The Master of Science in Construction Law and Dispute Resolution (MSc CLDR) is designed to equip students with specialised knowledge in construction law and dispute resolution. It includes  a foundational module in law, and specialised modules on construction law and dispute resolution.

It is particularly beneficial for GCC nationals and other professionals in both private and public sectors involved in infrastructure and building projects. Students will gain essential construction technology, legal knowledge, and techniques necessary for current theory and practice in construction law and dispute resolution.

The Master of Science in Construction Law and Dispute Resolution (MSc CLDR) programme is ideal for practising lawyers, engineers, architects, surveyors, and other related professionals who seek expertise in construction law and dispute resolution. Graduates can pursue specialised advocacy/legal consultancy careers, various law-related careers in the construction industry such as contracts managers, and will be well-prepared to act as arbitrators. The programme is accredited by the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) and the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (CIArb). Graduates are eligible for membership in CIArb.

• A relevant Bachelor’s degree equivalent to an Upper Second Class or with a Good GPA (3.0 or above on a 4.0 scale or its equivalent) from an accredited university.
• A minimum TOEFL score of 550 (213 CBT, 79 iBT), IELTS academic score of 6.0, or their equivalents on another standardised nationally, or internationally, recognised test that is approved by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research UAE (MOHESR).
• Applicants can be exempted from English Language if they had achieved the required score as part of their bachelor admission requirements.
• Applicants who have a good degree in a discipline which is not related to buildings, construction, and/or law may be admitted if they can demonstrate at least two years’ relevant work experience and/or professional development.
• A copy of the updated C.V
• Submission of a certificate of equivalency issued by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research UAE (MOHESR) for all previous degree certificates awarded by institutions outside the UAE.
• A copy of the passport along with a copy of the Emirates ID (If available).
• Al Ethbara Number (for UAE nationals only).

Conditional Admissions for Master of Science in Construction Law and Dispute Resolution programme:

• A student with a GPA of 2.5 to 2.99 will be conditionally admitted upon the programme tutor approval and an IELTS score of 5.5, TOEFL score of 530 (71 iBT), or its equivalent in a standardised English language test approved MOHESR.
• A student with a GPA of 2.0 to 2.49 should have at least three years of relevant work experience after graduation and an IELTS score of 5.5 (TOEFL 530, 71 iBT), or its equivalent in a standardized English language test approved by MOHESR.
• The applicant must undergo an interview with the Admissions Tutor as part of the evaluation process.

Applicants who are granted admission under the above criteria are in addition required to meet the conditions stated below:

• The students can take a maximum of two modules in the first term.
• The students must achieve an overall grade of C according to the University’s grading structure (3.0 on a 4.0 scale according to the grading structures that prevail within the UAE and the Gulf region), in the first three modules studied for the programme or be subject to dismissal.

For students who are granted admittance conditional to meeting English Language requirements, the following additional requirements are to be met.

• The students must achieve an IELTS score of 6.0, TOEFL 550, 213 CBT, 79 iBT or its equivalent in a standardized English language test approved by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research by the end of the first term.

English Exam Registration

• Students are encouraged to register for their IELTS or TOEFL at The British University in Dubai (BUiD)
• Paper-based ITP TOEFL are accepted by the administering institution only. Only those administered by AMIDEAST Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah will be accepted if it is sent by Amideast to BUiD directly.
• While registering with ETS for iBT or with Amideast for ITP TOEFL, please quote BUiD’s TOEFL code 0168.
• Internet (iBT) – test scores should be sent to BUiD directly by ETS.

Knowledge

• Demonstrate an understanding of the core legal principles relating to the construction law discipline specifically in the areas of the law of contract and tort, the law of property, the law on bonds and insolvency.
• Explain the different approaches taken and the diverse methods available to resolve construction disputes including adjudication, arbitration, mediation, and litigation.
• Demonstrate a capacity to apply complex concepts and develop solutions to common and uncommon disputes relating to construction law.
• Develop critical advisory skills as representatives of parties to construction contracts.
• Assess the relevant legal framework and propose solutions that would promote entrepreneurship and innovation.
• Develop and carry out original research at the forefront of knowledge on a relevant construction law and/or dispute resolution topic.

• Fundamentals of Private Law
• Construction Law and Contracts
• Arbitration Law
• Alternative Dispute Resolution
• Contemporary Issues in Construction Law
• Arbitration Award Writing
• Research Dissertation