LLM International Law

International law is an increasingly important field of study and practice. Never before has international law taken such a central position in public debates. The regulation of financial markets, environmental protection, the management of migrations or the prosecution of war criminals are all areas in which international law plays a central role.

International law does not only affect the behaviour of states and intergovernmental institutions; neither is it a discipline of diplomats, academics and philosophers. International law today dominates the activity of transnational corporations, NGOs and individuals, from footballers to victims of human rights violations. As a result, governments, international institutions, NGOs, businesses and law firms are increasingly looking for individuals capable of dealing with complex issues of transnational law.

This LLM is designed for those who seek to develop recognised expertise in the main areas of international law. As well as providing knowledge of international law’s fundamental rules, theories and institutions, the LLM offers an opportunity to acquire advanced knowledge in specialised subjects and to critically engage with a range of contemporary themes and controversial areas, including peace and security, environmental protection, human rights or trade and investment.

How The Course Is Taught

The Keele LLM in International Law includes a study trip to Geneva where students visit international institutions such as the UN, WTO or ICRC and meet with high-level officials working in the field of international law and human rights.

Academic Entry Requirements

You should have a first or second class honours degree (or foreign equivalent) in Law or a related discipline. Applications are welcome from current legal practitioners or any other person with appropriate professional qualifications and/or experience.

English Language Entry Requirements For International Students

Applicants for whom English is not the first language must provide evidence of qualification in the English language. The minimum score for entry to the LLM is academic IELTS 6.5 (or TOEFL 91). Students who have taken one of the English language qualifications but did not achieve the required grade may be admitted to the programme provided that they study on a pre-sessional English Language course before they start their degree studies.

Keele University currently accepts Tofel iBT tests that have been taken outside of the United Kingdom. All Tofel iBT tests will need to be taken no longer than two years prior to your start date at Keele and must be verifiable with ETS. If you have taken your Tofel iBT test in the UK please contact the admissions team for more information.

Careers

The LLM in International Law will enable entry into a range of occupations where specialist expertise knowledge is needed. It provides an ideal basis for those seeking employment as international law practitioners in relevant national and international organisations (government agencies, UN bodies, NGOs), multinational corporations, or transnational law firms. Equally, the programme will equip students for further study in the form of a postgraduate research programme, such as a PhD, by providing appropriate research training and an introduction to key thinkers and scholarship.