The Only Program of Its Kind in Canada.
The Graduate Diploma in Foundations of Canadian Law is designed to provide a deep understanding of Canadian law in the key areas of public and private law. It covers foundational aspects of the Canadian legal landscape, including Canada’s legal history and structure; skills-focused topics, such as legal research and writing; and more specialized topics, through elective courses of your choice. Learn from expert faculty and network with professionals across a variety of industries. The Graduate Diploma in Foundations of Canadian Law opens the doors to better career opportunities in the Canadian legal market and can set the stage for further graduate study.
Build a solid understanding of the Canadian legal system for your academic and professional goals in law.
Who should apply?
Graduates of law degree programs from civil law jurisdictions outside Canada who need to build a strong foundation in common law before pursuing accreditation to practise in Canada.
Internationally trained law graduates looking for academic and career training and support.
Course Requirements
What to Expect
The full-time diploma is delivered in in-person, seminar-style classes. Students are required to complete 18 credits of course work, including 12 credits of required courses and then 6 credits of elective courses. Classes are held from January to August at our downtown Toronto location or on the York University Keele Campus.
Get started with our on demand information sessions!
Our Study Law in Canada and Practise Law in Canada on demand information sessions are designed to help you better understand our program offerings and provide you with the confidence to choose the program that best fits your background and interests.
Learn about the Diploma
Required Courses
GDFC 6201
Canadian Legal Research and Analysis
GDFC 6202
Academic and Applied Legal Writing
GDFC 6203
Introduction to Canadian Public Law
GDFC 6204
Introduction to Canadian Private Law
Program Start and Application Deadlines
The diploma accepts new students once each calendar year, in the Winter term.
Tuition and Fees
Full-time students pay in two installments over two terms.
Please note that the tuition/fees displayed here are subject to change, and may vary depending on your entry term.
Domestic
$4,950.00per term for 2 terms
$9,900.00total
$9,823.28per term for 2 terms
$19,646.56total
Students are also subject to supplementary fees including health benefits. Find out more about supplementary fees here.
Admission Requirements
A degree in law from outside Canada with a minimum overall “B” (75%) average (or equivalent)Â
Applicants without a law degree must have an honours bachelor’s degree with a minimum overall “B” (75%) average or (or equivalent) and at least two years of relevant professional experience involving exposure to legal or regulatory issues
Acceptable English language proficiency (see requirements)Â
How to Apply
Create Your OsgoodePD Applicant Profile
Create an applicant profile in our online application portal. This portal allows us to gather your information, transcripts, and other documents electronically. You will receive an email with directions outlining how to create a new password for your application, along with a link to access the application.
Upload Application Documents
The following documents are required:
- Resume/CV
- Writing Sample
- Contact Information for Two References
- Transcripts
- Official Proof of Language Proficiency (if applicable)
For more information, see our Application Documents to Upload section.
Pay and Submit
Once your application is completed, you will be required to pay a non-refundable $130 CAD application fee.
Wait for Review
Timelines for decisions vary by program, but we will be in touch if we have questions about your application or need more information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Contact Us
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