Bournemouth University

What you'll study

This LLM combines core doctrinal and theoretical study with applied work on conflict, human rights protection and transitional processes. The programme typically comprises a series of taught modules and a substantial independent dissertation or practice-based research project.

• Core themes: international human rights law; the law of armed conflict (international humanitarian law); accountability and transitional justice mechanisms; refugee and migration law; international criminal law.
• Research and methods: legal research methods, comparative approaches and skills for designing and delivering a dissertation or practice project informed by qualitative and doctrinal techniques.
• Optional/advanced modules: topics such as gender and human rights, business and human rights, human rights advocacy and litigation, human security and peacebuilding, data protection and surveillance in conflict, and regional human rights systems.
• Work-based learning: many cohorts can take modules or short placements focussed on professional practice, clinical-style projects, or simulated advocacy exercises that develop casework and policy skills.
• Dissertation or practice project: a major piece of supervised independent research (often 12,000–15,000 words or equivalent) allowing you to specialise on a specific legal, policy or practice issue within conflict and human rights.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally hold a UK degree in law (LLB) or a related discipline at a minimum of a second-class honours (2:1) or an international equivalent. Applicants with a lower honours classification (for example a 2:2) may be considered if they have relevant professional experience or postgraduate work in a related field.

Non-law graduates are welcome but may be expected to show evidence of sustained interest in legal study and strong academic performance in their subject. Admissions decisions take into account personal statements, references and, where relevant, professional experience in human rights, humanitarian work, policy or related sectors.

International applicants must meet the university's English language requirements for postgraduate study; typical offers ask for a recognised English language qualification at a level that demonstrates the ability to study and produce extended academic work in English.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to a wide range of careers in the public, private and third sectors. Typical roles include:

• Human rights officer, policy analyst or advocacy specialist with international NGOs, charities or civil society organisations
• Positions within intergovernmental organisations and United Nations agencies focusing on protection, rule of law or refugee operations
• Legal and compliance roles in government departments, oversight bodies or regulatory agencies dealing with human rights and conflict-related issues
• Legal practice—for law graduates, further professional qualification routes may lead to litigation or advisory work with a human rights focus
• Research and academic careers, or roles in think-tanks and consultancy providing specialist analysis on transitional justice, accountability and conflict responses

The programme’s emphasis on applied skills, research methods and optional placement opportunities supports employability by developing casework, policy drafting and advocacy skills valued by employers.

Why study at Bournemouth University

Bournemouth University offers an LLM that combines research-informed teaching with practical skills development. The law teaching team includes staff with active research and professional experience in human rights, conflict and transitional justice, and the curriculum is designed to reflect contemporary legal and policy challenges.

The university emphasises small-group teaching, formative feedback and opportunities for work-based learning and applied projects. Students benefit from access to Bournemouth’s professional networks, guest speakers from the sector and support from the careers service to prepare applications for roles in NGOs, public bodies and international organisations.

Studying at Bournemouth also provides a supportive environment for students wishing to develop interdisciplinary perspectives on human rights and conflict, drawing on related expertise across the university and practical opportunities in the south of England and beyond.