MASTER DEGREE STUDENTS’ PROFESSIONAL TRAINING IN SPECIALITY “CONSTRUCTION LAW AND ARBITRATION” IN ABERDEEN BUSINESS SCHOOL OF ROBERT GORDON UNIVERSITY

Introduction. International arbitration is becoming the key instrument for international legal and economic disputes settlement, thus it increases the demand for highly qualified professionals with a clear understanding of all major international dispute resolution mechanisms throughout the world. Purpose. The aim of the research is the analysis, description and generalization of the practices of the organization of the Master's programme in “Construction Law and Arbitration” in Aberdeen Business School RGU. Results. Aberdeen Business School proposes a unique Master degree programme “Construction Law and Arbitration”, which is accredited by the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, the Faculty of Advocates. It combines theoretical and practical training in highly specialist disciplines, so this programme is able to equip students not only with an in-depth knowledge and understanding of key topics in the fields of construction law and dispute resolution, but also develop technical skills, personal qualities and thus prepare graduates for their future career. What is remarkable, a previous degree in law is not a prerequisite for this programme. It attracts prospective students who are lawyers, surveyors, construction industry professionals, oil and gas specialists, architects, contract managers and administrators, project managers. Aberdeen Business School has established links with industry, commerce and the public sector which helps design practical, innovative courses which offer students an exceptional practical experience. The vocational nature of the course allows graduates to use the obtained skills and knowledge to steer their career advancement. Originality. This programme suits working professionals as it is taught online, by distance learning, through the university virtual learning environment, RGU: Campus Moodle. This mode provides a diverse range of hi-tech teaching and learning methods including interactive online discussions (tutor-student and student-student interaction). The flexible structure of the programme allows a choice of study routes depending on discipline and professional needs (Arbitration route, Adjudication route, Arbitration and Adjudication route). Completing the Arbitration route gives exemption from Membership or Fellowship examinations from the CIArb. Furthermore, all graduates of the programme satisfy the academic requirements for chartered membership of RICS and are academically qualified to enrol on the RICS Assessment of Professional Competence. Conclusions. The achievements and continuing success of graduates in their careers is a true mark of the high quality and recognition given to Master degree programme “Construction Law and Arbitration” delivered at the School.