Master of Laws (LLM) in International Business Law (Top-Up)

Course Overview

Law is a rapidly evolving and increasingly complex discipline, influencing a wide range of professional, commercial, and regulatory environments. You do not need to have a legal background to study the Master of Laws (LLM) Top-Up at the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan).

This programme is specifically designed for professionals who wish to broaden their legal knowledge and advance their careers. Delivered via distance learning, it offers the flexibility to balance your academic studies with work and personal commitments.

Over a nine-month period, you will critically evaluate various legal systems and frameworks within domestic, European, and international contexts. Through the dissertation component, you will refine your analytical and legal research skills – essential tools for any professional legal environment.

UCLan provides access to an extensive e-law library, equipping you with a broad range of legal and academic sources both within and beyond UK jurisdiction. You will also have the opportunity to enhance your employability with additional qualifications in Alternative Dispute Resolution, particularly in International Arbitration and Mediation.

Graduates of this LLM Top-Up programme have gone on to develop or further careers in private legal practice, public sector legal departments, and corporate or commercial legal roles. Whether you are seeking to strengthen your current legal career or transition into a new legal field, this qualification from UCLan offers a strong foundation for future success.

A formal graduation ceremony held on campus allows you to celebrate your academic achievements alongside peers, tutors, and family. Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your legal career – apply for the LLM Top-Up at the University of Central Lancashire today.

Course Content

Dissertation Module

The Law Dissertation is the compulsory and central module of the LLM Top-Up programme. It provides you with the opportunity to undertake an in-depth, independent legal research project.

Module Aims

You will select a legal topic of your interest and carry out comprehensive research. This module is designed to help you:

  • Enhance your legal research skills
  • Build your ability to critically analyse legal principles
  • Develop independent thinking and academic writing skills

You will be supported throughout the process by a dedicated academic supervisor who will provide guidance, feedback, and expertise.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this module, you will have:

  • Gained advanced knowledge of a chosen area of law
  • Acquired and applied legal research methodologies
  • Produced a well-structured, academic dissertation contributing to legal discourse
  • Demonstrated the ability to work independently on a substantial academic project

Assessment Criteria

Assessment for this module is based entirely on your final dissertation, which should be approximately 15,000 words in length. Your work will be evaluated by two independent assessors on:

  • Quality and originality of the research
  • Clarity and coherence of legal argument
  • Correctness of referencing
  • Overall structure and presentation

Study Options

UCLan offers a range of flexible distance learning formats, including:

  • Fully online learning
  • Blended learning (a combination of online and occasional campus-based sessions)
  • Supported learning with access to virtual resources

Distance learners have full access to:

  • Video lectures
  • Online discussion forums
  • Interactive learning materials
  • UCLan’s digital library
  • Academic and technical support

These provisions ensure you receive the same high standard of education and support as on-campus students, while studying at your own pace.

Why Choose the University of Central Lancashire?

Founded in 1828, UCLan is a public research university located in Preston, Lancashire. It has grown into one of the UK’s largest universities, supporting over 30,000 students worldwide.

Notable Rankings and Awards:

  • Ranked in the top 3.3% of universities globally (Centre for World University Rankings)
  • Named one of the top 10 UK universities for student support (Times Higher Education Student Experience Survey)
  • University of the Year, Educate North Awards (2020)
  • Best International University, WhatUni Student Choice Awards (2020)
  • Recognised as a Centre for Excellence in Cyber Security Research by the UK Government

UCLan is committed to providing accessible, high-quality education. Its virtual learning environment supports flexible study through comprehensive digital resources, ensuring students can achieve their academic goals wherever they are in the world.

Course Fees

 

For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding tuition fees for the LLM in International Business Law (Top-Up) at UCLan, please get in touch with our admissions team.

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