Kara Sears
International law is a broad and popular academic subject that can lead to a wide range of careers. A degree in international law can open doors to traditional law careers as well as jobs with government agencies or international organisations. Those wishing to pursue a career in international law should consider gaining practical legal work experience through internships or trainee programmes, as well as developing a strong network of contacts and knowledge of the sector. Fluency in a foreign language may also be beneficial for those seeking international work.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Adaptability | Necessary |
| Persuasion skills | Necessary |
| Flexibility | Necessary |
| Time management skills | Necessary |
| Knowledge of economics, politics, and world issues | Necessary |
| Fluency in a foreign language | Helpful |
| Undergraduate degree from an accredited university | Necessary |
| High GPA | Helpful |
| High LSAT score | Necessary |
| Postgraduate specialisation (LLM) | Helpful |
| Internships | Helpful |
| Short courses | Helpful |
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What You'll Learn
International law degree and career options
International law is a popular discipline, with over 300 Bachelor's and 700 Master's degrees offered worldwide. It is a critical and impactful field, governing the relationships between nations and influencing business practices in a global economy.
International Law degree graduates can find exciting and satisfying careers, with salaries and job types varying. The field is competitive, and further qualifications or professional experience are often required to secure a role post-graduation.
There are a variety of career options for graduates, including working as a lawyer or attorney, specializing in areas such as human rights, international arbitration, or investment law. Other roles include mediators, who help parties reach settlements outside of court, and corporate lawyers, who advise businesses on complex legal matters.
International organizations, such as the United Nations, offer international law positions, often with titles that are not obviously law-related, such as "officer". These roles may require additional languages, with French, German, and Spanish being commonly sought-after skills.
Other career paths include working as a private practitioner, in-house counsel, in the public sector, or for an NGO.
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Skills and attributes needed for international law
International law is a deeply impactful and exciting field, critical to relationships among different nations and an important part of business practice in an increasingly interconnected global economy.
International law is a broad field, and there is no one-size-fits-all formula for a successful career. However, several skills and attributes are essential for those aspiring to work in this domain.
Firstly, a strong foundation in legal education and training is necessary to build a career in law. This includes knowledge of current developments in local, national, and world business, particularly issues that impact law firms and their clients. Understanding global business dynamics, industry trends, and economic factors is crucial for cross-border attorneys. They must grasp the commercial implications of legal decisions, assess risks, and provide strategic advice aligned with their clients' goals.
Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills are also vital for international lawyers. They need to analyse complex legal issues, identify risks, and develop effective strategies. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and creativity are valuable assets when finding practical solutions. Strong research skills are equally important, enabling lawyers to conduct thorough investigations, stay updated on international laws and treaties, and apply legal principles to diverse scenarios.
International law often involves managing multiple tasks, deadlines, and stakeholders across different jurisdictions. As such, project management and organisational skills are essential for coordinating and executing legal projects efficiently.
Cultural competence and language proficiency are also key attributes. Fluency in multiple languages enhances communication, facilitates collaboration, and enables a deeper understanding of international legal frameworks. Cultural awareness and sensitivity are crucial for establishing relationships and overcoming cultural barriers when working with foreign governments or organisations.
Additionally, ethical behaviour and professional conduct are fundamental. International lawyers must uphold high ethical standards, maintain client confidentiality, and adhere to professional codes of conduct. Integrity, honesty, and a commitment to the rule of law are essential for building a reputable practice.
Lastly, interpersonal skills and the ability to negotiate are important. Negotiation skills can be developed through community involvement, cross-cultural experiences, and internships that provide experience in working with multiple parties on complex issues.
Overall, a successful career in international law requires a combination of legal expertise, cultural competence, ethical behaviour, strong analytical and problem-solving skills, and effective organisational capabilities.
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Career paths for international lawyers
International law is a highly competitive field, with a vast range of career paths to choose from. The work can be very meaningful, addressing some of the most pressing issues of our time, such as human rights violations, refugee policies, conflict resolution, and sex trafficking.
Career Paths
International law encompasses two bodies of law: conflicts of law (private international law) and public international law.
Private International Law
Private international law deals with questions of jurisdiction in international disputes, such as which country's laws take precedence and in which court such disputes are tried. Lawyers in this field may represent the government abroad and are considered public sector employees. They can also work within private firms.
Public International Law
Public international law governs the relations between different nation-states and regulates several international bodies. Lawyers in this field may work for international organizations such as the United Nations. Job titles may not be obviously associated with the law profession, so it's important to look out for relevant terms in job listings.
Skills and Qualifications
To become an international lawyer, you need an undergraduate degree from an accredited university. Many students interested in international law major in Political Science, but this is not mandatory. A Master's degree in International Law can also be beneficial and may lead to more career opportunities.
Good test-taking strategies and high grades will open more doors for career opportunities. Passing the MPRE exam, which assesses ethical and professional standards, is necessary to progress in your career. While not mandatory, an LLM in International Law can be helpful due to the complexity of the field. The final step before practicing law is passing the bar exam.
Developing certain skills can help you become an outstanding international lawyer, including analytical and research skills, and logical reasoning. Learning a foreign language can also improve your candidacy for international positions.
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Postgraduate options for international law
When considering postgraduate options, it is important to keep in mind that international law jobs often involve working with multinational organizations, international courts and tribunals, and humanitarian issues. Thus, developing fluency in a foreign language can improve your candidacy for these positions.
Some specific career paths within international law include human rights law, investment law, and mediation. For example, mediators help parties resolve disputes outside of trial by guiding them towards a settlement. They commonly function in matters such as contract disputes, personal injuries, and family law but may also specialize in conflicts between international organizations.
Another option for a career in international law is to work for an international organization such as the United Nations, which offers positions in the field of international law. These positions may have titles that are not obviously associated with the law profession, so it is important to keep an eye out for relevant terms when searching job listings.
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Job search and application tips
International law is a dynamic and interdisciplinary field with a vast range of career opportunities, from human rights to investment law and mediation. Here are some tips to help you secure a job in this exciting field:
Education and Qualifications
Obtaining an undergraduate degree from an accredited university is the first step towards becoming an international lawyer. While many students interested in international law major in Political Science, choosing a degree that you are passionate about and will help you maintain a high GPA is more important.
Consider pursuing a master's degree in international law or a related field to further enhance your knowledge and qualifications. A postgraduate degree in international law, typically offered as an LLM, provides specialized knowledge and opens up a wider range of job opportunities.
Develop Transferable Skills
International law professionals need a diverse set of skills, including adaptability, persuasion, flexibility, and time management. The ability to keep up with constantly evolving international laws and regulations is essential. Strong communication and negotiation skills are also valuable, as international lawyers often work with multiple stakeholders, including nations, governments, and judges.
Language Proficiency
International law positions often involve working in different countries and cultural contexts. Developing fluency in a foreign language can significantly improve your candidacy for international jobs and help you communicate effectively with clients and partners worldwide.
Networking and Internships
Building a strong professional network is crucial in the legal field. Attend industry events, join relevant online communities, and connect with professionals working in international law. Internships and short courses can also provide valuable hands-on experience and help you make industry connections.
Job Search Strategies
When searching for international law jobs, don't solely rely on obvious legal job titles. International law positions, especially those with international organizations, may have less apparent titles such as "officer."
Search job listings on the official websites of international organizations, such as the United Nations, which offers a range of legal positions. Consider using job search engines that specialize in international development or legal careers, as these can provide a more targeted list of opportunities.
Application Process
When applying for international law jobs, tailor your resume or CV to highlight relevant experience and qualifications. Emphasize any international experience, language skills, and your ability to work effectively in diverse cultural contexts.
Be prepared for a potentially lengthy and competitive application process. Stay persistent and don't be discouraged by setbacks. With strategic planning, perseverance, and a willingness to learn, you can increase your chances of securing a rewarding career in international law.
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Frequently asked questions
The first step to becoming an international lawyer is obtaining an undergraduate degree from an accredited university. Many students interested in pursuing international law major in Political Science, but you can choose any degree that interests you so that you are more likely to maintain a high GPA.
International lawyers must have a high degree of knowledge in economics, politics, and world issues to best represent their clients. Other important skills include adaptability, persuasion, flexibility, and time management.
International law degree graduates can find work in a wide range of sectors, including government foreign ministries, international organizations, and non-governmental organizations or consultancies involved in international affairs. Some job roles include corporate lawyer, policy advisor, mediator, or legal advisor.
ASIL's Department of Education and Research provides training for career service offices at law schools that are members of the ASIL Academic Partnership Program. You can also search for job listings on the official websites of international organizations, such as the United Nations.
The field of international law is very competitive, and getting a job right after graduation may not be easy. To improve your candidacy for international positions, consider developing fluency in another language.
