LLM Advanced Studies in Public International Law

For Public International Law, you will choose one of two major specialisations: International Criminal Law or Peace, Justice and Development.

What does this master’s programme entail?

In this advanced master’s programme, you will gain a thorough understanding of the legislation that governs international relations in an increasingly complex global society. You will learn in-depth about a wide range of aspects that affect our world, in addition to getting the opportunity to specialise in your area of study. Through focused seminars and workshops, you will be challenged to develop your views on the role and functioning of public international law.

For this programme, you will choose one of the following specialisations:

• International Criminal Law (Advanced)
• Peace, Justice and Development (Advanced)

International Criminal Law (Advanced LL.M.)

Which organisations have the authority to intervene when violations of human rights occur? Which legal means can be used to combat international terrorism? The Advanced Master's specialization in International Criminal Law at Leiden University examines international criminal law and international criminal procedure.

Reasons to choose International Criminal Law at Leiden University?

As a student of the Advanced Studies programme in International Criminal Law, you will benefit from:

• Taught partially in The Hague: The Hague is a hub of international legal institutions. That makes it the perfect place for internship and job opportunities with international organisations, international courts and tribunals, defence teams and NGOs, or academic institutes.

• Multidimensional scope: As the International Criminal Law programme is a specialisation within the larger Public International Law programme, you will obtain the unique perspective of a specialised focus while still gaining a thorough understanding of Public International Law as a whole.

• Expert instructors: You will be taught by practitioners and experts from international judicial institutions as well as distinguished academics from the Leiden Law School.

Peace, Justice and Development (Advanced LL.M.)

How are war and justice regulated in times of international turmoil? How can the international community develop effective governance mechanisms, including law, to better honour peace as a fundamental human right?

Reasons to choose Peace, Justice and Development at Leiden University?

As a student of the Advanced Studies in Peace, Justice and Development programme, you will benefit from:

• Change making in action: This programme allows you to better understand the complexities of war and peace to champion the rights of people who do not always have the means to fight for themselves.

• Located in the Hague: The Hague is a hub of international legal institutions. That makes it the perfect place for internship and job opportunities with international organisations, international courts and tribunals, defence teams and NGOs, or academic institutes.

• Multidimensional scope: As the Peace, Justice and Development programme is a specialisation within the larger Public International Law programme, you will obtain the unique perspective of a specialised focus while still gaining a thorough understanding of Public International Law as a whole.

Academic fields

Leiden has faculties in the fields of:

• Archaeology
• Governance and Global Affairs
• Humanities
• Medicine
• Law
• Science
• Social and Behavioural Sciences

Student support

International student advisers

The international student advisers are a good place to go when you need assistance during your stay in the Netherlands. Students in both locations of Leiden University have access to these specialised advisers. In many cases they will be able to provide the information you need, or will refer you to the relevant services. You can consult the advisers on a variety of matters, ranging from financial concerns, settling down issues, academic issues and health insurance to dealing with external housing agents or finding a family doctor.

Student counsellors

We have a number of specialised student counsellors available. They can help in legal and financial matters, but can also assist you in developing study-related skills. The skills package that is offered involves individual counselling and workshops designed to support you in your academic performance. Topics covered include thesis writing, time management, stress management and planning. Additionally, our counsellors are available to help resolve study and personal problems, should this be needed.

Departmental study advisers and coordinators

Each department has its own study advisers/coordinators who can answer questions about matters that are related to the study programme of your choice. You can consult the study adviser/coordinator on issues such as timetables, exam grades, choice of subjects and application for graduation.