International Petroleum Law and Policy (by Distance Learning) module (CP50005)

The sustainable development of natural resources is a critical concern for both governments and investors. This is particularly true in today's complex global economy.

In this module, you will explore the legal frameworks and contracts that underpin these ventures. These play a pivotal role in ensuring mutual benefit from the exploitation of natural resources.

You will learn how host governments attract capital to the sustainable development of their natural resources.

This is done using production-sharing contracts, concession contracts and investment law. You will learn how an energy transition impacts this.

What you will learn

In this module you will:

• understand the main kinds of international petroleum laws and agreements
• explore how legal frameworks are typically used. These are used by roles such as:
  • negotiators
  • engineers
  • economists
  • geologists
  • lawyers
  • regulators
• examine contract environment. This includes the use of joint operating agreements and long-term gas sale and purchase contracts
• learn about the role played by international law in addressing issues of ownership of resources and waters that contain them
• understand the role played by international environmental law
• learn industry standards in combatting oil spills and other forms of environmental damage from petroleum operations
• familiarise yourself with the main forms of resolving international petroleum disputes

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

• advise government officials or company managers on approaches or strategies relating to laws, contracts
• conduct dispute resolution concerning the sustainable development of petroleum resources
• participate in the drafting of national regulations for the sustainable development of petroleum resources
• negotiate an agreement to sell or purchase natural or liquified gas

Assignments / assessment

• coursework (100%)

This module does not have a final exam.

Teaching methods / timetable

• lectures
• guest talks
• independent study