The £500 prize is awarded to the student who has demonstrated outstanding performance on the GDL course. 

The GDL is a 36-week intensive course offered by the University since 2004. A post-graduate qualification, the course is recognised by the Solicitors Regulation Authority, the Bar and the Institute of Legal Executives and allows non-law graduates to 'fast track' into the legal profession.

The GDL course converts a non-law degree into the equivalent of a qualifying law degree (LLB) and allows those who successfully complete it to go on to the vocational stage of training to become a solicitor, barrister or legal executive.

Winner of the GDL award, Joanne, originally from Swansea, graduated with a BA in English Literature from Oxford University in 2007 and enrolled on the GDL at Swansea the same year.  Following a successful placement with Geldards LLP law firm in Cardiff, Joanne has been offered a training contract with the firm where she will focus on employment law. 

Joanne said: "I am delighted to receive the GDL award from the School of Law. 

"I had always been interested in law but only chose to go into the profession when considering my options during my finals at Oxford.

"I met with a careers adviser who suggested I go into law, and I thought, why not!  I am from Swansea, so studying for the GDL at the University seemed the natural choice.

"The GDL is an intensive course focusing on how the law works in England and Wales.  Although challenging, the way the course is structured makes it manageable, and my tutors were very supportive.  There is also a lot of interaction with other students which makes the course stimulating and enjoyable.

"Studying the GDL at Swansea has increased my confidence and has been great preparation for my placement at Geldards."

Karen Davies, Programme Director and Admissions Tutor said: "Non-law graduates are being welcomed into the legal profession at an increasing rate because of the fresh perspective they bring to the profession.  In fact, non-law graduates now make up 50% of all new lawyers."

"The GDL at Swansea is challenging but ultimately very rewarding.  Students on the course benefit from excellent local and national links with the legal profession, and a high level of support from staff within the department."

The GDL is now accepting applications for 2009 entry.  For further information, contact Karen Davies at karen.davies@swansea.ac.uk .