Course Overview

About This Course

The Law of the Sea refers to the international law governing the rights and duties of stakeholders in maritime environments. It involves the rights and obligations of coastal states over adjacent maritime areas, navigational rights and responsibilities, conservation and use of marine resources, and maritime security. The Graduate Certificate in Law of the Sea is designed to meet the early and mid-career education requirements of legally qualified professionals working in a maritime policy or operational context, or those who intend to pursue a career in a maritime or related field. This degree provides a broad understanding of the law of the sea and ocean governance and deals with international law and policy issues related to the world's oceans. It addresses various issues related to the sea, including aspects such as maritime trade routes, its significance as a natural habitat, and its role as a source of both international political tensions and cooperation. Throughout this degree you will gain a comprehensive understanding of areas such as maritime enforcement, maritime security threats and solutions, marine environmental law, regulation of shipping and marine resources management. As you learn to analyse the legal, political and operational factors that contribute to the development of the law of the sea and maritime policy, you will also devise solutions to gaps in legal and policy frameworks. International students located offshore are able to enrol and study this course online.

Eligibility

Entry Requirements

Requirements

A recognised Bachelor of Laws or Juris Doctor degree, or an equivalent qualification.
Admission to UOW is primarily based on academic qualifications, with work or life experience generally not considered.
Domestic applicants with overseas qualifications: You'll need to provide academic records, and your course must be at least one-sixth complete. Non-English documents must include an official English translation.
English language proficiency: If English is not your first language, you must meet the University's English Language Requirements. Accepted international test results include IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, Cambridge, and OET for specific health-related courses. Alternatively, you can fulfil the requirement by completing an English course at UOW College.

Career & Study Pathways

Where this takes you

Career Opportunities

Barrister, Fisheries Policy Advisor, Governmental policy development in areas such as Resource Management, Defence, Foreign Affairs and Maritime Trade, Lawyer, Maritime Policy Advisor.

Quality & Recognition

Accreditation & Migration

Accreditation Details

Academic Regulator

TEQSA

Professional Body

Legal Profession Admission Board (LPAB NSW)

Accreditation Status

Accredited

Skills Assessor

State Legal Admission Authority

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I pathway into a higher degree after completing the Graduate Certificate in Law of the Sea?

Yes. Upon successful completion of the Graduate Certificate in Law of the Sea you may enrol in the Master of Laws (Law of the Sea) and will be eligible for credit for the four subjects completed within the graduate certificate.

Are there any fee subsidies available for domestic students?

Yes. In 2026, domestic students may be eligible for either a Commonwealth supported place (CSP) or a UOW-subsidised fee reduction of up to 75% off the indicative full-fee paying course fee of $12,890.

Can international students study this course online from offshore?

Yes. International students located offshore are able to enrol and study this course online.

What are the application deadlines for the 2026 Autumn session?

For the 2026 Autumn session, the application deadline for international students is 9 December 2025, and for domestic (direct) students it is 31 December 2025. The session starts on 2 March 2026.

What professional connections does the course offer?

One of the benefits for students of the Graduate Certificate in Law of the Sea is the close links that UOW's Australian National Centre for Ocean Resources and Security (ANCORS) has established with a range of government agencies, international businesses and non-governmental organisations in Australia, the Indo-Pacific region and globally, including a long-term relationship with the Royal Australian Navy.

Application

How to Apply

Three simple steps to get enrolled

Step 01

Enquire

Click "Enquire Now" and tell us a little about yourself. It's free and takes 2 minutes.

Step 02

Submit Documents

Our team will guide you on exactly which documents to prepare and submit.

Step 03

Get Enrolled

Receive your offer letter and confirm your enrolment. Welcome to the course!

Processing time: Offer letter issued within approximately 1 business days.

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