Bournemouth University

What you'll study

This LLM combines core public international law doctrine with specialised options and a substantial research project. Typical core topics include the sources and subjects of international law, state responsibility, jurisdiction and immunities, and the law of treaties. You will also study substantive areas such as international human rights law, international humanitarian law, international criminal law, the law of the sea and international environmental law.

Teaching methods include seminars, case study workshops, simulated hearings and lectures. Assessment is usually by a mix of assessed essays, case commentaries, oral presentations, problem-based examinations and a dissertation or research project that allows focused, independent research under academic supervision.

• Foundations of Public International Law (doctrine and sources)
• International Human Rights Law
• International Humanitarian Law and the Law of Armed Conflict
• International Criminal Law and international courts and tribunals
• Law of the Sea and maritime jurisdiction
• International Environmental Law and transnational regulatory issues
• Research methods and dissertation in public international law
• Dispute settlement, arbitration and negotiation in the international context

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good undergraduate degree in law or a related discipline. Candidates with a lower class degree plus relevant professional experience, or those who hold a recognised law conversion qualification, can also be considered.

International applicants should hold an equivalent qualification from a recognised institution. All applicants whose first language is not English will need to demonstrate proficiency in English by holding a recognised language qualification at postgraduate level or an equivalent recognised test result.

Selection is based on academic merit, the quality of your supporting statement, and where relevant, professional or voluntary experience in areas connected to international law or policy.

Career prospects

Graduates of this LLM progress to a wide range of careers in the public, private and third sectors. Common destinations include roles with international organisations, governmental departments and ministries, non-governmental organisations and human rights groups, policy and advocacy bodies, and intergovernmental institutions.

The degree is also relevant for legal practitioners specialising in cross-border and public international law matters, for those seeking roles in international dispute resolution and arbitration, and for graduates aiming to continue to PhD study or academic careers. Additional opportunities include advisory and consultancy roles on regulatory and environmental matters, careers in maritime law, and positions with international criminal justice institutions.

Why study at Bournemouth University

Bournemouth University offers a taught postgraduate environment that emphasises applied learning and employability. You will be taught by staff with active research and professional links in public international law and related fields, and benefit from guest lectures and practitioner-led sessions that bring current international issues into the classroom.

The university provides dedicated postgraduate support, access to legal databases and research resources, and opportunities to develop practical skills through simulations and collaborative projects. The programme is designed to give both doctrinal rigour and practical capability, helping you to build a specialist profile that is attractive to employers in international and regulatory law contexts.