Program Overview

LLM International Trade and Maritime Law

The LLM International Trade and Maritime Law is a postgraduate course that delves into the legal principles surrounding global trade, with a focus on the shipping industry. This course specializes in two key areas of commercial law: International Trade Law and Maritime Law, providing students with a thorough understanding of the main principles of law in these areas.

Overview

• Course: International Trade and Maritime Law
• Start date: October 2026
• Study mode: Full-time, Part-time
• Duration: 1 year (full-time)
• Location: Colchester Campus
• Based in: Essex Law School

This course explores the social, political, cultural, and economic background of the laws in question, offering an understanding of how national, European Union Law, and International Law interact. Students will cover a variety of topics, including:

• Financing International Trade
• Marine Insurance
• International Law of the Sea issues
• Sale and Carriage of Goods by Sea Contracts
• Environmental Protection Laws

Our Expert Staff

The course is taught by international experts in the field, including:

• Dr. Anil Yilmaz Vastardis, Senior Lecturer, with research interests in international investment law and business and human rights.
• Dr. Durand Cupido, Lecturer in Law, with experience in commercial litigation and maritime law.
• Prof. Onyeka Osuji, Reader in Law, with research interests in Corporate Governance, Corporate Social Responsibility, and Consumer Protection.
• Dr. Tara Van Ho, Senior Lecturer, with expertise in business and human rights, investment law, and economic, social, and cultural rights.
• Dr. Carlo Petrucci, specialist in Competition Law, with research on EU policy-making, market regulation, and the digital economy.

Specialist Facilities

Students have access to various facilities and opportunities, including:

• Volunteer work at the Essex Law Clinic
• Participation in mooting competitions
• Client Interviewing Competition
• Model United Nations society
• Law Society, Human Rights Society, and Bar Society
• Networking opportunities with visiting law firms

Your Future

Essex Law School graduates have pursued a wide variety of careers in international and intergovernmental organizations, governments, commerce, banking, non-governmental organizations, and the legal profession. Career paths include:

• Protection and Indemnity Clubs
• Insurance industry, including Lloyd's of London
• Shipping companies and associations
• Shipping Law firms
• Commercial Banks
• International Maritime Organisation
• UN Conference on Trade and Development
• International Chamber of Commerce

Entry Requirements

UK Entry Requirements

• A 2:2 Degree in Law or a joint honors Degree in another subject with Law.
• Applicants without a Law Degree but with at least six months of relevant professional experience, traineeships, or professional qualifications can apply.

International & EU Entry Requirements

The University accepts a wide range of qualifications from applicants studying in the EU and other countries. English language requirements include IELTS 6.5 overall with a minimum component score of 6.0 in writing and 5.5 in all other components.

Structure

Course Structure

The course is research-led and evolving, with modules that may change in response to new curriculum developments. Components and modules include:

• Maritime Law and Wet Shipping
• International Trade Finance Law
• International Sale of Goods
• Carriage of Goods By Sea
• Trade and Maritime Law options
• Business Law options
• Foundation Essay
• Dissertation

Teaching

Postgraduate students attend small-group interactive seminars, lectures, and guest lectures. Teaching is supplemented by one-to-one supervision for the dissertation.

Assessment

Modules are assessed via coursework, examination, or a combination of both. The dissertation is 12,000 words in length and offers the freedom to select a topic, with guidance and one-to-one supervision.

Fees and Funding

Home/UK Fee

｣11,025

International Fee

｣23,875

Scholarships and Financial Support

There may be scholarships, bursaries, or discounts available to help with the cost of the course.

What's Next

Information on Open Days, applying for the course, and visiting the Colchester Campus is available. The University of Essex offers a welcoming and inclusive student community with support for individuals and groups of students who may have specific requirements or interests.