LLM Oil and Gas Law

Program Overview

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The University of Aberdeen's online LLM in Oil and Gas Law equips graduates with the skills and knowledge to work as professional energy lawyers. This flexible program allows students to study part-time without taking a career break, while gaining expertise in current oil and gas law concepts and developing critical thinking and analytical skills. Graduates are well-positioned for careers in oil and gas companies, international law firms, government ministries, and academia.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

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Overview:

The University of Aberdeen's online LLM in Oil and Gas Law is designed to prepare graduates for careers in the energy law sector. This flexible program allows you to study online part-time without taking a career break, while earning your Masters degree.

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Objectives:

• Equip graduates with the necessary skills and knowledge to work as professional energy lawyers.
• Develop expertise in current oil and gas law concepts.
• Gain broad understanding of legal management for oil and gas exploration and production.
• Learn from internationally experienced lawyers who advise governments and industry professionals.
• Foster critical thinking and analytical skills to gain a deeper understanding of the industry and its legal framework.
• Explore diverse perspectives and needs within the energy industry, from government resource discovery to drilling and environmental considerations.

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Program Description:

This online LLM program offers two study options:

• 100% online with dissertation: Complete your studies fully online, including a 60-credit dissertation project.
• Blended learning with Professional Skills Summer School: Combine online coursework with an intensive Professional Skills Summer School held on campus in Aberdeen.
The program focuses on essential areas of oil and gas law, including:
• International and national legislation governing oil and gas resources
• Contractual frameworks for exploration, production, and transportation
• Environmental regulations and impact assessments
• Decommissioning and post-closure obligations
• Dispute resolution mechanisms in the energy sector
Graduates of this program are well-positioned for careers in:
• Oil and gas companies
• International law firms
• Government ministries
• Academia (with further PhD study)

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Outline:

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Content:

The LLM in Oil and Gas Law curriculum covers a comprehensive range of topics, including:

• Compulsory Courses:
• Critical Legal Thinking and Scholarship
• Co-operative Contracts in the Oil and Gas Industry
• Decommissioning of Offshore Installations: Regulatory Aspects
• Petroleum Law: Resource Management
• Regulatory Law for Petroleum Operations
• Optional Courses:
• Core Principles of World Trade Organisation Law
• Decommissioning of Offshore Installations: Commercial Issues
• Financing of International Sales
• Governance and Petroleum Developments
• International Sale of Goods
• Investment Disputes in the Energy Sector
• Negotiation Skills
• Risk Allocation in Oilfield Service Contracts
• Dissertation or Professional Skills Summer School:
• Complete either a 60-credit dissertation project fully online, or
• Attend a 60-credit intensive Professional Skills Summer School held on campus in Aberdeen.

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Structure:

• The program can be completed in 24 months through part-time study.
• Students are advised to take no more than 30 credits per term.
• Study breaks are permitted between courses, but the program must be completed within six years.

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Course Schedule:

• Courses are offered in both September and January intakes.
• The specific course schedule and availability may vary each year.
• Course materials include online resources, lectures, case studies, and interactive activities.

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Assessment:

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Assessment Methods:

• Online tests
• Essay answers
• Case studies
• Briefs to clients
• Legal briefs
• Written reports (for Professional Skills Summer School)
• Presentations (for Professional Skills Summer School)

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Assessment Criteria:

• Critical analysis and application of legal principles
• Research and writing skills
• Problem-solving abilities
• Communication skills
• Ability to work effectively in a team (for Professional Skills Summer School)

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Teaching:

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Teaching Methods:

• Online learning through the University's Virtual Learning Environment (VLE)
• Access to podcasts, videos, case studies, and online resources
• Tutorials and interactive sessions with tutors
• Discussion boards and online communication tools

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Faculty:

• Internationally experienced lawyers with expertise in various areas of oil and gas law
• Active members of professional organizations and industry boards
• Published authors of significant works in the energy industry

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Unique Approaches:

• Global perspective on petroleum resources and industry interaction
• Focus on contextual thinking and understanding the broader industry landscape
• Integration of diverse viewpoints and needs from various stakeholders
• Connection with leading professionals and potential career opportunities

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Careers:

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Potential Career Paths:

• Energy lawyer in government agencies or multinational corporations
• Specialist in international energy law and trade
• Consultant on regulatory compliance and environmental issues
• Academic researcher or professor in energy law

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Opportunities:

• The program prepares graduates for diverse career options in the oil and gas industry, international law firms, government, and non-governmental organizations.
• The online format allows for flexibility and career advancement while maintaining work-life balance.
• The University's career services assist students with resume writing, interview preparation, and job placement opportunities.

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Outcomes:

• Graduates have successfully secured positions in ведущие oil and gas companies, international law firms, and government ministries.

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Other:

• The University offers a 20% alumni discount for those with a degree from the University of Aberdeen.
• Students have access to the award-winning Sir Duncan Rice Library and the Taylor Law Library, providing extensive resources in oil and gas law.
• Students have the opportunity to participate in the SCONUL Access scheme, providing access to library resources and study spaces across the UK and Ireland.