Study programme

Welcome to our programme. I very much look forward to getting to know you all and exchanging thoughts on the future directions of international law.

This one-year Master’s programme starts in September. The academic year consists of:

  • A compulsory part worth 30 EC that comprises two compulsory major courses (15 EC) and Capita Selecta (15 EC)
  • A specialisation (15 EC)
  • A Research and Thesis Trajectory (worth 15 EC)

Below, you will find the courses in the LLM in Public International Law programme.

You can also download the Master's programme Public International Law year schedule as a PDF file for easy reference. Please note that the names of the courses may change next year. 

Capita Selecta (15 EC):
The Capita Selecta comprises six short modules (each 2,5 EC) in Public International Law designed to help you master a specific topical issue quickly, a vital characteristic of a good attorney!

Research and Thesis Trajectory (15 EC):
Research and Thesis Trajectory runs throughout the Master’s programme, meaning that it starts in September and ends in July. It is taught alongside existing courses, making use of different interactive teaching methods such as individual writing assignments, seminars, group work (including peer feedback) and individual supervision.

Elective courses/ specialisations (15 EC): 
You can either select one of our 3 specialisations which are also fully described on this tracks page:

  • Conflict and Security 
  • Human Rights
  • Oceans, the Environment and Sustainability

Educational methods

Below you can see the overview of the educational methods in this programme.

Legal Skills Academy

The School of Law takes skills-teaching seriously, integrating professional, legal practice and academic skills into all our Masters’ curricula. Its new Legal Skills Academy puts skills-teaching in the spotlight, so that by the time you finish your Masters you have not only become proficient in the complexities of Public International Law, but you also have the confidence and skills needed to perform as a professional in legal practice. Your participation in inter alia moot courts, blog-writing and simulated negotiations will give you valuable experience in applied lawyering that will help your CV stand out in a competitive job market.

Internship

The programme encourages and facilitates internships. Doing an internship may entitle you to an extended enrolment in the LLM. 

Extra opportunities

Utrecht University offers several honours programmes for students looking for an extra challenge. Honours education is followed on top of your regular Master's programme and goes beyond the regular curriculum.

Read more about the honours programmes

Academic Calendar

Have a look at our Academic Calendar, where you can find more information about the Master's schedule per period, course registration periods and holidays.