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Email academic.registry@tcd.ieIn an era of globalisation, it is no longer possible to understand law in a purely national context. Once the domain of foreign ministries, international law has dramatically expanded in its scope, reaching deep within national legal systems and covering organisations, businesses and individuals. As globalisation has not only intensified but also come under challenge, it has never been more important for lawyers to develop an in-depth understanding of law in its wider international context.
The LL.M. programme in International and Comparative Law offers students a unique platform to develop this understanding. The programme offers a rich and diverse array of modules taught by expert scholars and practitioners in the fields of international and comparative law. Students develop their legal knowledge and advanced legal skills in these fields while gaining a deeper insight into the practice of international law.
This programme is designed for law students who want to expand and deepen their knowledge of the complex challenges national societies and the international community face today. How can we settle international disputes peacefully? What are the means to prevent and address mass human rights atrocities? How can we tackle climate change and the loss of biodiversity? Is it possible to regulate new technologies such as artificial intelligence globally? And how do different legal systems and regimes approach common problems and challenges? If you are interested in these or similar questions, this course is right for you.
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 offer a comprehensive learning experience, including opportunities to apply the learned course content to practical problems.
We encourage students to become involved in extra-curricular activities within the school and university to further enrich their experience. Dublin hosts various governmental and non-governmental international organisations that offer internship positions. Registered students and recent graduates are also supported through the Trinity Careers Service in developing CV writing and interview skills to reach their career goals.
This full-time programme is delivered in-person at Trinity College. Students are required to take three (10 ECTS) modules during each of the course’s two semesters, including a mandatory module entitled Foundations of International Law during the first term. Modules typically meet for two-hour sessions once per week over the 12-week term (with a one-week reading break). Many modules feature smaller class sizes that facilitate discussion and engagement; in-person attendance is expected. Assessment methods vary across modules. All students must also a complete a research dissertation on an approved theme over the course of the academic year (30 ECTS).
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 study principles and foundations of international law while being able specialise in their areas of interest.
The LL.M. International and Comparative Law offers students the chance to study from a large range of modules with a broad international and comparative law. Module offerings in specialised areas of international and comparative law may include International Dispute Resolution; Human Rights Law, International Humanitarian Law; International Economic Law; Islamic Law; Refugee Law; as well as comparative modules relating to International Aviation Law; Freedom of Expression and Intellectual Property Law.
Click here for further information on modules/subjects.
Overview of the School of Law at Trinity College Dublin and its postgraduate LL.M. programmes.
September 2026
Dr. Desmond Ryan
31 May 2026
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 if: a substantial component of their undergraduate degree(s) is in Law; or they have significant professional legal experience.
Fulfilment of the above criteria does not guarantee admission. Admission to Trinity's LL.M. programmes is at the absolute discretion of the School of Law, which will decide on admissions based on a range of academic criteria, including the quality of the individual application and the objectives of ensuring a diverse LL.M. class of the highest possible academic calibre.
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. We advise students to apply for the course as early as possible as admission is competitive. The programme is subject to early closure.
This programme is academically rigorous and requires students to have a high level of English language and legal English competency. It is expected that students will be able to effectively and proficiently participate in classroom discussions.
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. For more details of qualifications that meet Band B, see the English Language Requirements page here.
For a full list of postgraduate fees, click here.
To apply, click on the relevant Apply Link below
+ 353 (0)1 8968449
https://www.tcd.ie/law/programmes/postgraduate/taught/llm-international-comparative/index.php
Register your interest in studying at Ireland’s leading university, Trinity College Dublin, the University of Dublin.
What I enjoy most about the course is its interactivity. The diversity of viewpoints, experiences, and legal backgrounds makes class discussions very interesting and enriching. The variety of classes allows me to study different aspects of international law in depth, which helps me identify the area I'd like to focus on in my career. At the same time, working in the Human Rights Law Clinic provides practical insights into a possible career path.
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