
Trinity College Dublin
International & Comparative Law - LLM
Course Overview
In an era of globalisation, it is no longer possible to understand law in a purely national context. As globalisation not only intensifies but also comes under challenge, it has never been more important for lawyers to develop an in-depth understanding of law in its wider international context.
The LL.M. programme in International and Comparative Law offers students a valuable opportunity to develop this understanding. The programme offers a rich and diverse array of modules taught by experts in the fields of international and comparative law. Students develop their legal knowledge and advanced legal skills in these fields but also gain a deeper insight into law and legal practice in its evolving international context.
The LL.M. International and Comparative Law is delivered over one academic year. It seeks to promote critical analysis of, and reflection on, different aspects of international law and comparative law.
The LL.M International and Comparative Law offers students the chance to study from a large range of modules with a broad international and comparative law feel.
Is This Course For Me?
This programme is designed for law students interested in comparative study of different aspects of law across many jurisdictions. Students can study within fields such as Business and Human Rights, Human Rights at Work, International Humanitarian Law, International Economic Law, Freedom of Expression and Intellectual Property Law and Refugee Law, among others.
Course Structure
This is a full-time programme and is delivered in-person at Trinity College. It is divided into two semesters during each of which students are required to take three modules. Applicants should note that in 2025-26, it is likely there will be a mandatory 10 ECTS module entitled foundations of international in semester. Each module is offered in one semester only and involves 22 hours of classwork which is supported by independent reading and research. Various forms of assessment are utilised in the different modules to enhance students’ learning experience. In addition, all students must complete a research dissertation over the academic year on an approved theme.
Subjects taught
Module offerings may include International Dispute Resolution International Humanitarian Law; International Economic Law; Islamic Law; Refugee Law; as well as comparative modules relating to International Aviation Law; Freedom of Expression and Intellectual Property Law.
Entry requirements
Admission Requirements
• Applications are invited from well-qualified graduates who hold a very good Honours Bachelor degree in law or in a law-based interdisciplinary programme. Applications may also be considered from exceptional graduates in disciplines relevant to the LL.M degree they are applying for where: a substantial component of their undergraduate degree(s) is in Law; or applicants have significant professional experience in Law.
• The above is the starting point for applications and does not guarantee admission. Admission to Trinity's LL.M. programmes is at the absolute discretion of the School of Law, which will decide on admissions with regard to a range of academic criteria, including the quality of the individual application and the objectives of ensuring a diverse LL.M. class of the highest possible academic calibre.
• This programme is academically rigorous and requires students to have a high level of English language and legal English competency. It is expected that students will be able to effectively and proficiently participate in classroom discussions.
Application dates
Closing Date: 31st May 2025
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. We advise students to apply for the course as early as possible as admission is competitive. The programme is subject to early closure.
Duration
1 year full-time.
Enrolment dates
Next Intake: September 2025
Post Course Info
Career Opportunities
This programme equips students with the expertise, skills and attributes which are valuable across a wide range of careers, both within and beyond the legal profession, nationally and internationally.
More details
Qualification letters
LL.M.
Qualifications
Degree - Masters (Level 9 NFQ)
Attendance type
Daytime,Full time
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