Master of Laws

This course provides an essential introduction to the principles and frameworks that underpin the modern international legal order. It offers students a comprehensive understanding of the origins, sources, and key concepts of international law, such as sovereignty, jurisdiction, and state responsibility. The course examines the structure and role of international institutions, including the United Nations, the International Court of Justice, and regional organisations, in maintaining global order and resolving disputes. Students will explore foundational areas of international law, including treaty law, customary international law, and the principles governing international relations. Key topics include human rights, the law of the sea, international trade, and environmental law, providing a broad overview of the field's scope

and application.

Through a blend of lectures, case studies, and

practical exercises, the course emphasises the

dynamic interplay between law and global

politics, equipping students to analyze and

address pressing international legal issues. By

the end of the course, students will have a solid

foundation in international law, enabling them to

engage with advanced topics and practical

challenges in international legal practice.

This course is designed to introduce students to the core skills of legal writing and advocacy, essential for success in any legal profession. Through a combination of lectures, practical exercises, and mock trials, students will learn how to draft key legal documents, including memoranda, briefs, and legal opinions, while also developing the oral advocacy skills necessary for effective courtroom performance. Students will explore the principles of legal writing, focusing on clarity, precision, and structure. They will engage in exercises aimed at developing persuasive writing techniques and building a strong argument. In the advocacy component, students will participate in moot court simulations, gaining hands-on experience in presenting oral arguments, structuring pleadings, and responding to judicial questions.

The course will cover essential aspects of both

written and oral advocacy, including research

skills, legal citation, and the ethical

considerations involved in advocacy. By the end

of the course, students will have developed the

confidence and competence to craft legal

arguments both on paper and in person,

preparing them for professional practice.

This course provides an introduction to the foundational concepts of legal thought, legal theory, and philosophy of law, offering students a comprehensive understanding of the nature of law, its origins, and its purpose in society. Through exploring the evolution of legal thinking, students will engage with different schools of legal philosophy, such as natural law, legal positivism, critical legal theory, and legal realism. The course also delves into theoretical discussions surrounding justice, morality, and the relationship between law and society. Students will be introduced to key legal philosophers, including Plato, Aristotle, Hobbes, Locke, Kant, Bentham, and Hart, while examining how their ideas have shaped modern legal systems. Additionally, contemporary perspectives on the law, such as feminist legal theory, postcolonial critiques, and economic analysis of law, will be explored. Through lectures, case studies, and philosophical discussions, this course encourages critical thinking about the function

of law, legal interpretation, and the role of

legal institutions in maintaining order and

justice. By the end of the course, students will

develop an informed perspective on the

philosophical and theoretical foundations of

law, preparing them to think critically about

legal practices and their impact on society.

This graduate-level course is designed to equip students with the tools, techniques, and mindset necessary to navigate their career paths effectively and develop leadership skills that will set them apart in professional fields. Blending self-development principles with actionable career strategies, this course helps students create a clear vision for their future and build tangible, actionable goals. Students will be encouraged to develop their personal strengths, confidence, communication skills, and leadership capabilities, preparing them to excel both as effective employees and visionary leaders. Using self-development strategies and insights from successful thought leaders, the course aims to foster personal growth and leadership qualities essential for thriving in professional environments. Through in-class exercises, students will explore their strengths, build confidence, and improve their communication skills. The course will emphasise networking, resume-building, and crafting a personal brand that reflects leadership qualities. Students will also engage in studying

real-world examples of successful individuals

and thought leaders, examining their career

trajectories and leadership approaches.

By the end of the course, students will be fully

equipped to step confidently into their careers,

embodying the traits of effective leaders and

professionals. This holistic approach ensures

that participants leave not only ready for their

chosen career paths but also empowered to lead

with purpose and vision in all aspects of their

professional and personal lives.

The course will incorporate practical exercises,

peer collaboration, and an in-depth study of

successful leaders across various industries.

Students will work on building strong

networking skills, crafting impactful résumés,

and mastering the essentials for standing out in

today’s competitive job market. Additionally,

this course will focus on cultivating a "thought

leader" mindset, empowering students to

embody the qualities needed to be innovative,

influential, and confident in their chosen career.

This course delves into the core legal frameworks governing international business activities, providing a comprehensive overview of essential topics such as corporate governance, mergers and acquisitions, and the intricacies of international trade laws. Significant emphasis is placed on understanding key multilateral agreements—such as the World Trade Organization (WTO), NAFTA, and various investment treaties—and their impact on global business strategies. Students explore international contracts, corporate finance laws, and mechanisms for cross-border dispute resolution, encompassing both theoretical foundations and practical applications. This dual approach offers a well-rounded perspective on how legal principles intersect with business decision-making at the international level. The course is delivered through weekly online lectures, and active participation is encouraged via interactive discussion forums and case-based learning. By combining academic insights with practical experience, the program equips participants to address the legal challenges commonly encountered in international business law. This structured format, which integrates lectures and discussions, aims to deepen students' understanding of global regulatory environments and the complexities of

international transactions.

This course provides a comprehensive

introduction to the legal, financial, and strategic

aspects of mergers, acquisitions (M&A), and

corporate restructuring. Students will explore the

various forms of M&A transactions, including

mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures, asset

purchases, and hostile takeovers, alongside

different restructuring strategies such as spinoffs,

carve-outs, and divestitures.

The course will examine the key motivations

behind M&A activities, such as achieving

synergies, gaining market power, and

diversification. Students will analyse the legal

frameworks that govern M&A in various

jurisdictions, including regulatory requirements,

antitrust laws, and the role of competition

authorities. Through case studies, students will

explore real-world transactions, evaluating their

outcomes and learning how to manage risks

involved in M&A, such as due diligence,

valuation, and integration challenges.

Students will engage in practical exercises,

including contract drafting and negotiation

simulations, and will gain insight into post-

M&A integration processes, which are critical

for realising the anticipated value of the

transaction. By the end of the course, students

will be well-versed in both the theoretical and

practical dimensions of corporate mergers and

acquisitions, with a clear understanding of how

to apply these concepts in real-world situations

Added Tax (VAT) systems and other indirect

taxes, focusing particularly on their use within

the EU and beyond. The course aims to provide

students with a thorough understanding of the

principles behind VAT, exploring how these

taxes function across different countries and

regions. Additionally, students will analyse the

broader implications that indirect taxes have on

international trade, e-commerce, and services,

allowing participants to understand the influence

of tax policies on the global business

environment.

Students will also work with case studies that

examine tax evasion and VAT fraud, especially

in cross-border transactions. These real-world

examples will highlight the complexities

surrounding VAT fraud and introduce various

strategies that can be used to prevent these

illegal activities.

By the end of the course, students will be

capable of critically analysing VAT systems,

addressing the challenges of indirect taxation,

and formulating strategies to combat VAT fraud

in an international context.

The International Sanctions and Anti-Corruption Law course takes a deep dive into international sanctions regimes and the regulatory structures designed to combat global corruption. Students will explore the different mechanisms and effectiveness of sanctions, focusing on how these measures influence corporate behaviour and impact international business transactions. Additionally, they will examine major antibribery laws, including the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA), highlighting the legal and ethical obligations faced by multinational corporations. This course blends lectures, interactive workshops, and guest lectures led by industry experts specialising in sanctions and anticorruption law. These diverse learning formats are intended to provide both a solid theoretical foundation and practical context, enabling students to fully understand the intricate relationships between sanctions, corruption, and global trade. By the end of this course, students will have developed a nuanced understanding of the legal frameworks that govern international sanctions and anti-corruption initiatives. They will also gain the skills necessary to formulate compliance policies that align with international anti-corruption standards, making them well-prepared to contribute effectively in corporate compliance roles.

This course offers a deep exploration of the diverse legal systems that govern societies worldwide, including civil law, common law, religious law, and hybrid systems. Students will investigate the historical, cultural, and philosophical underpinnings of these systems, analyzing their development and influence on contemporary global legal practices. Through a comparative framework, the course examines fundamental concepts such as legal principles, sources of law, judicial structures,

and procedural methods across various

jurisdictions. Students will critically engage with

how these systems respond to universal legal

challenges, such as human rights, trade, and

environmental regulation, while considering

their socio-political and economic implications.

In addition, students will be introduced to the

methodologies and tools used in comparative

legal research, enabling them to assess the

compatibility and adaptability of legal systems

in an increasingly interconnected world. Case

studies and group discussions will provide

practical insights into how different legal

traditions address similar issues, fostering

critical thinking and analytical skills necessary

for legal professionals in global contexts.

By the end of the course, students will have a

comprehensive understanding of comparative

legal systems and their role in shaping

international legal landscapes.

This course delves into the intersections of ethics, governance, and legal philosophy, offering students a nuanced understanding of how moral and philosophical principles inform legal systems and governance practices. Through an interdisciplinary lens, students will explore foundational questions about the role of ethics in law, the nature of governance, and the philosophical debates surrounding justice and morality. The course begins by tracing the evolution of legal philosophy from classical to modern times, introducing key thinkers such as Plato, Hobbes, Kant, and Rawls. Students will also examine contemporary approaches, including feminist, decolonial, and critical legal theories, to understand the ethical dimensions of governance

and lawmaking.

Key topics include the ethical responsibilities of

legal professionals, the role of governance in

promoting social equity, and the philosophical

challenges posed by globalization and digital

transformation. Through case studies and ethical

dilemmas, students will learn to critically

analyze the moral underpinnings of legal

decisions and governance frameworks.

By the end of the course, students will be

equipped to apply ethical and philosophical

principles to real-world legal and governance

challenges, fostering a more just and equitable

society.

This course investigates the intricate relationship between law and society, exploring how legal systems are both a product of and a force for shaping social, political, and economic structures. Students will examine the ways in which law reflects societal values, addresses inequality, and influences social change. Drawing on interdisciplinary perspectives from sociology, anthropology, and political science, the course covers key topics such as the social functions of law, the role of legal institutions in maintaining order, and the impact of legal decisions on marginalized communities. Students will also explore how laws are shaped by cultural, economic, and historical factors and analyze the effectiveness of legal reforms in addressing contemporary social issues. Case studies and discussions will provide practical insights into how legal systems interact with societal structures, from addressing discrimination and inequality to facilitating economic development and environmental protection. Students will critically evaluate the role of law as both a tool for social control and a mechanism for social justice. By the end of the course, students will have

developed a holistic understanding of the

symbiotic relationship between law and society,

preparing them to engage with legal issues from

a socially conscious perspective.

This course is designed to develop advanced

skills in legal research and writing, fundamental

for success in both academic and professional

legal contexts. Students will learn to navigate

complex legal databases, critically analyze

primary and secondary sources, and construct

well-reasoned legal arguments.

The course begins by introducing students to the

methodologies and techniques of legal research,

including statutory interpretation, case law

analysis, and the use of international legal

materials. Students will then focus on the

principles of effective legal writing, including

clarity, precision, and adherence to professional

standards.

Through practical exercises, students will draft

various legal documents, such as memos, briefs,

and research papers, while addressing common

ethical challenges in legal research and writing.

Emphasis will also be placed on using

technology to enhance legal research and the

importance of maintaining objectivity and

integrity in legal writing.

By the end of the course, students will have

honed their ability to conduct thorough legal

research and produce high-quality legal

documents, equipping them with essential skills

for both academic success and professional

excellence in the legal field.

This course guides learners through an in-depth exploration of the taxation of various financial instruments. Covering bonds, derivatives, and structured products, the course unpacks the complexities specific to each instrument type. Weekly sessions address cross-border taxation, examine the use of tax shelters, and consider the broader influence of financial regulations on the global stage. Students analyse how multinational corporations utilise complex financial instruments to manage tax risks effectively. The course combines weekly seminars with online simulations to foster an interactive learning environment. Seminars focus on real-world case studies, encouraging discussion and critical analysis, while simulations provide hands-on experience in assessing tax outcomes related to complex financial scenarios. By the course’s end, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the intricate relationship between financial markets and taxation. They will be well-prepared to navigate tax-related challenges in cross-border contexts, equipped with a strong foundation in complying with international regulations in a dynamic financial landscape.

This course offers an in-depth exploration of the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), its legal foundations, and its impact on global corporate governance, with a special focus on the EU's role in enforcing sustainability in global supply chains. Students will examine the key objectives of the CSDDD, including environmental protection, human rights compliance, and corporate accountability across global value chains. By investigating how the directive interacts with international trade, especially EU-China relations, the course highlights the compliance challenges faced by multinational corporations and non- EU suppliers. Students will also explore the opportunities for technological solutions, such as blockchain and AI, in enhancing supply chain

transparency and ensuring compliance. The

course will further delve into real-world case

studies to examine how companies have

adapted to the directive's requirements and the

legal implications of non-compliance.

Through seminars, case studies, and expert-led

discussions, students will develop a practical

understanding of the regulatory frameworks,

strategies, and technological innovations that

drive sustainability in modern business

practices. By the end of the course, students

will be able to critically assess the directive's

effectiveness and propose legal and corporate

strategies to enhance sustainability

compliance.

This course explores the complex intersection between tax planning and corporate ethics, with a strong emphasis on the ethical obligations of multinational corporations to maintain tax transparency. Students learn to examine corporate tax avoidance practices and investigate the ethical implications of these strategies, alongside understanding the role of global governance in promoting equitable taxation. The course covers topics such as tax havens, offshore structures, and the ethical challenges corporations face within international tax frameworks. Ethical debates are central to the course, encouraging students to confront essential questions, such as whether tax minimisation can align with a corporation’s broader societal responsibilities. Students engage in live online debates on these topics, supported by case studies of notable corporate scandals, including the Panama Papers. The course aims to equip students with the analytical skills necessary to evaluate corporate tax strategies from both legal and ethical perspectives. This dual approach enables participants to understand how corporations can align their business goals with the ethical

demands of corporate social responsibility in the

realm of international tax law.

The course on International Tax Law and Policy

provides a comprehensive exploration of global

tax frameworks and the policies that shape

cross-border taxation. A particular emphasis is

placed on the OECD’s Base Erosion and Profit

Shifting (BEPS) initiative and its efforts to curb

tax avoidance and ensure that profits are taxed

where economic activities take place.

Throughout the course, students will examine

the impact of international tax laws on

multinational corporations, cross-border

investments, and the digital economy. Topics

such as tax evasion, tax avoidance strategies,

and the policy reforms aimed at addressing them

will be thoroughly analysed. The course also

features a deep dive into the taxation challenges

posed by the digital economy, including digital

services taxation and the global minimum tax

rate debates.

Students will participate in simulations, case

studies (including Apple’s tax case in the EU),

and live regulatory debates that engage

contemporary issues surrounding international

tax disputes. By the end of the course,

participants will develop the skills to create

effective tax strategies, assess regulatory

compliance, and understand the implications of

tax policy reforms on a global scale

The Transfer Pricing course provides an indepth exploration of the complexities and challenges associated with transfer pricing practices, particularly within multinational corporations. The course examines various pricing methods while emphasising compliance with international tax regulations. Students analyse real-world case studies involving complex tax disputes, with a focus on notable corporations such as Google and Amazon. A key component of the course is financial modelling, where students gain hands-on experience conducting economic analyses to determine appropriate pricing for cross-border transactions. The course also delves into advanced aspects of regulatory frameworks, exploring regional variations and the influence of international tax organisations, including the OECD. Interactive case studies facilitate the application of OECD guidelines, complemented by guest lectures from international tax experts who provide insights into recent challenges and developments in the field. Students participate in financial modelling workshops and mock dispute sessions, simulating the complexities of tax negotiations and dispute resolution. By the conclusion of the course, participants will have developed a comprehensive understanding of transfer pricing concepts and the regulatory challenges faced by multinational corporations. Additionally, they will acquire practical experience in constructing and defending strategic transfer pricing approaches.

The Tax and Technology course provides a

comprehensive examination of how digital

transformation is reshaping tax systems globally.

The course explores the impact of digital service

taxes, cryptocurrencies, and blockchain

technologies, analysing their influence on

taxation and regulatory frameworks.

Additionally, it addresses how emerging

technologies such as artificial intelligence and

big data are revolutionising tax collection,

compliance, and enforcement. Through case

studies of digital tax frameworks from various

regions, students will gain insights into the

opportunities and challenges posed by these

technological advancements.

The curriculum incorporates a blend of lectures,

interactive workshops, and guest lectures from

industry experts, balancing theoretical

knowledge with practical applications. During

case study sessions, students analyse real-world

examples to understand the effects of digital tax

initiatives across jurisdictions. Discussions also

cover how technology can combat global tax

avoidance and promote transparency.

By the end of the course, students will be

equipped to develop and evaluate digital tax

strategies, manage the complexities of

technology-driven tax systems, and navigate

international regulatory landscapes affecting tax

practices.

In the exploration of International Commercial Arbitration, we endeavour to provide a comprehensive examination of arbitration as a potent mechanism for settling disputes within the realm of global commerce. Throughout this course, we shall investigate pivotal components of the arbitration process, encompassing the formation of arbitration agreements, the criteria and procedures for selecting arbitrators, and the intricate nuances of arbitral proceedings.

Additionally, learning will extend to interim

measures and the enforcement of arbitral

awards, particularly in the framework of the

1958 New York Convention. The objective of

the course is to foster a balanced educational

atmosphere by integrating both theoretical

frameworks and hands-on practical exercises.

Students will engage in a series of lectures

complemented by simulated arbitration

exercises, thereby gaining firsthand experience

of arbitration in action. Furthermore, interactive

workshops are designed to enable students to

apply theoretical concepts to scenarios that

mirror actual arbitration cases. This synergistic

approach ensures that learners are adeptly

prepared to navigate the complexities they may

encounter in real-world arbitration

environments.

Upon the successful completion of this course,

students will attain a profound comprehension of

arbitration mechanisms from both procedural

and legal perspectives. They will emerge with

the requisite skills to engage confidently in

arbitral proceedings, particularly benefiting

those who aspire to specialise in fields

associated with international dispute resolution.

The Comparative Corporate Law and

International Corporate Governance course

offers an in-depth examination of governance

practices across diverse jurisdictions, with a

particular focus on the European Union, the

United States, and emerging markets. The

course critically analyses various governance

structures and their effectiveness, exploring key

topics such as shareholder rights, board

responsibilities, and the regulatory challenges

faced by corporations. A significant component

involves investigating corporate scandals,

including the Panama Papers, to identify and

understand the governance issues they reveal.

The course is delivered through weekly seminars

featuring case studies of corporate governance

failures and subsequent reforms. These sessions

are enriched by interactive discussions

facilitated by experts in corporate law, providing

students with a comprehensive and nuanced

understanding of governance practices across

different regions. By combining comparative

analysis with practical insights, the course

enables participants to recognise the regulatory

and cultural factors that influence corporate

behaviour worldwide.

Upon completion of the course, students will

possess a broad and informed perspective on the

comparative frameworks shaping corporate

governance globally. They will be well-prepared

to critically evaluate governance practices and

propose improvements within a variety of legal

and regulatory contexts

The Master's Dissertation represents the culmination of the generic Master of Laws and the specialised Master of Laws in International Tax Law and Digital Transformation program in International Business and Tax Law and provides students with the opportunity to undertake an independent research project on a chosen topic within the field. The dissertation is a 15,000- word in-depth analysis of a relevant subject that allows students to apply the theoretical knowledge and practical insights gained throughout the program. The process includes virtual one-on-one supervision with a faculty member, offering tailored guidance to ensure students produce a high-quality dissertation. Students will have regular supervision sessions to discuss their research plan, methodology, progress, and any challenges they face. Supervisors will provide constructive feedback to help refine arguments, improve the quality of writing, and ensure adherence to academic standards. The assessment comprises two key components: the submission of the dissertation and an online defense session. The defense allows students to present and justify their research findings, responding to questions from faculty members to demonstrate their understanding of the subject matter. Upon successful completion, students will have developed advanced research, analytical, and presentation skills, and will have contributed original work to the body of knowledge in International Business and Tax Law.