University of Leicester

What you'll study

This LLM provides a flexible combination of compulsory and option modules that deepen your understanding of international human rights law, regional human rights systems, enforcement and remedies, and specialist thematic issues. Teaching typically combines seminars, case-study workshops and a substantial research dissertation. Core topics commonly available include:

• Fundamentals of International Human Rights Law – theory, sources, principles and the UN human rights framework.
• Regional Human Rights Systems – comparative study of the European, Inter-American and African human rights mechanisms and their procedures.
• Enforcement and Remedies – litigation strategies, remedies before international and regional bodies, and domestic implementation.
• Research Methods and Dissertation – advanced legal research skills and a dissertation in an agreed area of international human rights law.

Optional modules allow you to tailor the degree to particular interests and may include areas such as refugee and asylum law, transitional justice, business and human rights, global criminal justice, human rights and development, gender and anti-discrimination law, and comparative constitutional rights. Assessments are a mix of essays, case-notes, presentations and the final dissertation.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good undergraduate degree in law (or a related discipline) or an equivalent qualification. A UK second-class upper division (2:1) degree is often the benchmark, though applicants with a lower honours degree plus significant professional experience in a relevant field may be considered. Strong applicants from non-law backgrounds should demonstrate relevant study or practical experience in human rights, international relations, development or social policy.

International applicants must meet the University’s English language requirements for postgraduate study; an academic-standard English qualification such as IELTS or an equivalent is typically required. Applicants are asked to submit a personal statement outlining their interests and any relevant professional or voluntary experience, and may be required to provide academic references.

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme move into a range of careers across international, public and third-sector settings. Typical roles include:

• Legal advisers and litigation officers working with NGOs, human rights organisations and charities.
• Human rights officers and policy analysts in international organisations and multilateral agencies.
• Public sector roles in national human rights institutions, government departments and ombudsman offices.
• Advocacy, research and campaigning positions in civil society and think-tanks.
• Further academic study (PhD) or roles in legal education and research.

For those seeking legal practice, the qualification can complement professional conversion courses or bar/solicitor training, particularly when combined with qualifying law experience or internships. The programme also enhances the CV of professionals working in refugee protection, development agencies, and corporate social responsibility with a human rights focus.

Why study at University of Leicester

The University of Leicester’s law school brings together research-active staff working on international law, human rights, refugee protection and transitional justice, ensuring teaching is informed by current scholarship and practice. Small-group seminars and supervision for the dissertation allow focused feedback on research and writing.

Leicester’s central location in the UK and its established links with local and national legal organisations provide opportunities for networking, placements and pro bono engagement. The school’s commitment to interdisciplinary study means you can draw on expertise from related departments, including politics, international relations and development studies, to enrich your understanding of global human rights challenges.

Overall, the LLM is designed to balance rigorous legal analysis with practical skills for advocacy, research and policy work, preparing graduates for professional and academic careers in the field of international human rights.