phd law westminster university

International Law LLM

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Course Overview

• Full-time - September 2024
• Part-time day - September 2024
• Full-time - January 2025
• Part-time day - January 2025

* Price per academic year

Course summary

With globalisation, international law is becoming increasingly important, and our International Law LLM prepares you for a future career in the international arena. Our teaching team is composed of world-renowned scholars who are leading the way in their respective subjects, including – but not limited to – international human rights law, the law of armed conflict, development law, energy and climate change law, international cyber security law, refugee law, the law of the sea, international courts and tribunals. In previous years, our teaching team organised study visits to international organisations and to international courts in London and The Hague.

Our International Law LLM attracts students from every nationality and background, not only those who have previously studied law, but also those with a degree in political science, international relations, or other relevant discipline. This creates a uniquely vibrant and stimulating learning environment in which to study international Law.

The International Law LLM at Westminster Law School is taught in our central London campus, just a short distance from most major British institutions and international organisations. The course can be taken full-time or part-time, and you can start in either September or January.

We also have a research group, International Law at Westminster (ILaW) , which conducts important research projects on topical international law issues. These projects have received external funding because of their importance and their potential impact. ILaW also regularly organises events in which students are invited to participate.

Every year, the Oxford University Press Prize is awarded to the best International Law LLM student.

The course will enhance your understanding of the key principles of public international law, the main developments within the public international law framework and the process of globalisation and its significance for international law.

Top reasons to study with us

• Learn in the heart of London – Studying at our Regent Campus in central London, you'll be part of a diverse, global community
• Tailor the course to your interests – You can choose from a wide list of specialist international law modules
• Be part of a vibrant academic community – You'll learn alongside students not only from law but also related subjects, and be part of the International Law at Westminster research community
• Learn from experts – Our teaching team is composed of world-class researchers who have widely published in their fields of expertise, and won awards for their work

Course structure

The following modules are indicative of what you will study on this course.

Core modules

Postgraduate dissertation in international law.

The Dissertation module allows and supports extended student research into a topic of their choice within the broad field of international law. This module incorporates seminars and workshop sessions which introduce students to basic research methods in international law. The topic must be agreed between the student and the supervisor and must not replicate materials covered in other coursework submitted for the award of the degree.

Public International Law

You will analyse the sources and subjects of international law, state responsibility, and the implementation of international law into municipal law, and gain an overview of the defining legal principles of international relations. You will also focus on the settlement of international disputes and the enforcement of international law.

Option modules

International criminal law.

This module examines the theory and practice of international criminal law including the basic principles of international criminal jurisdiction, and the personal and functional immunities. It also involves a detailed assessment of a range of specific international criminal offences including war crimes, crimes against humanity as well as genocide. Lastly, the work of the ad hoc international tribunals, the mixed courts and the International Criminal Court is discussed in detail.

International Refugee Law

This module engages with the international law framework in place for the protection of refugees and other forcibly displaced migrants to consider the contours of refugee protection and it limitations in responding to contemporary challenges. The module is underpinned by two key questions: (i) who qualifies as a refugee under international refugee law?; and (ii) does international refugee law provide full protection to individuals at risk of serious rights violations in their countries of origin? These questions are scrutinised through an in-depth examination of the refugee definition in international refugee law and the key obligations which States owe refugees.

The module provides a comprehensive overview of the conceptual legal framework under distinct branches of international law – with an emphasis on international refugee law and its relationship with international human rights law – to examine the ways in which these branches of law interact to protect refugees and people on the move. In addition to providing a thorough understanding of the refugee as conceptualised and defined in law, the module explores the limits of this legal framework by referencing current scholarly and practical debates in the field of refugee protection at the international and European levels. It engages with ongoing discussions by drawing on real-life examples emerging from the global refugee situation.

International Energy and Climate Change Law

This module will introduce you to the principles of international law relevant to the development and use of energy resources. You will examine the principles relating to permanent sovereignty over natural resources, ‘shared’ resources and resources outside areas of national jurisdiction. You will also consider the impact of other principles of international law on the energy sector, such as international environmental law, foreign investment and trade law, and human rights. The module has a strong focus on the evolving international legal framework on the mitigation of climate change, and its impact on international energy law and policy.

International Environmental Law

This module will introduce international law relating to protection of the environment and sustainable development in its social, economic and political context, evaluating strengths and weaknesses of the existing legal framework, and the need for and prospect of its further elaboration and implementation. It will: (1) address sources of international environmental law, key actors and interest groups, and the establishment and functioning of multilateral environmental agreements and relevant international organisations; and identify and examine fundamental principles underpinning international environmental law in the transboundary and global context. (2) examine how these principles, rules, and institutions address specific environmental issues and challenges. (3) consider the nature and adequacy of rules on state responsibility for environmental damage, and other liability rules; and examine questions of compliance and enforcement, including the settlement of environment-related disputes, and the contribution of the jurisprudence of international courts to the development of international law in this field.

International Humanitarian Law

This module covers the regulation of the rules and customs of war, including the status and protection of prisoners of war, the protection of civilian populations, the use of certain weapons, the status of combatants and belligerents, and the criminal consequences of the violations of the laws of armed conflict. You will gain a deep knowledge of international humanitarian law, and a thorough understanding of practice and law relating to key concepts, such as prisoners of war, combatants, protected persons, neutrality and war crimes. New forms of warfare, such as cyber warfare and drones, are also addressed.

International Human Rights Law

The module introduces you to the protection of human rights in international law. You will gain an overview of the historical and philosophical background of human rights, and a greater understanding of the protection of human rights at the international level though the UN and regional systems (with particular emphasis on Europe). You will also study contemporary issues in international human rights law, such as humanitarian intervention, responsibility to protect, terrorism and torture.

International Law and Development

You will study law and policy relating to international development, including the right to development in international law, international development assistance and poverty alleviation, and law and policy relating to overseas development assistance in the UK and the EU. The module will give you a greater understanding of the global challenges for development, and will give you the skills to undertake informed policy and advocacy work internationally.</p>

International Law of the Sea

This module will introduce you to the comprehensive legal framework of the international law of the sea. It examines the various maritime jurisdictional zones recognised in international law, including principles relating to the territorial sea, archipelagic waters, international straits, continental shelf, exclusive economic zone, high seas, and deep seabed. It also considers the resolution of competing claims to maritime areas and resources, including provisional arrangements. Against this background, the course will focus on contemporary critical areas of concern, such as maritime security and maritime crime including piracy, human rights at sea, sea level rise, the impact of new and emerging technologies in and on the oceans, deep sea bed mining, exploitation of offshore resources, and fisheries management.

Peaceful Settlement of International Disputes

You will be introduced to the various techniques and institutions available in international law for resolving disputes between states. This module examines diplomatic means of dispute settlement, including negotiation and mediation, and legal means of dispute settlement – arbitration and adjudication. You will also consider the availability of alternative mechanisms for the resolution of inter-state disputes, and the range of international courts and tribunals that now exist. The module refers to specific past and pending cases and disputes, and there will be a special emphasis on the law, practice and procedure of the International Court of Justice.

United Nations Law

This module covers the institutional and legal aspects of the United Nations. In particular, you will focus on: the composition and functioning of its main organs (Security Council, General Assembly, Secretariat, International Court of Justice); membership of the UN; the provisions of the Charter dealing with the use of armed force; the collective security system; and peacekeeping operations.

For more details on course structure, modules, teaching and assessment Download the programme specification (PDF) .

To request an accessible version please email [email protected]

Get your copy of the University of Westminster prospectus and browse the range of courses on offer.

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Contact us for general course enquiries:

+44 (0)20 7911 5000 EXT 65511 (Mon–Fri, 10am–4pm BST)

[email protected]

Live chat with us (Mon–Fri, 10am–4pm BST)

Open evenings

Join us at an open evening online or on campus. Get a feel for student life at the University of Westminster and talk to course leaders and our support teams.

Next open evening

Our graduates have worked for organisations such as the United Nations, the European Union, the International Committee of the Red Cross, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, Amnesty International, and Privacy International; law and consultancy firms such as Deloitte; professional associations like the European Banking Federation; and in legal departments within governments.  

After being awarded the LLM, some graduates have undertaken further academic study by doing a research (PhD) degree.

Supporting your career

We offer 1-2-1 appointments with careers advisors, advice on your CV and job applications, and mock assessment centres and interviews. We also run a law vacancy jobs bulletin.

Industry links

You'll have access to events and workshops with law firms, alumni, and career professionals to help you to get started in your law career through our  Legal Skills Academy .

Employers around the world

The University’s  Careers and Employability Service  has built up a network of over 3,000 employers around the world, helping all our students explore and connect with exciting opportunities and careers.

This course will prepare you for a variety of roles, including:

• Human rights officer
• International law expert in law firms
• Legal advisor in governmental departments
• Legal advisor in International organisations and NGOs

Graduate employers

Graduates from this course have found employment at organisations including:

• Amnesty International
• European Union
• International Committee of the Red Cross
• UK government
• United Nations
• UN High Commissioner for Refugees

Course Leader

Professor Marco Roscini

Professor of international law.

Marco Roscini is Professor of International Law at Westminster Law School and the Swiss IHL Chair at the Geneva Academy of International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights. He has a PhD in international law from Sapienza University of Rome and is one of the leading legal experts in international security law. He is the author of two books, including Cyber Operations and the Use of Force in International Law (Oxford University Press 2014), and has published widely in the field of international security law.

We are proud to have formed the international lawyers of the future for more than 20 years and to have contributed to their successful careers.

Course Team

You'll be taught by a team of world-leading scholars who specialise in disciplines such as international human rights law, the law of armed conflict, international environmental law, the United Nations, refugee law, international courts and tribunal, cyber security law, disarmament, and development. As a result, we offer a great selection of specialised international law modules.

• Professor Marco Roscini - Professor of International Law
• Professor Radha D'Souza - Professor
• Ruth Mackenzie - Reader in International Law
• Dr Emma McClean - Senior Lecturer
• Professor Stefaan Smis - Reader
• Dr Aurora Voiculescu - Reader
• Dr Marco Longobardo - Reader
• Dr Alexandra Fowler - Staff
• Dr Nicolette Busuttil - Lecturer
• Dr Elizabeth Mavropoulou - Lecturer

Meet the Head of Westminster Law School

Why study this course?

Fantastic central London location

You'll be studying in the centre of one of the world’s greatest cities, within easy reach of London's unrivalled legal, cultural and political resources.

Be part of our international law community

You'll have the opportunity to get involved in the activities of our International Law at Westminster research cluster , where you can build contacts with leading professionals and participate in events on topical international law issues.

Develop your legal knowledge and skills

You'll enhance your understanding of international law and gain a critical awareness of current issues and new insights in this area, as well as developing your research, analytical and broader transferable skills. 

Entry Requirements

• EU and International

A minimum of a lower second class honours degree (2:2). Related disciplines include law, social sciences, international relations. Applicants without the standard qualifications, but with significant professional experience in the relevant field or related professional qualifications may be considered.

If your first language is not English, you should have an IELTS 6.5 with at least 6.5 in writing and no element below 6.0.

Applicants are required to submit one academic reference.

Recognition of prior learning and experience

If you have previously studied at university level, or have equivalent work experience, academic credit may be awarded towards your course at Westminster. For more information, visit our  Recognition of Prior Learning page .

Application process 

Visit our  How to apply page  for more information on:

• the application process
• what you need to apply
• deadlines for application

More information

• Country-specific entry requirements
• English language requirements
• Visas and advice

University preparation courses

Our partner college, Kaplan International College London, offers Pre-Master’s courses that may help you gain a place on a postgraduate degree at Westminster.

To find out more, visit University preparation courses .

Studying the International Law LLM at the University of Westminster

What our students say

Kamil Pawlak

The International Law LLM is an internationally recognised qualification, taught by teachers of the highest calibre. They set high standards for their students but they also give clearly defined written objectives.

This specific combination provides students with the skills to thrive and succeed in their professional careers.

I very much enjoyed the course environment and I hope to apply much of what I learnt in my professional life.

Napoleon Gonzales III

International law llm - 2024.

Westminster focuses on practical skills, recognising that education extends beyond textbooks. The university provides a platform for students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world situations.

Monique Law

The teaching was first-class and the lecturers passionate about their subjects, which translated into energetic, stimulating and really interesting seminars.

The quality and breadth of readings supporting the lectures was very comprehensive and good as was the ease of access to other materials through the library. The opportunity to attend other seminars was definitely added value.

Learn new skills

Volunteer and gain new skills

We offer a number of different volunteering opportunities for you to learn new skills, create connections, and make a difference in the community.

Develop your entrepreneurial skills

Our award-winning  Westminster Enterprise Network  offers industry networking events, workshops, one-to-one business advice and support for your start-up projects.

Get extra qualifications

We provide access to free online courses in Adobe and Microsoft Office applications, as well as thousands of specialist courses on LinkedIn Learning.

Fees and Funding

• INTERNATIONAL

UK tuition fee: £12,500 (Price per academic year)

When you have enrolled with us, your annual tuition fees will remain the same throughout your studies with us. We do not increase your tuition fees each year.

Find out how we set our tuition fees .

Paying your fees

If you don't wish to pay the whole amount of your fees at once, you may be able to pay by instalments. This opportunity is available if you have a personal tuition fee liability of £2,000 or more and if you are self-funded or funded by the Student Loans Company.

Find out more about paying your fees .

Alumni discount

This course is eligible for an alumni discount. Find out if you are eligible and how to apply by visiting our Alumni discounts page .

There is a range of funding available that may help you fund your studies, including Student Finance England (SFE).

Find out more about postgraduate student funding options .

Scholarships

The University is dedicated to supporting ambitious and outstanding students and we offer a variety of scholarships to eligible postgraduate students.

Find out if you qualify for one of our scholarships .

Additional costs

See what you may need to pay for separately and what your tuition fees cover .

International tuition fee: £17,000 (Price per academic year)

There are a number of funding schemes available to help you fund your studies with us.

Find out more about funding for international students .

Teaching and Assessment

Below you will find how learning time and assessment types are distributed on this course. The graphs below give an indication of what you can expect through approximate percentages, taken either from the experience of previous cohorts, or based on the standard module diet where historic course data is unavailable.  Changes to the division of learning time and assessment may be made in response to feedback and in accordance with our terms and conditions.

How you’ll be taught

Teaching methods across all our postgraduate courses focus on active student learning through lectures, seminars, workshops, problem-based and blended learning, and where appropriate practical application. Learning typically falls into two broad categories:

• Scheduled hours: examples include lectures, seminars, practical classes, workshops, supervised time in a studio
• Independent study: non-scheduled time in which students are expected to study independently. This may include preparation for scheduled sessions, dissertation/final project research, follow-up work, wider reading or practice, completion of assessment tasks, or revision

How you’ll be assessed

Our postgraduate courses include a variety of assessments, which typically fall into two broad categories:

• Practical: examples include presentations, podcasts, blogs
• Coursework: examples include essays, in-class tests, portfolios, dissertation

Data from the academic year 2023/24

Research groups

Our research achieves real-world impact and we are proud to claim a rich and diverse profile of high-quality research and knowledge exchange in a wide range of disciplines.

Find out more about our research groups related to this course:

• International Law at Westminster (ILaW)  

Supporting you

Our Student Hub is where you’ll find out about the services and support we offer, helping you get the best out of your time with us.

• Study support — workshops, 1-2-1 support and online resources to help improve your academic and research skills
• Personal tutors — support you in fulfilling your academic and personal potential
• Student advice team — provide specialist advice on a range of issues including funding, benefits and visas
• Extra-curricular activities — volunteering opportunities, sports and fitness activities, student events and more

Visit our student hub

Course location

Little Titchfield Street is the home of Westminster Law School and, as part of our Regent Campus, benefits from a central London location. The facilities include a full-size mock courtroom, high-tech learning spaces, a pro-bono clinic and a 382-seat lecture theatre.

Our Regent Campus is made up of three locations – 309 Regent Street, Little Titchfield Street and Wells Street, all of which are just a five-minute walk from Oxford Street.

For more details, visit our Little Titchfield Street page .

Related Courses

International and Commercial Dispute Resolution Law LLM

International Commercial Law LLM

Legal Practice LLM

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Course and lecturers

Entry requirements, academic strengths, job prospects, student life, accommodation & facilities, student support, scholarships/bursaries, study options, postgraduate student body breakdown source: hesa , 2021.

• Study mode: This university 43% Part Time 57% Full Time
• Study mode: All universities (avg) 44% Part Time 56% Full Time
• Student nationality 52% UK 48% International
• Study level 15,305 Undergraduate 4,030 Postgraduate
• New students 44% School leavers 56% Mature students

The University of Westminster is a global institution, hosting one of the most diverse student communities found at UK universities. With over 19,000 students at undergraduate and postgraduate level, together representing more than 160 nations worldwide. This is the university where individuality is encouraged, diversity is celebrated and anything is possible.

The university offers student the chance to study at four different campuses, three of which are located in central London. As a result, students are immersed in the city’s exciting economic, cultural and social landscape, and can make the most of the university’s rich links to businesses in the region. With support around employability and professional skills, the sky is the limit when it comes to career advancement.

In addition, students can enjoy endless choice of social and cultural activities that this vibrant capital has to offer. From theatres, nightclubs and bars to shopping, restaurants and sport.

Postgraduate

Students looking to take up a postgraduate qualification at the University of Westminster have over 30 subject areas to choose from, including a mix of taught and research-based options. The courses are flexible with start dates in both September and January. There is also an option to choose between full-time and part-time study, and even distance learning for students who opt for a research-based qualification.

Students who attend the University of Westminster have access to specialist facilities for each subject area which are constantly seeing new investment and renovation.

Many postgraduate courses at the University of Westminster are accredited by professional and industrial bodies, and many programmes are recognised worldwide for their excellent quality. Students will develop practical ability and professional skills along with a deep academic understanding of their subject, helping them prepare for career success.

As members of a vibrant and supportive academic community, students will always find expert staff on hand to help, and passionate researchers and instructors who can help them take their studies to the next level among specialist facilities for teaching and independent study.

The qualifications and other skills required for a postgraduate degree at the University of Westminster will vary by course. Students can find the information for their chosen subject on the relevant course page on the university’s website.

Generally, students are expected to have achieved a 2:1 or better in an undergraduate degree from an established university, ideally in a subject related to the chosen postgraduate qualification. However, students will also be able to apply with other equivalent qualifications or relevant work experience.

All courses at the University of Westminster are taught in English, and students who are not native English speakers will be expected to provide evidence of a qualification proving their ability to understand the language to the necessary standard. This is usually through the completion of a test or certificate type that is recognised by the university’s admissions teams, details of which can be found on the university website.

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The University of Westminster has an outstanding international reputation, with its foundations in the quality of education it provides. Students can expect the highest standards of teaching and research support across all the postgraduate qualifications.

Areas of strength for the university include:

• Architecture and cities – Considered to be one of the UK’s leading centres in architecture study, this department has produced several highly successful graduates through its outstanding taught qualifications.
• Business – Located within a global financial centre, Westminster Business School is research driven, internationally recognised and professionally oriented. Westminster graduates work in highly successful careers across accounting, management consultancy, retail and small business management.
• Law – The Westminster Law School is internationally reputed for worlds class research into law and legal practice. It is specialised in international law and human rights, commercial and financial law as well as child/family law and entertainment law.
• Media, arts and communication – A mix of practical and theory-based learning across this department has earned an excellent reputation within the industry, with many successful graduates going on to work in prominent roles.

All courses at the University of Westminster, whether taught or research-led, are driven by a desire to create the next wave of industry experts and world leaders. As such, there is a real focus on job prospects in every qualification, with practical and academic learning, along with networking opportunities throughout.

The university also has its own careers and employability service which works with over 3,000 employers, providing students with support through workshops, one-to-one careers advice and various skills-based events such as CV building and interview training.

There is also a dedicated work placement team who focus on finding the best placements and internships for students.

IN THIS SECTION

Student union, clubs and societies.

All students at University of Westminster are automatically enrolled in the university’s students’ union (UWSU). It’s run independently of the university and offers advice, guidance and representation across a variety of issues that make up campus life.

The UWSU is also responsible for running the university’s clubs and societies, as well as the student-managed media such as TV studio, magazine and radio station, with students able to work on these platforms to gain vital career experience.

The UWSU also has shops, a bar and a nightclub and it offers a varied programme of events throughout the academic year.

Students at the University of Westminster are encouraged to take up one of the many sports clubs and societies, where they can meet likeminded individuals and engage in hobbies to help them gain new skills.

Sport clubs include a mix of traditional options like athletics, cricket, hockey, football, rugby as well as more contemporary options such as rock climbing. There are a wide range of societies, from fun activities like musical theatre and anime, to support and networking groups like LGBTIQA+ and educational activities such as first aid.

Any students who don’t find a club or society that meets their interests will be supported in starting their own.

Situated in the heart of London, the University of Westminster provides all the attractions of a vibrant, cosmopolitan capital right on students’ doorsteps. From world-famous historic landmarks to contemporary nightclubs and bars to famous shopping streets, and from amazing street food to fine dining restaurants.

The city is also home to some marvellous green spaces where students can unwind on their days off, perfect for a relaxing walk or a picnic on warmer days. And there are excellent transport links to take students to the coast or connect them to major cities around the UK with ease.

Accommodation

The university has halls of residence available exclusively for postgraduate students, situated close to the campuses and local transport links. Most rooms in these halls are en-suites with a single bed and shared living areas, although larger rooms are available.

The university has an accommodation team that can advise students who would prefer to look for private accommodation. This includes a list of recommended private landlords with various types of rooms, flats, or housing available throughout London.

The University of Westminster continues to make significant investments into its facilities across its four campuses. Students will be able to make use of state-of-the-art technology relevant to their chosen field of study, along with learning spaces designed to replicate real-world working environments.

Standout facilities include a digital fabrication laboratory with a range of latest laser cutters and 3D printers, a Bloomberg Financial Market Suite, various TV and art studios, audio recording studios and more. The university also has 24-hour libraries that include extensive IT facilities.

Students who attend the University of Westminster will find a wide range of support services to help across all aspects of student life.

Services include:

• Counselling and mental health services
• Disability learning support
• Student wellbeing
• Personal tutors
• Learning, study and IT skills
• Careers and employability services

The University of Westminster offers a wide range of scholarships each year for home and international postgraduate students, whether they are studying full-time or part-time.

To find out which scholarships are available and the eligibility criteria, students should check the full list  on the university’s website . Students are encouraged to apply early to ensure they have the best chance of being considered for any relevant scholarships.

Interested in scholarships?

Distance learning.

Most courses are available for a one-year full-time course, but some can be studied part-time (both during the day or in evenings) over two years for students who require more flexibility.

Students enrolled on a taught qualification will also be offered regular guest lectures and networking event opportunities to help prepare them for their next steps and to ensure students get the most from their time at the university.

The University of Westminster offers students the opportunity to enrol in a research degree and contribute to the exceptional, internationally recognised learning that the institution plays a significant role in. Research qualifications are available in a range of subjects including humanities, law, social sciences, applied management and more.

Students who choose a research degree will be assigned a supervisor who will support them throughout their time at the university, making sure that students are mentored and challenged to achieve their full potential.

University of Westminster also offers research-based qualifications that can be studied remotely by students who are unable to attend the campus to learn on-site. These include MPhil, PhD, and professional doctorate courses, and are ideally suited to international students who cannot relocate to London for the duration of their qualification.

For acceptance onto a distance learning course, students will need to pass the same entry requirements as on-campus students and be able to demonstrate that they have access to the necessary resources required in their area, including libraries and any laboratory facilities.

Sound interesting?

Popular subjects, find a course at this uni, internet security systems, creative writing, cultural studies, international business studies, legal practice, international relations.

• School of Law

Ph.D. in Law

The Ph.D. in Law prepares graduates for global leadership in the judiciary, academia, business and government. Since 1966, the program has offered a select number of diverse students the opportunity to attain their highest professional aspirations and career goals. A preeminent center for interdisciplinary legal studies, UW Law offers a global focus and innovative approach to integrating legal scholarship within the humanities and social sciences, medicine and global health, business and technology, and environmental and public policy.

The Ph.D. program is designed to provide a rich and thorough foundation in research methodologies, jurisprudence, legal theory, policy, dissertation preparation and ready access to specialized elective coursework from within the law school and university-wide research centers, institutes and schools. Throughout the program, our graduate students receive individualized attention from exceptional faculty and staff.

With its long and respected history, the Ph.D. program provides students with a global alumni network. Alumni are committed supporters and mentors and lead in many sectors around the world.

The Ph.D. program requires a minimum of three years’ study, at least two years of which are comprised of coursework taken while in residence at the UW. Ph.D. candidates must complete 90 credits. A minimum of 60 credits must be taken at the UW including a minimum of 27 dissertation credits. Some of the credits earned in an LL.M. program may be counted among the 60 credits.

Doctoral dissertation committees are led by faculty experts from UW Law and include members with deep knowledge and expertise from across the university. Students can customize their studies with interdisciplinary coursework, independent study, field research, global internships and externships.

See full curriculum

• Current Ph.D.s in Law
• PhD Admissions

Related Links

Graduate Programs, UW School of Law William H. Gates Hall Box 353020 4293 Memorial Way Seattle, WA 98195-3020, USA gradlaw@ uw .edu

• POSTGRADUATE

MSc in Applied Economics

Ma in human resource management and talent development, msc in public health science, msc in business intelligence and analytics, ma in international business management (with 3 pathways), msc in research methods, llm international commercial law, ma in learning and teaching (with 3 pathways), postgraduate certificate in teaching and learning.

Explore more

How to apply

Find out how to apply for CIFS, Undergraduate and Postgraduate courses.

Tuition Fees

Find out more about our tuition fees for local and international students.

International

If you are an international student, find out what studying in Uzbekistan is all about.

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What is a Master of Studies in Law? Explore the George Washington University Law School MSL

You don’t have to be a lawyer to earn a living understanding and applying the law. Many professions require — or benefit significantly from — a thorough understanding of how the law impacts an industry or institution. The Master of Studies in Law (MSL), a graduate-level law degree designed for non-lawyers, can prepare you for a career interpreting and navigating legal situations.

You can earn an MSL 100% online from the George Washington University Law School (GW Law); you also have the option to take courses on-campus. The program offers specializations online in three areas: government procurement law, national security and cybersecurity law, and government procurement and cybersecurity law. The university’s location in the heart of Washington, D.C. enables students to benefit from access to the center of national legal and political activity — without ever having to leave their hometowns.

Gain Legal Expertise to Propel Your Career

Choose from three msl concentrations at gw law.

If you aspire to a career engaging with the law, you may be wondering whether a Master of Studies in Law is the right degree for you. How does the MSL differ from the Juris Doctor (JD), the law degree pursued by aspiring attorneys? What careers does each degree facilitate? This article explores those questions to help you decide which option better suits your career goals.

Master of Studies in Law vs. Juris Doctor: Decoding the Differences

A Master of Studies in Law is a master’s-level graduate degree in law and legal systems. A Juris Doctor is a terminal degree at the doctoral level that qualifies recipients to work in the courts as lawyers and judges. Admissions requirements, coursework, and career opportunities for the degrees differ substantially.

Applicants to GW’s MSL program must hold a bachelor’s degree and three to five years of professional experience relevant to the specialization they choose to pursue. Acceptance into a JD program requires a bachelor’s degree and an acceptable score on the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) . 

Coursework in the degree programs overlaps somewhat, but the JD is undoubtedly the more comprehensive and detailed of the two. GW’s MSL program requires 24 credit hours of coursework, which can be completed in as few as 12 months (for full-time students). A JD requires 80 credit hours and includes a rigorous first-year law student curriculum, with courses such as Torts, Property, and Contracts. Full-time JD students typically take three years to complete their degrees, after which they must pass their state’s bar exam.

Your professional goals will dictate which degree you choose. JD graduates are trained to practice law (after successfully passing a state or DC bar examination); they typically pursue careers as lawyers, judges and legal scholars. An MSL can be helpful in professions in such varied fields as government, business, finance, real estate, court administration, mediation, insurance, policy, and nongovernmental organizations. Practically every field intersects with the law, creating career opportunities for MSL degree holders.

What Will You Learn in MSL Programs?

Graduates of George Washington University’s Master of Studies in Law are prepared to communicate with lawyers and competently address industry compliance and regulatory issues. Students pursue the specialization most compatible with their current professional experience:

• Government Procurement Law examines how procurement systems operate and the laws and regulations that govern them in the U.S. and abroad. Classwork includes anti-corruption, intellectual property and procurement reform.
• National Security & Cybersecurity Law thoroughly examines legal and policy issues surrounding national security, cybersecurity, AI, big data and new technologies. Classes cover internet law, foreign access to U.S. technology, and artificial intelligence law.
• Government Procurement & Cybersecurity Law prepares professionals to address the rising demand for cybersecurity legal expertise in government procurement law. Topics include cybersecurity law and technology, consumer privacy and data protection, and government procurement of intellectual property.

In all fields, the MSL degree prepares graduates to address challenges from a legal perspective, communicate with lawyers and non-lawyers alike, and assess the legal ramifications of corporate and institutional issues.

Career Pathways with a Master of Studies in Law  

An MSL can be especially beneficial for people who work in highly regulated fields, such as government, healthcare, education, nonprofits, manufacturing and finance. Anyone who communicates frequently with lawyers can also benefit from an MSL. Graduates of GW’s MSL program have gone on to work for various employers, including:

• Department of Defense
• Department of Homeland Security
• General Dynamics
• General Services Administration (GSA)
• Lockheed Martin
• Northrop Grumman

Is an MSL the Right Fit for Your Professional Goals?

The GW Law online MSL serves non-lawyer professionals whose work requires a detailed knowledge of the law. An MSL can benefit compliance officers, consultants, government managers, intelligence community analysts, journalists, policy analysts, and procurement specialists, to name just a few.

George Washington University Law School’sMSL program provides the theoretical and practical knowledge necessary to apply the law to today’s organizational legal challenges. Located in our nation’s capital with flexible options to attend from any location, GW Law’s MSL degree delivers a strong law curriculum, respected faculty experts, academic peers from across the globe and over 33,000 living alumni for networking, advice and career development. 

If you are ready to explore the law and find your place within it, contact an admissions adviser to learn more about the MSL program or start your application .

Become a Source of Valued Legal Insight in Your Workplace

Learn to identify and address legal risks.

Tell us about yourself.

Sharing some details will help us customize your experience. A bachelor’s degree is required to attend.