The Master of Laws (LLM) is a comprehensive and advanced postgraduate degree designed for law graduates and legal professionals seeking to deepen their expertise in international and commercial legal matters. With a focus on cross-border legal frameworks, arbitration, financial regulation, and corporate law, this LLM equips learners with the knowledge and skills to succeed in today’s global legal environment.
Through a flexible and specialised curriculum, learners will explore key areas such as international commercial arbitration, financial services regulation, and governance. The programme also offers a wide selection of electives, allowing students to tailor their degree toward interests such as intellectual property, human rights, maritime law, or EU law.
- Master of Laws (LLM)
1 Years
Award: Master of Laws (LLM)
Level: Postgraduate (RQF Level 7)
Credits: 180 UK Credits (90 ECTS Equivalent)
Accreditation: UK Regulated Qualification
| Study Mode | Delivery Mode | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full Time / Part Time | Live (Online) Delivery | English | 180 |
Compulsory: (150 Credits) |
|---|
| International Commercial Arbitration |
| International Sale of Goods |
| International Commercial Mediation |
| International Commercial Litigation |
| Banking and Financial Services Regulation |
| Advanced Legal Systems |
| International Corporate Governance |
| Law of International Financial Transactions |
| Dissertation (30 Credits) |
Elective Options (Select any 2, All have 15 credits) |
|---|
| WTO Law and Policy |
| International Intellectual Property Law |
| International Human Rights Law |
| Independent Research Project |
| EU Constitutional Law and Governance |
| EU Single Market Law |
| Shipping and Maritime Commercial Law |
| EU Economic and Financial Governance |
| Transnational Regulation of Terrorism and Counter-Terrorism |
| International Criminal Law & Security |
| Law Relating to Security at Sea |
| Transnational Regulation of Human Trafficking |
| Oil and Gas: Public Law |
| Oil and Gas: Private Law |
| Peacebuilding and the Law |
Total Credits: 180 UK Credits (Equivalent to 90 ECTS)
Duration: 1 Year (Full-Time)
Semester 1 – Core Modules (90 Credits)
- International Commercial Arbitration – 15 Credits
- International Sale of Goods – 15 Credits
- International Commercial Mediation – 15 Credits
- International Commercial Litigation – 15 Credits
- Banking and Financial Services Regulation – 15 Credits
- Advanced Legal Systems – 15 Credits
Semester 2 – Core & Optional Modules (90 Credits)
- International Corporate Governance – 15 Credits
- Law of International Financial Transactions – 15 Credits
- Dissertation – 30 Credits
- Elective Module 1 – 15 Credits
- Elective Module 2 – 15 Credits
By the end of this LLM programme, students will be able to:
- Critically evaluate legal principles and contemporary issues in international commercial and financial law.
- Demonstrate advanced knowledge of dispute resolution mechanisms, including arbitration, mediation, and litigation.
- Apply legal theory to practical, real-world cross-border commercial and corporate transactions.
- Conduct rigorous legal research and present coherent, well-supported arguments in written and oral formats.
- Develop expertise in chosen areas of legal specialisation through electives and independent study.
- Understand and assess the legal implications of global finance, corporate governance, and regulatory compliance.
- Produce a substantial, original dissertation showcasing analytical and academic legal skills.
To be eligible for admission into the LLM (Master of Laws) programme, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Academic Qualifications:
- A Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree or an equivalent Level 6 qualification in Law or a related field from a recognised institution.
- Candidates with a non-law degree may also be considered if they can demonstrate relevant legal work experience or prior legal studies.
English Language Proficiency:
- For non-native English speakers, proof of English proficiency is required:
- IELTS score of 6.0 overall (with no band less than 5.5), or
- Equivalent qualification (e.g., TOEFL, Cambridge English, or other recognised tests), or
- Evidence of prior education conducted in English.
Work Experience (Preferred but Not Mandatory):
- Relevant professional or legal experience is advantageous, especially for candidates applying with non-traditional academic backgrounds.
Alternative Entry Route:
Mature students (21+ years) without formal qualifications may be considered based on a portfolio of professional experience and a strong personal statement, subject to approval by the admissions committee.
Graduates of the LLM (Master of Laws) programme are equipped with advanced legal knowledge, analytical skills, and global perspectives that open doors to a wide range of prestigious legal and non-legal careers. This qualification is highly regarded by employers in both the public and private sectors.
Possible Career Options Include:
- International Legal Consultant – Advising on cross-border transactions and global compliance.
- Corporate Legal Advisor – Supporting multinational corporations with governance and regulatory issues.
- Commercial Lawyer – Specialising in contracts, arbitration, and trade law.
- Legal Analyst or Researcher – Working in think tanks, legal research firms, or NGOs.
- Policy Advisor – Providing legal expertise to government bodies or international organisations.
- Diplomatic or Foreign Affairs Roles – Serving as legal experts in global negotiations or conflict resolution.
- Legal Compliance Officer – Ensuring corporate operations meet international legal standards.
- Academia and Teaching – Pursuing careers in legal education or progressing to doctoral research.
- Legal Roles in International Organisations – Such as the United Nations, World Bank, WTO, or EU institutions.
- Specialised Legal Practice – In fields such as human rights law, intellectual property, oil and gas law, maritime law, or financial regulation.
This qualification enhances employability not only in traditional legal settings but also in international business, finance, human rights, energy, and regulatory sectors.