MA International Law, Ethics and Politics

Program Overview

The MA in International Law, Ethics, and Politics is designed for those who wish to develop expertise in the intersection of law, ethics, and political theory as applied to the global stage. The program explores critical topics such as international human rights law, international environmental law, global security, and the ethics of conflict. It examines the evolving role of law and ethics in shaping international relations, peacebuilding, and global cooperation. Students will engage with a range of real-world case studies to understand how international legal and ethical principles impact global governance and policy-making. The program is delivered by expert academics with extensive research and professional experience in international law and politics, offering students a high-quality education with a strong emphasis on developing practical skills in analysis, negotiation, and diplomacy.

Curriculum: The curriculum for the MA in International Law, Ethics, and Politics integrates core modules that cover both the theoretical and practical aspects of international law and politics. Key modules typically include International Law and Global Governance, Ethics in International Relations, International Human Rights Law, Political Theory and Global Justice, and International Political Economy. In addition to the core modules, students can choose optional modules that focus on specific areas such as environmental law, refugee and migration law, humanitarian law, and security studies. The curriculum is designed to encourage critical thinking, allowing students to examine how law, ethics, and politics shape the international system. The program also includes a dissertation component, where students will conduct original research on a topic of their choice, enabling them to specialize in areas that align with their academic and career interests.

Research Focus: The MA in International Law, Ethics, and Politics at the University of Birmingham is underpinned by cutting-edge research that examines the interaction between law, politics, and ethical considerations in the global context. Research areas within the program include international human rights, global justice, environmental ethics, conflict resolution, and the ethics of global governance. The University’s Law School and Department of Political Science and International Studies are internationally recognized for their research on international law, human rights, and global political theory. Students will have the opportunity to engage with ongoing research projects, attend seminars and conferences, and contribute to the development of new knowledge in the field. The program also encourages interdisciplinary research, bridging the gap between law, politics, and ethics, to address complex global issues such as climate change, refugee rights, and global security.

Industry Engagement: The MA in International Law, Ethics, and Politics offers extensive industry engagement opportunities through the University’s strong network of international organizations, governmental bodies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and global law firms. Students have access to internships, placements, and collaborative projects with key stakeholders in international law, politics, and ethics. The program also provides opportunities for students to attend workshops, guest lectures, and seminars with leading professionals from international institutions such as the United Nations, International Court of Justice, and International Criminal Court. These engagements provide students with practical insights into the workings of global governance and the role of international law in addressing issues such as human rights violations, conflict, and climate change. Additionally, students can participate in various extra-curricular activities, such as moot court competitions, which simulate real-life legal challenges in international law.

Global Perspective: The MA in International Law, Ethics, and Politics is designed to provide students with a global perspective on international legal and political issues. The program emphasizes the importance of understanding global challenges from a multi-faceted perspective, incorporating both Western and non-Western viewpoints on law and ethics. The University of Birmingham has a strong international outlook, with collaborations and partnerships with universities, research institutions, and international organizations around the world. Students will examine global issues through case studies from different regions, exploring the impact of international law and political ethics on issues such as global health, human rights, international security, and trade. This global perspective ensures that students are well-prepared to work in international environments and contribute to solving global challenges from a legal and ethical standpoint.