University of Tromsø

What you'll study

This master's programme combines core principles of environmental law with specialised modules addressing climate, marine and Arctic legal issues. Teaching emphasises the interaction between international, regional (including EEA/EU-related) and national regulatory frameworks, and how these frameworks apply to resource management, pollution control and biodiversity protection.

• Core topics: international environmental law, principles of national environmental regulation, legal methods and compliance mechanisms.
• Specialist modules: climate change law, biodiversity and species protection law, environmental impact assessment and permitting, pollution and waste regulation, and fisheries and maritime law.
• Arctic and northern focus: legal governance of the Arctic and polar environments, indigenous peoples’ rights and resource development in northern contexts.
• Practice and skills: administrative law and litigation strategies in environmental disputes, negotiation and mediation, environmental permitting and compliance, and legal drafting for regulation and contracts.
• Research and thesis: an individual master's thesis under academic supervision, drawing on doctrinal, comparative or interdisciplinary methods; opportunities to collaborate with research groups or centres working on northern, marine or climate-related legal questions.

Teaching methods include seminars, case-based learning, guest lectures from practitioners and researchers, and supervised research. Fieldwork or project work linked to Arctic issues is commonly available through the university’s regional networks.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally need a recognised bachelor's degree in law (or equivalent) to join the programme. Graduates with strong relevant qualifications in environmental sciences, political science or related disciplines may be considered if they can demonstrate sufficient legal grounding or complete supplementary qualifying coursework. Admission typically requires evidence of academic ability, a transcript, a personal statement, and references.

Proficiency in English is required for non-native speakers and must be demonstrated through an approved test or equivalent documentation. Specific prerequisite courses, documentation and application procedures are provided by the university; candidates should consult the faculty admissions guidance for precise requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to a wide range of roles where legal expertise in environmental and resource governance is required. Common career paths include:

• Legal adviser or counsel in government ministries, environmental protection agencies and regulatory authorities.
• Legal roles in international organisations and intergovernmental bodies working on environment, climate and Arctic policy.
• Environmental law practice in private law firms, specialising in permitting, litigation, compliance and transactions.
• Policy officer, analyst or consultant in NGOs, think tanks and industry bodies dealing with sustainability, fisheries, oil and gas, and renewable energy.
• Corporate compliance, environmental risk management and contract work for businesses operating in northern or marine contexts.
• Academic and research careers, including doctoral studies and positions in research centres focused on Arctic, maritime or environmental law.

Why study at University of Tromsø

The University of Tromsø offers a distinctive setting for environmental law study because of its geographic and research focus on the Arctic and northern regions. Students benefit from access to multidisciplinary research environments that link law with marine science, indigenous studies and climate research, providing practical and policy-relevant perspectives.

The faculty provides specialised supervision for thesis work and opportunities to engage with practitioners, regulators and NGOs involved in northern governance. For students interested in Arctic, marine or polar environmental issues, Tromsø’s location and institutional networks offer unique learning and professional networking opportunities.