Keele University

What you'll study

This programme provides a blend of doctrinal, theoretical and practical training in public international law and human rights. You will study foundational subjects and select optional modules to match your interests, finishing with an independent research dissertation.

• Core subjects typically include Public International Law, International Human Rights Law, and Research Methods for Law and Human Rights. These modules cover sources of international law, state responsibility, treaty interpretation, mechanisms for rights protection, monitoring and enforcement, and methods for undertaking empirical and doctrinal research.
• Substantive thematic modules often cover International Criminal Law, International Humanitarian Law, Refugee and Asylum Law, and Business and Human Rights, examining accountability, armed conflict, displacement and corporate responsibility in a rights context.
• Optional/specialist topics may include Transitional Justice, Human Rights and Development, Comparative Constitutionalism, Migration and Borders, and Gender, Sexuality and Human Rights. Availability of options varies by year and staff expertise.
• Skills and practice elements focus on legal research and writing, advocacy and strategic litigation techniques, use of international and regional human rights mechanisms, and engagement with policy processes. Teaching methods combine lectures, small-group seminars, case workshops and simulated hearings.
• Dissertation (independent research project) allows you to develop a sustained piece of scholarship on a topic in international law and human rights under academic supervision. The project develops advanced research, critical analysis and presentation skills valued by employers.
• Structure and modes The programme is offered full-time (typically one year) and part-time (typically two years), with a mix of taught modules across terms followed by supervised research for the dissertation.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good UK undergraduate degree or an international equivalent. A degree in law is ideal but applicants with degrees in related disciplines (politics, international relations, development studies, sociology) and demonstrable relevant experience are also considered.

• Typical academic entry is a 2:1 honours degree or equivalent. Applicants with a lower-class degree and substantial relevant professional experience may be considered on an individual basis.
• Non-law graduates may be required to demonstrate sufficient grounding in legal concepts or to take bridging modules; prior study or experience in human rights, international affairs or public policy is advantageous.
• All applicants whose first language is not English must meet the university's English language requirements; evidence of proficiency must be provided with the application.
• Admission decisions may also take into account references, a personal statement, and where relevant CV or work samples that demonstrate motivation and suitability for postgraduate study.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to careers across public, private and third sectors where expertise in international law and human rights is required.

• Work with international organisations (United Nations agencies, regional bodies), intergovernmental organisations and diplomatic services on treaty implementation, policy development and human rights monitoring.
• Roles in non-governmental organisations and civil society groups focusing on advocacy, casework, strategic litigation, field monitoring and programme management.
• Positions in government departments, national human rights institutions, regulatory bodies and policy units dealing with human rights compliance, asylum and migration, and international cooperation.
• Legal practice for those pursuing conversion to professional qualification routes, including roles in law firms with international or public law specialisms and legal clinics offering pro bono human rights advice.
• Research and academic careers, as well as policy analysis and consultancy roles for think tanks and research institutes working on governance, development and transitional justice.

Why study at Keele University

Keele's School of Law and Politics combines research-led teaching with small-group seminars, enabling close engagement with academic staff and peers. The campus environment supports concentrated study and a strong student community.

• Interdisciplinary approach: the programme draws on expertise across law, politics and international relations to give wider context to human rights problems and policy responses.
• Research-active staff: teaching is informed by staff research in international law, human rights, transitional justice and related fields, providing access to current debates and supervision for advanced research.
• Practical learning: practical elements such as moot-style exercises, workshops on litigation before international and regional bodies, and skills training prepare students for professional practice.
• Student support and facilities: Keele offers library and electronic resources relevant to international law, dedicated dissertation supervision, and careers and employability services to help plan post-degree pathways.
• International outlook: Keele attracts students from a range of countries, creating a diverse learning environment and networking opportunities for careers in global contexts.