LLM International Commercial Dispute Resolution
Delivery & Mode of Study
Language of Instruction
Credits
Factsheet
Introduction
The School of Law of UCLan Cyprus is proud to offer the newly re-structured LLM International Commercial Dispute Resolution. Within industry, international commercial law is a fast-changing and increasingly complex area involving specialist dispute resolution methods. This postgraduate programme will allow students to specialise in a range of exciting, specialist subjects within the area of International Commercial Law and Dispute Resolution of use for their future professional career in law, business, or in commercial fields as well as in the industry, both nationally and internationally.
Students will gain and develop analytical knowledge and practical skills and expertise in International Commercial Dispute Resolution and benefit from a unique learning experience which will enable them to develop their academic ability and enhance their performance in employment, as well as further strengthen their career opportunities. This programme will provide the successful candidate with a recognised postgraduate academic qualification in International Commercial Dispute Resolution and professional accreditation opportunities as arbitrator and/or mediator with local and international specialist bodies and organisations.
The LLM International Commercial Dispute Resolution is available to students from both a legal and non-legal background. Classes are taught during the late afternoon and evening. Emphasis is placed on private research and study, assisted by the University’s remarkable law resources and databases. Therefore, class contact time is limited; reflective of a desire to offer a world-class course of interest to talented, serious, and dedicated students, whilst providing the necessary flexibility for those juggling other professional and personal commitments.
The School benefits from collaborations for certification and/or professional recognition for short courses or specialised modules, leading to academic or professional credits:
- The LLM module in International Commercial Mediation leads to the professional qualification of mediator recognised by the UK Civil Mediation Council and the International Mediation Institute (through the course provider) and the Ministry of Justice and Public Order of the Republic of Cyprus, subject to applicable requirement.
- The LLM module International Commercial Arbitration is yet another specialised module recognised professionally by the UK Chartered Institute of Arbitrators at Associate level, allowing successful participants to use the post-nominal letters ACIArb.
- UCLan Cyprus is a CISI University Partner. Specific LLM modules lay the ground for certification by the Chartered Institute for Securities and Investments (CISI)
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Career Opportunities
UCLan Cyprus graduates can gain or develop careers in multinational and domestic law firms, global and local corporations, banking institutions, the shipping industry, government bodies and a variety of other organisations.
The School of Law organises various extra-curricular activities for all students including postgraduate students such as the Annual Willem C. Vis International Commercial Arbitration Moot (Vienna), the Model United Nations events, as well as multiple networking activities, which have proved to be of great benefit to the students in gaining significant knowledge and understanding of the practical implications of the law. Professional activities are also available to postgraduate students who are active professionals, such as short courses in Compliance, Anti-Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing as well as in Dispute Resolution Methods (arbitration, mediation) for purposes of continuous professional development (CPD).
Moreover, all students also have access to the social enterprise vehicle called ICLAIM (Interdisciplinary Centre for Law, Alternative and Innovative Methods) created by academics of the School of Law so that they can develop their practical and entrepreneurship skills and projects in collaboration with the industry. Visit https://www.iclaimcentre.org/
Commercial Litigation Lawyer
Representing clients in court, handling disputes between businesses or individuals, particularly in international commercial transactions and agreements.
Arbitrator
Acting as an impartial third party to resolve disputes outside of court, especially in cross-border commercial issues.
Mediation Specialist
Facilitating negotiations and settlements between businesses or individuals involved in disputes, helping them find mutually agreeable solutions.
In-House Counsel
Providing legal advice to corporations on resolving disputes, ensuring compliance, and managing risks in international business agreements.
Course Benefits
Specialized Knowledge in International Dispute Resolution
Provides in-depth expertise in resolving commercial disputes across borders, including arbitration, mediation, and litigation.
Professional qualification of Mediator
The International Commercial Mediation module leads to the professional qualification of mediator recognised by the UK Civil Mediation Council and the International Mediation Institute (through the course provider) and the Ministry of Justice and Public Order of the Republic of Cyprus, subject to applicable requirement.
Enhanced Negotiation Skills
Equips graduates with the skills to negotiate settlements and resolve disputes effectively, a key asset in international business.
Professional recognition by UK Chartered Institute of Arbitrators
The LLM module International Commercial Arbitration is recognised professionally by the UK Chartered Institute of Arbitrators at Associate level, allowing successful participants to use the post-nominal letters ACIArb.
Networking and Industry Connections
Provides opportunities to connect with professionals in the field of international dispute resolution, helping build valuable contacts and enhance career prospects.
Practical Application of Knowledge
Offers real-world case studies, internships, and practical projects to apply legal theories and techniques in commercial dispute resolution, making graduates more competitive in the job market.
Course Visual Content
Programme Modules
Compulsory
Module Code:
LA4607
Credit Value:
10 ECTS / 20 UK CREDITS
Module Aims:
- This module will focus on contracts for the international sale of goods governed by the UN Convention on Contracts for the International Sale of Goods (CISG) and explore the different issues concerning and/or arising under such contracts under the CISG and English sales law using a comparative perspective. This module primarily aims to familiarize students with the CISG, in order to enable them to competently apply the relevant legal rules to a number of possible disputes arising under an international sale contract governed by this Convention.
Module Code:
LW4012
Credit Value:
10 ECTS / 20 UK CREDITS
Module Aims:
- The module is designed to offer comparative analysis of both the law and practice of mediation at national (e.g. United Kingdom, Mauritius, USA), regional (e.g. European Union, African Union), transnational and international levels. It aims to explore the theoretical, practical and ethical problems relating to international commercial mediation. Sessions concentrate on practical mediation exercises in an international commercial context covering the entire procedure, from advising the client on the use of mediation, through the actual procedure itself, through to drafting settlement agreements. Students will develop a systematic understanding of the role of the mediator in national, regional and international commercial disputes and will focus on the necessary skills and techniques of a successful mediation through role play exercises. Successful completion of this module can also provide a stepping stone for students to become involved in international alternative dispute resolution (ADR). Students who successfully complete this module will gain accredited mediator status as this module is approved by the Civil Mediation Council, the recognised authority in the United Kingdom for civil and commercial mediation and the International Mediation Institute (IMI).
Module Code:
LW4014
Credit Value:
10 ECTS / 20 UK CREDITS
Module Aims:
- To provide the essential skills of research, interpretation and application of legal sources required for postgraduate study of international, EU and domestic law.
- To ensure that students understand the relative roles of the various actors in the domestic, European Union and international law policy-making processes.
- To appreciate the distribution of power within the United Kingdom and the European Union.
- To indicate the significance of international law as an influence upon EU and domestic law (and vice versa)
- To ensure that students understand the basic concepts, which underlie the creation of, the operation of and adjudication on international, domestic and EU law.
Module Code:
LW4013
Credit Value:
30 ECTS / 60 UK CREDITS
Module Aims:
- to provide postgraduate students with advanced skills required to undertake an extended programme of research.
- to cover practical skills (such as project planning and management) and theoretical skills (such as applying conceptual models).
- It will inform students of a range of different research methodologies and students will be able to assess the appropriateness of particular methodologies for their proposed dissertation topic.
- to enable the students to put into practical effect the research skills acquired during the course and to work in a self-defined field with the objective of producing a substantial piece of work based on critical evaluation and independent thought.
- to give students the opportunity to carry out extended research on a subject of interest to them.
- to give students the opportunity to show their ability to work independently and at a high quality level, on a substantial project.
Module Code:
LW4021
Credit Value:
10 ECTS / 20 UK CREDITS
Module Aims:
- The module aims to give students a thorough understanding of the transnational issues that arise in court-based dispute settlement – with a particular emphasis on litigation in Europe. Different approaches to civil procedure and the allocation of jurisdiction within Europe have historically inhibited judicial co-operation in cross-border disputes. EU legislation has been introduced with a view to resolving these differences and ensuring the “free movement of judgments”. After introducing the fundamental concepts and relevant international and European instruments, the seminars will encourage students to analyse the strategies adopted by litigants, and to critique the process of harmonisation in Europe. Students will obtain a thorough understanding of both national and EU rules and will at the same time gain an appreciation of the differences in legal culture that continue to frustrate harmonisation.
Module Code:
LW4015
Credit Value:
10 ECTS / 20 UK CREDITS
Module Aims:
- The module aims to explore the role and regulation of arbitration as a method of dispute resolution, adopting a comparative approach and highlighting contrasting approaches to regulation. Students will obtain a thorough understanding of the role and significance of private institutions, national laws and international instruments in providing a framework for arbitration. A particular focus is examination of the ways in which arbitration remains embedded in national legal systems, and a critical assessment of its potential as a ‘supra-national’ system of dispute resolution. Students will be encouraged to undertake a critical comparison of contrasting national and institutional rules and to consider whether the 1958 New York Convention is still fit for purpose. In the national law context, the principal comparisons will be between English law and the UNCITRAL Model Law. At the institutional level, comparison will be made of contrasting provisions selected from the rules of the principal arbitral institutions (e.g. ICC, LCIA). Successful completion of this module can also provide a stepping stone for students to become involved in international alternative dispute resolution (ADR). This module is recognised by the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, therefore students who successfully complete this module will be eligible to apply to become Associates of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, allowing them to use the post-nominal letters ACIArb.
Optional
Module Code:
LW4009
Credit Value:
10 ECTS / 20 UK CREDITS
Module Aims:
- To identify the legal and ethical challenges raised by developments in machine learning and Artificial Intelligence [AI.]
- To assess the need for international AI regulation.
- To examine current global trends in the regulation of AI.
- To consider what type of legal personality should be granted to AI and machine/human hybrids, if any.
Module Code:
LW4011
Credit Value:
10 ECTS / 20 UK CREDITS
Module Aims:
- This module examines the law and policy issues in the international energy sector from the perspective of sustainable development and specific national and regional regulatory frameworks, identifying regulatory overlaps.
- The module intends to set the topics within a multidisciplinary background concentrating on international agreements and related national and regional regulatory instruments and their inter-relation with the international framework.
- Students will also be expected to develop a good understanding of the various methods of regulation involved at all levels of the energy sector.
Module Code:
LW4017
Credit Value:
10 ECTS / 20 UK CREDITS
Module Aims:
- This module examines the theoretical and practical legal issues relating to the conduct of maritime affairs in a commercial context. The module intends to set the topics within a multidisciplinary background underlying the international law relating to the carriage of goods by sea, with emphasis on the distinct types of contractual regimes employed and the associated liabilities. In addition, the module attempts to make clear an understanding of the distinct liabilities under the law relating to marine insurance.
Module Code:
LA4931
Credit Value:
10 ECTS / 20 UK CREDITS
Module Aims:
- The aim of this module is to provide the students with a solid grounding in the most relevant aspects of constitutional and institutional law of the EU and the internal and external governance of the EU. This module will consider the theoretical and legal background to the formation and development of the European Union up to today in a global context, including through a review of the amending Treaties up to the Treaty of Lisbon and of the enlargement process to date. Union institutions, legislation and governance, the relationship between EU law and the national law of the member states will also be examined. The module will conclude with emphasis on the judicial process, grounds for review and remedies.
Module Code:
LA4932
Credit Value:
10 ECTS / 20 UK CREDITS
Module Aims:
- The central aim of this module is to critically analyse the purpose, process and principles of the substantive law of the EU as it affects business within the EU. The main areas covered will be the free movement of goods, free movement of persons (especially workers and jobseekers and their families), freedom of establishment, dispute resolution mechanisms and an overview of EU worker’s rights. Students will also be expected to develop a good understanding of the legal position of non-EU nationals / businesses within the EU Single Market and the impact of EU Single Market developments on (people and businesses in) non-EU countries.
Module Code:
LW4010
Credit Value:
10 ECTS / 20 UK CREDITS
Module Aims:
- To conclude with a consideration of the impact these various actors may have on the development of commercial and investment-related contracts/entrepreneurship and the protection afforded to the parties involved.
Learning Outcomes
A1. To critically reflect on, and effectively apply, legal research methods.
A2. Demonstrate a systematic understanding of international commercial-related and other relevant legal instruments, principles, rules and legal dimensions and be able to apply this knowledge as appropriate to a wide range of complex real-life international commercial disputes.
A3. Acquire expert knowledge of international commercial dispute resolution processes and develop an expert understanding of the operation and suitability of these for international commercial disputes.
A4. Show critical awareness of the main legal and commercial international policy objectives and appreciate the practical impact of these on international commercial relations and dispute resolution methods.
B1. Carry out analytical evaluation of a range of primary and secondary sources relating to legal regulation of international commerce, relations and dispute resolution methods.
B2. Critically evaluate the complex dynamics between legal, economic and political regulation of international commerce and dispute resolution in a multilateral context.
B3. Develop a critical understanding and ability to evaluate the role international organisations such as UNCITRAL and UNIDROIT and the European Union as actors in the area of international commerce and relations, and dispute resolution.
B4. Plan and carry out a comprehensive programme of research, using appropriate legal methodologies.
C1. Identify and interpret information and knowledge relevant to substantive international commercial law issues and apply these to international commercial disputes and their resolution being aware of the context and relationship to other areas of law, including finance.
C2. Use the tools of legal analysis and reasoning to problem solve and construct well-reasoned arguments, scenarios and solutions for specific international commercial disputes.
C3. Demonstrate research skills of project planning, time management, construction of an appropriate research question and reasoned adoption of an appropriate methodology.
C4. Demonstrate conceptual understanding and creativity in the application of knowledge of international commercial dispute resolution concepts, rules and principles related to regulation and governance of international commercial relationships, including dispute resolution in a global context.
D1. Evaluate the rigour, credibility and validity of information from printed and electronic sources and on that basis write intelligible and persuasive prose.
D2. Exhibit or employ alternative dispute resolution skills in conflict situations.
D3. Develop or substantially enhance skills of independent learning, including the ability to plan, time-manage and execute a multi-stage project through the dissertation.
D4. Critically reflect upon effectiveness and efficiency of own independent learning.
D5. Enhance ability to recognise sound and unsound arguments.
Entry Requirements
The minimum entry requirements for this programme are:
Requirement 1
Bachelor's degree, with at least Lower Second Class grade or equivalent.
Requirement 2
Proof of English Language knowledge to a score of at least IELTS 6.5, or other equivalent according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
Academic Faculty
Dr Nevi Agapiou
Lecturer in International Commercial Law and Dispute Resolution Research Degree TutorLEARN MORE
Dr Demetra Loizou
Course Leader of Master of Laws LLM, Lecturer in International Criminal Law and Humanitarian LawLEARN MORE
Prof. Stéphanie Laulhé Shaelou
HEAD OF SCHOOL OF LAW AND PROFESSOR OF EUROPEAN LAW AND REFORMLEARN MORE
Dr Nasia Hadjigeorgiou
Deputy Head of School of Law, Associate Professor in Transitional Justice and Human RightsLEARN MORE
Dr Katerina Kalaitzaki
Deputy Course Leader of Bachelor of Laws LLB (Hons), Lecturer in EU Public LawLEARN MORE
Dr Maria Tatsiou
Deputy Course Leader of Master of Laws LLM, Lecturer in Financial and Corporate LawLEARN MORE
Dr Henrik Andersen
Senior Visiting Fellow on the Rule of Law and Sustainable Development.LEARN MORE
How To Apply?
Step by Step Application Process.
Complete the UCLan Cyprus application FORM.
Provide copies of:
– School Leaving Certificate & Marksheet
– Bachelor’s Degree & Transcript
– English Language Qualification (see Entry Requirements)
– CV & Personal Statement
– 2 Reference Letters
– ID/Passport
Payment of €50 application fee (non-refundable) for the Admissions Department to officially evaluate your application and if successful to receive your Offer for a Place to Study at UCLan Cyprus.
APPLY NOW * International Applicants: once you receive your Offer Letter, you will proceed to the Visa Application Steps. Find more information here.Quick Links
Student Stories
School of Law
Deciding to study at UCLan Cyprus was one of the best decisions I have made so far regarding my education and future professional career. The university offers a unique selection of modules for each course and provides students with all the necessary guidance to achieve success.
Antonia Michailidi, Winner of 2018 Queen’s Young Leaders Awards
Bachelor of Laws (LLB)School of Law
UCLan Cyprus has taught me the importance of knowing the theory and also combining it with practical experiences. I am very pleased with the professors we had. Besides the academic professors, we also had lecturers that were working in the particular field. Obviously, not everything is textbook. I actually found a job while I was doing my Master’s degree at UCLan Cyprus and then I was offered a full time position after my graduation. The combination of academia and practical networking experiences that I have acquired at UCLan Cyprus have provided me with a great start to my career.
Alexandra Pavlik-Marangos
LLM in Financial & Corporate LawSchool of Law
The experience and knowledge that I have gained during my studies at the LLM programme of UCLan Cyprus, have majorly contributed to the development of my professional career. During the time of me undergoing the LLM program, I was working in the public sector, specifically Cyprus Ministry of Justice and Public Order. In 2018, I made a decision to leave the public sector and open my own Law Firm, in Larnaca Cyprus. This decision was driven by various factors, primarily my aspiration to succeed in the legal sphere and be a private business owner. All in all, I am very grateful for all the supervision I received from the professors of UCLan Cyprus during my studies. I do strongly believe that the knowledge and skills that I have gained strongly contributed to the lawyer and private business owner that I am today.
Yiannos Vasiliou
LLMSchool of Law
I thoroughly enjoyed my Erasmus programme at UCLan Cyprus. Studying abroad is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and I believe Cyprus is one of the best places to experience it. The climate is warm, the people are friendly, and the friends I made are incredible! UCLan Cyprus provided an engaging and enjoyable learning experience. I was able to challenge my perspectives and learn more in a year than ever before. If you’re considering studying abroad, go for it—and consider UCLan Cyprus as your destination!
Jorgen Fredrik Holmseth
Bachelor of Laws (LLB)School of Law
UCLan Cyprus is a very interesting University which gives you an opportunity to meet different people from various countries. As far as the academic part is concerned, we are taught by very experienced lecturers. I would advise anyone to consider attending UCLan Cyprus.
Emmanuel Byiringiro
Bachelor of Laws LLB (Hons)School of Law
It is a fascinating experience to be studying at UCLan Cyprus and it has really increased my educational level.
Brian Munyaneza
Bachelor of Laws LLB (Hons)School of Law
The environment at UCLan Cyprus is very helpful, as the campus is in a quiet area that allows you to study effectively. When you seek help for any matter, you receive all the support you need. I also use the gym quite often, which helps me relax from my studies.
Jindu Na
Bachelor of Laws (LLB)School of Law
At UCLan Cyprus there are students from all over the world, and this allows you to gain an international higher education experience. It is the best University on the island!
Seyedehnegar Hejazi
Bachelor of Laws (LLB)School of Law
I chose UCLan Cyprus primarily because it is a British University and it offers student mobility. However studying here I have realised that there are many other great advantage. The University has great lecturers, resources, facilities as well as a very helpful and friendly environment.
Anastasia Butrim
Bachelor of Laws LLB (Hons)School of Law
UCLan Cyprus offers a complete package of excellent teaching and extracurricular activities both of which are crucial for the student life experience. As a Law student, the School of Law ensures that students like me are exposed to relevant and equal opportunities which will enable me to gain useful knowledge and experience beneficial for my chosen career path.
Oluwatodimu Akolade Bankole
Bachelor of Laws LLB (Hons)School of Law
The reason I chose to do my LLM at UCLan University, is because the LLM programme provides a variety of modules that a student can select according to their interest and that the programme runs for just a “year” (which is time effective, for those who want to finalize their studies in as short period of time). Moreover, I like the security both at School and Accommodation.
Gifty Yoseph Habtemariam
Master of Laws LLMSchool of Law
I had the opportunity to study a semester at the School of Law of UCLan Cyprus as an ERASMUS student from Riga, Latvia. During my stay I took courses in relation to commercial, shipping and maritime law which is my particular field of interest, and I am highly satisfied with my choice to study here. The University facilities were highly modern and had all the necessary means required for a law student, with the library and databases providing the required materials to conduct advanced legal research. I particularly enjoyed the extracurricular activities such as the Model United Nations, International Court of Justice Moot as well as the guest speakers and seminars that were provided by the School and University. The overall environment at the University was wonderful and very friendly, where it was possible to meet people from all over the world, which made it all even more exciting. After finishing with my studies I had the chance and opportunity assisted by the School of Law to secure a 2 month internship and work experience in a reputable law firm as well as in one of the leading shipping companies on the Island.
Robert Valpiters
Erasmus Student, School Of Law / UCLan CyprusRequest More Information
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