Law is a rapidly evolving and increasingly complex field, influencing nearly all aspects of professional, commercial, and regulatory practice. The LLM Top-Up (Master of Laws) at the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) is specifically designed for professionals seeking to expand their legal knowledge and progress their careers — with no prior legal qualification required.
Delivered entirely via distance learning, this flexible programme enables learners to study alongside existing professional and personal commitments. Over the course of nine months, students will critically evaluate key areas of law within domestic, European, and international contexts.
· No prior legal education required
· Flexible online delivery
· Complete in just nine months
· Full access to UCLan’s digital law library
· Opportunity to gain additional certifications in international arbitration and mediation
· Graduation ceremony held on campus
Graduates typically progress into roles within private legal practice, legal services in public bodies, or within the corporate and commercial sectors. Whether you aim to enhance your current legal career or move into a new legal area, this programme can support your ambitions.
The Law Dissertation is the core component of the LLM Top-Up. It provides the opportunity to undertake a substantial, independent research project on a legal topic of your choice.
· Self-directed legal research project
· Individual academic supervision and support
· Development of advanced research and analytical skills
· Completion of a 15,000-word dissertation
By the end of this module, you will have:
· Acquired a thorough understanding of your chosen area of legal study
· Demonstrated advanced skills in legal research and critical analysis
· Produced a well-structured dissertation contributing to academic legal discourse
· Shown the ability to manage a substantial research project independently
· Assessed entirely on the basis of the final dissertation
· Evaluated by two independent academic markers
· Judged on originality, research quality, argument coherence, referencing accuracy, and overall presentation
The University of Central Lancashire offers a variety of remote learning options to meet the needs of modern learners. These include:
· Online learning
· Blended study formats
· Interactive discussion forums
· Recorded lectures and multimedia materials
· Full access to digital library resources
These methods ensure the same academic quality and support as on-campus study, enabling students to learn at their own pace with access to comprehensive academic and technical assistance.
Founded in 1828, the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) is a respected public research institution located in Preston, Lancashire. With a history of nearly 200 years, UCLan supports a diverse student community of more than 30,000 individuals worldwide.
· Ranked among the top 3.3% of universities globally – Centre for World University Rankings
· Listed among the top 10 UK universities for student support – Times Higher Education Student Survey
· Named University of the Year – Educate North Awards 2020
· Voted Best International University – WhatUni Student Choice Awards
· Recognised as a Centre for Excellence in Cyber Security Research by the UK Government
· Flexible study structure tailored to individual needs
· Access to world-class academic resources and teaching
· High-quality virtual learning environment
· On-campus graduation to celebrate your achievements
For the most current information on tuition fees for the Master of Laws (LLM) in International Business Law – Top-Up, please contact us directly. Our team will be happy to provide full details and advise on available payment options.
To be eligible for the LLM Top-Up, applicants must meet one of the following criteria:
· Hold a Qualifi Level 7 Diploma in International Business Law, including the International Commercial Arbitration unit
· Possess significant managerial experience (may be eligible for accelerated entry, assessed individually)
· Alternatively, applicants can first enrol in the Qualifi Level 7 Diploma to meet the LLM entry requirements
[Enrol in the Qualifi Level 7 Diploma in International Business Law here.]
Whether you are aiming to progress within your current profession or transition into the legal sector, the University of Central Lancashire’s LLM Top-Up programme provides the ideal pathway.
Apply today and advance your legal career with a respected postgraduate qualification from a globally recognised UK university.