Location:
European Law
& Governance School
LLM in International Organizations
Postgraduate Program
This program, developed by the European Public Law Organization (EPLO), an international organization, aims to share the knowledge and expertise accumulated over nearly 20 years of its involvement in the fields of international law and diplomacy.
About the degree
The curriculum covers critical topics, including institutional frameworks (such as the UN, EU, African Union, WTO), dispute resolution mechanisms, human rights law, international economic law, international civil service and the evolving role of international organizations in global governance. The program provides students with the necessary tools to navigate the complex legal environments of these organizations and understand the intricate balance between international organizations, diplomacy and state sovereignty.
The program is delivered in English through a combination of lectures, case studies, and field visits, ensuring that students gain exposure to the practical workings of international institutions given the increasing importance of international law and governance in today’s interconnected world. Field visits to key European and international institutions in Lisbon, including the European Union institutions, the Council of Europe, and the Portuguese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, further enrich the hands-on learning experience.
Participant profile
This degree is ideal for:
- Law graduates: Students who have completed their LL.B. or JD and want to specialize in international law and diplomacy, particularly in the context of international organizations like the UN, WTO, IMF, or regional bodies like the EU.
- Legal professionals: Lawyers, judges, or legal advisors seeking to advance their careers in international organizations (e.g., United Nations, World Trade Organization), Governmental institutions (e.g., Ministries of Foreign Affairs, legal departments of governments), non-governmental organizations (e.g., Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch)
- International Relations Graduates and Professionals: Students and professionals with a background in international relations, political science, or global governance who want to complement their knowledge with legal expertise
- Researchers and academics: Scholars who wish to specialize in international organization law and contribute to academic research or teach in this field.
- Policy Makers and Diplomats: Individuals working in government or diplomatic roles who need a stronger legal foundation to engage with international organizations or negotiate treaties and agreements.
- NGO and Civil Society Professionals: Those working in non-governmental organizations or advocacy groups that interact with international organizations and need a solid understanding of the legal frameworks governing these entities.
Options
One year taught program in Cascais at the EPLO/ELGS premises followed by:
- one semester of independent research.
- three months internship at the EPLO (optional and subject to a selective application process) and one semester of independent research.
This master’s program can be a student’s first step towards a research degree (MPhil or PhD) in Rule of Law.
Key Benefits
The program is created by an International Organization -EPLO- and it’s also supported by the expansive ELGS International Faculty network of over 100 legal and governance scholars and practitioners worldwide the ELGS’ Partner Universities across Europe and the world, and the EPLO itself.
The program which takes place in Cascais, Portugal, emphasizes both academic excellence and practical experience to ensure graduates are ready to navigate the complex legal frameworks that govern these entities. Due to its strategic location near Lisbon, provides an ideal setting for international legal studies. Rich in history and culture, Cascais is also a hub for international diplomacy, offering students unique opportunities to engage with global legal practitioners, diplomats, and policymakers. This vibrant environment further enriches the academic experience, providing a perfect backdrop for the study of international law.
- The studies are organized and implemented by an International Organization and students can have access to its people, functions, events and seminars.
- Practical Skill Development
Students participate in hands-on learning experiences, including:- Case studies focusing on the legal challenges faced by organizations like the United Nations, World Health Organization, and European Union.
- Simulations such as drafting international agreements, mediating disputes, or presenting arguments before a mock international court.
- Workshops to build specialized skills in advocacy, negotiation, and legal drafting for global contexts.
This practical training equips students with the tools to excel in roles within international legal bodies, NGOs, and governmental organizations working with global institutions.
- Bridging Theory with Practice
The program blends rigorous academic coursework with practical applications, enabling students to:- Understand the legal frameworks and governance structures of international organizations.
- Develop strategies to address challenges faced by these organizations in a rapidly changing world.
- Career-Ready Preparation
Graduates emerge well-prepared for diverse and competitive roles, including:- Legal counsel for international organizations (e.g., International Criminal Court, World Trade Organization).
- Policy advisors in intergovernmental bodies and think tanks.
- Consultants on international law and governance for multinational corporations and law firms.
- Specialists in dispute resolution, arbitration, and international compliance.
Premises
Campus at the Mosteiro de Santa Maria do Mar in Carcavelos
The Master’s in Global Rule of Law and Democracy offers a unique learning experience at the EPLO ELGS campus in Portugal, located in the historic Mosteiro de Santa Maria do Mar. Thanks to the generous support of the Municipality of Cascais, students benefit from modern classrooms and comfortable accommodation, creating the perfect environment for their studies and professional growth.
Mosteiro de Santa Maria do Mar
The Mosteiro de Santa Maria do Mar in Carcavelos, within the boundaries of the Municipality of Cascais, is a recently renovated and well-organized former monastery. It is situated in a quiet neighborhood known for its natural beauty, close to the coast, with easy access to the cultural attractions of Lisbon, Oeiras, Estoril and Cascais. The surrounding area offers plenty of opportunities for leisure and exploration, making it a perfect place for both study and living.
Classrooms
The classrooms at the refurbished Mosteiro de Santa Maria do Mar are designed to promote interactive and engaging learning. They are bright and spacious, fully equipped with modern amenities, including touch-screen TV, high-speed internet and laptops provided for student use, ensuring a professional and productive teaching environment. Professors also benefit from a dedicated office space to support lecture preparation, administrative tasks and student consultations. The serene atmosphere of the historic monastery, combined with its advanced facilities, provides an inspiring setting for academic lectures, group discussions and collaborative activities.
Accommodation
The postgraduate students’ accommodation is conveniently located within the same building as the classrooms at the Mosteiro de Santa Maria do Mar. This peaceful residence, surrounded by green spaces, vineyards and gardens, features security at the entrance and Wi-Fi throughout, ensuring a safe and comfortable environment that fosters concentration and focus on studies. Essential amenities such as supermarkets, pharmacies and local cafés are within walking distance. Additionally, the location is well-connected by public transport.
Program Content
Students must successfully complete 6 compulsory modules and 2 optional modules, followed by a 15,000 word thesis.
All the courses
Diplomacy and International Organizations (compulsory)
This course introduces students to the principles, practices, and challenges of diplomacy as they relate to the operations of 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 course also includes case studies of diplomatic negotiations within IOs, emphasizing the skills and strategies required for effective representation and advocacy.
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, focusing on institutions such as the UN, NATO, the EU and regional bodies. Students will learn how these organizations mediate disputes, deploy peacekeeping missions, and implement diplomatic, economic, and humanitarian strategies to manage crises. Key topics include peaceful means of dispute resolution, negotiation techniques, multilateral interventions, and case studies of past and ongoing conflicts. 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. The main objective is to equip students with essential analytical and practical skills to engage in conflict resolution on the world stage
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 treaties and 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 organizations such as the UN, the EU, and other global and regional institutions. 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 quantitative research methods and apply the appropriate ones according to the research demands. This will allow students to critically apply diverse research methods and interpret quantitative data, while using statistical software packages. The second part of the course aims at preparing students for the conduction of a qualitative research by familiarizing them with different 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 form part of the Spring term curriculum, will introduce students to rhetorical and strategic skills that they will need to become better students but also better legal practitioners. Since the whole course will be a preparation in the context of a mock trial competition, through participation students will gain an insider’s perspective on courtroom procedures, the capacity to analyse problems critically, think strategically, develop their listening skills, their skills in oral presentation and extemporaneous argument, their skills in preparing and organizing material and finally get their first exposure to the everyday life of a law-related career (lawyer, judge). The course aims also to build transferable skills such as team work 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 from all over the world 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 another master’s degree in a relevant field. High-caliber students with a background in a different field of studies or a particularly competitive profile with evidence of 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 the English language. As a result, students originating from non-English speaking countries must evidence their level of English language skills 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 are interested in attending.
Tuition and Aid
Tuition for both EU and International students for the LL.M. in International Organizations program is 5,600€.
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 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.
Application
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 Degree title in the deposit description. They can then proceed with their application which can only be conducted online and submit it along with the supporting documentation, listed below.
Students applying for this program must select ‘Cascais’ when asked to.
All support documents must be in electronic format and uploaded to be sent with the application, except for the 2 reference letters, which should be emailed directly from Referees to admissions at info@elgs.eu.
Students may be invited to be interviewed.