International Law

The International Law program at Tufts University offers students a comprehensive and in-depth understanding of the legal frameworks that govern the relationships between nations, international organizations, and global actors. This program is designed for students who are interested in pursuing careers in diplomacy, international organizations, human rights advocacy, or global policy development. Throughout the curriculum, students explore a wide range of topics including the principles of international law, dispute resolution, treaties and negotiations, international human rights law, humanitarian law, environmental law, and the regulation of international trade and investment. The program emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical applications, enabling students to analyze complex legal issues and develop effective strategies for addressing global challenges.

Students have opportunities to engage in experiential learning through internships, participation in moot courts, and collaboration with international institutions. The faculty comprises renowned scholars and practitioners who bring real-world insights and academic rigor to the classroom. In addition, the program promotes interdisciplinary approaches, encouraging students to understand the political, economic, and social dimensions of international law. Graduates of this program are well-equipped to work in various international settings, including governmental agencies, non-governmental organizations, international tribunals, and policy think tanks. The degree prepares students for both further academic pursuits and immediate professional careers by fostering critical thinking, cross-cultural communication skills, and a deep understanding of the legal issues shaping our interconnected world.

The LL.M. Program is one full academic year. Four courses each semester are required for the LL.M. degree. No fewer than five and a maximum of six courses must be taken within the International Law and Organizations (ILO) division. At least one of the eight courses must be from the Diplomacy, History, and Politics (DHP) division, and at least one course must be chosen from the Economics and International Business (EIB) division. 

Courses

• ILO L200: The International Legal Order
• ILO L201: Public International Law
• ILO L203: International Law in International Relations
• ILO L209: International Treaty Behavior: A Perspective on Globalization
• ILO L210: International Human Rights Law
• ILO L211: Current Issues in Human Rights
• ILO L212: Seminar on Nationalism, Self-Determination and Minority Rights
• ILO L213: International Criminal Law
• ILO L214: Transitional Justice
• ILO L216: Seminar on Human Rights in Africa
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• ILO L220: International Organizations
• ILO L221: Seminar on Actors in Global Governance
• ILO L223: Seminar on International Environmental Law
• ILO L224: Seminar on Peace Operations
• ILO L230: International Business Transactions
• ILO L232: Seminar on International Investment Law
• ILO L233: International Financial and Fiscal Law
• ILO L234: International Intellectual Property Law and Policy
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• ILO L236m: Securities Regulation: An International Perspective
• ILO L237: Mergers and Acquisitions: An International Perspective
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• ILO L239m: Corporate Governance in International Business and Finance
• ILO L240: Legal and Institutional Aspects of International Trade
• ILO L243: Seminar on International Legal Aspects of Globalization
• ILO L250: Law and Development
• ILO L251: Comparative Legal Systems
• ILO L252: Rule of Law in Post Conflict Societies
• ILO L262: Foreign Relations and National Security Law
• ILO L264m: Non-Proliferation Law and Institutions
• ILO L270m: Legal Research, Writing, and Oral Advocacy
• DHP P207: Seminar on International Politics and International Law
• ILO XXXa: Seminar on The Law of the European Union

• Application for Admission
• Application Fee of $80
• Official Academic Transcripts
• Three Letters of Recommendation
• Personal Statement
• Supplemental Essay
• Resume
• Official TOEFL/IELTS test scores: required of international students whose native language is not English and who have not earned a university degree where English was the primary language of instruction.
• Evaluative Interview (optional)
• Scholarship Application (if applicable)

Scholarships

The Fletcher School offers scholarships to help defray tuition costs. Applicants who complete the Fletcher scholarship application are considered for scholarship aid on the basis of both need and merit. However, the pool of financial aid that we have to offer is limited, and successful applicants should assume that they may have to secure alternative sources of funding to meet all of the costs associated with the program. Accordingly, we encourage applicants to seek outside sources of funding, including scholarships and loans, as early as possible in the application process. We are unable to offer scholarships or information on scholarships to prospective applicants until they have formally applied to the Program. 

The International Law program at Tufts University offers students an in-depth understanding of the legal principles that govern the relationships between nations, international organizations, and individuals involved in cross-border issues. The program emphasizes a comprehensive study of key areas such as international human rights law, international humanitarian law, international environmental law, and trade law. Students will explore the historical development of international legal systems, their application in contemporary global issues, and the role of international institutions like the United Nations, World Trade Organization, and International Court of Justice. The curriculum combines rigorous coursework with practical experience, encouraging students to analyze real-world cases and participate in simulations, moot courts, and internships with international organizations. Tufts University’s Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy often collaborates with this program, providing opportunities for interdisciplinary learning and engagement with professionals in the field. Graduates of the International Law program at Tufts are well-prepared for careers in government agencies, international NGOs, diplomatic service, international law firms, and academic research. The program fosters critical thinking, analytical skills, and a nuanced understanding of complex global legal issues, preparing students to contribute effectively to international law reform, policy development, and conflict resolution. As part of a globally oriented university, the program emphasizes multicultural awareness and the importance of ethical considerations in international legal practice. Students benefit from a diverse faculty with extensive practical and academic experience, as well as access to a network of alumni involved in international law work worldwide. The program typically includes lectures, seminars, workshops, and independent research projects, culminating in a thesis or comprehensive exam that demonstrates mastery of international legal concepts and issues.