Bournemouth University

What you'll study

This LLM combines core modules on private international commercial law with optional specialist topics so you can tailor study to career goals. Typical taught modules cover international sale of goods and services, cross-border commercial contracts, international commercial arbitration and dispute resolution, international trade law and regulation, and international commercial finance and security. You will also study comparative company and corporate governance issues relevant to multinational transactions, and practical subjects such as drafting and negotiation of commercial agreements and compliance with international regulatory frameworks.

The programme is delivered through seminars, case-study workshops, simulation exercises and lectures, emphasising practical skills such as contract drafting, negotiation, and dispute strategy as well as doctrinal analysis. Assessment commonly combines coursework, assessed practical exercises, and a substantial research dissertation or major project on an international commercial law topic.

• Core topics: private international law issues in commerce; international arbitration and dispute resolution; international sale and carriage of goods; commercial finance and security.
• Optional/specialist topics: comparative company law; international trade regulation (including WTO and regional trade arrangements); cross-border insolvency; competition and EU/UK trade implications; digital commerce and e-contracting.
• Research/dissertation: an extended dissertation or practice-based project that allows in-depth study of a focused international commercial law problem.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good honours degree (typically a 2:1 or equivalent) in law. Candidates with a 2:2 may be considered where they can demonstrate relevant professional experience or prior postgraduate study in a related discipline. Graduates from non-law backgrounds with substantial commercial or regulatory experience may be eligible for entry onto the programme or a conversion route, subject to interview and evidence of academic readiness.

International applicants must meet the University’s English language requirements; a recognised academic English qualification at the postgraduate level is required. Admissions may also request a personal statement outlining motivations and any relevant work experience, and references. Where appropriate, applicants can be invited to an interview or asked to submit a writing sample.

Career prospects

Graduates use the LLM to progress into a range of careers in the commercial law and international business sectors. Common pathways include roles in international law firms and chambers, in-house legal teams for multinational corporations, contract and risk management positions, compliance and regulatory advisory roles, and specialist practice in arbitration and dispute resolution. The degree also supports careers with trade and regulatory bodies, financial institutions, shipping and logistics companies, and international organisations concerned with cross-border commerce.

The programme is also suitable for those wishing to pursue doctoral research or academic careers in commercial law. Bournemouth University’s focus on employability means you can expect support in developing practical skills valued by employers, including legal drafting, negotiation and litigation/ADR strategy.

Why study at Bournemouth University

Bournemouth University offers a supportive, practice-oriented environment that blends academic rigour with practical skills training. The Law School places emphasis on employability: teaching uses real-world case studies, simulations and guest lectures from practitioners to bridge theory and practice. Smaller-group seminars and skills workshops provide frequent formative feedback and opportunities to develop drafting, advocacy and negotiation abilities.

Students benefit from the University’s professional links with regional and international firms and organisations, access to specialist legal resources and research-active staff with expertise in commercial and international law. Careers and employability services complement academic teaching with CV support, interview preparation and networking opportunities relevant to the international commercial law sector.