Postgraduate taught programme

LLM

Business Law

Acquire and consolidate in-depth, specialist legal knowledge with respect to selected issues in the law and policy relating to corporate structures in a domestic and global context.
LLM Business Law
About Details Careers, industry and research Postgraduate student life Fees and funding Apply Register for open evening

About

Business law shapes the very basis of the transactional world, creating obligations and managing ethical and effective business practices.  The LLM Business Law is designed for those who wish to gain specialist knowledge about the legal frameworks governing corporate entities, international trade, and commercial transactions. With a strong interdisciplinary and international context, emphasis is placed on the acquisition of practical, in-depth knowledge of how law and business interact in the global marketplace.
 

Industry relevant curriculum

The programme offers the scope for acquiring expertise in both the detail and broader contextual perspectives in contemporary business management and innovation, locating the legal and policy framework within an applied business context, and reflecting global perspectives through the opportunity to study international trade and its political drivers.

Research-led and practitioner focused 

Delivered by research-active and legal-professional academic staff from Â鶹´«Ã½ Business School and the School of Law Humanities and Social Science, the programme provides insights into contemporary issues in global commerce and practical applications, though access to facilities such as the Bloomberg virtual trading suite and the Business Law Clinic.

Industry and professional links

Benefit from a range of active partnerships with local business entities, including the Devon and Â鶹´«Ã½ Chamber of Commerce, Â鶹´«Ã½ Manufacturers' Group (PMG), Â鶹´«Ã½ Science Park, and Cornwall Chamber of Commerce and Industry.  As well as offering networking, and career pathways, practical focus on business needs may offer the springboard to postgraduate research.

Details

Year 1

Our teaching will be by academic staff and offer a blended and flexible approach, including on-campus delivery, with on-line support through our Digital Learning Environment. You will have opportunities to get involved in extra-curricular activities, such as research seminars, external speakers, publish in our Â鶹´«Ã½ Law Review, as well as joining our excellent Student Law Society to participate in activities such as mooting and networking events. Join our LLM and gain both a relevant and advanced understanding of the law and the skills to strengthen your competency as a practitioner or researcher.
The programme offers the scope for considering broader perspectives in business management and innovation, locating the legal and policy framework within an applied business context, and reflecting global perspectives through the opportunity to study international trade and its political drivers. 
Delivered over 1 year full-time or two years part-time, it is comprised in a core module ‘Studying Law: Advanced Skills and Theories’;
a choice of four modules chosen from the following:
Semester 1
International Trade Policy and Politics
Theories and Practices of International Business
Semester 2
Energy Law
Business Law and Practice
Current Issues in International Business
Students then complete a capstone dissertation in a negotiated subject of their choice, within the parameters of the award title.
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Core modules

LAW729
Studying Law: Advanced Skills and Theories

This module develops advanced understanding of law’s theoretical underpinnings. It deploys key ideas and theories to analyse and raise foundational questions about the development and performance of modern legal systems, institutions, and doctrines. It gives learners the opportunity to enhance their critical evaluation and argumentation skills by engaging with advanced theoretical scholarship and complex ideas and supports transition to postgraduate study by providing skills training.

LAW730
Law Dissertation and Advanced Research Skills

The dissertation module provides the opportunity to undertake a substantial self-directed, research project on a legal topic of choice. First, students are introduced to concepts and methodologies commonly used in legal research, enabling understanding of how a range of different methods are applied in the context of law and their relationship to legal theory. Students will utilise these skills to design their own research project and contextualise the work carried by others.

Optional modules

IRL724
Economic Diplomacy and Development

This module focuses on economic diplomacy and the politics of ‘development’. It covers global/regional institutions as well as how developing states relate to major powers such as the US and China. It explains the major contemporary policy issues facing states in the Global South, including trade negotiations, trade disputes, the politics of development aid and development/climate finance.

LAW733
Energy Law

The module critically assesses contemporary legal issues in the energy industry and the state’s control of energy resources globally. Research-driven and centred on a theoretical and applied framework, the module is designed to provide useful solutions to some of the most significant issues in hydrocarbon and renewable energy operations across key jurisdictions.

LAW736
Business Law and Practice

This module offers a critical analysis of the "life" of business organisations with focus on their operation and governance. In doing so there will be critical assessment of the concepts and principles of corporate law as well as key elements of practice and procedure. The module also applies elements of contract law and applies them in a commercial setting.

STO7001
Theories and Practices of International Business

In this module, you will explore the dynamic nature of both the theories of international business as well as its practice. The emphasis here is in the emerging nature of the practice of international business and the theories that underlie our understanding of these practices.

STO7002
Current Issues in International Business

This module provides you with the opportunity to examine a range of contemporary issues within the context of International Business. The module adopts a cross-disciplinary approach, enabling discussion and debate within a range of stakeholder perspectives.

 
 

LLM Courses starting September 2026

Our suite of LLM Law programmes offer an opportunity to delve deeper into one of four specialisms:
If you have any questions regarding any of these programmes, please contact Mr Jason Lowther  
 
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The modules shown for this course or programme are those being studied by current students, or expected new modules. Modules are subject to change depending on year of entry.

Careers, industry and research

 
 
 
 

Research

Our research encompasses a broad spectrum of issues of contemporary relevance to business law and commercial practice.  It includes sector and county specific analyses, as well as explorations of business drivers, trading block characteristics and emerging markets. Specific research expertise centres on business structures and contemporary theory and practice, as well as issues of global economic diplomacy. In an increasingly globalised business environment, our research-led program will develop your own research abilities in tandem with our expert academic team.
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Publications
Holden, P., ‘What kind of hegemony? The European Union in its region’, 2025,  Journal of European Integration.

Holden, P.,  ‘Looking after the 'European' interest? Neoclassical realism and the European Union's engagement with sub-Saharan Africa’,
2024, Neoclassical realism in European politics: Bringing power back in. Manchester University Press, p. 161-181 21 p.

Holden, P. & Harmer, N., ‘Post-neoliberalism? The strange case of the new English Freeports’, 2024,  New Political Economy.

Holden, P., ‘Strongholds of Liberalism? The Reaction of Regional Integration Institutions to the Pandemic Trade Crisis’, 2023, The International Spectator, p. 1-21

Mishra, A., ‘An Introduction to International Business’, 2023, SAGE Publications Inc.

Mishra, A. & Tahat, Z., ‘The Dynamic Linkages among Sector Indices: The case of the Amman Stock Exchange in the period of 2000-2020’, 2023, International Journal of Academic Research in Accounting, Finance and Management Sciences. 13, 4, p. 1-17

Kumar, V., Verma, P., Mangla, S., Mishra, A., Chowdhary, D., Sung, C. & Lai, K., ‘Barriers to Total Quality Management for sustainability in Indian organizations’, 2020,  International Journal of Quality & Reliability Management. 37, 0, p. 1007-1031

 
 

Â鶹´«Ã½ Law Review

This online annual journal is produced and edited by our academic staff. It aims to encourage and promote legal scholarship and writing on a wide range of legal issues, and includes articles and reports from both staff and students. 
Read the Â鶹´«Ã½ Law Review
Mayflower. Getty 182871656. The Mayflower II is a replica of the 17th century ship Mayflower, celebrated for transporting the Pilgrims to the New World. The ship is docked at the State Pier in Â鶹´«Ã½, Massachusetts. Â鶹´«Ã½ is known for being "America's Hometown" for its great prominence in American history and culture.

Academic staff

Mr Jason Lowther Associate Professor of Law


Associate Professor of Law

Dr Simone Schroff Associate Professor in Law


Associate Professor in Law

Dr Lisa Deblasio Lecturer in Law


Lecturer in Law

Show all

Postgraduate student life

Postgraduate study at the Â鶹´«Ã½ is about more than just getting a qualification — it’s a chance to explore your subject in greater depth, challenge yourself intellectually, and grow both personally and academically.
With a supportive learning environment and flexible study options — including part-time and January start dates — you can shape your studies around your personal and professional commitments. Our supportive teaching, and welcoming student community, means you’ll be part of an environment that encourages curiosity, collaboration and independent thinking. Whether you're continuing from undergraduate study or returning to education, Â鶹´«Ã½ offers the space, resources and inspiration to help you thrive.
 
 
 
 
Joyita - student blogs web page

The University takes every single step to ensure that students are supported. There are continuous workshops on referencing, a writing café and peer-supported learning sessions. Furthermore, lecturers are generally aware and sensitive to transitioning to university therefore they are always offering support when needed.

Joyita
MSc Advanced Psychology

 
 
 

Your Â鶹´«Ã½ community

At the Â鶹´«Ã½, you get the same access to support, sports, and societies as undergraduate students. That means everything available to undergraduates is open to you too, whether it’s joining a sports club, attending events, taking part in student societies, or accessing health and wellbeing services.
You’re a full member of the Â鶹´«Ã½ community, and that comes with all the benefits. So take advantage of what’s on offer — get involved, stay connected, and make the most of your time here.
 

Your societies

is a student run society which aims to give students the best opportunities to develop transferable skills making you an extremely valuable graduate after your time at Â鶹´«Ã½.
UPLS provides more than understanding of what it takes to be a lawyer. It gives hands on experience of mooting, debating, negotiations, client interviewing as well as participating in mock trials. All of which is supported by our local legal community, of law firms, chambers and professionals who sponsor us, judge finals and attend our Annual Cheese and Wine Networking Evening.
Two students having a drink together on Â鶹´«Ã½'s Barbican

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

 
 
 
 
Tuition fees for UK students starting in 2026-2027 academic year
Full-time study
£10,600 per year
Part-time study
£590 per 10 credits
 
 

Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about Fees and costs of studying . 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2026-2027 academic year
Full-time study
£18,700 per year
 
 

Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and costs of studying . 
UK Government announcement on tuition fees
The UK Government has announced that a levy on tuition fee income in the region of 6% of an international student’s tuition fees may be introduced. If implemented, the University reserves the right to increase your tuition fees accordingly. The Government has made it clear that it has not officially decided on its stance and it is possible that the eventual levy amount or arrangements may differ from the initial proposal. Therefore, the University reserves the right to adjust tuition fees in accordance with the Government’s final position on this levy.
We understand that clarity around tuition fees is important when planning your studies. Therefore, please note that the tuition fee shown on this page may change as a result of the introduction of a levy. We advise you to monitor this page regularly to stay informed of any updates to your tuition fees.
 
 
 

Fund your studies

As a postgraduate at Â鶹´«Ã½, there are plenty of funding options available, including postgraduate masters loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.
 

Postgraduate Masters Loans (PGML)

You may be eligible to apply for a to help with course fees and living costs while you study a postgraduate masters course.
 

Tuition fee discount for Â鶹´«Ã½ graduates

If you studied your undergraduate degree at Â鶹´«Ã½, you may be eligible for a fee discount if you complete your postgraduate studies here as well.
  • 10% or 20% discount on tuition fees for home students 
 

Supporting students with the cost of living

The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
 
Careers Hub

Apply

 
 
 
 
 
 

Entry requirements

An Honours degree in Law with a minimum of a 2:2 classification from a UK university. An Honours degree with some inclusion of Law and/or Policy in a related discipline, such as criminology, international relations or other social science, will be considered on a case-by-case basis. 

Extended entry requirements

  • All applicants must have GCSE (or equivalent) Maths and English at Grade 4/C or above.
  • Applicants who do not have appropriate Higher Education qualifications may be admitted to the programme on the basis of relevant prior experience if they can demonstrate the potential to successfully complete the programme. The Admissions Tutor / Programme Leader, in accordance with the University’s Academic Regulations may require such applicants to provide further evidence to support their application and undertake an interview.

Ready to apply?

Apply online

After you apply

You will normally receive a decision on your application within four weeks of us receiving your application. You may be asked to provide additional information; two academic/professional references, confirming your suitability for the course; or to take part in an interview and you will be sent a decision by letter or email.
We aim to make the application procedure as simple and efficient as possible. Our Admissions and Course Enquiries team is on hand to offer help and can put you in touch with the appropriate faculty if you wish to discuss any programme in detail.
Programme code
8282
Duration

1 year

Course type

Full-time, Part-time route available
Study location
Â鶹´«Ã½
 
Contact the Faculty International Team
If you are an international student wanting to study with us in the UK, you can ask questions about your course and scholarship options by registering your interest in studying with us in 2026 .
 

Entry requirements

We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
 
 
 

BSearch entry requirements for your country

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Extended entry requirements

  • a suitable English language qualification. The minimum IELTS score for acceptable English proficiency for entry is 6.5 (with a minimum of 5.5 in each element). English language requirements  
  • evidence of qualifications (degree certificates or transcripts), with translations if not in English, to show that you meet, or expect to meet the entry requirements
  • a personal statement of approximately 250-400 words about the reasons for your interest in the course and outlining the nature of previous and current related experience. You can write this into the online application form, or include it as a separate document
  • your curriculum vitae or résumé, including details of relevant professional/voluntary experience, professional registration/s and visa status for overseas workers
  • proof of sponsorship, if applicable.

Ready to apply?

As an international student, you can apply for this course directly through the Â鶹´«Ã½ or through an agent in your country.
 

Apply online

Need support with your application?

  • Personal statement guidance
  • Student visa support
  • Travel and arrival information
  • and more
 

After you apply

You will normally receive a decision on your application within four weeks of us receiving your application. You may be asked to provide additional information; two academic/professional references, confirming your suitability for the course; or to take part in an interview (which in the case of overseas students may be by telephone or video conference) and you will be sent a decision by letter or email.
We aim to make the application procedure as simple and efficient as possible. Our Admissions and Course Enquiries team is on hand to offer help and can put you in touch with the appropriate faculty if you wish to discuss any programme in detail.
Programme code
8282
Duration

1 year

Course type

Full-time, Part-time route available
Study location
Â鶹´«Ã½
 
 
 

Visit us at a postgraduate on-campus open evening

Visit us on campus to find out more about postgraduate study, speak to academic staff, and take a look around our campus and facilities.
 
Book your place
Student in art classroom in Roland Levinsky Building