of tort law, including negligence and vicarious liability
Develop academic and research skills for legal study
This qualification is suitable for learners who want to begin studying law, strengthen their understanding of the English legal system, and prepare for higher education or further professional development.
Learners seeking a foundation in law
Students preparing for Level 4 law qualifications
Individuals planning to progress to university law study
Learners interested in the legal system of England and Wales
School leavers aged 16 and above
International learners who can meet English language expectations
OTHM does not specify formal entry requirements for this qualification, but centres must ensure learners have the capability to undertake learning and assessment at the appropriate level.
Learners can be offered the qualification from age 16
Learners from non-majority English-speaking countries must provide evidence of English language competency
The qualification is assessed through coursework. All units are internally assessed by the centre and externally verified by OTHM, and learners must achieve all learning outcomes and assessment criteria to pass.
Coursework-based assessment
Internal assessment by the approved centre
External verification by OTHM
Approximate unit assessment length of 2500 words per unit
Successful completion of this qualification enables learners to progress academically and professionally. It supports direct entry to higher-level study, including undergraduate law pathways and relevant OTHM Level 4 diplomas.
Direct entry into Year 1 of a three-year UK Bachelor’s degree
Progression to OTHM Level 4 Diplomas
Progression to relevant undergraduate law programmes
A pathway toward longer-term legal and related careers
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