Northwestern University

Overview

The JD–LLM in International Human Rights at Northwestern University offers a comprehensive education in international human rights law and international criminal law. This joint degree program enables students to gain in-depth legal knowledge while also providing practical experience through a supervised externship with prominent courts, tribunals, or human rights organizations.

What you'll study

Program Structure

The curriculum integrates essential first-year legal training with advanced studies and a practical externship, focusing on international human rights and criminal justice.

First-year foundation (required)

• Civil Procedure
• Communication and Legal Reasoning I and II
• Constitutional Law
• Contracts
• Criminal Law
• Property
• Torts

Advanced JD–LLM coursework

After completing the foundational courses, students pursue LLM-level studies in international human rights and international criminal law, along with elective courses that enhance research and advocacy skills.

Externship requirement

The program includes a semester-long externship at various prestigious placements, such as:

• International or hybrid criminal tribunals
• Foreign supreme courts
• International human rights organizations

Capstone / culminating academic work

Students must fulfill a culminating academic requirement for the LLM component, which may involve a research paper or other scholarly work relevant to international human rights practice.

Entry requirements

Academic requirements

• Applicants must meet the admission criteria for the JD–LLM in International Human Rights program.
• The GRE General Test is required for admission.

English requirements

• TOEFL iBT: Minimum score requirements are determined by the law school.
• IELTS: Minimum score requirements are also set by the law school.

Other requirements

• Complete an application for admission.
• Submit a personal statement detailing academic and professional goals, motivations for pursuing legal study, and relevant experience.
• Provide a resume/CV outlining pertinent professional, academic, and leadership experiences.
• Submit standardized test scores (GRE) and English proficiency test scores (TOEFL/IELTS) as required.
• Utilize the Law School Credential Assembly Service as outlined in the application process.
• Pay the application fee.

Career prospects

Graduates of the JD–LLM in International Human Rights program are well-equipped for diverse career opportunities in the legal field. They can pursue roles in international organizations, governmental agencies, non-governmental organizations, and private law firms, focusing on human rights advocacy, legal counsel, and policy development. The combination of rigorous academic training and practical experience prepares students to make a significant impact in the realm of international human rights.