DDRS Diploma + LLM in Digital Dispute Resolution [Leeds Beckett University]
Course Overview
LLM in Digital Dispute Resolution
Booking Form
Master the Future of Technology-Driven Dispute Resolution
The LLM in Digital Dispute Resolution is a specialist postgraduate programme designed for legal professionals seeking advanced expertise in dispute resolution in the digital age.
The LLM in Digital Dispute Resolution is a specialised top-up programme designed for professionals seeking to elevate their existing postgraduate qualifications to a full Master’s degree.
This programme enables students to complete a 60-credit dissertation or professional portfolio, grounded in their own dispute resolution practice and experience, offering both academic depth and practical relevance.
As dispute resolution increasingly moves into online environments and technology-enabled systems, this programme equips participants with the knowledge and research skills required to analyse and shape the future of digital justice systems.
The course explores how online dispute resolution platforms, artificial intelligence, and digital legal processes are transforming the way disputes are managed across jurisdictions.
Course Aims
The programme is designed for professionals working in dispute resolution who want to develop advanced academic and practical expertise in digital dispute resolution systems.
Through guided research and specialist supervision, participants explore complex legal questions related to technology and dispute resolution.
The programme focuses on:
• Online dispute resolution (ODR) systems
• Artificial intelligence in legal decision-making
• Digital justice and regulatory frameworks
• Comparative approaches to dispute resolution across jurisdictions
• Emerging technologies shaping legal processes
Participants gain the analytical and research skills needed to engage with the future of dispute resolution practice.
Programme Overview
Qualification: LLM (Top-Up) in Digital Dispute Resolution
Credits: 60 (Dissertation / Portfolio)
Study Modes:
Full-Time: 6 months
Part-Time: 18 months
Intakes:
21 September 2026
25 January 2027
Research and Dissertation
A core component of the programme is the LLM dissertation, where students undertake an independent research project exploring an area of digital dispute resolution.
This allows participants to:
• Develop advanced legal research skills
• Investigate emerging legal and technological issues
• Engage with current academic and professional debates
• Produce a substantial piece of independent legal research
The dissertation enables students to contribute to evolving scholarship at the intersection of law, technology, and dispute resolution.
Entry Requirements
Applicants should typically have:
A 120-credit postgraduate qualification in Law
Professional background as a legal practitioner (e.g., solicitor or barrister), or relevant experience in Dispute Resolution (DR)
A recognised Dispute Resolution qualification, such as a mediation certification aligned with the Civil Mediation Council (CMC) standards
Leeds Law School maintains strong connections with local, regional, and national organisations, providing valuable networking opportunities for students.
These include collaborations with:
• Commercial and corporate law firms in Leeds
• The Government Legal Department
• Department for Energy Security and Net Zero
• Department for Work and Pensions
• HM Treasury
During the LLM programme, students have opportunities to engage with professionals and potential employers through guest lectures, events, and professional networking opportunities.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the programme gain advanced expertise relevant to roles in:
• International dispute resolution
• Online dispute resolution platforms
• Arbitration and mediation practice
• Legal technology and innovation
• Legal research, academia, and policy development
The programme prepares graduates to operate at the forefront of digital justice and modern dispute resolution practice.
Fees & Payment
Tuition Fee (2026–27):
£5,125
Applicable to both home and international students
Payment Options:
Payment in full or in 2 to 7 instalments
