LLM International Law

Course overview

The University of Reading is a globally recognised UK university based in Reading, Berkshire. Founded in the 19th century and granted its Royal Charter in 1926, the University has more than 27,000 students from around 150 countries. Its main Whiteknights Campus offers a large parkland setting with modern academic facilities, a library, Students' Union, sports facilities, museums, shops and student accommodation. The University offers a broad range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across business, law, sciences, social sciences, humanities, education and other disciplines.

Course details

Degree level

Master's

Duration

1 year

Intake

February 2027

Tuition fee

£26,450 / year

Initial deposit

50% Net Fee

City

Reading

Country

England

About this information

The details on this page have not yet been checked against the official course page by our team. Fees, intakes and requirements can change, so always confirm them on the official course page before you apply.

Not recorded here yet: Pakistan-specific requirements.

English Language Requirements

Main English Requirements

Only the tests listed here are shown as accepted for this course.

Entry requirements

General entry requirements

Normally a good undergraduate honours degree (2.1 or above) in Law, or equivalent from a university outside the UK Applicants who have a 2.2 plus 3 years relevant work experience (and/or have passed the Bar exam will also be considered) Applicants who have a 2.2 with less experience and/or higher marks in some law modules as well as applicants who hold a degree in a Humanities or Social Science based subject may also be considered and are welcome to apply.

Scholarships & discounts

£4,000–£10,000 tuition fee reduction for international fee-paying students, based on academic achievement.

Pre-CAS interview

Required

No — no Pre-CAS interview is required, according to the information we hold

Course modules

Compulsory modules Introduction to International Law Explore key features of the international legal system, including the nature of international law, treaties and other sources, the subjects of international law, dispute settlement, and the establishment of state responsibility. Dissertation Develop high-level skills in research design, management and implementation as you embark on a major independent research project. You’ll demonstrate detailed knowledge of your chosen topic as you critically analyse your subject matter and consider it within the wider legal and socio-political landscape. Optional modules The Use of Military Force Embark on an in-depth study of military actions of states and the prohibition on the use of force. You’ll receive a unique insight into the most controversial and fundamental aspects of the modern international legal order, using real-word case studies to understand what circumstances justify military force. The Law of Armed Conflict (International Humanitarian Law) Study the legal protections for injured or captured combatants and civilians, the rules as to how warfare is conducted, and the law of occupation. You’ll learn through major case studies of armed conflict, including occupation, from the contemporary era developing a substantive understanding of the jus in bello and its development. International Refugee Law Study principles of state sovereignty and migration control in the context of refugees escaping their home state due to fear of persecution for reasons of race, religion, nationality, or political opinion. You’ll study the international regime of refugee protection including its virtues and shortcomings. Human Rights Law, Policy and Practice Explore contemporary challenges and developments associated with human rights concepts and institutions. You’ll consider the distinction between civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights as you explore a range of treaties, agencies and bodies and systemic challenges. International Organisations and Global Governance Examine key international organisations from universal organisations such as the UN, regional organisations such as the EU, and intergovernmental ones such as NATO. You’ll consider their role in global governance as you explore relevant legal principles and obligations through case studies. Contemporary Issues in International Law Consider the impact of topics such as security, climate change, cyberspace, global health and sustainable development on international law. You’ll explore key case studies related to global challenges as you develop a substantive and theoretical understanding of international law and its implementation. Research methods for LLM Students or Research Methods (Advanced) Formulate a research question for your dissertation and identify an appropriate methodological approach for your research. You’ll gain relevant knowledge and develop skills vital to plan and execute your dissertation. International Investment Law and Arbitration Study the law of foreign investment and investment treaty arbitration through a close analysis of bilateral investment treaties. You’ll acquire an in- depth understanding of the law, politics and economics related to the investment treaty regime while considering the perspective of host states, multinational corporations and other interest groups. International Commercial Arbitration (CIArb accredited) Discover the importance of arbitration as a form of dispute resolution in both domestic and international contexts. You’ll gain a critical understanding of the important aspects of international commercial arbitration, as well as the economic and legal concepts determining the choice of dispute resolution methods by commercial parties. Contemporary Issues in Intellectual Property Law Explore intellectual property law through the lens of contemporary debates. You’ll critically engage with the role and impact of intellectual property law while studying key areas such as copyright, performers rights, trademark and patents as you assess statutory provisions and case law. You can also select modules from programmes offered by other schools and departments, including from International Development, Politics and International Relations and Henley Business School. These are the modules that we currently offer for 2026/2027 entry. They may be subject to change as we regularly review our module offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods. Please note that the University cannot guarantee that all optional modules will be available to all students who may wish to take them.