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Qualification type
LLM

International Human Rights Law

Study mode
Full-time
Part-time
Duration
12 months
24 months
Start date and application deadlines
Start date
September 2025
Apply by:
Starts on:

We've set the country or region your qualifications are from as United Kingdom.

Applications for master’s courses beginning in September 2025 have now closed

Applications for September 2026 will open early October 2025. You can apply for courses starting in January 2026 now.

How to apply
Applications for master’s courses beginning in September 2025 have now closed. Applications for September 2026 will open in early October 2025. You can apply for courses starting in January 2026 now.

The deadline for UK students to apply for this course for entry in September 2025 was .

The deadline for international students was .

UK students

Apply for this course by:

There is no fee to apply for our courses.

What you'll need

As part of the application process, you'll need to submit:

  • School or college transcripts/certificates
  • University transcripts and certified translations if applicable
  • Degree certificates
  • Personal statement outlining your learning ambitions

Our application process

  1. Sign into the University of Liverpool Application Portal and start your application
  2. Submit your application
  3. We'll email you to let you know we're processing your application
  4. Track the progress of your application using the Postgraduate Application Tracker (we'll send you a link to the tracker)
  5. We'll email you when a decision has been made
  6. If you've been made an offer, you can then accept or decline it using the Postgraduate Application Tracker.

Already a University of Liverpool student?

Apply faster with the quick apply form for current University of Liverpool students.

Need help applying?

Our how to apply pages provide further information about applying online for our taught postgraduate courses.

If you are unable to apply via our online form, or need further support, please contact the postgraduate enquiries team.

International students

Apply for this course by:

There is no fee to apply for our courses. However, once you’ve been made an offer to study with us you are required to pay a fee deposit.

What you'll need

As part of the application process, you'll need to submit:

  • School or college transcripts/certificates
  • University transcripts and certified translations if applicable
  • Degree certificates
  • Evidence of English Language proficiency (EU and international applicants only)
  • Personal statement outlining your learning ambitions.

Our application process

  1. Sign into the University of Liverpool Application Portal and start your application
  2. Submit your application
  3. We'll email you to let you know we're processing your application
  4. Track the progress of your application using the Postgraduate Application Tracker (we'll send you a link to the tracker)
  5. We'll email you when a decision has been made
  6. If you've been made an offer, you can then accept or decline it using the Postgraduate Application Tracker.

Already a University of Liverpool student?

Apply faster with the quick apply form for current University of Liverpool students.

Need help applying?

We provide further information about applying online.

If you are unable to apply via our online form, or need further support, please contact the postgraduate enquiries team.

Combine this subject

With a combined degree, you can study two subjects as part of the same degree programme.

  • Choose from 30 subjects and over 300 combinations
  • Choose joint or major minor subjects
  • Adjust the weight of your subjects at the end of your first year
  • Same number of credits as single honours students
  • Same classes as single honours students
  • Appeal to a wide range of employers
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About this course

This programme will provide you with an in-depth knowledge and understanding of the far-reaching impact of international law on international relations, with a special emphasis on human rights issues and their relevance to domestic law.


Introduction

The Liverpool Law School is one of the oldest law departments in the UK and has a prestigious international reputation. We focus on social relevance and aim to influence public debate and policy at local, national, European and international levels.

Our master’s degree in international human rights law is designed to give you an in-depth understanding of public international law with a specific focus on the international regime of human rights protection. You will gain the advanced knowledge and practical skills that employers are looking for.

We are defined by our commitment to teaching law through a social justice lens. Our modules show how the law reflects or fails to address different forms of inequality and oppression, focusing on fairness, equality and the promotion of equal rights for all members of society. You will take part in research-informed modules led by leading experts in the field, exploring issues of real-world significance organised around three broad themes: the nature and character of international law, international and regional human rights regimes, and the role of international human rights law in solving real-world problems such as the climate crisis.

We also offer a wide range of extra-curricular and careers opportunities to help you become a well-rounded and employable graduate. This includes internships, pro bono projects and talks and workshops from practising lawyers and judges who have played important roles in uncovering miscarriages of justice or reforming the law.


Who is this course for?

This master’s is suitable for graduates of Law or a relevant degree subject such as Political Science, Sociology, Philosophy, International Relations, Banking, Management Studies, Humanities, Social Sciences and Economics who have an interest and want to pursue a career in human rights in domestic, European and international law.


What you'll learn

  • Advanced legal research skills that are necessary to enable you to reach a superior understanding of international human rights law
  • How to analyse, evaluate and interpret primary and secondary legal sources
  • How to understand and apply English, European and International legal terminology, both orally and in writing
  • Critical, analytical and research skills
  • Oral discussion skills by participating in debates and problem-solving exercises
  • How to apply legal knowledge to practical situations
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Course content

Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.

Semester one

All students must take Legal Research Training and the Dissertation module (60 credits). You must select at least 3 taught specialist modules to the value of 60 credits from the list of module specialisms (see below).  These required modules may vary slightly from year to year, and are chosen because of their particular contemporary relevance to the specialism of International Human Rights Law.

The remaining 60 credits may be taken from any master’s programme offered by the school. This includes modules in Business and Commercial Law and Medicine and Healthcare Law. Optional modules are also available on methodology topics such as Socio-Legal Methods, Socio-Legal Theory, Quantitative Methods, Interviewing, Observation, and Focus Groups.

Your dissertation is researched and written during semester 3. The process of preparing the dissertation is supported by legal research training in semester 1, by a dissertation workshop and library training in semester 2, and by individual supervision during semester 3.

Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.

Modules

Compulsory modules Credits
DISSERTATION (LAW540) 60

Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.

Semester two

All students must take Legal Research Training and the Dissertation module (60 credits). You must select at least 3 taught specialist modules to the value of 60 credits from the list of module specialisms (see below).  These required modules may vary slightly from year to year, and are chosen because of their particular contemporary relevance to the specialism of International Human Rights Law.

The remaining 60 credits may be taken from any master’s programme offered by the school. This includes modules in Business and Commercial Law and Medicine and Healthcare Law. Optional modules are also available on methodology topics such as Socio-Legal Methods, Socio-Legal Theory, Quantitative Methods, Interviewing, Observation, and Focus Groups.

Your dissertation is researched and written during semester 3. The process of preparing the dissertation is supported by legal research training in semester 1, by a dissertation workshop and library training in semester 2, and by individual supervision during semester 3.

Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.

Modules

Compulsory modules Credits
DISSERTATION (LAW540) 60

Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.

Final project

Your dissertation is researched and written during semester 3.

Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.

Modules

Compulsory modules Credits
DISSERTATION (LAW540) 60

Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.

Teaching and assessment

How you'll learn

Teaching methods depend upon the module but most modules are taught via in-person seminars on campus. Each module will normally have a two-hour weekly seminar for a small group of students. You will have reading and other tasks to prepare for each seminar; independent study is an important part of your learning at this level. Online resources and exercises, group work and presentations all help to ensure that you develop a strong set of transferrable skills.

How you're assessed

In semesters one and two, you will take modules totalling 120 credits. Your dissertation, completed over the summer, is worth 60 credits. You are required to complete 180 credits to achieve a full LLM.

Assessment takes different formats depending on each module’s learning objectives. Many modules have two assessments: a smaller piece of work, such as a case commentary or plan, mid-way through the module, followed by a more substantial essay at the end. Semester one modules are formally assessed in January, while semester two assessments take place in May and June.

Your 12,000-word dissertation is completed during the summer period (July to September). You will receive legal research training and be assigned an expert supervisor, ensuring you are fully prepared and supported throughout the process.

Liverpool Hallmarks

We have a distinctive approach to education, the Liverpool Curriculum Framework, which focuses on research-connected teaching, active learning, and authentic assessment to ensure our students graduate as digitally fluent and confident global citizens.

The Liverpool Curriculum framework sets out our distinctive approach to education. Our teaching staff support our students to develop academic knowledge, skills, and understanding alongside our graduate attributes:

  • Digital fluency
  • Confidence
  • Global citizenship

Our curriculum is characterised by the three Liverpool Hallmarks:

  • Research-connected teaching
  • Active learning
  • Authentic assessment

All this is underpinned by our core value of inclusivity and commitment to providing a curriculum that is accessible to all students.

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Your experience

The Liverpool Law School has a proud tradition and over a century’s experience of inspiring and challenging its students to reach their potential.

We have developed excellent longstanding relationships, links and collaborations with the local community, international partners, policymakers and practitioners in the fields of law and social justice.

Explore where you'll study

An image of the outside of the School of Law and Social Justice Building. A large, gold and modern building.
School of Law and Social Justice Building
Students sit, scattered around the different seating areas of the bright and airy foyer of the School and Social Justice Building.
SLSJ Building Foyer
An image of students sat in Abercromby Square (a small greenspace in the middle of campus).
Abercromby Square
Students sit at a large table in the bright School of Law and Social Justice foyer. The tables are wooden with with hanging plants.
School of Law and Social Justice Foyer
Picture by Gareth Jones
Picture by Gareth Jones

Virtual tour

Supporting your learning

From arrival to alumni, we’re with you all the way:

An exciting place to study law

  • Dedicated to small group teaching
  • Taught by leading researchers in the field
  • Access to a vibrant programme of extra-curricular activities, including visiting lecture programme
  • A friendly and fun student community with supportive staff
  • Excellent links with employers and employability opportunities including the possibility of participation in our own award-winning Law Clinic.

The best part of the Law department at Liverpool is the staff. The teaching is excellent. The academics are very approachable and helpful.

Amy Knowles, LLM International Human Rights Law 2019
Two students chatting while walking through campus.

Chat with our students

Want to find out more about student life?
Chat with our student ambassadors and ask any questions you have.

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Careers and employability

LM in International Human Rights Law provides rigorous training in legal analysis and develops critical thinking, independent research and project management skills. This programme prepares you not only for a career in legal practice but also for roles in international organisations, civil society, academia and other professional fields where expertise in human rights law is valued.

Recent graduates have gone on to pursue careers in:

  • Leading law firms
  • Doctoral research and academia
  • Education
  • Civil service
  • Civil society organisations
  • International courts and tribunals, including the International Criminal Court and the European Court of Human Rights
  • Global institutions such as the United Nations

You’ll have access to a wide range extra-curricular opportunities including networking, skills and research events, as well as our extensive employability programme. We organise visits from professionals and researchers working in international human rights and encourage you to actively engage with the department’s International Law and Human Rights Unit, the Critical Approaches to International Criminal Law Unit and the European Children’s Rights Unit. Students are also supported in taking part in external mooting competitions, gaining practical experience and enhancing their professional skills.

The School of Law and Social Justice has a traineeship agreement with the European Court of Human Rights, giving our LLM students the opportunity to compete for an internship in Strasbourg.

This LLM equips you with the knowledge, skills and confidence to pursue a fulfilling career in international human rights law, social justice or related professional fields, while also providing an ideal foundation for further postgraduate research.


Career support from day one to graduation and beyond

Career planning

Our campus Career Studio is a space for students and graduates to drop into and talk to a career coach. Career coaches are highly trained to help no matter what stage you are at in your career planning. You can access support to find and apply for full-time and part-time roles, placements, internships and graduate schemes. You will also find the help you need if you have a start-up idea or want to create a business plan. You can explore the world of work, prepare for job interviews, and access careers events and workshops. The Career Studio is open Monday to Friday from 10am-5pm, simply drop in at a time that works for you.

From education to employment

We develop our programmes with employers in mind. You will be supported to enhance your long-term employment prospects as you learn. We do this by exposing you to professionals, a variety of sectors and supporting you to work collaboratively with others to develop transferable skills. You are equipped with a clearer view of what to focus on in your area of interest, and to reflect on your studies. Our digital employability tools give you a tech-enhanced curriculum experience and make it easy for you to prepare for the world of work. You can use tools like the Handshake platform to connect with employers and message the Career Studio 24/7.

Networking events

You can start building good professional networks by attending events and employability activities. Our events are designed to develop your skills and expose you to many different employers, as well as to help you make contacts in your field. We help you improve your confidence when speaking to employers and give you access to unique opportunities. Our networking events also boost your understanding of the competencies and skills that employers are looking for in their recruitment process, giving you a competitive edge.

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My qualifications are from United Kingdom.

Fees and funding

Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.

Tuition fees

UK fees (applies to Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland)

Full-time place, per year - £11,700
Part-time place, per year - £5,850

International fees

Full-time place, per year - £24,100
Part-time place, per year - £12,050

Fees stated are for the 2025-26 academic year.

Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support.

If you're a UK national, or have settled status in the UK, you may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Loan worth up to £12,167 to help with course fees and living costs. Learn more about paying for your studies.


Additional costs

We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This could include buying a laptop, books, or stationery.

Find out more about the additional study costs that may apply to this course.


Scholarships and bursaries

We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries that could help pay your tuition and living expenses.

The Salters’ Fellowship

If you've graduated with an undergraduate degree in Chemistry, and you've accepted a place on an eligible postgraduate course at the University of Liverpool, you could be entitled to a £10,000 contribution towards your tuition fees. This award is available to one student per academic year who's considered to be from a widening participation background. Complementary subject eligibility also applies.

Graduate Loyalty Advancement Scholarship

If you’re a University of Liverpool graduate starting this master’s degree with us, you could be eligible to receive a loyalty discount of up to £2,500 off your master’s tuition fees.

John Lennon Memorial Scholarship

If you’re a UK student, either born in or with strong family connections to Merseyside, you could be eligible to apply for a fee discount of up to £4,500. You’ll need to demonstrate an active interest in global, community and environmental issues to be considered.

Liverpool Law School LLM Bursaries

Joining one of our LLM master’s courses in the Liverpool Law School? You could be eligible for one of four bursaries worth up to £1,000. The bursaries are awarded based on previous academic performance and other relevant achievements.

Postgraduate Opportunity Bursary

If you’re a UK University of Liverpool graduate joining a master’s degree with us, you could be eligible to receive £3,000 off your tuition fees. You must have graduated in the last two years and received a widening access scholarship during your undergraduate studies.

Sport Liverpool Performance Programme

Apply to receive tailored training support to enhance your sporting performance. Our athlete support package includes a range of benefits, from bespoke strength and conditioning training to physiotherapy sessions and one-to-one nutritional advice.

The Aziz Foundation Scholarship

If you’re a British Muslim, active within a Muslim community and dedicated to bringing positive change to society, you could apply to potentially have the full cost of your master’s tuition fees covered by an Aziz Foundation Scholarship.

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My qualifications are from United Kingdom.

Entry requirements

The qualifications and exam results you'll need to apply for this course.

The qualifications and exam results you’ll need to apply for this course.

Qualification Details
Postgraduate entry requirements

We accept a 2:2 honours degree from a UK university, or an equivalent academic qualification from a similar non-UK institution. This degree should be in Law (BA or LLB) or a closely related subject, including Political Science, Sociology, Philosophy, International Relations, Banking, Management Studies, Humanities, Social Sciences and Economics.

Applicants are considered on the basis of academic ability, potential and other relevant considerations are also taken into account. Applicants who have marginally missed the benchmark indicated above are considered on a discretionary basis.

International qualifications

Many countries have a different education system to that of the UK, meaning your qualifications may not meet our entry requirements. Completing your Foundation Certificate, such as that offered by the University of Liverpool International College, means you're guaranteed a place on your chosen course.


English language requirements

You'll need to demonstrate competence in the use of English language, unless you’re from a majority English speaking country.

We accept a variety of international language tests and country-specific qualifications.

International applicants who do not meet the minimum required standard of English language can complete one of our Pre-Sessional English courses to achieve the required level.

Qualification Details
IELTS 6.5 overall, with no component below 6.0
TOEFL iBT 88 overall, with minimum scores of listening 19, writing 19, reading 19 and speaking 20. TOEFL Home Edition not accepted.
Duolingo English Test 125 overall, with writing not less than 125, speaking and reading not less than 115, and listening not below 110. For academic year 2025/26 only, we will also accept the production, literacy, comprehension and conversation score set: 120 overall, with no component below 105.
Pearson PTE Academic 61 overall, with no component below 59
LanguageCert Academic 70 overall, with no skill below 65
PSI Skills for English B2 Pass with Merit in all bands
INDIA Standard XII National Curriculum (CBSE/ISC) - 75% and above in English. Accepted State Boards - 80% and above in English.
WAEC C6 or above

Pre-sessional English

Do you need to complete a Pre-sessional English course to meet the English language requirements for this course?

The length of Pre-sessional English course you’ll need to take depends on your current level of English language ability.

Pre-sessional English in detail

If you don’t meet our English language requirements, we can use your most recent IELTS score, or the equivalent score in selected other English language tests, to determine the length of Pre-sessional English course you require.

Use the table below to check the course length you're likely to require for your current English language ability and see whether the course is available on campus or online.

Your most recent IELTS score Pre-sessional English course length On campus or online
6.0 overall, with no component below 6.0 6 weeks On campus
6.0 overall, with no component below 5.5 10 weeks On campus and online options available
6.0 overall, with no more than one component below 5.5, and no component below 5.0 12 weeks On campus and online options available
5.5 overall, with no more than one component below 5.5, and no component below 5.0 20 weeks On campus
5.0 overall, with no more than one component below 5.0, and no component below 4.5 30 weeks On campus
4.5 overall, with no more than one component below 4.5, and no component below 4.0 40 weeks On campus

If you’ve completed an alternative English language test to IELTS, we may be able to use this to assess your English language ability and determine the Pre-sessional English course length you require.

Please see our guide to Pre-sessional English entry requirements for IELTS 6.5 overall, with no component below 6.0, for further details.

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Entry requirements: which qualifications do you need?

More about life in Liverpool

Discover more about the city and University.

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Why study at Liverpool?

Liverpool bursts with diversity and creativity which makes it ideal for you to undertake your postgraduate studies and access various opportunities for you and your family.

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Accommodation

To fully immerse yourself in the university experience living in halls will keep you close to campus where you can always meet new people. Find your home away from home.

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Fees and Finance

Discover what expenses are covered by the cost of your tuition fees and other finance-related information you may need regarding your studies at Liverpool.


Contact us

Have a question about this course or studying with us? Our dedicated enquiries team can help.

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Last updated 26 September 2025 / / Programme terms and conditions

Changes to International Human Rights Law LLM

See what updates we've made to this course since it was published. We document changes to information such as course content, entry requirements and how you'll be taught.

29 April 2025: Duolingo requirements

Duolingo requirements updated to indicate that alongside the listed requirements, we will also accept the production, literacy, comprehension and conversation score set for academic year 2025/26 entry. Please see individual course pages for the minimum overall scores and minimum scores in each component that will be accepted.

1 June 2024: Postgraduate taught updated entry requirements – 2024

The entry requirements for most postgraduate taught courses were updated from 2:1 to 2:2 in May 2024. Always check the course page for up-to-date entry requirements. 

23 March 2023: New postgraduate taught course pages

New course pages launched.