International Business and Commercial Law LLM
2025-26 Year of entry
Shape the future of global business and trade. Led by legal experts, with opportunities for real-world experience in commercial law, arbitration, and international regulation
/199x0:1702x1100/prod01/channel_3/media/middlesex-university/courses-images/pg---course-masthead-images/2024X2f25/business-and-law/Commercial-Law-Banner.jpg)
Why choose International Business and Commercial Law LLM at Middlesex?
In an increasingly interconnected world, commercial and business law professionals must navigate complex legal systems that shape international trade, finance, and dispute resolution. Our LLM offers a rigorous and practice-focused understanding of the legal frameworks governing international commerce, with particular emphasis on English and international law.
Our LLM equips you with in-depth knowledge of international business law, including trade regulation, arbitration, and the international sale of goods. You will explore how legal rules operate in diverse cultural, political, and economic contexts, while developing advanced analytical, research, and problem-solving skills.
Guided by academic experts in the field, you will develop the analytical, research, and communication skills essential for addressing sophisticated legal issues. Whether you aspire to work in legal practice, policy, business, or academia, Our LLM will equip you with the intellectual and professional tools to lead in the evolving field of international business law.
Dr Sara Hourani
Senior Lecturer in Law, specialises in International Commercial Law, with a focus on the interface between international commercial arbitration and new technologies, spanning digital and online dispute resolution, with a particular interest in blockchain and smart contract arbitration.
Dr Mariette Jones
Senior Lecturer in Law, has research interests in corporate governance and corporate responsibility, civil liability and tort, as well as comparative law.
Dr Eneless Nyoni
Lecturer in Law, has a background in contract law, global trade law, the World Trade Organisation, and international trade law.
What you will gain
This programme is designed to deepen your understanding of the legal frameworks that shape global commerce and cross-border transactions. You will develop a critical awareness of the legal, economic, ethical, and political issues that influence international business and commercial law. Through practical, real-world examples and academic analysis, you will explore key areas such as trade law, the international sale of goods, commercial arbitration, and transnational regulation.
You will gain transferable skills essential for a wide range of careers in the legal profession, policymaking, multinational corporations, governmental and regulatory bodies, and academia. You will also learn how to conduct independent legal research, analyse complex legal issues in diverse jurisdictions, and communicate arguments with clarity and precision.
At Middlesex University, you will benefit from the expertise of a diverse team of leading scholars —including specialists in international arbitration and new technologies, corporate governance, and global trade law — who bring their research and professional insights directly into the classroom. Through their networks, you may also access valuable internship opportunities with international and domestic organisations, giving you a real edge in today’s competitive legal and business environments.
3 great reasons to pick this course
About your course
This LLM provides a comprehensive foundation in international business and commercial law, combining theoretical insight with practical application. You will begin with Legal Research Skills, developing the critical tools needed to conduct advanced legal analysis and write at postgraduate level. Key modules such as the Law of the International Sale of Goods, Comparative Corporate Governance, and International Commercial Litigation and Arbitration explore the legal principles and frameworks that govern global trade, corporate structure, and dispute resolution.
Optional modules allow you to tailor your studies to your interests, with choices including Technology and the Law, English Commercial Law, Law and Policy of the World Trade Organization, and Business and Human Rights.
You will complete your programme with either a dissertation, allowing for in-depth research on a chosen topic, or the Work Integrated Learning module, giving eligible students the opportunity to apply their knowledge in a real-world professional setting.
Modules
This module overview is valid for the September intake. Some optional modules are compulsory in the January intake. Please see Programme Specification for detailed module information.
This module provides you with a foundation in advanced legal research and analytical skills essential for successful engagement with the LLM programme. It engages with research methodologies and practical exercises focused on interpreting and evaluating legal sources.
This module will engage you in a comparative study of the central channel of international trade: the sale of goods. It critically examines the English Sale of Goods Act and the UN Convention on Contracts for the International Sale of Goods (CISG), alongside related factors such as trade terms and documents of title.
This module engages with contemporary issues, legal problems and emergent changes in the practise and management of commercial cases that cross jurisdictional lines and may raise conflict of laws questions. The module also explores international commercial arbitration in depth as a standalone binding method of ADR.
This module explores corporate theories, governance, and responsibility, focusing on laws and practices regulating directors and company operations across selected countries. It examines relationships among directors, shareholders, and employees, and analyses factors influencing the convergence of corporate governance practices globally.
The module aims to ensure that students are equipped with essential skills to research and write a dissertation. The module adopts a learner-centred instructional style, combining exposition with exercises, discussion and self-directed learning in a series of workshops supported by online resources.
*Eligible students only
This module empowers you to apply theory in real workplace settings, fostering self-directed learning, goal-setting, and self-assessment to enhance transformative learning, adaptability, and professional growth through negotiated internships or current work experiences.
This module will bring you up to date with contemporary issues, legal problems and emergent changes to primary and secondary legislation and to the regulatory framework governing the conduct of trade, business and financial services.
The module focuses on the legal and policy responses to technological developments. It will develop your ability to engage in interdisciplinary research to assess the scientific, political, economic, social and ethical aspects of new technologies.
This module explores corporate human rights abuses and accountability gaps through landmark cases. It introduces the interdisciplinary field of business and human rights, examining corporate liability and international standards from the UN, EU, OECD, and World Bank, equipping you to critically assess the human rights impact of global business practices.
This module covers the international legal framework of the World Trade Organization (WTO), global trade regimes, and the impact of globalization on economic relations. It includes practical mooting activities to develop skills in debating complex trade cases and deepens understanding of the global trading system’s structure and regulations.
This module enhances postgraduate employability by offering practical law-related work experience in free legal advice settings. It enables you to gain recognised credit, develop intellectual and interpersonal skills, and deepen your understanding of law’s practical application through reflection and hands-on learning in a professional environment.
For more information about this course, please download the International Business and Commercial Law LLM course specification (PDF).
Register your interest
Sign up now to receive more information about studying at Middlesex University London.
Teaching
You'll be taught by an experienced teaching team with a wide range of expertise and professional experience.
The LLM in International Business and Commercial Law offers an engaging, practice-focused learning experience through interactive sessions, class discussions, and guided independent study. Taught face-to-face by world-leading experts, this programme explores the legal, commercial, and regulatory aspects of international business law.
Classes are held on our Hendon campus in two and three-hour sessions across three days each week. You will develop advanced research and analytical skills while gaining practical experience to enhance your professional confidence in a dynamic legal setting. Assessments are varied and engaging equipping you to demonstrate expertise in commercial legal analysis and argumentation.
You will be studying at our leafy north London campus in Hendon.
Middlesex University has reviewed its approach to teaching and learning for this year’s entry and beyond. We have learnt how to give you a quality education - we aim to combine the best of our in-person teaching and materials with our digital and online learning resources, putting you in charge of when and how you learn. We are dedicated to using technology to enhance your experience and will provide you with the digital support and online resources you will need to succeed.
In addition to your time spent in face-to-face learning, you’ll be expected to do independent study where you read, listen and reflect on your learning activities. You may be doing this by yourself or with your course mates, depending on your module selection. In a year, you will typically be expected to commit 1,200 hours to your course across both formal and self-directed study. If you are taking a placement, you might have some additional hours.
You will have a strong support network available to you to make sure you develop all the necessary academic skills you need to achieve your full potential on your course.
You will have access to both one-to-one and group sessions for personal learning and academic support from our Library, Learning Enhancement and IT teams. In addition, our Welfare teams are also able to offer financial advice, and personal wellbeing, mental health and disability support.
Assessments are varied and dynamic, including presentations, case studies, critical essays, and research projects, giving you the tools to demonstrate expertise in legal analysis and argumentation. Assessments are designed to help you enhance your communication skills by engaging in structured discussions, written assignments, and presentations, fostering clarity, precision, and persuasive argumentation. Problem-solving abilities are cultivated through the critical analysis of complex legal issues, where you will be encouraged to apply legal principles to address real-world challenges in the field of international business and commercial law.
/0x0:1050x1407/prod01/channel_3/media/middlesex-university/courses-images/ug-courses/facilities/north-london-campus-banner.jpg)
North London campus
Our north London campus is just 20 minutes from central London, giving you easy access to everything this vibrant city has to offer. Make the most of incredible professional opportunities, cultural experiences, and more affordable living, all within a supportive and close-knit campus community.
Learn moreFacilities and support
Our Sheppard Library has over 1000 study areas and 600 computer spaces
/159x0:1342x1000/prod01/channel_3/media/middlesex-university/courses-images/ug-courses/business-and-law/007---Students-in-the-Sheppard-Library.jpg)
Make the most of our free laptop loans, e-books, printing and photocopying
Learn more/101x0:851x634/prod01/channel_3/media/middlesex-university/courses-images/ug-courses/facilities/Sheppard-Library-Facilities-2014-40.jpg)
/1598x0:5102x4467/prod01/channel_3/media/middlesex-university/courses-images/ug-courses/facilities/052---Students-in-the-Sheppard-Library.jpg)
/126x0:1074x801/prod01/channel_3/media/middlesex-university/study-section-images/facilities/MDX-Sheppard-Library-13.jpg)
We have one of London's biggest and best university campuses with everything you need in one place.
Our facilitiesStudent support
We offer lots of support to help you while you're studying including financial advice, wellbeing, mental health, and disability support.
Additional needs
We'll support you if you have additional needs such as sensory impairment or dyslexia. And if you want to find out whether Middlesex is the right place for you before you apply, get in touch with our Disability and Dyslexia team.
Wellness
Our specialist teams will support your mental health. We have free individual counselling sessions, workshops, support groups and useful guides.
Work while you study
Our Middlesex Unitemps branch will help you find work that fits around uni and your other commitments. We have hundreds of student jobs on campus that pay the London Living Wage and above. Visit the Middlesex Unitemps page.
Careers
How the International Business and Commercial Law LLM will support your career
Our LLM programme equips you with practical skills, in-depth legal knowledge, and global connections to succeed in today’s evolving international business law landscape. Whether pursuing careers in advocacy, corporate law, or policy, this degree opens doors to influential roles worldwide.
Career pathways include:
- International Business Lawyer – Advise on cross-border transactions, trade, and corporate governance
- Corporate Counsel – Provide legal expertise within multinational companies
- Trade and Investment Policy Advisor – Shape international trade policies with governments or organisations
- Compliance and Risk Manager – Oversee regulatory compliance and ethical business practices
- Legal Consultant for International Organisations – Support legal frameworks in bodies such as the WTO or UN.
Placements
Our LLM offers outstanding opportunities to gain hands-on experience alongside your academic studies. You can choose to swap your dissertation for work experience and apply your legal knowledge in a real-world setting aligned with your career goals. You can also choose to complete a year-long internship of your choice. You will be supported throughout your placement by our careers team (MDXWorks), workplace mentor, academic supervisor, and the module leader.
Entry requirements
Qualifications
- The University's standard entry requirement consists of a Law degree at 2:2 or Graduate Diploma in Law/CPE
- Graduates in related disciplines, with law minors or with relevant professional experience or qualifications may be admitted subject to the programme leader's discretion
Eligibility
UK and international students are eligible to apply for this course.
Academic credit for previous study or experience
If you have relevant qualifications or work experience, academic credit may be awarded towards your Middlesex University programme of study. For further information please visit our ccreditation of Prior Learning page.
Interviews, entrance tests, portfolios and auditions
Entry onto this course does not require an interview, portfolio or audition.
We welcome students from the UK and all over the world. Join students from over 122 countries and discover why so many international students call our campus home:
- Quality teaching with top facilities plus flexible online learning
- Welcoming north London campus that's only 30 minutes from central London
- Work placements and networking with top London employers
- Award-winning career support to get you where you want to go after university.
Qualifications
We accept a wide range of international qualifications. Find out more about the accepted qualifications on your country's support page. If you are unsure of the suitability of your qualifications or would like help with your application, please contact your nearest international office.
English language
You will need to meet our English language requirements. And, don’t worry If you don't meet our minimum English language requirements, as we offer a Pre-sessional English course.
Visas
To study with us in the UK, you might need a Student visa. Please check to see if this applies to you.
Applications for postgraduate study should be made directly to the university. Please visit our Postgraduate application page for further information and to apply.
Fees and funding
The fees below refer to the 2025/26 academic year unless otherwise stated.
UK students*
Full-time students: £11,300
Part-time students: £75 per credit
Part-time students: £37 per dissertation
International students*
Full-time students: £18,000
Part-time students: £120 per credit
Part-time students: £60 per dissertation credit
*Course fees are subject to annual inflation so the total costs for part-time study are shown here as a guide
For more information and to answer your frequently asked questions, please visit our postgraduate funding page.
International students who require a Student route (formerly tier 4) visa to progress on a course at Middlesex University must apply for study on a full-time basis. If you are on any other visa for the duration of study, please contact our admissions team to discuss possibilities of studying on a part-time basis.
Additional course costs
The following course-related costs are included in the fees:
- A free electronic textbook for every module
- All printing and copying required for your study
- Self-service laptops available for loan for a maximum of 24 hours
- Audio-visual equipment available for loan, including digital stills cameras, digital video recorders, digital audio recorders
Scholarships and bursaries
As an undergraduate alumnus continuing postgraduate studies at Middlesex, you are eligible for an alumni award worth 20% off your fees.
Student Testimonials
"Studying at Middlesex University is one of the best decisions I have ever made. The fascinating LLM programme expanded my knowledge and paved my way for a great career. Our tutors were not only academics, but also practitioners, so they made the programme interesting by sharing their own experiences."
Hisham Kanan
LLM Commercial Law
Get answers from our Unibuddy student ambassadors
View our range of student ambassadors/138x0:1762x1100/prod01/channel_3/media/middlesex-university/courses-images/ug---course-masthead-images/2024X2f25/science-and-technology/cyber-security-forensics.jpg)
/162x0:1739x1068/prod01/channel_3/media/middlesex-university/courses-images/ug-courses/LLB-Law-with-International-Relations.jpg)
/17x0:2183x1467/prod01/channel_3/media/middlesex-university/courses-images/ug-courses/business-and-law/criminology/MDX_Law_2022-202-(1).jpeg)
/138x0:1762x1100/prod01/channel_3/media/Professional-Practice_Herobanner.jpg)
We’ll carefully manage any future changes to courses, or the support and other services available to you, if these are necessary because of things like changes to government health and safety advice, or any changes to the law.
Any decisions will be taken in line with both external advice and the University’s Regulations which include information on this.
Our priority will always be to maintain academic standards and quality so that your learning outcomes are not affected by any adjustments that we may have to make.
At all times we’ll aim to keep you well informed of how we may need to respond to changing circumstances, and about support that we’ll provide to you.