University of Nottingham

What you'll study

The programme combines taught modules with a substantial independent dissertation. You will study core topics in public international law and select from a wide range of optional modules to build a specialised profile. Teaching methods include seminars, lectures, workshops and supervisor-led research supervision.

• Core elements: research methods for legal scholarship and a dissertation (common law- or research-led long project developing an original piece of legal analysis).
• Typical optional modules: public international law, international human rights law, international criminal law, law of armed conflict, international investment law, international trade law (WTO), international environmental and climate law, international dispute settlement and arbitration, transnational commercial law, and comparative constitutional and human rights practice.
• Assessment: a mixture of assessed essays, case studies, presentations and a long dissertation (supervised independent research).
• Structure and duration: most students complete the programme on a full-time basis over one year; part-time study is usually available over two years, with flexible arrangements for dissertation supervision.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a strong undergraduate degree in law (for example a UK 2:1 honours degree or equivalent). Candidates with a first degree in a related discipline plus relevant professional experience, or a qualifying law conversion plus demonstrable legal experience, may also be considered.

International applicants must meet the University’s postgraduate English language requirements; evidence of proficiency (for example via recognised tests or previous study in English) will be required where applicable. Professional references, a personal statement outlining reasons for study and any relevant work experience are typically requested as part of the application.

Career prospects

Graduates from this LLM progress into a broad range of careers in international and domestic contexts. Common directions include:

• International organisations and intergovernmental bodies (policy, legal advisory and treaty work).
• Human rights and development NGOs, advocacy and litigation roles.
• Private practice in international law firms, particularly in arbitration, investment and public international law teams.
• Government legal departments, foreign ministries and regulatory agencies.
• Commercial in-house legal roles, compliance and cross-border dispute resolution functions.
• Academia and legal research, including progression to doctoral study.

Why study at University of Nottingham

The University of Nottingham’s School of Law offers research-led teaching delivered by specialists in international law and related fields. Students benefit from supervision by active researchers, access to a programme of research seminars and invited speakers, and opportunities to engage with clinics, mooting and pro bono activity.

Nottingham has strong international links and a diverse student cohort, supporting comparative perspectives and networking across jurisdictions. The School’s facilities, library collections and career support services are geared to postgraduate professional development, helping students move into international practice, policy or further research.