Frequently Asked Questions

Cardiff University Law School

For several reasons. Britain is the seat of the common law, upon which many modern democracies are based. Students can enter a law degree directly from high school, obviating the need for an undergraduate degree. As tuition fees are approximately equal to Canadian law schools, and less expensive than American ones, it is less expensive to obtain a law degree at Cardiff. It is not necessary to write the LNAT or the LSAT for entrance. As Cardiff Law School actively recruits students from around the world, students are steeped in other cultures, contributing to international understanding and the complexities of an increasingly global world. Furthermore, countless European destinations are easily accessible from Cardiff on very inexpensive flights.

1. Where is Cardiff?
   Cardiff, the capital of Wales, sits on the north shore of Bristol Bay, and is exactly two hours by train from central London.
2. Why would a North American student go to law school in the UK?
   For several reasons. Britain is the seat of the common law, upon which many modern democracies are based. Students can enter a law degree directly, obviating the need for an undergraduate degree. As tuition fees are approximately equal to Canadian law schools, and less expensive than American ones, it is less expensive to obtain a law degree at Cardiff. As Cardiff Law School actively recruits students from around the world, students are steeped in other cultures, contributing to international understanding and the complexities of an increasingly global world. Furthermore, countless European destinations are easily from Cardiff on very inexpensive flights.
3. Is Cardiff a well known law school?
   Yes. Cardiff is one of the ‘Russel Group' of universities, which are recognized as the UK "Ivy League" schools, and are generally defined as the top 20 universities in the UK. Cardiff Law School was recently ranked as equal to the University of Cambridge Law School.
4. But, can I practice law in Canada?
   Yes. You will have to complete an additional number (between 2 and 8) of courses which can be completed on-line. Upon completion, the student can apply to take the Professional Legal Training Course, or the Bar Admission course of the Province in which they wish to practice. See the Federation of Canadian Law Societies for further information.

Applying to United Kingdom Universities

1. Why do I need help applying?
   Depending on the university and programme applied for, the application process can be somewhat convoluted.
2. How important is the personal statement?
   Very important. For some programmes, it can be the defining submission. It must be well written, and contain the appropriate information. As a long time English teacher, and having helped students write personal statements for many years, I know what constitutes an excellent personal profile.
3. How important is the reference letter?
   Again, very important. This can also make a difference to one's offer of a place.
4. How much does an education in the UK cost?
   It varies, for international students, depending on programme and duration. Generally, it is more than it would cost for a Canadian student in Canada, but, even then that is not always true.

Pleasure Craft Operator's Certificate

1. Who must have a PCOC?
   With very few exceptions (some applying to The Territories) everyone operating a motor pleasure craft in Canada must have a valid Pleasure Craft Operator's Certificate, or equivalent.
2. What is the penalty for operating a motor driven pleasure craft without a certificate?
   The fine is CAD$250.00.
3. What does the test consist of?
   There are 36 questions regarding several aspects of operating a pleasure craft including but not limited to knowing the regulatory framework of operating a pleasure craft, knowing local hazards, understanding proper fuelling techniques, the rules of the road, recognizing buoys and signals and knowing their meaning, understanding hypothermia, what constitutes a personal flotation device, and the proper equipment for various sized vessels. Pass rate is 75%.

Institutional Diagnostics

1. What kinds of situations can you diagnose?
   Problems in plant usage, culture and climate, lines of authority and systemic problems of varying nature.
2. Can you offer solutions as well as diagnoses?
   Yes, either singly or with professional associates.
3. Will you take on the management of change?
   Yes, either singly or with professional associates, upon negotiation.