University of Ghana

What you'll study

This programme provides an in-depth study of the legal and regulatory frameworks that govern energy production, distribution and consumption, together with the policy and commercial contexts in which they operate. Teaching combines core modules, option modules and a substantial research dissertation or major project.

• Core topics: international and domestic energy law, petroleum and mineral law, regulation of electricity markets, environmental and sustainability law as it applies to energy projects, and energy-related public law.
• Commercial and transactional modules: energy contracts and procurement, project finance and investment law, concession and licensing regimes, corporate and tax aspects of energy projects.
• Policy and governance: energy policy analysis, natural resource governance, regulatory design and compliance, and the role of state and non-state actors in energy transitions.
• Dispute resolution and practice: arbitration and litigation in energy disputes, negotiation skills, and regulatory enforcement mechanisms.
• Research component: a supervised dissertation or major research project that allows you to pursue a specialist topic in depth, drawing on Ghanaian, regional and international perspectives.

Teaching methods typically include seminars, case studies, guest lectures from industry and regulators, and research-led supervision. The programme is offered with full‑time and part‑time study options to accommodate practising professionals.

Entry requirements

• A good undergraduate degree in law (LLB) or an equivalent qualification from a recognised institution. Applicants with degrees in related disciplines (such as economics, engineering, environmental science or public policy) may be considered where they can demonstrate substantial relevant experience or prior study in law or regulation.
• Relevant professional experience in the legal, energy, public sector or commercial fields is advantageous and can strengthen an application, particularly for part‑time study.
• Evidence of academic and professional references, a personal statement outlining reasons for applying and intended areas of research, and any required proof of English language proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English.
• Applicants without a qualifying law degree may be required to complete specified preliminary modules or demonstrate competence in core legal subjects before or during the programme.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to careers across the public, private and non‑profit sectors where specialist knowledge of energy law and policy is needed. Typical roles include:

• Legal counsel or regulatory affairs adviser for energy companies (oil & gas, power utilities, renewable developers).
• Lawyers in private practice specialising in energy, natural resources, project finance, transactions and dispute resolution.
• Regulatory and policy roles within government ministries, national regulatory authorities and state-owned enterprises concerned with energy and natural resources.
• Consultancy and advisory positions with international organisations, development agencies, think‑tanks and NGOs working on energy access, sustainability and governance.
• Careers in arbitration and international dispute settlement focused on cross‑border energy and investment disputes, and academic or research posts in energy law and policy.

Why study at University of Ghana

• The University of Ghana is one of the country’s leading research universities, offering access to experienced academic staff who combine legal scholarship with practical engagement in the energy sector.
• Studying in Accra provides proximity to national regulators, energy companies and professional networks, enabling guest lectures, practitioner seminars and opportunities for experiential learning.
• Students benefit from the University’s law library and research centres, which support specialised study in petroleum, mining, electricity and environmental regulation, as well as interdisciplinary collaboration with policy and economics researchers.
• The programme is designed to be regionally and internationally relevant, preparing graduates to work on Ghanaian and West African energy issues as well as in broader international contexts.

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