University of Edinburgh

What you'll study

This LLM brings together doctrinal and policy-focused study of banking law, financial regulation and the commercial context in which banks and other financial institutions operate. You will study core topics such as the regulation of banks and financial markets, international and comparative banking law, financial instruments and payment systems, and the intersection of corporate law with banking activity.

• Core topics: banking regulation and supervision; prudential requirements; consumer protection and conduct-of-business rules; anti‑money laundering and financial crime controls.
• Financial markets and instruments: capital markets, derivatives, secured finance, securities settlement and payment systems.
• Cross-cutting modules: corporate governance for financial institutions, insolvency and restructuring of banks, dispute resolution and banking litigation, fintech and the law.
• Research and dissertation: an extended piece of independent research on a topic in banking law and finance, supervised by academic staff with specialist expertise.

The programme typically allows elective choices so you can tailor study toward regulatory practice, transactional work, or policy and academic research. Teaching methods include lectures, seminars, case discussions and research supervision; assessment is by a mix of essays, case studies, examinations and a dissertation.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good undergraduate degree in law (or a law conversion qualification) from a recognised institution. Applicants with non-law degrees who have relevant professional experience in banking, finance, compliance or regulation may also be considered, typically alongside evidence of academic ability and motivation for legal study.

• Academic requirement: a strong UK upper‑second class honours degree (2:1) or an international equivalent in law or a related discipline.
• Alternative backgrounds: significant professional experience in financial services, compliance, or regulatory roles can strengthen applications from non‑law graduates.
• Language requirement: applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate proficiency in English to the level required by the University of Edinburgh.
• Supporting documents: personal statement outlining motivation and research interests, academic transcripts, and references are normally required.

Career prospects

Graduates from this LLM move into a range of roles across the legal and financial sectors. The programme equips you for practice in private law firms, in‑house legal teams, regulatory agencies and international organisations.

• Legal practice: banking and finance associate roles at national and international law firms, specialising in regulatory advice, lending and structured finance, or dispute resolution.
• Industry roles: in‑house counsel, compliance officer, regulatory affairs or risk management positions within banks, investment firms, fintech companies and payment service providers.
• Public sector and policy: roles in central banks, financial conduct and prudential regulators, government departments or international bodies focused on financial stability and regulatory reform.
• Further study and academia: doctoral research or academic careers in commercial law and financial regulation.

Why study at University of Edinburgh

The University of Edinburgh Law School has a strong tradition in commercial and international law, offering access to scholars who publish and consult on banking regulation, financial law and policy. The School’s research centres and regular events bring together academics, regulators and practitioners, providing networking and learning opportunities beyond taught modules.

Students benefit from a flexible LLM framework that permits a focused pathway in banking law while drawing on complementary expertise across corporate law, commercial litigation and technology law. Edinburgh’s location and international profile mean students can engage with UK and comparative perspectives on regulation, and enjoy the resources of a large, research‑intensive university in a city with a vibrant legal and financial services community.