Broaden your Expertise with a Diploma in Law

Bumal, an ACCA and MBA graduate, wanted to start his own business after 10 years of corporate work. While starting his new job role as a business development executive and working on plans for starting his own business in Singapore, he noticed his lack of knowledge of the Singaporean legal system and enrolled himself on the LSBF Singapore campus Diploma in Law programme. (Source: LSBF in Singapore)

This is a real-life example of how a Diploma in Law programme can benefit you and broaden your expertise.

Whether you are just starting your career or looking to obtain a thorough understanding of the legal system of Singapore, this 8–12 month programme is a great choice.

Read on to learn more about the Diploma in Law, the types of job roles you can obtain, pathways and much more!

What is a Diploma in Law?

A Diploma in Law is an entry-level undergraduate course available throughout the world. A Diploma in Law in Singapore will help educate you about the fundamentals of legislation within the city-state.

Pursuing this diploma in Singapore can even help open opportunities for higher studies like a Bachelor of Laws(LLB) and eventually a Master of Law (LLM) in Singapore.

This course typically lasts anywhere between six months and two years and may have an industry and job-focused teaching methodology.

Point to note: Advanced diplomas may grant admission only to graduates, unlike entry-level undergraduate diploma programmes.

What type of Job Roles can you Find After a Diploma in Law?

A Diploma in Law in Singapore can open various job opportunities in legal and related fields, though the specific roles you can pursue may depend on your overall qualifications, experience and specific interests.

Legal Executive/Assistant:

Many law firms and legal departments in companies hire legal executives or assistants to support lawyers in administrative tasks, legal research, drafting documents and client communication.

Paralegal:

Paralegals assist lawyers in preparing for trials, hearings and closings by conducting legal research, drafting documents, organising files and maintaining communication with clients.

Legal Administrator:

Legal administrators manage the administrative aspects of a law firm or legal department. They manage schedules, handle billing, coordinate meetings and oversee office operations.

Compliance Officer:

Compliance officers ensure that companies and organisations comply with legal regulations and internal policies. They conduct audits, develop compliance programs and provide training to employees.

Contracts Administrator:

Contract administrators assist in drafting, reviewing and managing contracts and agreements. They ensure that contracts comply with legal requirements and carefully negotiate terms and conditions.

Claims Assistant:

In insurance companies or legal departments, claims assistants help process insurance claims, investigate claims validity, communicate with claimants and ensure compliance with policy terms.

Legal Secretary:

Legal secretaries provide administrative support to lawyers and legal executives. They maintain legal files, schedule appointments and handle client communications.

Court Clerk:

Court clerks assist judges and court officials by preparing dockets, maintaining court records, processing legal documents and providing administrative support during court proceedings.

Legal Researcher:

Legal researchers conduct in-depth research on legal issues, precedents, statutes and regulations. They provide lawyers with comprehensive analyses of case matters and provide summaries to support legal cases or other advisory work.

Legal Consultant/Advisor:

Some graduates with a Diploma in Law may work as legal consultants or advisors, guiding legal matters to individuals, businesses or government agencies.

Learn more about other job roles after your Diploma in Law.

What is the Educational Pathway After a Diploma in Law Course in Singapore?

After completing a Diploma in Law in Singapore, you have several pathways to further your education or pursue career opportunities in the legal field.

Here are some typical options:

Entry-Level Legal and Related Positions:

• With a Diploma in Law, you can apply for entry-level positions in law firms, corporate legal departments, government agencies or non-profit organisations. However, obtaining your LLB degree and passing the Singapore bar examinations is a must if you wish to become a lawyer in Singapore.

Further Education:

• Advanced Diplomas: Some institutions offer advanced diplomas in specific areas of law or legal studies, which can deepen knowledge and skills in specialised areas.
• Degree programmes: Graduates may choose to pursue a Bachelor of Laws (LLB). While some universities may recognise a Diploma in Law for admission into their LLB programs, specific entry requirements vary.
• Other bachelor’s degrees: You may also opt to pursue other bachelor’s degrees in related fields such as business, management or public administration, depending on your career goals and interests.

Professional Certifications and Programmes:

• You can also consider taking additional programmes or obtaining professional certifications to enhance your skills and knowledge in specific legal areas such as contract law, corporate law, intellectual property etc.
• Professional certifications may be offered by institutions like the Singapore Institute of Legal Education (SILE) or other relevant bodies.

Work Experience and Advancement:

• Gain practical work experience in legal roles to build skills and enhance career prospects.
• Pursue opportunities for professional development and career advancement within legal or related fields.

Non-Legal Career Paths:

• You can also choose to apply your legal knowledge and skills in non-traditional legal roles, such as compliance, corporate governance, human resources etc.

Pro Tip: Some of the Diploma in Law careers in 2024 revolve around cyber law. With the advent of artificial intelligence and financial technology, cybercrimes have increased exponentially and so has the demand for cyber law professionals.

A legal education in cyber law can open the door to very high-paying jobs. A chief information security officer (CISO) can draw a salary of USD 200,000 to 300,000 today. (Source: springboard)

LSBF in Singapore is a high-quality education provider situated at the heart of Singapore’s central business district and offers online and on-campus programmes for students around the world.

This year, consider joining the London School of Business and Finance, Singapore campus (LSBF in Singapore) for your Diploma in Law.

This article was written by Rebecca Paulraj and edited by James Bryant-Palmer