Course Overview
Course summary
Knowledge of corporate finance law is essential for lawyers, bankers and financiers who are keen to develop professional skills in corporate fundraising, deal structures and transactional management. Our Corporate Finance Law LLM offers an enhanced qualification for professionals working or planning to work in a technically demanding and dynamic global industry. It will appeal to both recent graduates and practitioners considering various fields of work, including law, investment banking, corporate finance, private equity, securities, investments, financial regulation, government agencies and international financial authorities.
You'll focus on learning how the financial markets work, from the primary markets involving the issuance of equity, debt and derivatives, to the secondary markets involving trading and investments, as well as very large financial transactions in the international capital markets. Importantly, you'll also learn how to take account of legal and regulatory risks that financiers and bankers face, and structure financial instruments to suit commercial priorities and social welfare policies.
This course is structured to give you a comprehensive understanding of the practical processes and innovative products of the international corporate finance market, including equity and debt capital, derivatives, structured finance, risk management and investment portfolio products. It's also designed to help you develop the soft skills you'll need in this area of practice, including negotiations and network building, with meetings with senior lawyers and directors of major companies.
Top reasons to study with us
- Learn in the heart of London – Studying at our Regent Campus in central London, you'll be part of a diverse, global community
- Enhance your employability – Our industry expert-led workshops will help you to develop key skills for your career
- Learn in top facilities – Westminster Law School has a full mock courtroom, hi-tech learning spaces and a pro-bono clinic, as well as a state-of-the-art lecture theatre
- Flexible start time – You can begin the course in September or January
Course structure
The following modules are indicative of what you will study on this course.
Core modules
Through the study of this module you'll attain an essential introduction to investment banking and gain the conceptual and practical skills required to interpret and produce relevant legal documentation. The module explains the legal and regulatory compliance documentation that accompanies investment banking. The module will take you through the regulatory web as it relates to investment banking. It explains the content and formulation of business plans, prospectuses and offer documentation for investment products in various markets. The module also offers a critical reflection on marketing strategies, financial and strategic analysis, legal risk analysis, planning and financial modelling.
Through the study of this module you'll attain an essential introduction to corporate finance and gain the conceptual and practical skills required to interpret relevant legal documentation. The module offers an introduction to corporate finance markets. It explains the key actors in these markets and investigates their aims in sourcing investment. It presents the core types of investment vehicles, and the key issues legal advisors need to address in investment agreements. The module offers an advanced exposition of the law of contract as it relates to finance, corporate structures and methods of raising funds, including debt financing and share transactions. Students are also acquainted with aspects of company law and director duties as they relate to finance.
The dissertation module allows and supports extended independent, scholarly research of a topic chosen by the student within the field of corporate finance. While primarily based on independent study, the module incorporates seminars introducing students to research methods and supporting students in the development of an appropriate and feasible research proposal. The research topic must be agreed between the student and supervisor and must not replicate research covered in other assessments for the award of the degree.
Option modules
The module explores the nature of direct investments by foreign investors in host States, including: the disputes arising from the taking of foreigners’ investments by host States’ governments; the resolution of disputes by investment arbitration tribunals; the application of customary international law; and the governing procedural rules and laws.
Through the study of this module you'll attain a critical understanding of the regulatory web as it relates to domestic and international banking. The module offers a comparative study of banking and finance regulatory regimes in the UK, EU and internationally. The module then delves into the nature of the bank-customer relationship and will introduce to banking operations with customers and financial transactions in markets. You'll be also engaged in a reflection on the role of banks as lenders, including on issues of security.
Through the study of this module, you'll engage in in-depth study of large-scale complex infrastructure projects in accordance with the principles of private international law. The module will introduce you to complex methodologies provided by feasibility studies, risk assessments, bankable proposals, deal structuring and negotiations in international and domestic regulatory environments. Through a discussion of legal structures, risk assessment and management techniques, the module also offers a critical introduction to structured finance with the support of examples of legal and regulatory documentation as required in key jurisdictions.
The module explores the nature of (mainly) corporate taxation in the contexts of competition between States and taxpayers seeking to avoid or evade liability to taxation, and competition amongst States for the tax revenue which might be collected from taxpayers. Within this exploration there will be examination of customary international law, procedural and substantive municipal laws, the taxing jurisdictions of States, the use of tax planning techniques such as ‘tax havens’, and the anti-avoidance and anti-evasion approaches of States and their international organisations such as the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development.
Through the study of this module, you'll attain an in-depth understanding of legal and regulatory tools utilised to combat financial crimes within and beyond the UK. The module examines the practices of combatting contemporary financial crimes, the actors involved, the role of gatekeepers and regulators. You'll be introduced to comparative methods in dealing with complex problems affecting multinational corporations, governments, non-government institutions and actors in financial markets, commercial and trade environments. Specific mention is made of corruption and its effects, as well as the opportunities for evasion of tax and money laundering prohibitions offered by cryptocurrencies.
The module explores the nature of foreign direct investment by multinational corporate groups and similar entities, and the incorporation of companies within cross-border groups. The module also explores the international and municipal (ie national) consequences of incorporation and non-incorporation of businesses. Further, the module explores the impact of multinational corporate groups on the host States in which corporate direct investment is made, together with the legal and other approaches taken to curb the powers of multinational corporate groups and to hold their personnel accountable.
This module examines emerging modes of normativity at the intersection of law and blockchain technology. Environmental and political crises paired with the disruptive power of blockchain technology (and the potential of web3.0 more generally) opened a new frontier of governance. This frontier is characterised by a move away from centralised structures towards decentralised networks, and from traditional public institutions to a proliferation of private actors. Consequently, it necessitates a re-evaluation of the interplay between market forces and state authority, giving rise to novel hybrid models and alternative approaches.
Throughout this module, we will meticulously examine these global and local developments, delving into concepts such as network states, the emergence of startup cities, the intricacies of jurisdictional design, innovative ReFi (regenerative finance) models, the functioning of DAOs (decentralised autonomous organisations), the emergence of blockchain-based climate commons, and the dynamics within metaverse communities. Additionally, we will critically analyse the economic, political, and societal motivations underpinning these emerging normativities, providing insight into the forces shaping their trajectory.
Cross-border data transfers are vital for all sectors, driving innovation in technologies such as AI. However, the widespread exchange of data has raised concerns, leading to a decline in trust among citizens, businesses, and governments. This module explores the landscape of policies and regulations concerning cross-border data flows and the challenges related to data privacy protection, law enforcement, and digital industrial policies. Additionally, it examines the interests and policies informing data innovation and their role in fostering trust in cross-border data sharing.
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For more details on course structure, modules, teaching and assessment Download the programme specification (PDF).
To request an accessible version please email [email protected]
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Get your copy of the University of Westminster prospectus and browse the range of courses on offer.
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Contact us for general course enquiries:
+44 (0)20 7911 5000 EXT 65511
(Mon–Fri, 10am–4pm BST)
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Open evenings
Join us at an open evening online or on campus. Get a feel for student life at the University of Westminster and talk to course leaders and our support teams.
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Careers
The Corporate Finance Law LLM will benefit you if you're seeking to work in any area of corporate finance law, including accountancy, corporate banking, corporate finance, corporate law, investment banking, private equity and venture capital, or in related fields.
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Supporting your career
We offer 1-2-1 appointments with careers advisors, advice on your CV and job applications, and mock assessment centres and interviews. We also run a Law vacancy jobs bulletin.
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Industry links
You'll have access to events and workshops with law firms, alumni, and career professionals to help you to get started in your law career through our Legal Skills Academy.
Employers around the world
The University’s Careers and Employability Service has built up a network of over 3,000 employers around the world, helping all our students explore and connect with exciting opportunities and careers.
Job roles
This course will prepare you for a variety of roles, including:
- Business analyst
- Commercial finance manager
- Compliance manager
- Corporate finance analyst
- Regulatory consultant
- Regulatory finance analyst
Graduate employers
Graduates from this course have found employment at organisations including:
- Barcellos Tucunduva Advogados
- Epiq
- European Investment Bank
- First Capital Bank Malawi Plc
- National Bank of Kuwait
Course Leader
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Dr Catherine Pedamon
Senior Lecturer in Law
Dr Catherine Pédamon, PhD (Westminster Law School), LLM (Harvard Law School), DEA (Panthéon-Assas), SFHEA, is currently Programme Director and Course Leader for the LLM in International Commercial and Corporate Law, Corporate Finance Law and International and Commercial Dispute Resolution Law, and a Senior Lecturer at Westminster Law School, University of Westminster. Her research interests relate to comparative contract law, with a focus on comparing the law applicable to commercial contracts in England and France and arguing for responsible and sustainable contracting across borders, as well as business and human rights, particularly in the agri-food sector, corporate accountability and human rights due diligence.
Catherine holds a PhD in Comparative Contract Law from the University of Westminster, an LLM degree from Harvard Law School, where she was a Fulbright and French Foreign Ministry scholar, and DEA from the University of Panthéon-Assas (Paris). Before embarking on an academic career at the University of Texas at Austin (USA), she qualified as an Avocat in France and a Lawyer in New York, and practised with leading law firms, including Sullivan & Cromwell (New York), Gide Loyrette Nouel (Paris) and Allen & Overy (London). At Westminster Law School, Catherine teaches international trade law, business and human rights and comparative international commercial law.
The postgraduate courses offered by Westminster Law School are unique in that they enable graduates to study with legal professionals and research-active academics, with an international perspective.
Course Team
You can view the experience and specialisms of the course team by clicking through to their profiles.
Meet the Head of Westminster Law School
Why study this course?
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Fantastic central London location
You'll be studying in the centre of one of the world’s greatest cities, within easy reach of London's unrivalled library, cultural and archive resources.
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Develop your legal knowledge and skills
As well as gaining a comprehensive understanding of the international corporate finance market, you'll develop important negotiation and network-building skills, and advanced research and analytical skills.
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Gain an enhanced qualification
The course has been designed to provide you with a deep, systematic and structured knowledge of the operation of the corporate finance market and of the law for both practitioners and transactions in this area.
Entry Requirements
A minimum of a lower second class honours degree (2:2) in Law or a related discipline. Applicants without the standard qualifications, but with significant professional or managerial experience in a relevant field, will be considered.
If your first language is not English, you should have an IELTS 6.5 with at least 6.5 in writing and no element below 6.0.
Applicants are required to submit one academic reference.
Recognition of prior learning and experience
If you have previously studied at university level, or have equivalent work experience, academic credit may be awarded towards your course at Westminster. For more information, visit our Recognition of Prior Learning page.
Application process
Visit our How to apply page for more information on:
- the application process
- what you need to apply
- deadlines for application
A minimum of a lower second class honours degree (2:2) in Law or a related discipline. Applicants without the standard qualifications, but with significant professional or managerial experience in a relevant field, will be considered.
If your first language is not English, you should have an IELTS 6.5 with at least 6.5 in writing and no element below 6.0.
Applicants are required to submit one academic reference.
Recognition of prior learning and experience
If you have previously studied at university level, or have equivalent work experience, academic credit may be awarded towards your course at Westminster. For more information, visit our Recognition of Prior Learning page.
Application process
Visit our How to apply page for more information on:
- the application process
- what you need to apply
- deadlines for application
More information
Postgraduate Law Courses at Westminster Law School
Learn new skills
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Volunteer and gain new skills
We offer a number of different volunteering opportunities for you to learn new skills, create connections, and make a difference in the community.
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Develop your entrepreneurial skills
Our award-winning Westminster Enterprise Network offers industry networking events, workshops, one-to-one business advice and support for your start-up projects.
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Get extra qualifications
We provide access to free online courses in Adobe and Microsoft Office applications, as well as thousands of specialist courses on LinkedIn Learning.
Fees and Funding
UK tuition fee: £12,500 (Price per academic year)
When you have enrolled with us, your annual tuition fees will remain the same throughout your studies with us. We do not increase your tuition fees each year.
Find out how we set our tuition fees.
Paying your fees
If you don't wish to pay the whole amount of your fees at once, you may be able to pay by instalments. This opportunity is available if you have a personal tuition fee liability of £2,000 or more and if you are self-funded or funded by the Student Loans Company.
Find out more about paying your fees.
Alumni discount
This course is eligible for an alumni discount. Find out if you are eligible and how to apply by visiting our Alumni discounts page.
Funding
There is a range of funding available that may help you fund your studies, including Student Finance England (SFE).
Find out more about postgraduate student funding options.
Scholarships
The University is dedicated to supporting ambitious and outstanding students and we offer a variety of scholarships to eligible postgraduate students.
Find out if you qualify for one of our scholarships.
Additional costs
See what you may need to pay for separately and what your tuition fees cover.
International tuition fee: £17,000 (Price per academic year)
When you have enrolled with us, your annual tuition fees will remain the same throughout your studies with us. We do not increase your tuition fees each year.
Find out how we set our tuition fees.
Paying your fees
If you don't wish to pay the whole amount of your fees at once, you may be able to pay by instalments. This opportunity is available if you have a personal tuition fee liability of £2,000 or more and if you are self-funded or funded by the Student Loans Company.
Find out more about paying your fees.
Alumni discount
This course is eligible for an alumni discount. Find out if you are eligible and how to apply by visiting our Alumni discounts page.
Funding
There are a number of funding schemes available to help you fund your studies with us.
Find out more about funding for international students.
Scholarships
The University is dedicated to supporting ambitious and outstanding students and we offer a variety of scholarships to eligible postgraduate students.
Find out if you qualify for one of our scholarships.
Additional costs
See what you may need to pay for separately and what your tuition fees cover.
Studying the Corporate Finance Law LLM at the University of Westminster
Teaching and Assessment
Below you will find how learning time and assessment types are distributed on this course. The graphs below give an indication of what you can expect through approximate percentages, taken either from the experience of previous cohorts, or based on the standard module diet where historic course data is unavailable. Changes to the division of learning time and assessment may be made in response to feedback and in accordance with our terms and conditions.
How you’ll be taught
Teaching methods across all our postgraduate courses focus on active student learning through lectures, seminars, workshops, problem-based and blended learning, and where appropriate practical application. Learning typically falls into two broad categories:
- Scheduled hours: examples include lectures, seminars, practical classes, workshops, supervised time in a studio
- Independent study: non-scheduled time in which students are expected to study independently. This may include preparation for scheduled sessions, dissertation/final project research, follow-up work, wider reading or practice, completion of assessment tasks, or revision
How you’ll be assessed
Our postgraduate courses include a variety of assessments, which typically fall into two broad categories:
- Practical: examples include presentations, podcasts, blogs
- Coursework: examples include essays, in-class tests, portfolios, dissertation
Data from the academic year 2022/23
Supporting you
Our Student Hub is where you’ll find out about the services and support we offer, helping you get the best out of your time with us.
- Study support — workshops, 1-2-1 support and online resources to help improve your academic and research skills
- Personal tutors — support you in fulfilling your academic and personal potential
- Student advice team — provide specialist advice on a range of issues including funding, benefits and visas
- Extra-curricular activities — volunteering opportunities, sports and fitness activities, student events and more
Course location
Little Titchfield Street is the home of Westminster Law School and, as part of our Regent Campus, benefits from a central London location. The facilities include a full-size mock courtroom, high-tech learning spaces, a pro-bono clinic and a 382-seat lecture theatre.
Our Regent Campus is made up of three locations – 309 Regent Street, Little Titchfield Street and Wells Street, all of which are just a five-minute walk from Oxford Street.
For more details, visit our Little Titchfield Street page.
Contact us
Call our dedicated team on:
+44 (0)20 7911 5000 ext 65511
Opening hours (GMT): 10am–4pm Monday to Friday
Opening hours (GMT): 10am–4pm Monday to Friday
More information
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