International Legal Studies – (LL.M.)

The programme will enable you to understand the nature, structure and function of the international legal system and its influence on strategic national and international policies. A critical approach will be taken on contemporary challenges such as the role of foreign affairs in the protection of human rights, the use of nuclear weapons, and the resolution of international disputes. You will also gain a comprehensive understanding of the rights and obligations of individuals in an international context in view of recent atrocities such as war crimes, genocide and crimes against humanity.

You take compulsory modules (120 credits) including a dissertation (60 credits) which will be submitted at the end of the summer semester, and optional modules (60credits).

Compulsory modules include: legal research skills and methods; foundations of public international law; international criminal law; contemporary problems in international law; and a dissertation.

Optional modules may, subject to availability, include areas such as: law of international sale of goods; World Trade Organisation law; international commercial arbitration; international credit and security; movement of persons in a global world; science, climate change and environmental justice.

It may also be possible to choose up to 20 credits of optional politics modules from the School of Geography, Politics and Sociology.

You are assessed by course work essays and written examinations, plus your dissertation. Most modules are taught by means of seminar groups.