Program Overview

Introduction to the LLM in Gender and Human Rights Law and Policy

The LLM in Gender and Human Rights Law and Policy at the University of Galway is a unique and cutting-edge program that explores the intersection between gender and international human rights law. This program critically engages with global and regional human rights systems, examining key themes such as gender equality, gender and conflict, peacebuilding, and the complex relationship between gender, law, and religion.

Program Details

• Title of Award: Master of Laws
• Course Code: ML36 (Full-time), ML37 (Part-time)
• Average Intake: 15
• Delivery: On Campus
• NFQ: Level 9
• Award Type: Major
• Next Intake: September 2026
• Duration: 1 year (full-time), 2 years (part-time)
• ECTS Weighting: 90

Why Choose This Course?

• Unique Course: The only Irish LLM focused on gender, law, and human rights in global and local contexts.
• Employability: Graduates will be well-prepared for roles in NGOs, UN agencies, and human rights-focused organizations.
• Field Work: Opportunities to engage directly with communities and human rights organizations.

Course Information

What Will I Study?

The LLM in Gender and Human Rights at the University of Galway offers a comprehensive exploration of the intersection between gender and international human rights law. The program includes:

• Core Modules (40 credits):
  • Gender and Human Rights (10 credits)
  • International Human Rights Law (10 credits)
  • Minor Thesis (30 credits)
• Optional Modules (50 credits): May include Public International Law, International Criminal Law, International Humanitarian Law, and more.

Curriculum Information

The curriculum is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of gender and human rights law, as well as practical skills in legal advocacy, strategic litigation, and policy drafting.

Unique Features

• Specialist Focus on Gender Justice: Explore the intersections of gender, law, and human rights with a curriculum centered on feminist legal theory, reproductive rights, LGBTQI+ rights, and gender-based violence.
• Practice-Oriented Learning: Develop real-world skills in legal advocacy, strategic litigation, policy drafting, and human rights fact-finding through experiential teaching methods.
• Expert Faculty with Global Impact: Learn from leading scholars and practitioners actively engaged in gender equality advocacy, international law reform, and global human rights initiatives.

Careers

Graduates of the LLM in Gender and Human Rights Law and Policy at the University of Galway are prepared for impactful careers across a wide range of sectors, including international organizations, NGOs, government agencies, legal practice, academia, and private consultancy.

Who Teaches This Course?

The program is taught by a team of expert faculty, including:

• Professor Roja Fazaeli (Programme Director)
• Dr. Anita Ferrara
• Professor Siobhán Mullally
• Professor Shane Darcy
• And more.

Learning and Assessment

• How Will I Learn?: Through a blend of expert-led lectures, interactive seminars, and practical workshops.
• How Will I Be Assessed?: Through a combination of essays, presentations, and an independent research thesis.

Entry Requirements and Fees

• Minimum Entry Requirements: Candidates must hold at least a Second Class Honours, Grade 1, Level 8 primary degree in law or in another relevant discipline.
• English Language Entry Requirements: IELTS score of 6.5 (with no less than 6.0 in any other band) or equivalent.
• Fees for Academic Year 2026/27:
  • EU Tuition: 8,650 (full-time), 4,350 (part-time)
  • Non-EU Tuition: 20,400 (full-time)
  • Student Contribution: 0 (full-time), 0 (part-time)
  • Levy: 140 (full-time), 70 (part-time)

Scholarships

• Postgraduate Excellence Scholarships: Valued at 1,500 for EU students applying for full-time taught master's postgraduate courses.
• Global Scholarships: University of Galway offers a range of merit-based scholarships to students from outside the EU.
• School of Law Global Scholarship: Eligible postgraduate students can receive a scholarship covering up to 50% off their tuition fees.