MSc/LLM International Trade combines academic and practical elements in the study of international trade with law, organisations and economics.

This course aims to provide the legal practitioner, the business owner, employee or executive, public officials and the recent graduate with current and practical knowledge about International Trade, including the law as it relates to international business.

It is a multi-disciplinary course designed for those interested in careers in international trade or in government departments involved with trade-related issues. The course is unique in the UK higher education sector, leading to networking and social opportunities. The international focus of the programme is suitable for students worldwide as well as those within the United Kingdom.

Stage 1:

• International Business Law
• International Trade Organisations
• World Trade and Money

Plus 1 module from:

• Intellectual Property Law
• Public International Law

Stage 2:

• International Corporate Governance
• European Union Trade Law
• Doing Business Overseas

Plus 1 module from:

• Global Civil Society
• Regional Economic Integration
• Comparative International Tax Law

Stage 3:

• Dissertation

Dissertation

Once the Postgraduate Diploma stage has been completed, students are expected to present a written research proposal in respect of their intended dissertation topic. Once approved, this will normally form the basis of the Masters thesis. Students undertake research and prepare the dissertation independently, under supervision by a member of academic staff.

Full-time Study

In full time mode, you will learn through a combination of lectures, seminars and workshop sessions. These comprise of a mix of group study, discussion, simulation and presentations of findings by teams and individuals. You will work as an individual and also as part of a team teams on case studies, team activities, presentations and discussions. 

Access to our virtual learning environment, CampusMoodle, is also provided giving you access from home to learning materials (including videos, e-books and journals).

A good honours degree in any field relevant to international trade, such as law, economics, management, public policy, accountancy or business, should form the basis of an application. Applicants who do not possess an honours degree, but have a degree or degree-equivalent qualification, as well as work experience at a suitable level within an organisation, for an appropriate length of time, will be considered, as will qualifications from an approved professional body. All international students, for whom English is not their first language, must provide evidence of linguistic ability, by gaining either IELTS 6.5 or its equivalent in TOEFL prior to receiving an unconditional offer of a place on the course.

English Language Requirements

This course in International Trade is approved by The Institute of Export.

Merit Scholarship
The Merit Scholarship applies solely to those intending to study for the full course (i.e. through to completion of MSc) and is not available if you plan to only complete the Certificate or the Diploma stage. It is deducted from fees pro-rata each year and instalment plans can be negotiated with the Student Finance team for the payment of the remaining portion of the fees. Find out more information on Merit Scholarships.

Scottish International Scholarship
Run through the British Council, the Scottish International Scholarship Programme offers overseas postgraduate students full scholarships to those who wish to study a taught Masters programme in science, technology and the creative industries in Scotland. More information can be found on Scottish International Scholarship Programme.

Law Award
An annual award, the Dr Keith Maguire Bursary, is given each year to a student considered most likely to benefit from the course. It was first presented in 2002 in memory of Dr Maguire, founder of the postgraduate International Trade course. This award of £1000 is given to the International Trade student considered most likely to benefit from the course - with reference to his/her academic qualifications, work experience and extracurricular activities. It is awarded to current students on the course. The award is made in November and applications are normally called for in October. Details and further information can be acquired by contacting the Postgraduate Director, Dr Paul Arnell on p.arnell@rgu.ac.uk

Postgraduate Funding
Information on funding for postgraduate students can be seen under Postgraduate Student Finance and also on the SAAS website.

All course fees are reviewed annually and subject to change.

All students can apply online by visiting Apply Online at www.rgu.ac.uk/applyonline/

If you have any queries, please contact our Admissions Office: 

• Email PGOffice@rgu.ac.uk
• Call +44 (0) 1224 262132

If you are an International Student and would like further information and application advice:

• Complete our International Enquiries form
• Call 0044 1224 262726
• Email international@rgu.ac.uk