Fundamentals of International Arbitration & Dispute Resolution

Overview

Academic Lead: Norah Gallagher and Dr. Maria Fanou

Syllabus: Fundamentals of International Arbitration and Dispute Resolution [PDF]

This module will cover the main aspects of international dispute resolution from conciliation, mediation to arbitration. Students will learn about the relevant institutional arbitration rules, national laws, many based on the UNCITRAL Model Law, and relevant international treaties (New York Convention 1958 and ICSID Convention 1965). Students will learn about the difference between commercial and investment arbitration.

Course content is subject to change.

Course aims

The main aim of this module is to familiarise students with the legal regime relating to international dispute resolution. Students will be introduced to the relevant laws, arbitration rules and treaties to understand how arbitration works in practice. Students will be able to discuss and present on relevant issues that arise throughout the arbitration process from commencement to enforcement. The module aims to make clear that arbitration is a choice of the parties to contract out of the national litigation system. It will explain the implications of parties making this choice and why it has become the most popular dispute resolution option for international transactions. The module will explain the main distinctions between commercial and investment treaty arbitration as well as recent debate on the latter’s legitimacy. It is important for students – even those not planning on becoming a disputes lawyer – to understand the importance of the choice of arbitration in a contract.

Teaching and learning

You will be taught through a combination of lectures, seminars, practical workshops and field trips. 

Learning outcomes

Academic Content:

• Develop an understanding of relevance of international arbitration to the global business market.
• Understand of the relevant national and international legal regime relating to international arbitration including soft law standards.
• Apply specific knowledge developed in international dispute resolution and be able to undertake practical activities.

Disciplinary Skills - able to:

• Research important aspects of international arbitration law and practice and present findings.
• Develop an analytical ability to examine key legal problems and applicable rules and principles.
• Apply legal knowledge to problem scenarios and draw reasoned conclusions supported by legal authority.

Attributes:

• Develop critical and reflective skills needed for independent work.
• Develop good judgment to problem solving and ability to analyse the relevant legal
• Analyse, evaluate and interpret the primary source materials of law; that is, statutes, law reports, treaties, directives and other relevant materials.

Fees

Additional costs

All reading material will be provided online, so it is not necessary to purchase any books.

For course and housing fees visit our finance webpage

Entry requirements

Course prerequisite:

None. It is assumed that candidates will not have any prior study, expertise and experience in the areas covered.

We welcome Summer School students from around the world. We accept a range of qualifications

How to apply

Have a question? Get in touch - one of the team will be happy to help!

Applications close 26 May 2026