The LLM programme in International Trade, Investment and Business Law is a collaborative programme between UWC and the University of Pretoria (UP). In terms of the collaboration intakes are rotated between the universities. The next intake at UWC will be in February 2026.

This course focuses on world trade, business and investment law, with a specific focus on the interests of Africa in the context of globalisation. Students with good academic records are invited to apply.

The standard coursework Masters format is two modules and a mini-thesis of 30 000 words (Mode II).
 

Internation Trade, Investment and Business Law Specialisation:

Students register and spend one semester of full-time coursework at UWC (Feb – July 2026). The second semester is used to complete the research component of the degree – this should preferably be done at UWC, but can be done on a distance
basis.

Structure:

During the first semester of 2026 at UWC, students enroll for the following two modules:

• International Economic and Investment Law (presented full-time)
• International Business and Regional Trade Law (presented full-time)
• NOTE THAT THESE MODULES ARE OFFERED ON A FULL-TIME BASIS,
  WITH LECTURES FROM 9:00 – 4:30 DAILY (OR AT LEAST 4 DAYS A
  WEEK). It is thus not possible to complete this programme on a part-time
  basis or while working.

Plus:

• Students complete the mini-thesis of 30 000 words under supervision of an UWC academic during the second semester of 2026.

COURSE CONTENT
 

Programme Coordinator:

Prof Riekie Wandrag (International Trade, Investment and Business Law)
Tel: +27 21 959 3294
Fax: +27 21 959 2971
E-mail: mwandrag@uwc.ac.za

Applications and Next Intake:

1. Next Intake at UWC: February 2026
2. Closing Date for Applications: 31 August 2025
3. Please use UWC online link as per information below to apply! Note the entry requirements and the additional documentation that will be required.

Limited scholarships may be available, but cannot be guaranteed at this point. Should funding be required, include proof of financial status and motivation for financial assistance in application.

THIS IS A VERY COMPETITIVE PROGRAMME, ONLY 20 STUDENTS ARE SELECTED AND OFFERED PLACEMENTS PER YEAR.

CLOSING DATE:  TUESDAY, 31 AUGUST 2025

https://student.uwc.ac.za/

1. Admission Criteria for a LLM Degree.
The admission criteria that candidates are required to meet for the master’s
programme are as follows:
a) Candidates must be in possession of a Bachelor of Laws degree obtained from a South African University or have obtained a Postgraduate Diploma in Law (post a bachelor’s degree) or have obtained another qualification which in the opinion of the Senate is of an equivalent standard.
b) Candidates will be required to submit evidence of their ability in the proposed field of study if the Faculty requires it.
c) A combined average of 65% must be obtained during the last two years of studies.

2. Admission Criteria for a MPhil Degree.
The specialised programme is only offered as an LLM degree. Students without a first degree in law will only be accepted in exceptional circumstances, based on a proven work history evidencing knowledge of international trade and business law.

NB:
After completing the application, the following documents are required:

• ID/passport
• CV
• Motivational Letter
• Academic Record
• Qualifications
• SAQA (for International Qualifications).

Please note to qualify for Masters programme, you need an average of 65%. 

*For assistance with your application please contact the UWC helpdesk

UWC Contact Centre
Tel:  +27 21 959 3900/01
Email:  admissions@uwc.ac.za
Webchat:  click here
Office Hours: 09h00-16h00 (Monday - Friday, excluding public holidays)


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