LLM International and Comparative Law

Course code: MM1AE

Start date: September and January

Course length: full time: one year, part time: three years.

Campus: Kedleston Road site, Derby Campus

This course is available to international students

You can also study this course online

This LLM will thoroughly examine the leading issues of modern international law and modern comparative jurisprudence, while at the same time giving you the opportunity to expand your knowledge in the specialist areas of international law and comparative law.

You’ll have the flexibility to look at public and private law in more than one jurisdiction, so it’s ideal if you’re aiming to work in international organisations.

You will also develop your appreciation of the value of modern international law and the benefits of comparing schools of thought. Through this you will gain a deep understanding of developments in legal theory and practice.

The course consists of core and optional modules, the core modules covering scholarly research and the key areas of public international law and comparative jurisprudence. Your option modules examine areas of international and comparative law.

You will combine all of your studies in a final independent study, focusing on an area of your own research.

Throughout the course you will be offered flexibility in your choice of subject matter for a number of assessments and have the freedom to apply your coursework and assessments to different jurisdictions.

You can study this course on either a full-time or part-time basis, and some modules are also available online.

You will need an honours degree in any subject, at least 2:2. We will also consider applicants with relevant work experience, who may be accepted following an interview with the programme leader.

UK/EU students

• £495 per module (you usually take 9 of these modules in total)

International students

• Full time: £10,200 (in total)

*These fees apply if you're starting this course between September 2012 and August 2013. We recommend you check fee details with us though, as they can change. Costs can increase each year.

You will learn in our fantastic law facilities, which include two full-sized courtrooms. Take the video tour at www.derby.ac.uk/law/tour  

You'll learn with your peers, giving you the chance to collaborate with other talented people who have a passion for the same kinds of legal issues.

The course will support you to acquire the independent research and writing skills that will enable you to put together strong legal arguments in your work submissions.

Your lectures will provide a solid foundation in the areas for study. Emphasis is placed on aiding research and guiding you in a way that will stimulate your desire and interest to further explore the module area and specific topics. 

The opportunity is provided, through tutorials and discussion, for you to explore topic areas and issues. Also, on an ongoing basis, you will be able to identify and pursue study areas which are of particular interest to you.

Your tutors will highlight the value of studying a particular module in isolation to develop your knowledge and understanding in this area. The provision of the module in the context of the LLM pathway as a whole will be acknowledged and account taken of the link and relationship with other modules you are studying.

How you're assessed

Types of assessment are wide ranging and include assignments, portfolio preparation, reports, case studies and online preparation of material. In several modules you can relate your assessment to different jurisdictions, so that your national law can be the focus of your award.

Assessment is integrated into the learning and teaching of modules. The loading and scheduling of work is consistent, balanced and inclusive in line with your progressive development.

The final masters stage is assessed through the submission of your Independent Study or masters thesis on a specialist topic of your own choosing. You will be supported in preparing this by your tutors here at Derby. 

Your acquisition of expert knowledge in the leading fields of international and comparative law, will ensure that you'll have the key understanding and awareness to develop your career - whether academic or professional.
 
You will be in an ideal position to pursue a career in an international organisation or a company which operates in the international arena.

You'll gain the critical skills essential to a well-qualified professional.

Alternatively, you may wish to continue your studies, focusing on your area of interest through an MPhil or PhD in the School of Law and Criminology.

"My course at Derby has pushed me academically, and has opened new doors in my thinking that I did not know existed."

Trevor Austin

• Read more student stories