Program Overview

International and Comparative Law (LL.M.)

The LL.M. programme in International and Comparative Law offers students a valuable opportunity to develop an in-depth understanding of law in its wider international context. The programme provides a rich and diverse array of modules taught by experts in the fields of international and comparative law.

Overview

In an era of globalisation, it is no longer possible to understand law in a purely national context. As globalisation not only intensifies but also comes under challenge, it has never been more important for lawyers to develop an in-depth understanding of law in its wider international context.

Is This Course For Me?

This programme is designed for law students interested in comparative study of different aspects of law across many jurisdictions. Students can study within fields such as Business and Human Rights, Human Rights at Work, International Humanitarian Law, International Economic Law, Freedom of Expression and Intellectual Property Law, and Refugee Law, among others.

Career Opportunities

This programme equips students with the expertise, skills, and attributes which are valuable across a wide range of careers, both within and beyond the legal profession, nationally and internationally. Modules are delivered by full-time academics and practitioners to provide a comprehensive learning experience and skill set that can be transferred to future legal careers.

Course Structure

This is a full-time programme and is delivered in-person at Trinity College. It is divided into two semesters during each of which students are required to take three modules. Each module is offered in one semester only and involves 22 hours of classwork which is supported by independent reading and research. Various forms of assessment are utilised in the different modules to enhance students’ learning experience. In addition, all students must complete a research dissertation over the academic year on an approved theme.

Course Content

The LL.M. International and Comparative Law is delivered over one academic year. It seeks to promote critical analysis of, and reflection on, different aspects of international law and comparative law. Students on this programme are examined in six modules and will also complete a research dissertation on a topic approved by the Dissertation Director and related to some aspect of international and comparative law.

Awards

• NFQ Level 9
• Number of Places: 30 Places
• Next Intake: September 2025
• Course Director: Professor Blanaid Clarke
• Closing Date: 31st May 2025

Admission Requirements

Applications are invited from well-qualified graduates who hold a very good Honours Bachelor degree in law or in a law-based interdisciplinary programme. Applications may also be considered from exceptional graduates in disciplines relevant to the LL.M degree they are applying for where:

• a substantial component of their undergraduate degree(s) is in Law;
• applicants have significant professional experience in Law.

English Language Requirements

All applicants to Trinity are required to provide official evidence of proficiency in the English language. Applicants to this course are required to meet Band B (Standard Entry) English language requirements.

Course Fees

For a full list of postgraduate fees, please refer to the relevant section.

Related Courses

• Intellectual Property and Information Technology Law (LL.M.)
• International and European Business Law (LL.M.)
• Laws (LL.M.)
• Law and Finance (M.Sc.)