Andreas Krebs
International Law, LLM
Introduction
Our LLM International Law provides students with a thorough knowledge of public international law while also discussing recent trends and current developments in this area of law. It is designed for candidates who seek the qualification of a general public international lawyer, but with a range of special interests (as in international human rights law, in world trade or in international environmental protection).
Study Information
Study Options
- Learning Mode
- On Campus Learning
- Degree Qualification
- LLM
- Duration
- 12 months or 24 months
- Study Mode
- Full Time or Part Time
- Start Month
- September or January
- Location of Study
- Aberdeen
Our International Law programme covers a range of courses that explore contemporary global problems. It analyses topics such as International Law’s role in preventing international terrorism, the protection of human rights and the current climate change legal regime. This programme provides students with a thorough knowledge of International Law and prepares them for a career in governmental institutions, international organisations, non-governmental organisations, international legal firms, or as international legal consultants.
Please note that we also offer this programme via the Professional Skills study route.
Available Programmes of Study
The LLM International Law will allow you to study international law at an advanced level, preparing you well for an international legal career. Our focus is on developing your ability to think critically about the current problems faced by the world, and how international law affects these issues. To allow you to develop these skills, you will undertake four compulsory courses:
- Getting Started at the University of Aberdeen
- International Law: A Time of Challenges
- Critical Legal Thinking and Scholarship
- LLM Dissertation
The remaining credits are gained from the diverse range of optional courses available to you, including international intellectual property law, international criminal law, the politics of human rights, and the law of the WTO.
Please note: Students starting their LLM programme in January write their Dissertation project during the Summer semester.
Duration: 12 months full-time. 24 months part time.
- LLM
-
International Law
Qualification Duration Learning Mode Study Mode Start Month LocationLLM 12 months or 24 months On Campus Learning Full Time or Part Time January MoreProgramme Fees
Fee information Fee category Cost EU / International students £23,000 Tuition Fees for 2025/26 Academic Year UK £11,900 Tuition Fees for 2024/25 Academic Year Semester 1
Compulsory Courses
Please note that all January Start Students must produce their Dissertation Project during the Summer Semester, preparation for which begins in January.
- Critical Legal Thinking and Scholarship (LS551T)
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This course provides students from diverse legal and educational backgrounds with a common understanding of the core research, analytical, and writing skills which will be required for LLM-Taught courses. The course is delivered as a series of five interactive lectures with two individual assessments designed to encourage critical thinking and provide opportunities for early feedback. It also incorporates a library workshop to provide students with hands-on experience with the resources available for course and dissertation work.
- Getting Started at the University of Aberdeen (PD5506)
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This course, which is prescribed for all taught postgraduate students, is studied entirely online, is studied entirely online, takes approximately 2-3 hours to complete and can be taken in one sitting, or spread across the first 4 weeks of term.
Topics include University orientation overview, equality & diversity, MySkills, health, safety and cyber security, and academic integrity.
Successful completion of this course will be recorded on your Transcript as ‘Achieved’.
Optional Courses
In addition to the above, candidates must take courses to the value of 90 credit points. At least 60 credit points must be obtained from optional courses in semesters 1 and 3. The remaining credit points may be obtained from any Level 5 30 credit on campus Law course. Please visit the Course Catalogue for details: Postgraduate Law 2022-2023 - Catalogue of Courses (abdn.ac.uk)
- World Trade Organisation: Gatt (LS553V)
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30 Credit Points
The course aims to provide a thorough and critical understanding of fundamental concepts, principles and institutions of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), with emphasis on trade in goods (GATT). The main topics covered include relevant historical and institutional developments, WTO dispute resolution, core principles such as the most-favour-nation (MFN), National Treatment and the prohibition of quantitative restrictions on international trade. The security, environment, human rights, subsidies, economic emergencies and free trade areas and customs unions based exceptions and their challenges are also analytically explored. These are studied in light of relevant WTO panel and Appellate Body cases and recommendations.
- The use of Force in International Law (LS5549)
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30 Credit Points
The course aims to develop an in-depth and critical appreciation of current issues in the area of the use of armed force in International Law. The course is of interest to students who want to understand the legal considerations which frame contemporary conflicts.
The course will first analyse the fundamental principle of the prohibition of the use of force between States. It will then examine the current exceptions to this principle (e.g., right to self-defence, authorisation to use force given by the UN Security Council); further, what types of arguments States tend to use to justify the resort to force. Consequently, the course will study the most recent recourses to force on the international plane (in particular, in Afghanistan, Iraq, Kosovo, Libya, Palestine, Syria, and Ukraine).
- International Cybersecurity Law (LS554A)
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30 Credit Points
The course addresses international legal issues raised by the increasing need to secure information and communication technology. It explores the modalities of international cyberattacks; discusses data protection in the EU and UK; questions the scope of the obligation of States to secure cyberspace; studies the role of private companies in reacting to harmful online content and international cyberattacks; analyses how cyberoperations can be attributed to States; examines what cyberoperations perpetrated by States violate international law and how victim States could react to those operations; and describes the governance in international cybersecurity.
- International Human Rights Law (LS5590)
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30 Credit Points
The course was designed to help students build competence in dealing with the doctrinal issues about international human rights. It involves understanding the place of human rights in public international law, finding one’s way around the foundational human rights documents and the jurisprudence of human rights bodies. The course delivery puts heavy emphasis on classroom discussion on the controversial issues on contemporary human rights law that shape doctrinal development in this field: the justifiability of torture, the limits of freedom of religion, the justiciability of social rights, etc.
- International Humanitarian Law (LS551G)
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30 Credit Points
The course explores the history, nature and salient features of the principles of ‘the laws and customs of war’, also called IHL; they are enshrined, inter alia, in the Geneva Conventions of 1949 and their Additional Protocols of 1977. The principles of distinction, humanity, necessity and proportionality as applied to contemporary armed conflicts are examined. The course emphasises the rules and challenges pertaining to civilian immunity, occupation, legal controls on weapons and how IHL is implemented and enforced. It also clarifies the differences/similarities between IHL and international human rights law and the law on the use of force.
- Applied Issues in International Economic Law (LS553T)
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30 Credit Points
There is limited appreciation given to the study of the state as a policymaker, legislator, and disputing party in the context of international economic law. Yet, the states have become the “investor of first-resort", while participating in an unprecedented surge of international investment disputes and international economic agreements. The course covers how international investment law interacts with the State’s regulatory powers in different economic sectors.
- International Watercourses Law and Policy (LS553Q)
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30 Credit Points
There are at least 264 transboundary watercourses in the world. 40 percent of the world’s population depends on them for freshwater needs. Population growth, unfair share and lack of conservation measures, amongst other factors, have led to fierce competition over such resources among states and their communities. The Course explores the normative and policy issues relating to shared transboundary watercourses among states from the perspectives of international watercourses law (IWL), water politics and policies, and to some extent, geosciences. Focusing on the legal aspects of the subject, the course explores relevant theories, the key principles of IWL as enshrined in the UN Watercourses Convention 1997, contemporary issues such as ‘benefit sharing’, ‘the water-energy-food nexus’ and the ‘SDGs’, in light of specific case studies of transboundary watercourses such as the Nile and the Mekong.
Semester 2
Compulsory Courses
Please note that all January Start Students must produce their Dissertation Project during the Summer Semester, preparation for which begins in January.
- Master of Laws Dissertation (LS5904)
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60 Credit Points
Between May and mid-August students prepare a 10,000 word dissertation on a topic of their choice related to their specialist LLM programme. Students are instructed through the delivery of a preparatory lecture, two supervisory meetings and a two hour dissertation planning workshop in a small group setting. Students are expected to spend considerable time on independent research throughout the course of the dissertation module, including; preparation of dissertation plan, amendment of plan in accordance with supervisory comments, preparation for the dissertation workshop, and, of course, in the final 10,000 word dissertation itself.
Semester 3
Compulsory Courses
- International Law: A Time of Challenges (LS501U)
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30 Credit Points
The course analyses recent developments in public international law. It first considers the sources of public international law. The question is then asked whether traditional public international law can regulate pressing issues on the international plane. Examples of these problems are: international terrorism, nuclear weapons proliferation, protection of human rights, ethnic conflicts, climate change. The course encourages the participant-student to think creatively as an international lawyer to resolve contemporary international dilemmas.
Optional Courses
In addition to the above, candidates must take courses to the value of 90 credit points. At least 60 credit points must be obtained from optional courses in semesters 1 and 3. The remaining credit points may be obtained from any Level 5 30 credit on campus Law course. Please visit the Course Catalogue for details: Postgraduate Law 2022-2023 - Catalogue of Courses (abdn.ac.uk)
LS504G International Law of the Sea (30 credit points)
- International Energy and Environmental Law (LS501C)
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30 Credit Points
The course deals with the regulation of international activities regarding energy and the environment. The course will consider the international legal framework regarding energy sources, and it will look at the various legal instruments at the global and regional level as well as the key actors that are involved in regulation. It will also examine environmental issues that correspond to the generation and use of energy in the international context and the responses relating to environmental protection of soil, water, air, atmosphere and species.
- International Criminal Law (LS502N)
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30 Credit Points
The course explores the history and nature of ICL, allowing students to develop their understanding of the core crimes, their evolution, and the path to the creation of the International Criminal Court. Through seminar discussions, students are encouraged to contribute their informed, evidenced perspectives on contemporary problems in international criminal law. These include the attempts to suppress international crimes through international cooperation, international initiatives to prosecute those accused of serious violations of international criminal law, and the limitations of the International Criminal Court, as well as its successes.
LLM 12 months or 24 months On Campus Learning Full Time or Part Time September Aberdeen MoreProgramme Fees
Fee information Fee category Cost EU / International students £23,000 Tuition Fees for 2025/26 Academic Year UK £11,900 Tuition Fees for 2024/25 Academic Year
We will endeavour to make all course options available. However, these may be subject to change - see our Student Terms and Conditions page.
Fee Information
Additional Fee Information
- Fees for individual programmes can be viewed in the Programmes section above.
- In exceptional circumstances there may be additional fees associated with specialist courses, for example field trips. Any additional fees for a course can be found in our Catalogue of Courses.
- For more information about tuition fees for this programme, including payment plans and our refund policy, please visit our Tuition Fees page.
Scholarships
All eligible self-funded international Postgraduate Masters students starting in September 2025 will receive an £8,000 scholarship. Learn more about this Aberdeen Global Scholarship here.
To see our full range of scholarships, visit our Funding Database.
How You'll Study
Our International Law programme is taught through traditional lectures and seminars in small groups, benefiting from close tutor contact. You will also have the opportunity to attend lectures by high-ranking guest speakers from the world of international law, and to attend seminars delivered by leading academics and practitioners in the field. The programme of study includes a research skills course, which runs at the beginning of your LLM, and gives you the opportunity to deploy those skills through the completion of a dissertation on a research area of interest to you.
Learning Methods
- Lectures
- Research
- Seminars
- Tutorials
Assessment Methods
Assessment: by course work, by written examination, or by a combination of these, as prescribed for each course. The degree of LLM shall not be awarded to a candidate who fails to achieve a CAS mark of 9 or above in the specified dissertation course, irrespective of their performance in other courses: such candidates may, at the discretion of the Examiners, be awarded a Postgraduate Diploma or a Postgraduate Certificate.
Why Study International Law?
Law was a foundation discipline of the University of Aberdeen in 1495. Today the School of Law is considered one of the best training grounds for lawyers in the UK.
There are over 40 nationalities within the School of Law community, so you will benefit from the experiences of international students from all over the world.
Students choose to study Law at the University of Aberdeen because of our reputation for academic excellence and promising career prospects. At Aberdeen, you will:
- Benefit from its wide community of international staff and students which provides a stimulating learning environment, ideal for the study of International Law.
- Benefit from the opportunity to attend our Research Seminar Series, which will provide you with unique insights into current legal issues.
- Have the chance to participate in student academic events organised by Lawyers without Borders.
- Have the opportunity to develop a professional network among many other international students, some of them being already engaged in an international career.
- Benefit from an unrivalled knowledge in International Law, being taught by world-class lecturers with world-leading research credentials.
- Work in small seminar groups, meaning you will have access to teaching staff whenever you need.
The University also has a leading Careers and Employability Service that organises events focused on providing you with the additional skills needed to make the most of your career potential.
With the University’s diverse student cohort, you will be part of a close-knit community and learn from the prior academic experiences of other students.
What Our Students Say
Entry Requirements
Qualifications
The information below is provided as a guide only and does not guarantee entry to the University of Aberdeen.
Normally, a 2.1 honours degree (or equivalent) in Law will be required to be accepted onto this programme. Relevant practical experience in a related field will also be beneficial.
Please enter your country to view country-specific entry requirements.
English Language Requirements
To study for a Postgraduate Taught degree at the University of Aberdeen it is essential that you can speak, understand, read, and write English fluently. The minimum requirements for this degree are as follows:
IELTS Academic:
OVERALL - 6.5 with: Listening - 5.5; Reading - 6.0; Speaking - 5.5; Writing - 6.0
TOEFL iBT:
OVERALL - 90 with: Listening - 17; Reading - 21; Speaking - 20; Writing - 21
PTE Academic:
OVERALL - 62 with: Listening - 59; Reading - 59; Speaking - 59; Writing - 59
Cambridge English B2 First, C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency:
OVERALL - 176 with: Listening - 162; Reading - 169; Speaking - 162; Writing - 169
Read more about specific English Language requirements here.
Document Requirements
You will be required to supply the following documentation with your application as proof you meet the entry requirements of this degree programme. If you have not yet completed your current programme of study, then you can still apply and you can provide your Degree Certificate at a later date.
- Degree Transcript
- a full transcript showing all the subjects you studied and the marks you have achieved in your degree(s) (original & official English translation)
- Personal Statement
- a detailed personal statement explaining your motivation for this particular programme
- Reference
- a reference letter from your university discussing your academic ability. If you have been out of education for a long time you may wish to use your current or most recent employer, or another professional person
Aberdeen Global Scholarship
Eligible self-funded Postgraduate Taught (PGT) students will receive the Aberdeen Global Scholarship. Eligibility details and further information are available on our dedicated page.
Aberdeen Global ScholarshipCareers
International Law is a subject of global importance. Studying the discipline at Aberdeen will provide you with the skills and experience you will need to work in an international legal profession. You will develop an advanced understanding of International Law that will give you a competitive advantage in the jobs market. Some high profile career opportunities available to you could include working with the UN, NATO, The World Bank, a NGO or a global law firm.
We have a very active and supportive Careers and Employability Service, offering support such as mentoring and preparing for interviews, among others. Find out more about the Careers and Employability Service here
Our Experts
You will be taught by and have access to a number of experts, many of whom are internationally renowned within their respective fields.
- Programme Coordinator
- Clare Frances Moran
Information About Staff Changes
You will be taught by a range of experts including professors, lecturers, teaching fellows and postgraduate tutors. However, these may be subject to change - see our Student Terms and Conditions page.
Get in Touch
Contact Details
- Address
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Student Recruitment & Admissions
University of Aberdeen
University Office
Regent Walk
Aberdeen
AB24 3FX