Public International Law

Public International Law at Charles University is a comprehensive and challenging programme designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the legal frameworks that govern relations between states, international organizations, and non-state actors. The curriculum covers a broad spectrum of topics, including the principles of international law, the law of treaties, human rights law, humanitarian law, international environmental law, the use of force, conflict resolution, and the role of international courts and tribunals. Students will gain insights into the historical development of international legal norms, their application in contemporary global issues, and the mechanisms for their enforcement. The programme emphasizes critical analysis, legal reasoning, and practical skills, preparing graduates for careers in international organizations, diplomatic service, non-governmental organizations, and academia. The faculty, composed of experienced international law experts and scholars, ensures that students are engaged in up-to-date legal debates and case studies from real-world scenarios. Through lectures, seminars, workshops, and internships, students will have numerous opportunities to apply their knowledge practically and build professional networks. The programme also encourages research work, culminating in a thesis that addresses a topical issue in international law. Graduates will be equipped not only with a solid legal foundation but also with an understanding of the socio-political contexts influencing international legal developments. With its rigorous academic environment and strong ties to international institutions, the Public International Law programme at Charles University aims to develop competent legal professionals who can contribute effectively to international justice, peace, and sustainable development.

General course – lectures:

• History of the Czechoslovak and Czech International Legal Doctrine
• International Judicial Bodies, Concurrent Jurisdiction
• International Criminal Law and Justice
• International Protection of Children in Armed Conflict
• International Protection of Linguistic Minorities
• Settlement of International Investment Disputes

Possible topics of doctoral thesis 

• Fragmentation of International Law
• Interpretation and Application of International Treaties in the Czech Republic
• International  Security and International Law
• International Criminal Court and the Crime of Aggression
• International Protection of Linguistic Minorities
• International Investment Arbitration and EU Law

The electronic application forms should be submitted by means of the Charles University Information system at https://is.cuni.cz/studium/ .

Immediately after completing the electronic application form in the Information System of Charles University send the application by mail to the following address

Univerzita Karlova v Praze
Právnická fakulta
Referát doktorského studia
nám. Curieových 7
116 40 Praha 1

or submit the application in person at the Filing Office of the Faculty of Law including the following:

a) a notarized copy of a university diploma along with the diploma supplement (in case of earlier graduates the certificate of state exam) verifying the graduation from a Master´s or equivalent programme of study; this duty does not apply to graduates of Master’s programme of study at Charles University Faculty of Law who graduated after the 1st January 2008;
b) a detailed (professional) curriculum vitae, containing information on the applicant’s professional activities (experience in legal practice) along with a list of publications (if applicable);
c) an outline of the applicant’s dissertation of approximately 7 - 8 pages signed by the expected advisor; the outline of the dissertation must be also sent in electronic form to the guarantor of the relevant branch of study;

d) in case of applying for full-time form of study, applicants also submit written approval of the head of the department.

The application should be appended with a notarized copy of a university diploma along with the diploma supplement verifying the graduation from a Master´s or equivalent programme of study. 

Entrance examination

Tuition fees for the Public International Law program at Charles University vary depending on the level of study and the student's nationality. For students from the European Union and EFTA countries, the fees are generally lower compared to international students from outside these regions. Specifically, for master's degree programs, the annual tuition fee for EU students is approximately 3,000 to 4,000 EUR, while non-EU students may pay between 4,000 and 6,000 EUR per academic year. These fees cover tuition, access to university facilities, and participation in program activities. Additional costs may include accommodation, health insurance, books, and personal expenses, which can amount to roughly 8,000 to 12,000 EUR annually.

Funding opportunities are available through various channels. The university offers scholarships for outstanding students based on academic performance, which can cover partial or full tuition fees. These scholarships are competitive and awarded on an annual basis, often requiring students to maintain a certain academic standing. Students are encouraged to apply for external scholarships and grants from governmental or international organizations, which can help offset living costs and tuition fees.

Part-time work is permitted under international student visa regulations, offering students the possibility to earn supplementary income during their studies. The university’s career center provides support with internships and employment opportunities in the legal sector, which can both enhance practical skills and help finance studies. There are also loan options available through local banks for eligible students, designed to cover tuition and living expenses.

Most students finance their studies through a combination of personal savings, family support, scholarships, part-time employment, and student loans. The university emphasizes the importance of early financial planning and advises students to explore all available opportunities for funding. Overall, while the cost of studying Public International Law at Charles University can be significant, multiple funding avenues exist to assist students in managing their educational expenses effectively.

Public International Law at Charles University offers students a comprehensive understanding of the foundational principles and contemporary issues related to the international legal system. This program is designed to equip students with the knowledge necessary to analyze and interpret international legal norms, treaties, conventions, and practices that govern relations among states and international organizations. The curriculum covers a broad range of topics, including the law of treaties, human rights law, international arbitration, the use of force, humanitarian law, and the development of international criminal law. Students are exposed to both theoretical frameworks and practical applications, fostering skills essential for careers in diplomacy, international organizations, non-governmental organizations, and academia.

The program emphasizes critical thinking and analytical skills through engaging coursework, case study analyses, and participation in debates and simulations. It also integrates the study of European Union law and its interactions with international legal principles, providing a well-rounded understanding of the legal dimensions influencing modern international affairs. Students benefit from the university's extensive academic resources, including interdisciplinary faculty members with expertise in various aspects of international law, and opportunities to participate in internships and research projects that enhance their practical knowledge.

Moreover, the program encourages a comparative perspective, considering different legal systems and cultural contexts to prepare graduates for international careers that may involve dealing with diverse legal environments. The degree prepares students to interpret and apply international law effectively and ethically, fostering the development of responsible professionals capable of contributing to the stability and justice in the global community. Graduates of the program often pursue careers in law firms specializing in international law, governmental agencies, international courts, NGOs, and international organizations, or continue their academic pursuits through postgraduate studies. By blending academic rigor with practical experience, the Public International Law program at Charles University aims to shape competent professionals ready to address the legal challenges of the 21st century.