LLM International Development Law and Human Rights

Postgraduate Entry requirements

1. Academic Qualifications: Postgraduate applicants are expected to hold a relevant undergraduate degree from a recognized institution, with a minimum academic achievement of 60% to 80%.  

2. English Language Proficiency:  

• IELTS (International English Language Testing System): Minimum overall score of 7.0, with minimum component scores of two at 6.0/6.5 and the remaining components at 7.0 or above.

• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): Minimum score of 100 on the internet-based test (iBT), with minimum sub-scores of Reading 22, Listening 21, Speaking 23, and Writing 21.

• PTE (Pearson Test of English): Minimum overall score of 70, including 59 or above in all components.

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

Work experience: Some postgraduate courses may require relevant work experience in the field.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

The University of Warwick offers a range of scholarships and financial aid opportunities to support international students pursuing their academic aspirations at one of the UK's leading universities. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic excellence, promote diversity, and alleviate financial barriers to higher education. 

Chancellor's International Scholarship: The Chancellor's International Scholarship is offered to outstanding international PhD applicants across all disciplines. This scholarship covers the full payment of overseas tuition fees and provides a generous stipend to support living expenses. Recipients of this scholarship are selected based on academic excellence and research potential.

Warwick Marshall Scholarship: The Warwick Marshall Scholarship is open to students from select developing countries who wish to pursue a Master's degree at Warwick. This scholarship covers full tuition fees, accommodation, and living expenses for the duration of the Master's program. Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to making a positive impact in their home countries.

Commonwealth Shared Scholarship: Warwick participates in the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship scheme, which enables students from eligible Commonwealth countries to pursue a Master's degree in selected subjects at the university. This scholarship covers tuition fees, airfare, living expenses, and other allowances. Applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria outlined by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission.

Other Departmental Scholarships: Various academic departments and faculties at Warwick offer specific scholarships and funding opportunities for international students based on academic merit, research potential, and other criteria. These scholarships may vary by program and are typically advertised on departmental websites.

External Funding Sources: In addition to university-specific scholarships, international students are encouraged to explore external funding sources, including government scholarships, corporate sponsorships, and international organizations offering financial support for higher education. The university's international office provides guidance and resources to help students identify and apply for external funding opportunities.

It is important to note that scholarship availability, criteria, and application deadlines may change from year to year.

Graduates of the LLM International Development Law and Human Rights program from the University of Warwick possess a diverse skill set that prepares them for various career opportunities in the fields of international law, human rights advocacy, development policy, and social justice. 

1. Human Rights Lawyer/Advocate: Many graduates pursue careers as human rights lawyers or advocates, working for non-governmental organizations (NGOs), international human rights bodies, or legal aid organizations. They represent individuals or marginalized communities in legal proceedings, engage in strategic litigation, and advocate for the protection and promotion of human rights at the local, national, and international levels.

2. International Legal Advisor: Graduates may work as legal advisors or consultants for international organizations, such as the United Nations, the World Bank, or regional human rights bodies. They provide legal analysis, policy advice, and technical assistance on issues related to international law, human rights, and development, contributing to the formulation and implementation of global development policies and programs.

3. Development Policy Analyst: Some graduates choose to work as development policy analysts or researchers in government agencies, think tanks, or research institutes. They conduct research, analyze development trends, and evaluate the effectiveness of development policies and programs in promoting human rights, social justice, and sustainable development goals (SDGs).

4. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Manager: With increasing pressure on corporations to respect human rights and contribute to sustainable development, graduates may work in CSR roles within multinational corporations or corporate law firms. They advise companies on ethical business practices, human rights due diligence, and stakeholder engagement strategies to ensure corporate accountability and responsibility.

5. International Humanitarian Law Specialist: Graduates with expertise in international humanitarian law may work for humanitarian organizations, such as the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) or Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF). They provide legal advice on issues related to armed conflict, humanitarian assistance, and the protection of civilians and prisoners of war in accordance with international legal norms.

6. Government Official/Diplomat: Some graduates pursue careers in government ministries, foreign affairs departments, or diplomatic missions, representing their countries in international negotiations, treaty drafting, and human rights monitoring mechanisms. They advocate for human rights principles, participate in multilateral forums, and contribute to the development of national and international legal frameworks for human rights protection.

7. Academic and Researcher: For those interested in academia and research, opportunities exist in universities, research institutes, and legal clinics. Graduates may pursue doctoral studies or research positions, conducting research on issues related to international law, human rights, and development, publishing scholarly articles, and contributing to policy debates and legal scholarship in their areas of expertise.

8. Legal Officer in Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs): Graduates may work as legal officers or program managers in NGOs focused on human rights, social justice, and development. They provide legal support to marginalized communities, design advocacy campaigns, and collaborate with partner organizations to advance human rights and access to justice initiatives.

9. Social Justice Advocate/Community Organizer: Some graduates choose to work at the grassroots level as social justice advocates or community organizers, mobilizing communities, raising awareness about human rights issues, and empowering marginalized groups to assert their rights and demand accountability from governments and institutions.

10. Policy Advisor in International Organizations: Graduates may work as policy advisors or program managers in international organizations, such as the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) or the International Labour Organization (ILO). They contribute to the design and implementation of policies and programs aimed at promoting human rights, social justice, and inclusive development practices worldwide.