Learn to think like a lawyer and practise with purpose on this LLM in International Business Law.
Develop the legal expertise businesses need to operate effectively across borders on our International Business Law Master’s. You’ll critically examine the legal frameworks that govern international trade and commerce while developing practical skills and commercial awareness in topics including:
- international economic relations
- global governance with a focus on human rights
- international arbitration
- global competition law
- international intellectual property
- advanced research skills.
You don't need a background in English law to succeed on this course. Our postgraduate International Business Law degree is designed for law graduates from any jurisdiction. The focus is on the international frameworks that govern cross-border trade, and you'll study alongside a diverse cohort of students from across the globe.
Build job-ready skills through hands-on learning
On the LLM International Business Law course, you’ll develop reasoning, communication and critical thinking skills, and broaden your legal knowledge through interactive workshops and classes. You’ll also build advanced research skills, which you can showcase in your individual dissertation.
Outside the classroom, hands-on learning continues through:
- pro bono experience with Support Through Court
- guest lectures from industry professionals
- visits from law firms
- mock court proceedings at our moot court
- practical legal skills workshops
- seminar competitions.
Access expert teaching and support
Our academics are experts in their field, who regularly contribute to the sector via legal practice, advisory work, and research. They’re committed to your personal and professional growth, supporting you with individual guidance and consistent feedback to ensure you reach your full potential.
We’re a small university and students feel valued here. When you study International Business Law at St Mary's, you get:
- a personal tutor for academic support
- a pastoral tutor dedicated to your wellbeing
- learning and development lecturers to help you build solid study skills
- a university wellness team.
Our student, Krystall, said the team "encouraged me to strive for a better version of myself and gave me all the skills and support I needed to grow as a future lawyer".
Find out more about our Student Success Team, and how they ensure you reach your goals while prioritising your wellbeing.
Explore legal London
Our LLM International Business Law is based at our Twickenham campus, just a 30-minute train ride to London’s legal district. We’ll take regular field trips to prominent legal institutions in the capital, like:
- The Supreme Court
- Old Bailey
- Royal Courts of Justice
- The Law Society
- Parliament
- The Inns of Court.
Get a transformative education in international business law
This master's course is about more than learning the rules of global trade. You'll question how those rules work in practice, exploring the ethics of international commerce, the implications of globalisation, and the impact of legal frameworks on the people and economies they govern.
Our students describe the LLM course as "transformative". Tarik landed a dream internship in Paris, crediting "engaging professors, practical courses, and a diverse cohort" for enriching their understanding.
Another student, Osama, thanks our "comprehensive curriculum, dedicated faculty, [...] engaging learning environment" and "vibrant campus community", saying our LLM "is a top-notch choice for anyone seeking a world-class education".
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Career opportunities
An LLM International Business Law gives you a specialist qualification that opens doors in legal practice and beyond.
If you plan to practise law, the course provides a strong foundation for the next stage of qualification, whether that's preparing for the SQE, training for the Bar, or qualifying in your home jurisdiction.
The commercial awareness, negotiation, and critical thinking skills you'll develop are also valuable in business leadership and consultancy, in-house roles at multinational companies, international trade policy and regulatory work with governments or NGOs, and international arbitration and dispute resolution. You could also continue into academic research, progressing to a PhD or professional doctorate.
Some of our LLM graduates are now working in prestigious law firms, while others have gone on to further study.
The Careers Service has more information on careers, part-time work and internships available during your course.
Course content
Modules
You will take 4 core modules in semester 1 and then in semester 2 you will work on your dissertation alongside three elective modules. Your dissertation is submitted in the summer.
Please note: it is possible that a module listed on the website will not be able to run due to reasons beyond our control. For more information please refer to our course information disclaimer.
Entry requirements
2:2
Previous degree
A 2:2 or higher (or overseas equivalent) in Law or a degree with a least 70% Law content.
FAQs
An LLM International Business Law gives you specialist expertise for businesses operating across borders, with practical skills in areas like international arbitration and competition law that serve legal practice, international business and further research alike.
Graduates go on to qualify as solicitors or barristers, or into careers beyond legal practice, including in-house roles at multinational companies, international trade policy, arbitration, business leadership and doctoral research.
Modules cover international trade law, human rights and business organisations, arbitration, intellectual property and EU competition law, alongside advanced research and communication skills you'll showcase in an individual dissertation.
No – the course focuses on the international rules governing cross-border trade rather than one national system, so it suits law graduates from any jurisdiction.
You'll need an undergraduate degree at 2:2 or above (or international equivalent), with September and January start dates and full-time or part-time study options.
Fees & funding
September 2026
Home
£12,150
International
£18,990
January 2027
Home
£12,150
International
£18,990
Funding Information
Please note: The above fees are for September 2025 and September 2026 fees will be published shortly.
Government-funded loans of over £11,000 are available to many Home postgraduate students.
For guidance about financing your studies, including information about the government-funded loans, please check out Fees and Funding page.
Home and International students may also be eligible for external sources of funding. Please visit our postgraduate funding webpage for more information about external scholarships and grants for postgraduate taught and postgraduate research programmes.
Scholarships
International students should check their eligibility for our International Scholarship.
Alumni discount
A 20% tuition fee discount is available for our alumni (undergraduate and PGCE) planning to study this Master's degree. Those studying for a PGDip or PGCert are not eligible for the discount.
Funding
Except for any iQTS courses, you can check on the UK government website to see if you may be eligible for a loan of up to £12,167 to help with course fees and living costs while you study a postgraduate programme.
Home and international students for non-iQTS courses may also be eligible for external sources of funding. International students should check their eligibility for our International Scholarship.
For more information, please look at our postgraduate funding page.
How the degree is taught
Assessment methods
All assessments are designed to develop your academic and employability skills. Our assessments are not just assignments. All of our modules have coursework that is practically focused, such as client advice, reports, case studies, and presentations. There are no formal in-hall examinations.
Who teaches this course?
Apply now
September 2026
January 2027
Make sure to check our step-by-step guide to application process.
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