Robert Gordon University aberdeen the degree of master of laws with distinction in law
Description
Robert Gordon University (RGU), a dynamic public research university in Aberdeen, Scotland, is renowned for its practical, industry-focused education that equips students with real-world skills for professional success in law, business, and energy sectors. Founded in 1992 through the merger of the Robert Gordon Institute of Technology and Aberdeen College of Education, RGU serves over 8,000 students from 120+ countries across its modern Garthdee Campus in Aberdeen—the UK’s Energy Capital. Ranked top 10 in Scotland for teaching quality (Teaching Excellence Framework 2023, Gold rating) and 1st for student satisfaction in Law (National Student Survey 2024), RGU’s Law School is a leader in applied legal research, with 85% of outputs rated world-leading or internationally excellent (REF 2021). The Master of Laws (LLM), awarded with Distinction (70%+ overall, signifying exceptional achievement), is a versatile postgraduate program offering pathways in general law, international law, energy law, construction law, and dispute resolution. This one-year full-time (or two-year part-time) qualification (180 UK credits at Level 7) awards a prestigious RGU degree certificate or diploma, preparing graduates for advanced legal practice, consultancy, or academia, with 95% advancing to professional roles within six months.
A Legacy of Applied Legal Education
RGU’s LLM, rooted in the university’s technological heritage, emphasizes flexible, career-oriented learning tailored to Aberdeen’s energy and legal ecosystems. The general LLM pathway provides a broad foundation in legal theory and practice, while specialized routes like Law and Energy Law or Construction Law and Arbitration address sector-specific needs, such as offshore contracts and sustainable development. Ranked top 20 in the UK for postgraduate satisfaction in Law (Postgraduate Taught Experience Survey 2024), the program integrates online and on-campus delivery for global accessibility, supported by faculty expertise in international commercial law and dispute resolution. Alumni lead in firms like Brodies LLP and international arbitration bodies, contributing to Scotland’s £2B+ legal services sector.
Diverse Degree Programs and Diplomas
RGU’s LLM portfolio offers customization, with entry requiring a 2:2 undergraduate honors degree (or equivalent) in law or a related field, or professional experience. Delivered through lectures, seminars, and case studies at the Garthdee Campus, it includes access to resources like the Sir Ian Wood Building’s legal clinics and culminates in a classified diploma. Key highlights include:
- Core Structure (LLM with Distinction): The program comprises core modules like Legal Research Methods, Advanced Legal Analysis, and a Dissertation (15,000 words) on topics such as international trade disputes or renewable energy contracts. Pathway-specific content varies: e.g., Law and International Law covers private/public international law; Law and Energy Law explores licensing and environmental regulations; Construction Law and Arbitration focuses on adjudication and contracts. Compulsory elements include ethical legal practice, critical thinking, and professional skills, with assessments via exams (40%), essays (40%), and the dissertation (20%). The Distinction award recognizes outstanding performance, often including publications or moot court excellence.
- Admission Requirements: 2:2 honors degree in law or cognate discipline; relevant experience for non-law backgrounds. English proficiency (IELTS 6.5 overall, no subscore below 6.0). Applications via RGU’s portal include a personal statement and references; deadlines: September (July 2026) or January (October 2026). Up to 50 places across pathways, with interviews for shortlisted candidates.
- Variants and Pathways: LLM Law and International Law (global focus); MSc/LLM Oil, Gas and Renewable Energy Law (energy sector); progression to PhD in Law; or related PgCerts in Legal Practice. Shorter Postgraduate Diplomas (120 credits) provide entry points. Study abroad via Erasmus+ enhances international legal exposure.
Why Pursue an LLM with Distinction at Robert Gordon University Aberdeen?
Enrolling in the RGU LLM immerses you in Aberdeen’s energy and legal hub, with small seminars (average 20 students) and facilities like the Sir Ian Wood Building for practical simulations. The program’s flexible pathways—praised for its “industry-relevant, supportive” structure (NSS 2024)—build networks through guest lectures from energy lawyers and optional placements, preparing graduates for roles like legal consultant in international arbitration. RGU’s top-20 UK ranking for Law graduate prospects (Guardian 2026) and diverse cohort (50% international) ensure strong outcomes, while its emphasis on applied skills aligns with professional demands.
In summary, the Robert Gordon University Aberdeen Master of Laws with Distinction is a career-elevating degree certificate that masters legal strategy for global challenges. For ambitious legal professionals, RGU’s LLM delivers practical excellence and opportunity.





