Thank-you for your interest in applying for a Masters in Maritime Law. This letter contains important information about the application process. Please complete all the application steps.
If you are applying for Full Research Masters
A full research Masters comprises one-year full time study (or two years part time study) during which you will complete a thesis of 50 000 words under the supervision of a maritime law expert.
Before you apply you must have a workable topic and a draft concept note. It is recommended that you contact a potential supervisor to approve your topic before applying. Queries can be directed to Dr Dusty Donnelly
Applications are accepted throughout the academic year.
Full research Masters students qualify for one year fee remission.
If you are applying for Coursework Masters
A coursework Masters comprises 4 coursework modules. Admiralty law, Carriage of Goods by Sea and Research Methodology are compulsory. Currently you can select either International Trade Law or Incidents of Navigation as your 4th elective module. In addition you will complete a 15 000 word mini-thesis.
You can register full time (over 1-2 years) or part-time (over 2-3 years). Given the demands of the program we recommend that all students plan to complete the degree over two years, by completing 3 coursework modules in the first year, and completing research methodology and the mini-thesis in the second year.
Applications windows are advertised on the School of Law website. Applications will open in June and close on end October. Late applications may be accepted in our discretion, and you are encouraged to contact us to ascertain space on the program.
Coursework Masters students do not qualify for fee remission.
Undergraduate module in Maritime Law
An undergraduate module in Maritime Law or International Trade Law (or equivalent training or practical experience) is an advantage.
You should complete the undergraduate elective module in Maritime Law at UKZN if applying straight after your LLB degree and have no equivalent course of study, or prior training or experience in the maritime field. Please contact the program co-ordinator for queries in this regard.
The undergraduate module in Maritime Law can be completed at UKZN for non-degree purposes. Presently it is being offered on the part time LLB program in the second semester. Application forms can be obtained from the Director of the Centre for Extended Legal Studies; Ms Shelley Walker: walkers1@ukzn.ac.za. Applications must be approved by the Head of Teaching and Learning.
We are considering applications from students who wish to commence the LLM in the second semester, and do the undergraduate module simultaneously. You would do one elective module: either International Trade Law OR Incidents of Navigation on the LLM program, and complete the undergraduate module in maritime law.
Application Steps
Ensure you have made an online application here. Attach all required documents.
Email the PG administrator (Ms Mshengu for research OR Ms Louw for coursework). Attach all required documents. To process your application we require:
Confirmation you have applied online
Your academic transcript (uploaded online). Please email a copy of your LLB final transcript (degree complete) as soon as it is available.
Proof that you have completed the undergraduate module in maritime law, or have an equivalent undergraduate course or prior experience or training in the maritime field.
A 1-page personal motivation explaining why maritime law is your first choice.
Your curriculum vitae
A recent example of your writing. E.g. a research assignment or essay from your undergraduate degree.
A concept Note (only full research)
The post-graduate administrator will capture your application and send it to the program co-ordinator for review.
Full research Masters applications will be considered by the Post-Graduate research masters selection committee.
If your application is successful you will receive an invitation to register from the PG administrator.
