LLM in International Commercial Law (University of Reading Degree)

The LLM in International Commercial Law aims to:

• Provide Specialized Legal Knowledge: Equip students with an in-depth understanding of international commercial law and its applications.
• Develop Practical Legal Skills: Enhance abilities in contract negotiation, arbitration, dispute resolution, and corporate legal strategies.
• Prepare for Global Legal Careers: Ensure graduates are well-equipped for roles in multinational corporations, legal consultancy, and financial institutions.
• Foster Research and Analytical Thinking: Strengthen students’ abilities to assess and apply legal principles in a global commercial environment.

During the course of the Programme, you will have the opportunity to develop a range of  skills, knowledge and attributes (known as learning outcomes) For this programme, these  are:

• Demonstrate advanced knowledge about a specialist area of legal disciplines, and its application to contemporary and emerging issues of international commercial law.
• Appraise and explore novel solutions to commercial law problems.
• Influence debate by developing critical, coherent and convincing legal arguments.
• Reflect on the relevance of complex legal issues, rules, and principles in an interdisciplinary manner.
• Critically evaluate and select appropriate research methodologies to address legal questions.
• Analyse technical concepts for the interpretation of the various contexts in which commercial law applies.
• Locate relevant materials and critically assess the importance of legal sources in the development of arguments.
• Communicate clearly, accurately and effectively both orally and in writing about commercial law and legal issues.

You will be expected to engage in learning activities to achieve these Programme learning outcomes. Assessment of your modules will reflect these learning outcomes and test how far you have met the requirements for your degree.

To pass the Programme, you will be required to meet the progression or accreditation and award criteria set out below.

To qualify for LLM International Commercial Law with International Corporate Finance:

In addition to the modules listed above students must take at least 40 credits from the list of modules related to International Corporate Finance and a dissertation topic in a field related to International Commercial Law with International Corporate Finance. The remaining credits will be taken from the list of optional modules from the School of Law or from an approved list of modules from across the University.

To qualify for LLM International Commercial Law with International Banking Law and Financial Regulation:

In addition to the modules listed above students must take at least 40 credits from the list of modules related to International Banking Law and Financial Regulation and a dissertation topic in a field related to International Commercial Law with International Banking Law and Financial Regulation. The remaining credits will be taken from the list of optional modules from the School of Law or from an approved list of modules from across the University.

To qualify for LLM International Commercial Law with Intellectual Property Law and Management:

In addition to the modules listed above students must take at least 40 credits from the list of modules related to Intellectual Property Law and Management and a dissertation topic in a field related to International Commercial Law with Intellectual Property Law and Management. The remaining credits will be taken from the list of optional modules from the School of Law or from an approved list of modules from across the University.

ASSESSMENT

The programme will be assessed through a combination of written examinations, coursework (including essays) and oral presentations. Further information is contained in the individual module descriptions.

CAREER PROSPECTS & FURTHER STUDIES

Graduates of the LLM in International Commercial Law are well-positioned for diverse career paths, including:

• Corporate & Commercial Law: In-house legal counsel, commercial litigation, regulatory compliance.
• Banking & Finance: Legal advisors for financial institutions, fintech, and securities law.
• International Arbitration & Dispute Resolution: Mediators, arbitrators, and dispute resolution specialists.
• Intellectual Property & Technology Law: IP law specialists, legal consultants for tech companies.
• Academia & Research: Doctoral studies (PhD in Law) or academic careers in legal education.

Graduates may also qualify for professional training leading to legal practice in multiple jurisdictions, including the UK, EU, and international arbitration bodies.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Law (LLB or Equivalent) from a recognized institution.
• English Proficiency (IELTS 6.5 or equivalent).
• Personal Statement outlining academic and career goals.
• Academic References from previous legal studies or professional experience.