LLM in International Organizations

The LL.M. in International Organizations is a one year taught degree program with a thesis requirement, earning a total of 90 ECTS credits. An internship at the EPLO is optional and can be offered upon a selection process. Courses are led by key  academics and practitioners in their fields, and delivered through lectures and interactive tutorials.

Students must successfully complete 6 compulsory modules and 2 optional modules, followed by a 15,000-word thesis.

This course introduces students to the principles, practices, and challenges of diplomacy related to international organizations (IOs). It explores the role of diplomacy in fostering cooperation, resolving disputes, and achieving global governance goals. Students will examine the structure and functions of IOs, the intersection of state interests and multilateral diplomacy, and the challenges posed by globalization and shifting power dynamics.

The Law of the United Nations (compulsory)

This course examines the legal framework of the United Nations (UN), focusing on its Charter, organs, and functions. Students will explore the UN’s role in maintaining international peace and security, promoting human rights, and advancing sustainable development. Topics include the legal principles governing the use of force, the powers and limitations of the Security Council, and the relationship between the UN and international law. The course incorporates case studies of UN interventions and initiatives, providing students with a practical understanding of its legal and operational challenges.

Diplomatic and Consular Law (compulsory)

The course provides an in-depth analysis of the legal principles governing diplomatic and consular relations. Students will study the Vienna Conventions on Diplomatic and Consular Relations, focusing on the privileges and immunities of diplomats and consular officials, the functions of diplomatic missions, and the legal protections afforded to them. The course also addresses contemporary issues such as the role of diplomacy in conflict resolution, diplomatic immunity controversies, and the evolving practices of consular assistance in a globalized world.

Conflict resolution & Crisis management through IOs (compulsory)

This course explores the role of IOs in conflict resolution and crisis management. Students will learn how IOs mediate disputes, deploy peacekeeping missions, and implement diplomatic, economic, and humanitarian strategies to manage crises. The module also examines the effectiveness and limitations of IOs in preventing and mitigating global conflicts. Through simulations, policy analysis, and critical discussions, students will develop a nuanced understanding of the political, legal, and ethical challenges involved in global crisis management.

Regional Integration Organizations (compulsory)

The course examines the legal, economic, and political dimensions of regional integration organizations, such as the European Union (EU), the African Union (AU), and ASEAN. Students will study the institutions underpinning regional cooperation, the challenges of policy harmonization, and the impact of regional organizations on global governance. Topics include trade liberalization, regional security, and human rights protection, with a focus on comparative analysis and case studies of integration successes and setbacks.

 The International Civil Service as a career path (compulsory)

This seminar-based course offers an in-depth exploration of the international civil service, drawing on the insights of experts with practical experience in international and regional organizations. Through interactive discussions, guest lectures, and case studies, students will examine the legal, ethical, and operational dimensions of working in international governance. Topics include recruitment processes, institutional structures, policy implementation, diplomatic challenges, and the evolving role of international civil servants in a complex global landscape. By engaging directly with practitioners, students will gain first-hand perspectives on career pathways, bureaucratic dynamics, and the impact of international civil servants on global policymaking.

Skills Course I & II (elective)

The course will run throughout the academic year and will be consist of two parts. The first one, running in the Fall term, aims at providing students with the necessary skills to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses in the use of quantitative research methods and how to apply the appropriate ones according to the research demands. The second part of the course aims at familiarizing students with qualitative research methods such as in-depth interviews, focus groups, and participant-observation, as well as with research design, ethical issues, data analysis, and preparation of findings for publication.

The second part, which will take place in the Spring semester, introduces students to rhetorical and strategic skills.  This course will be based on a mock trial competition, demanding active student participation. Moreover, the course aims to develop critical, listening, writing, and organizational skills, as well as build transferable skills such as teamwork and public speaking, which will enable students to achieve their goals, adapt faster in a future work environment and excel in whatever career they choose to follow after graduation.

Admissions Requirements and Procedures

Academic Requirements

Students are admitted following a rigorous application process. Prospective students for the LL.M. in International Organizations should have an undergraduate degree in law, governance or a relevant field of studies, or a Master’s degree in a relevant field.  Highly qualified students with a background in a different field of studies or that have a particularly competitive profile with relevant professional experience and long-term dedication to the field will also be considered. Due to the international nature of the program, degree equivalencies will be determined by the Faculty Board.

Language Requirements

All courses of the program will be taught in English and non-native speakers must prove their proficiency in accordance with the following:

• TOEFL Internet, Score of 90 or above
• IELTS, 5.5
• Duolingo, 95
• Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency, Grade B or above
• Any other internationally recognized test with equivalent marks

Students intending to study at a partner institution for their second semester must clearly demonstrate their ability to attend courses in the relevant language of instruction at the host university they wish to attend.

Application

Students from all over the world are admitted following a rigorous application process which consists of two-phases. Students must first submit their application form and once they have done so, candidates considered for admissions will be invited to an interview.

To apply for a program, students must first review the application form and its requirements to ensure the collection of appropriate material. By the time they have gathered all documentation they should proceed with payment of the one-time application fee either at the relevant online portal or via a bank transfer. Students should always add their surname, initial letter of their first name and course/degree title in the deposit description.

Students can then proceed with their application, which can only be conducted online and submit it along with the supporting documentation, listed below. All support documents must be in electronic format and uploaded to be sent with the application.

The 2 reference letters, which should be emailed directly from Referees to LL.M. admissions at llm_ITIL@elgs.eu.

A successful application must include:

• A completed online Application Form in English (please refer to the degree Admission tab for full details)
• Uploaded scanned Passport or ID with photo
• Uploaded scanned most recent Undergraduate degree 
• Uploaded Certificate of Proficiency in English
  (if a non-native speaker, scanned and uploaded TOEFL 83, Cambridge Proficiency grade C, IELTS 6.0, Duolingo 90 or equivalent)
• Personal Statement (400 words) -  with Scholarship request if applicable
• Two (2) Reference Letters contacts: one compulsory and one optional (to be sent directly from Referee to relevant program email)
• Registration fee proof of payment (non-refundable)

Deadlines

Tuition and Aid

Tuition for both EU and International students for the LL.M. in International Organizations program is 5.600 euros.

Please be advised that there are other direct and indirect costs related to attendance, in addition to tuition fees, such as books, supplies, accommodation and living expenses which must be taken into consideration by students when applying.

Scholarships

Scholarships are available for a select number of students and take into consideration merit. If you are interested in receiving a scholarship, the appropriate box should be selected on the application form and a 400–600-word personal statement must be submitted, outlining the ways in which you satisfy the criteria.