LL.M. in International Commercial Law
Course Overview
An opportunity to specialise in the exciting field of International Commercial Law for great career opportunities.
The LL.M. in International Commercial Law is available on a full-time basis over a one year period.
Please note: The LL.M. in International Commercial Law is a cognitive masters. In order to be eligible for the course you will need to possess the following: 2.2 degree in Law or a related discipline (that has a 50% legal component to the degree) or foreign equivalent. Relative work experience may also be taken into consideration.
Why Study International Commercial Law at Griffith College?
The LL.M. in International Commercial Law offers students the opportunity to specialise in International Commercial Law in order to facilitate enhanced career opportunities and/or to lay the foundations for Ph.D. study.
- Unique International Commercial Law focus. Adopts an international focus of Commercial Law which is unique to Griffith College's postgraduate law courses.
- Evening lecturers make it possible to obtain an LL.M with work or other daytime commitments.
- Students will acquire highly transferable skills, attractive to a wide range of businesses including in major corporations, international institutions, advanced research, presentation, and client handling skills.
- A strong international focus gives students a key advantage when building a career in today's globalised legal landscape.
Course Highlights
- Unique International Commercial Law focus
- Experienced lecturers who are experts in their field
- Small class sizes mean more individual attention to help you reach your personal potential
- Evening time lectures mean that it is possible to obtain an LL.M. with work or other day time commitments
Intake Dates
We run two intakes for this course commencing in Autumn and Spring.
- September*
- February*
*subject to sufficient numbers
What our students say
"A challenging endeavour, where the reward is worth the effort"
LL.M. International Law
What our students say
"I completed an LLM in International Commercial Law at Griffith College. Despite the Master’s being conducted online due to Covid restrictions, the interactive nature of the classes was very enjoyable. I engaged in class discussions which helped me to build upon the topics being taught in class. Additionally, the lecturers were always available to assist me, both academically and professionally. I enjoyed my time at Griffith College and I would recommend this course to others looking for a Masters in Law."
LL.M. International Commercial Law
"Griffith College will always have my extreme gratitude. The lecturers helped me achieve and exceed all my academic goals, and have given me the art of the possible. I experienced some of the best lecturers at Griffith throughout my whole academic life, who have challenged with passion, and taught with heart, creating an atmosphere for critical thinking enabling students to flourish. I would recommend Griffith as a must for anyone considering a career in law."
LL.M. International Commercial Law
Course Details
The LL.M. in International Commercial Law is one calendar year in duration. The student will complete six modules and a dissertation. In the first semester, the student will complete three mandatory subjects and in the second semester, they will choose three commercial electives. (Electives run subject to demand and at the discretion of the faculty.)
Assessment in the taught modules in semesters 1 and 2 is by way of assignments and examinations. A dissertation of 20,000 words is completed throughout the academic year and written up over the summer months under the guidance of a designated supervisor.
Semester One
Public International Law is concerned with both the relations between States and with the relationship between individuals, international organisations and States. This module enables the learner to understand and evaluate Public International Law and its role, potential and limitations in International affairs. It enables learners to identify the sources of Public International Law and develop their ability to apply these appropriately to a range of actual and theoretical situations. The module examines the operation of international organisations such as the United Nations and their impact on the wider principles of International Law. Learners gain an understanding of the formation and formalisation of international treaties and an awareness of the principles of State sovereignty. The module addresses a number of current legal issues in the development of international law and Learners become familiarised with the treaties on which International Law is based, the rules of Customary International Law and a knowledge of the institutions which apply International Law.
The aim of this module is to inculcate in the learner advanced legal research and writing skills. The module initially focusses on the development of online research skills and search operators. The learner develops an understanding of various research methodologies which can be employed when conducting research; doctrinal, comparative, socio-legal etc. Furthermore, the module fosters within learners the ability to write excellent legal prose with style, precision and accuracy. Learners master a legal house style; the Oxford University Standard for Citation of Legal Authorities (OSCOLA).
Typical international commercial transactions involve numerous contracts over national boundaries. The objective of the module is to make participants familiar with the key contracts and institutions in international commerce. Learners examine private international law (conflict of laws) issues, international contract terms (INCOTERMS), and the Nations Convention on Contracts for the International Sale of Goods (CISG) and UNIDROIT principles as they apply to international contracts.
Semester Two: Electives
This module is designed to provide a broad overview of the legal and practical aspects underpinning International Commercial Arbitration. The objective of any arbitration is to resolve a dispute. So as to facilitate resolution, all unnecessary obstacles need to be removed. In the context of international disputes there can be many obstacles, such as language barriers, different jurisdictions, different legal principles etc. To alleviate these difficulties a number of international instruments have been enacted throughout the years culminating in the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL) Model Law in 1985.
This module focusses primarily on both the substance and application of the UNCITRAL Model Law, and also its integration into Irish law. Candidates are required to achieve a high level understanding of the UNCITRAL Model Law so as to discuss in a competent manner the practice and procedure involved in International Commercial Arbitration, and the applicable legal principles.
*This elective runs subject to demand and discretion of the Faculty of Law.
This module focusses on an analysis of principal features of the International Tax Law system, from the perspective of Irish and EU law. The module looks generally at the main theories, concepts and principles of International Tax Law and then more particularly at the main substantive areas of the subject such as Public International Law and Taxation, the OECD Model Income Tax Convention and EC law as it affects Member States’ tax systems. Thereafter, the module examines important issues such as the different approaches to Corporate Income Taxation, tackling International Tax Avoidance, International Tax Law as it applies to developing countries, and the issues in modifying established International Tax Rules to regulate E-commerce activity.
*This elective runs subject to demand and discretion of the Faculty of Law.
At a time of tentative emergence from crisis on the global markets, this module seeks to enable learners to address the major regulatory and contractual aspects of Financial Services Law. The module deals with the institutional structures created to protect international financial transactions. There is a particular focus on the impact that European Union legislation is having on the area, with a number of the key regulations being examined in detail. There is also a strong emphasis on the 2008 Financial crisis and the impact that it has had on the financial services industry. The module is suitable for those seeking to work in law firms which have International Financial Services as a significant part of their workload, but also for those who hope to work directly in the Financial Services sector.
*This elective runs subject to demand and discretion of the Faculty of Law.
The objectives of this module are twofold. Firstly, it seeks to develop within the learner an in-depth understanding of the economic and political basis for the Internal Market of the European Union and the laws that ensure its operation. Secondly, it requires the learner to critically analyse the European Union’s policies in the sphere of Competition Law. The module will address a number of current legal issues in the development of the Internal Market, such as the future of the Eurozone, the position of Public Services and the impact of the developing jurisprudence on Citizenship. The learner is encouraged to critically assess the basis for Competition Law within the EU and engage with academic commentary and court decisions to determine whether the overall policy goals are being met.
*This elective runs subject to demand and discretion of the Faculty of Law.
This module provides a detailed overview of the principles regarding the key aspects of Intellectual Property Law: International Copyright, Patents, Design Rights, Trademark and Passing Off and Misappropriation of Personality and Publicity and Privacy Rights. Case law illustrating the application of these principles along with international treaties dealing with Intellectual Property is addressed. The module seeks to enhance the learner’s ability to apply theoretical aspects of the jurisprudence to real life situations through the use of case studies.
*This elective runs subject to demand and discretion of the Faculty of Law.
The primary objective of this course is to impart a critical understanding of the structure, objectives and mechanisms of Corporate Governance, and the legal and other issues affecting systems by which corporations are directed and controlled. Themes and issues explored include: theoretical and overview perspectives on Corporate Governance; the nature of the corporation, the basic model of the firm, principal-agent theory; the legal framework of Corporate Governance; the role and responsibilities of directors and boards; enforcement of director duties; monitoring and legal compliance issues; executive compensation, takeovers, and shareholder activism. This module also deals with the emergence of Corporate Governance requirements in developed/developing capital markets. The module sets out the divergent ways in which Corporate Governance is applied across the globe, in particular examining the reliance on principles or alternatively, rules. It examines both country specific codes and international practices. Case studies on major corporate scandals are carried out in detail in order to assist in the understanding of Corporate Governance principles.
*This elective runs subject to demand and discretion of the Faculty of Law.
This module provides an explanatory overview to data protection and privacy law, taking an international perspective that encompasses Irish and EU law. The module will consider theoretical and practical approaches in understanding the power and significance of handling personal information securely.
Semester Three: Dissertation
The research dissertation is designed to permit learners to delve into a topic which is of particular interest to them, and it comes at the end of the LLM, at a point in time when continuous assessment and examinations in all taught modules have been completed, and therefore, learners are well placed to undertake independent research. Learners on the LLM in International Commercial Law programme must complete a dissertation which is commercial in nature.
Course Contact
Lauren O'Connell
Timetables
*Please note this is a provisional timetables and there may be revisions
How to Apply
Entry Requirements
2.2 degree in Law or a related discipline (that has a 50% legal component to the degree) or foreign equivalent or relevant work experience.
English Language
Griffith College is accepting the online Duolingo English Test (DET) as valid proof of English proficiency. Please see here for further details.
How to Apply
All applicants must apply online here uploading a copy of the following:
- Photo I.D. (driving licence or passport)
- Degree transcripts from previous studies
- Module descriptors from previous studies where the degree is not of a cognate discipline
Fees
For purposes of fee calculation, residence is counted from time of application.
Tuition Fees
General Fee Information
An Academic Administration Fee of EUR250.00 and a 2% Learner Protection Charge is applicable each academic year in addition to the fees quoted below. The fees below relate to Year 1 fees only.
Study Mode: Full-Time
Dublin
EUR 8,000.00
General Fee Information
An Academic Administration Fee of EUR250.00 and a 2% Learner Protection Charge is applicable each academic year in addition to the fees quoted below.
Study Mode: Full-Time
EUR 9,000.
General Fee Information
An Academic Administration Fee of EUR250.00 and a 2% Learner Protection Charge is applicable each academic year in addition to the fees quoted below.
Non-EU students: a Student Services and Administration fee of EUR200 is payable each academic year in addition to the fees quoted below.
Study Mode: Full-Time
Dublin
Non-EU living in Ireland or abroad: Please refer to our Non-EU Tuition Fees section.
Direct Debit Scheme
Students wishing to pay for their fees monthly may avail of our direct debit scheme. Please view our Fees information page to review the payment plan schedule and how to apply.
Sponsorship
Is your company paying for your course?
They will need to complete a Griffith College Sponsorship Form and send this to the Student Fees Office:
- Post: Student Fees, Griffith College Dublin, South Circular Road, Dublin 8
- Email: [email protected]
2% Learner Protection Charge
All QQI accredited programmes of education and training of 3 months or longer duration are covered by arrangements under section 65 (4) of the Qualifications and Quality Assurance (Education and Training) Act 2012 whereby, in the event of the provider ceasing to provide the programme for any reason, enrolled learners may transfer to a similar programme at another provider, or, in the event that this is not practicable, the fees most recently paid will be refunded.
QQI Award Fee
Please note that a QQI Award Fee applies in the final year of all QQI courses. To find the relevant fee for your course level, please see the Fees page.
Progression
Academic Progression
Many of our LL.M. graduates go on to pursue PhD studies, having acquired not only legal expertise but also advanced academic writing and legal research skills during the LL.M. programme.
Career Progression
Through the LL.M. in International Commercial Law, you will have gained valuable professional experience, built a strong foundation of critical analysis and presentation skills, and covered a diverse range of topics. There is a wide range of career options for our graduates including:
- Promotion for those who are already practising in law
- In-house legal roles with international or domestic businesses
- Legal advisor within international or domestic commercial entity
- Legal researcher in area of international commercial law
- PhD study for an academic career
