International Law LLB/LLM
Study of how laws operate between nations - exploring global justice, human rights, diplomacy, and international governance.
Is this for you?
This degree could suit you if you:
Are interested in global law and human rights
Enjoy debate and analysis
Want an international legal career
Like politics and global issues
Are analytical and detail-oriented
Popular Career Fields
Law & Legal Services
Government & Public Sector
International Development
Finance & Banking
Your Personality Might Be:
Globally minded
Government & Public Sector
Linguistically aware
Justice-focused
What is it?
What Is an International Law Degree?
International Law focuses on the rules and agreements that govern relationships between countries and international organisations. You’ll learn how legal systems work on a global scale, covering topics like human rights, trade, war, and environmental protection.
Why Study International Law?
This degree is ideal if you’re interested in world affairs, justice, and global cooperation. It combines legal study with international politics, helping you understand how laws shape peace, security, and human rights around the world.
Course Summary
Study of how laws operate between nations - exploring global justice, human rights, diplomacy, and international governance.
What you'll study
Most International Law degrees cover:
Public international law
Human rights law
International trade and business law
Humanitarian and refugee law
Environmental and maritime law
International dispute resolution
Global governance and diplomacy
Later in your course, you can often specialise - for example, in international criminal law, EU law, global development, or environmental justice.
Degree Type
LLB (Bachelor of Laws): A qualifying law degree that includes core legal modules (like contract and tort law) alongside international specialisations.
Some universities offer dual degrees or Law with International Relations options for broader study.
Skills You'll Gain
An International Law degree helps you build strong legal and global competencies, which might include:
Global Legal Analysis – interpreting treaties, international statutes, and cross-border legal frameworks.
Diplomacy & Negotiation – engaging in discussions between states, organisations, and international bodies.
Comparative Law Skills – analysing differences between legal systems across countries.
Human Rights & Governance Knowledge – understanding international justice, humanitarian law, and global institutions.
Advocacy & Policy Interpretation – presenting legal arguments and assessing international policies and agreements.
Pathways, Placements and Work Experience
CAREERS
Career Pathways
International Law graduates can pursue careers in both domestic and international contexts, including:
Legal practice and consultancy
International organisations (UN, EU, WTO, NGOs)
Human rights advocacy and policy
Diplomatic and civil service roles
Journalism, research, and academia
Work Experiences & Placements
Many universities offer:
Placements or internships with law firms, government departments, NGOs, or international organisations.
Study abroad opportunities at partner universities in Europe or beyond.
These experiences help you apply legal theory to international issues and develop cross-cultural experience.
Salary Profile
Coming soon
Qualifications, Personal Satement, What to do Next?
AM I ELIGIBLE?
Entry Requirements
A-levels or equivalent. Most universities accept a broad range of subjects. Law, History, Politics, Modern Languages, Economics, or English are beneficial. Essay-based subjects demonstrate skills needed.
Personal Statement Tips
Show your interest in law, global affairs, and justice.
Mention subjects like Politics, History, or Geography that relate to international issues.
Reflect on how law can help solve global problems such as conflict, inequality, or climate change.
Include examples such as debating, Model UN, or volunteering with charities.
What to do Next
Compare courses to see which focus more on human rights, trade, or international relations.
Attend open days or virtual sessions to explore mock courts or law clinics.
Read international news and follow legal developments around the world.
Volunteer or join global youth organisations to build awareness and experience.
Wider Reading
International Law by Malcolm N. Shaw – A leading academic overview of global legal systems.
Justice: What’s the Right Thing to Do? by Michael Sandel – Explores moral and ethical questions in global contexts.
The Rule of Law by Tom Bingham – A clear explanation of how law underpins fairness and order.
Half the Sky by Nicholas D. Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn – A global look at human rights and social justice.