The LLM in International Migration and Refugee Law is the only course of its kind on offer in an Irish university. This unique programme enables students to develop their knowledge of international and regional law, policy and practice as it relates to the phenomena of international migration, human trafficking and refugee law.
Students can combine the study of international migration with specialised courses in international humanitarian law and peace operations, gender and law, child rights, and international criminal law.
The programme engages students with current developments on the human rights of migrants and refugees, globally, regionally and nationally. It includes unique practice-oriented teaching, allowing students to specialise in oral and written advocacy (legal and policy), strategic litigation, fact-finding and international development.
The one-year programme is divided into three four-month terms. The first term commences in September and runs through to December, the second term begins in January and ends in April, while the third term begins in May and terminates with the submission of a dissertation in mid-July. During the first two terms candidates are required to attend a full course load as prescribed in the Guidelines, while the third term is devoted entirely to the research required for the preparation of the final dissertation.
The two-year programme comprises part-time study, combining two semesters of course work the first year with a third semester the second year, devoted entirely to the research required for preparation of a final dissertation.
Students will undertake two core modules: one in International Migration Law and one in International Refugee Law. These modules are taught by academics who are active researchers in the area of migration and/or refugee law and whose work has significant policy and practical impact at the national, regional and international levels. Guest speakers who work in the field will also contribute to some seminars.
Students will also undertake a number of optional modules and can choose from a wide suite of options, including a module on the Common European Asylum System and on human trafficking, as well as various human rights, international criminal law and international humanitarian law modules.