Maritime Law Courses in the UK

Gain an in-depth understanding of the law concerning contracts for the carriage of goods, international trade and the law of the sea

Maritime law, also known as admiralty law, is a fascinating field focusing on the rules and regulations governing activities at sea and coastal areas. If you're intrigued by the vastness of the open water and the legal issues that arise there, maritime law is the domain for you.

This branch of law handles disputes and issues arising out at sea involving governments or private businesses. Those eyeing a career in maritime law must grasp a diverse range of subjects, including safety & security law, labour law, public international law (PIL), trade law, shipping/carriage law, and more.

Within maritime law, you'll discover a variety of courses, including certificates, diplomas, and postgraduate programmes. These courses equip students with the vital skills to navigate the complex waters of maritime legal affairs. From ensuring the safe transport of people and goods to regulating the trade of products by sea, maritime law is essential in our interconnected world. Explore this dynamic field to uncover its boundless opportunities.

Types of Maritime Law Course

Bachelor of Maritime Law

A bachelor of maritime law programme is popular for students fascinated by the high seas and legal matters. In this degree, students can expect to delve into subjects like admiralty law, safety & security law, and international maritime conventions. They'll explore the intricacies of shipping regulations, environmental protection, and maritime trade. 

This practical programme offers hands-on experiences through internships and moot court exercises. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in shipping companies, legal firms, or maritime authorities, making it a sought-after programme in a world reliant on global trade and ocean transportation.

• Course fees: £10,000 to £30,000 per year
• Course duration: 3-4 years
• International entry requirements: The standard entry criteria for international students include achieving 34 points in the international baccalaureate, obtaining AAB grades in A-levels, and securing an overall PTE score of 76.

Master’s of Maritime Law

An LLM maritime law is a prestigious programme from top UK universities, including the University of Southampton, the University of Strathclyde, and Queen Mary University of London. This advanced degree delves deep into the legal intricacies of maritime affairs. 

The curriculum covers topics like marine insurance, international shipping law, marine environmental law, and dispute resolution. Students gain expertise in handling complex legal issues in the maritime industry, making them sought-after professionals in shipping companies, law firms, or international organisations. With a strong emphasis on practical skills, this programme equips graduates to navigate the evolving legal landscape of the high seas.

• Course fees: £19,500 to £44,000 per year
• Course duration: 1-2 years
• International entry requirements: Usually, the entry requirements include holding a UK bachelor's degree in Law or its equivalent from overseas, with a first-class or upper second-class (2.1) classification. A PTE score of 76 overall or an IB score of 34 is also required.

PhD in Maritime Law

A PhD in maritime law is the pinnacle of legal education, enabling students to become experts in this specialised field. This course is a vital stepping stone for those aspiring to be leading maritime law scholars, educators, or consultants. It plays a crucial role in advancing the understanding and development of maritime legal principles, benefiting the global shipping industry and environmental protection efforts. 

• Course fees: £18,700 - £25,900 per year
• Course duration: 2-3 years
• International entry requirements: Candidates should hold a bachelor's (honours) degree in a related field with a minimum of 2:1 or higher and a relevant master's degree with an average of 65% or higher. Additionally, a PTE score of 76 overall and an IB score of 34 are required.

Maritime Law Scholarships

Studying maritime law in the UK offers a rich and intellectually rewarding experience, but the associated costs can often pose a significant hurdle, particularly for international students. Fortunately, many scholarships to study in the UK exist to help ease the financial burden for those pursuing maritime degrees. Here are some noteworthy opportunities:

- International LLM Scholarship (Sheffield University)

Sheffield University offers two International LLM Scholarships, each worth £4,000 towards tuition fees. Eligible candidates must be overseas students for fee purposes, possess an academic offer for the full-time LLM programme, and have an application number.

- GREAT Scholarships for Justice and Law

These scholarships provide a minimum of £10,000 towards tuition fees and are a collaborative effort between the Ministry for Justice, the British Council, the GREAT Britain Campaign, and various UK higher education institutions. They aim to attract talented individuals to the field of justice and law.

- Kalisher Trust Scholarship (LLM) - University of Birmingham

Designed for home-status students pursuing an LLM at the University of Birmingham, this scholarship covers full tuition fees and includes a £6,000 bursary, making it accessible to students facing financial constraints.

- Lawscott Foundation Grants

Open to students with offers to study law at one of the ten accredited LLB universities in Scotland, these grants target individuals with a household income below £34,000 per annum. They aim to ensure that aspiring law students in Scotland receive the necessary financial support to pursue their educational aspirations.

Maritime Law Jobs and Careers

• Maritime Lawyer: Maritime lawyers specialise in resolving legal disputes and issues that arise in sea and coastal areas. They handle cases involving shipping accidents, marine insurance, and international trade conflicts.
• Legal Counsel: Legal counsel offers expert legal advice specifically regarding coastal jurisdiction matters. They help clients navigate complex legal regulations and make informed decisions in this specialised area of law.
• Maritime Inspector: These professionals ensure ships and ports adhere to safety and environmental regulations. They play a vital role in preventing accidents and protecting marine ecosystems.
• Legal Advisor of Maritime Law: Legal advisors specialising in maritime law provide crucial guidance within a particular legal jurisdiction. They assist clients in preparing necessary legal documents and offer advice tailored to the maritime industry's unique legal aspects.

Maritime Law Salary

In the UK, maritime law professionals, including lawyers and legal advisors, can expect competitive salaries. Junior maritime lawyers' salaries may start at around £30,000 to £40,000 annually, while experienced lawyers earn significantly more, often exceeding £100,000 annually.

Where can I study Maritime Law in the UK?

To learn more about the best maritime law courses in the UK, find details on the top ten ranking Law universities in the Guardian University Guide 2024 below:

1. University College London
2. University of Cambridge
3. University of Oxford
4. King's College London
5. London School of Economics
6. University of Glasgow
7. Durham University
8. Solent University
9. Leeds Trinity University
10. University of Warwick

Study Maritime Law in the UK

If you want to study maritime law in the UK, arrange your free consultation with SI-UK today.

Contact SI-UK about your Law application

Maritime Law FAQ

What is the job scope of maritime law?

Maritime law involves dealing with legal matters related to the sea and coastal areas. This can include cases like ship accidents, marine insurance disputes, and international trade issues. Maritime lawyers help resolve these legal conflicts, ensuring maritime activities follow the right rules and regulations.

What is the average salary of a maritime lawyer in India?

The average salary of a maritime lawyer in India can vary depending on experience and location. On average, it can range from INR 5 lakh to INR 15 lakh per year but experienced maritime lawyers may earn more.

Do maritime lawyers get to travel?

Yes, maritime lawyers often get the opportunity to travel. They may need to visit ports, ships, or international locations for legal investigations negotiations or to represent clients in different maritime cases. Travel is a common aspect of their work.

Which is the best law course?

The best law course depends on your interests and career goals. Common law courses include LLB, LLM, and specialised maritime, corporate, or criminal law programmes. Choose a course that aligns with your passion and career aspirations.