Key facts
Overview
Private international law is a part of the law of a country which applies where there is a cross-border element.
This module is designed to provide you with the knowledge to determine the relevant solutions to these cross-border legal problems by considering the rules of jurisdiction, applicable law, and the recognition and enforcement of foreign judgments.
This knowledge is fundamental for tackling cross-border legal problems that arise in civil and commercial matters, including the law of contract, delict, family law, and property, trusts and succession law.
Entrance requirements
Completion of LLB from any Scottish Law School.
English language requirements
If English is not your first language you must have one of the following qualifications as evidence of your English language skills:
- IELTS Academic or UKVI 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each sub-skill.
- Pearson Test of English (Academic) 60 overall with a minimum of 59 in each sub-skill.
- TOEFL exams taken before 21 January 2026: 80 overall with 18 in reading, 17 in writing, 17 in listening, 20 in speaking.
- TOEFL exams taken from 21 January 2026: 4 overall with no less than 4 in any band.
See our information on English language requirements for more details on the language tests we accept and options to waive these requirements.
Objectives
- demonstrate a professional understanding of the fundamental concepts and methods of Scots private international law;
- demonstrate a professional understanding of connecting factors in Scots private international law;
- demonstrate a professional understanding of Scots private international law rules on jurisdiction, applicable law and recognition and enforcement of judgments for contract and delict;
- demonstrate a professional understanding of Scots private international law rules on marriage and divorce, parental responsibility, child abduction, property law, succession law and trusts;
- use practical problem-solving skills persuasively articulated through written analysis;
- demonstrate professional legal analysis skills primarily in understanding the hierarchy of legal sources including international treaties, statutes and case law.
Structure and content
The first two weeks cover the foundation material; Institutions, Theory and Connecting Factors, weeks 3 – 6 cover Scots PIL of Commercial Law, weeks 8 – 11 cover Scots PIL of Family Law and Property, Trusts and Succession Law.
The module covers Scots Private International Law for civil and commercial matters, including the law of contract, delict, family law, and property, trusts and succession law.
Delivery and assessment
Weekly in person lecture (these are recorded), plus 6 one hour in person seminars and one in person exam.
1 x 1500-word Essay (weighted at 40%) and
1 x In-Person 2-hour Exam (weighted at 60%).
Module coordinator
Employability
A pass in this module will allow you to apply for an exemption from the equivalent Faculty of Advocates exam.
What next?
Contact us
If you have any questions about entry requirements for our continuing professional development and short courses, contact our Admissions team.
For all other questions, please use our enquiry form.