Kara Sears
International law is a system of legal principles and norms that govern relations between nations and countries. It is an increasingly popular field of study, with a huge variety of bachelor's and master's degrees on offer. The world has become more interconnected in commerce, governance, and culture, and international law has risen in prominence as a result. The field is very competitive, but graduates can find work that is both exciting and highly satisfying. Those with an international law degree can find work internationally with organisations such as the United Nations, or in roles such as attorney, diplomat, or law professor.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Popularity | International Law is a popular discipline, with over 300 Bachelor's and 700 Master's degrees available. |
| Career Prospects | International Law graduates can find work that is exciting and highly satisfying, with salaries depending on the nature of the job. The field is competitive, and a post-graduation degree or additional qualifications can help develop a successful career. |
| Specialisations | International Law has various specialisations, including international human rights, international business, comparative constitutional law, global governance, international humanitarian law, international media law, cybersecurity, maritime law, and space law. |
| Job Roles | Attorney, Diplomat, Mediator, Law Professor, Policy Advisor |
| Average Salary | $60,045 to $97,777 per year, depending on the role and location |
| Job Responsibilities | Representing clients/organisations in court, facilitating negotiations and settlements, drafting trade agreements and international contracts, providing legal counsel, analysing evidence, and teaching at a university level. |
| Top Universities | University of Cambridge, University of Oxford, Yale University, Stanford University, New York University, London School of Economics and Political Science, University of California, Berkeley, Columbia University, University of Chicago, University of Melbourne, University of Warsaw, and many others. |
| Location | Most of the top universities offering Law study programs are located in the USA or UK. |
What You'll Learn
International Law is a global vocation
International law degrees are highly versatile, allowing graduates to work internationally with organizations like the United Nations or in positions with international law firms. For instance, graduates can find employment as corporate lawyers, mediators, or policy advisors. International law professionals are in high demand due to the increasing interconnectedness of the global economy and the need for expertise in legal issues with international implications.
A bachelor's degree in law (LL.B.) is typically the minimum requirement for an international law career, and a master's degree in international law can further enhance one's career prospects. Additionally, gaining initial professional experience and developing a foreign language proficiency can significantly improve one's employability in this field.
International law programs, such as those offered by UCLA Law and Harvard Law School, provide valuable opportunities for students to gain global exposure. These programs offer externships, internships, and study abroad experiences, enabling students to develop cultural competencies and a deep understanding of different legal systems worldwide.
In conclusion, international law is a dynamic and rewarding vocation that equips individuals with the knowledge and skills to navigate the complex landscape of global legal affairs. With the right qualifications, dedication, and experience, international law offers a range of exciting career paths on a global scale.
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Interdisciplinary nature of International Law
International Law is a broad academic subject that encompasses topics such as war, peace, diplomacy, and rights. It is an interdisciplinary subject that involves the study of rules, regulations, principles, and practices that govern or inform the relations between international actors, including nations, international organizations, and certain individuals.
The interdisciplinary nature of International Law is evident in the various perspectives and disciplines that contribute to its understanding. For example, Professor Alter's interdisciplinary retrospective in the Leiden Journal of International Law critiques six common visions of international law. These include the perspectives of the naïve political scientist, the legal formalist and structural theorist, the Western-centric scholar, the liberal internationalist, the law and society scholar, and the international legal sociologist.
The field of International Law also intersects with other disciplines such as politics, international relations, and human rights. Leading writers and scholars in these fields engage in interdisciplinary work to advance the theoretical understanding of the causes and consequences of the increased legalization of international affairs. This interdisciplinary approach is essential for shaping debates and discussions on the role of the international legal system in international politics and vice versa.
Additionally, the economic market-utilitarian consideration and the power/knowledge aspect of disciplinary politics play a role in shaping the interdisciplinary nature of International Law. The term "interdisciplinarity" itself has become loosely applied, pointing to visions of methodological and theoretical modernization. However, it is important to distinguish between different types of interdisciplinarity, as Rajkovic's discussion highlights, differentiating between multi-, pluri-, cross-, and counter-disciplinarities.
Overall, the interdisciplinary nature of International Law involves the integration of various disciplines and perspectives to understand the complex rules and relations governing international actors. It is a dynamic and evolving field that continues to shape international relations and global affairs.
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Career opportunities in International Law
International law is a diverse and unrestricted field that can lead to a wide range of career opportunities. A degree in international law can open doors to various sectors, including government foreign ministries, international organisations, and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) or consultancies involved in international affairs.
Some specific career paths that an international law degree can prepare you for include:
- Corporate Lawyer: Representing corporations and guiding them on legal matters, including business transactions, mergers and acquisitions, and pursuing legal action against entities that infringe on their client's business.
- Mediator: Helping parties resolve disputes outside of court by guiding them towards a settlement. This can include studying and analysing each party's case, educating them on the mediation process, and guiding discussions and negotiations.
- Law Professor: Teaching law at the university level, which includes creating lesson plans, meeting with and advising law students, grading exams, and determining student acceptance into law programs.
- Project Officer: Working for global organisations such as the UN, UNICEF, or WHO, where you can directly contribute to the welfare of people worldwide.
- Specialisations: With a master's degree, you can pursue specialisations in niche areas such as international conflict resolution, criminal justice, arbitration, or advocacy.
Additionally, there are many other opportunities to gain experience and build a career in international law. For example, the American Society of International Law (ASIL) offers internships, fellowships, and a job board with listings in international law. The United Nations (UN) also offers volunteer and young professional programs to help individuals start their careers within the UN system.
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International Law specialisations
International law is a diverse field of study, with a variety of specialisations available to students. International law degrees can be global in nature, with courses offered in many countries.
International and Comparative Law Specialisation
This specialisation is designed to equip students with the skills necessary to navigate international and foreign legal systems. It provides an understanding of the social, ethical and cultural impact of international law on society, as well as practical skills in legal research and communication. Students can also gain experience through extracurricular activities, journals, and moot court opportunities.
Public and Private International Law
Public international law involves working with national governments, international institutions, or public interest groups. Private international law, on the other hand, provides opportunities with law firms, corporations, banks, or telecommunications firms.
Specific Areas of Focus
Regional Focus
Some international law specialisations may focus on a specific region, such as the Asia-Pacific region, with electives focusing on Chinese, Japanese, or Indonesian law.
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International Law admissions
International law is a broad academic subject that covers war, peace, diplomacy, and rights. It is a popular discipline, with over 300 Bachelor's and 700 Master's degrees available. International law degrees can lead to a wide range of career paths, including both regular law careers and employment with government or international organisations.
Admissions
Admissions requirements for international law vary depending on the university and country. For example, U.S. law schools typically require a four-year or equivalent undergraduate degree, and international applicants may need to provide additional documentation, such as a translated transcript and proof of English proficiency. Some schools may also have specific application processes for their international law programs, such as separate applications or selection from the general pool.
It is important to note that the competition for admission to international law programs can be intense, and applicants are advised to showcase their unique experiences, perspectives, and diversity in their applications. Publications and networking can also help applicants stand out. Additionally, some schools may offer special programs or scholarships specifically for international law, so it is worth investigating these opportunities.
Examples of International Law Degrees
- LL.M. at the University of Bristol, UK
- LL.M. at Utrecht University, the Netherlands
- M.A. at the University of St. Gallen (HSG), Switzerland
- M.Sc. at Åbo Akademi University, Finland
- LL.M. at Mykolas Romeris University, Lithuania
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Frequently asked questions
International law is a specialized legal discipline that deals with the codes and agreements that bind international actors such as nations. It is an interdisciplinary subject concerned with the rules, regulations, principles and practices that govern or inform the relations between international actors, such as nations, international organizations, and certain individuals.
The requirements for an international law degree vary depending on the university and country where you plan to study. However, most universities offering international law degrees require students to have a strong academic background and proficiency in multiple languages. Additionally, some universities may require students to have a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, with a minimum GPA, and to take the LSAT or other standardized tests.
International law degree holders can pursue a variety of career paths, including working as corporate lawyers, mediators, law professors, or attorneys specializing in international law. They may also find employment with government agencies, international organizations, or non-profit groups.
An international law degree can provide graduates with a competitive advantage in the job market, as it is a highly sought-after skill set in an increasingly globalized and interconnected world. International law experts are in high demand, with organizations and governments seeking legal professionals with a global focus.
