Postgraduate Distance Learning Diploma in Computer and Communications Law
M3DL - (Minimum - two years; part-time)
The Institute of Computer and Communications Law (ICCL) offers a programme of online distance learning courses that leads to the award of a Queen Mary, University of London, Postgraduate Diploma in Computer and Communications Law.
The programme draws on the established strengths of the Centre for Commercial Law Studies (CCLS) in computer, e-commerce, internet, communications law, media law and associated topics.
Law as a subject is particularly suitable for online learning in that it is primarily text-based, so delivery of teaching materials is not restricted by bandwidth limitations. Most materials for Computer and Communications Law are available in digital format from databases such as Lexis and Westlaw to which you gain access through your Queen Mary Student account. We use a virtual learning environment (VLE) as a platform to deliver clear course structures, teaching materials and to create interactive courses. Your e-learning experience is enhanced by tutorials using discussion boards, blog postings and live chat for class discussions and question and answer sessions. We have designed the courses to allow for as much interaction and feedback between students and tutors as possible. Your understanding will be deepened by discussing your reading with fellow students and your course tutor and carrying out short tasks related to the module. We also use audio and audio-visual presentations. You will not be required to have access to a local law library, a basic internet connection and browser is all that is needed to do the programme.
Your degree certificate will make no distinction between the Postgraduate Diploma studied by presence in London and the Postgraduate Diploma studied by distance learning.
Programme
The programme must be completed within a minimum of two years, and a maximum of six years. The diploma requires the successful completion of 120 credits which can be completed as follows:
- Pass eight taught modules (may include the optional Research Seminar paper/presentation)
Or
- Pass six taught modules (may include the optional Research Seminar paper/presentation) as well as one 10,000 word dissertation
Modules and Dissertation
The year is divided into three four-month terms, with a selection of modules and dissertations being offered each term.
- Taught modules (15 credits)
Each module requires around seven and a half hours of work a week over one term. Each module will consist of assessed tasks, a module essay and final assessment exercise (take-home exam). - Dissertations – topic of your own choice
10000 dissertations (30 credits) – taken over two consecutive terms
20000 dissertation (60 credits) – taken over four consecutive terms - Research seminar paper/presentation (optional) (15 credits) (January – May)
This involves a 30 minute presentation at the residential weekend on a topic of your choice agreed with your supervisor followed by the submission of a 5000 word essay during the May – August term.
During each term a selection of three to four modules from the list below will be offered. Modules are usually offered on a two year cycle. The terms are as follows:
- Autumn Session: From the beginning of September until December
- Spring Session: Beginning of January until April
- Summer Session: Beginning of May until August
Modules
- CCDM008 Online Banking and Financial Services
- CCDM009 Computer Crime
- CCDM010 Online Dispute Resolution in E-commerce
- CCDM011 Information Technology Outsourcing
- CCDM012 Trade Marks and Domain Names
- CCDM013 Advanced IP Issues: Protection of Computer Software
- CCDM014 Privacy and Data Protection Law
- CCDM015 Advanced IP Issues: Digital Rights Management
- CCDM016 Intellectual Property: Foundation
- CCDM018 Internet Content Regulation
- CCDM019 Information Security and the Law
- CCDM020 Internet Jurisdictional Issues and Dispute Resolution in E-commerce
- CCDM021 European Telecommunications Law
- CCDM025 Mergers and Acquisitions in the ICT Sector
- CCDM026 International Telecommunications Law
- CCDM027 E-Commerce Law
- CCDM028 Online Media Regulation
- CCDM029 Taxation and Electronic Commerce
- CCDM031 Information and Communications Technology and Competition Law
- CCDM037 Broadcasting Regulation
- CCDM038 Regulation of Cross-Border Online Gambling
- New Governance (To be confirmed)
- Online Trademarks (To be confirmed)
Entry Requirements
An upper second class honours degree in law (or with law as a major element) at a British university or the equivalent in other universities. Equivalent professional qualifications and experience are accepted at the discretion of the Programme Director. If you are unsure if you are suitable for the programme please contact Informa so that we can advise you.
Application Dates
You can start the programme in either the autumn term or the spring term. You should return your completed application forms two months before the start of term. For example, for an autumn start you will need to return your forms by mid-July and for a spring start you will need to return your forms by the beginning of November.
As this is a distance learning programme, we understand that applicants may live overseas or outside London. To comply with official admissions procedures if you are made an offer all applicants will be expected to submit by post (courier) or in person certified copies of qualifications which were up-loaded when making an online application.
How to apply
All applicants should apply through Informa, not through Queen Mary, University of London.
Apply now via the online application form on the Informa website.
Informa work with Queen Mary to promote and recruit to our Distance Learning programmes in computer and Communications Law. For application or course enquiries queries please contact Informa.