Master of Laws

The LLM programme at Derby offers students the option to pursue a broad-based curriculum or specialise in areas such as Commercial Law, Corporate and Financial Law, Intellectual Property and Information Technology Law, or International Protection of Human Rights and Personal Freedom. The programme is designed to accommodate individual circumstances, allowing students to study at a pace that suits them. It adopts a modern approach to teaching law in a global context, with coursework and assignments tailored to different jurisdictions, providing an international perspective on legal practice. The programme is delivered by a team of experienced legal practitioners, and postgraduate loans are available, with alumni eligible for a discount.

The LLM combines academic and theoretical knowledge, enhancing understanding of the interaction between law and policy at an international level and enabling graduates to contribute effectively to organisations and commercial enterprises operating across the global policy arena. Specialist pathways provide focused expertise: the Commercial Law pathway addresses practical, international, and contemporary commercial law, including negotiation and practice-driven modules; Corporate and Financial Law explores corporate structures, liquidity, capitalisation, and risk mediation; International Protection of Human Rights and Personal Freedom examines human rights regimes and practical investigation of violations; and Intellectual Property and Information Technology Law covers copyright, trademarks, patents, IT contract and licensing, computer law, and internet law.

Derby is committed to delivering a rich learning experience through a professional and knowledgeable teaching team, offering dedicated academic and pastoral support, a range of extra-curricular activities, networking opportunities, and an active Student Law Society. Graduates gain a competitive edge in their careers, demonstrating specialisation through a final dissertation that is highly valued by employers across legal and commercial sectors. For non-lawyers, the programme sharpens commercial awareness and enhances contributions to operational and strategic management. The LLM pathways open opportunities in corporate and financial sectors, intellectual property or IT law, human rights work, criminal justice, government, and international NGOs. The flexible structure of the programme allows employed students to tailor their studies to align with specific vocational goals and evolving professional development needs, equipping graduates with the skills and adaptability required in a dynamic global employment landscape.