International Law of Security, Peace & Sustainable Development (Erasmus Mundus Joint Master) LLM/MA
The International Law of Security, Peace & Sustainable Development (ILSPSD) Erasmus Mundus Joint Master tackles global challenges at the intersection of international law and international relations, with a focus on security, peace and sustainability. This multidisciplinary, two-year programme unites six European higher education institutions and 30 associate partners worldwide. Through study across several countries, you will gain a deep understanding of international law, politics, and sustainability. The programme combines theory with practical experience to train future lawyers and policy-makers for careers and leadership in international organisations, governments, NGOs, and beyond.
- Academic contact: asli.olcay@glasgow.ac.uk
- Teaching start: September
- Glasgow: Gilmorehill campus and International (multiple locations)
- LLM or MA: 24 months full-time
Why this programme
- Mobility opportunities at leading European universities as part of an integrated, team-delivered programme incorporating specialisms in human rights, migration, peace and security, and sustainable development.
- Participate in work placements, legal clinics, moot courts, language training, conferences, workshops, study trips and more.
- A multidisciplinary, innovative, and comprehensive approach to the study of international security, peace and sustainability.
- Consortium partners include: University of Glasgow, Scotland; Leuphana University of Lüneburg, Germany; Institut Barcelona d’Estudis Internacionals (IBEI), Spain; Université Libre de Bruxelles, Belgium; Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Portugal; University of Tartu, Estonia.
- Invaluable networking opportunities with a global network of students, alumni, academics, and expert practitioners within the field.
- Recognised by the European Commission as an Erasmus Mundus Joint Master (EMJM).
Programme structure
Courses in semester 1 are offered by Leuphana University of Lüneburg. In semester 2, you will study at the Institut Barcelona d’Estudis Internacionals (IBEI). You will spend semesters 3 and 4 at either the University of Glasgow, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa or University of Tartu. You will select a study track which allows you to specialise in one of the following:
- International Law & International Security (Glasgow)
- Security & Conflict (Brussels)
- Globalisation, Law & Security (Lisbon)
- International Law & Human Rights (Tartu)
Semester 4 is devoted to a research dissertation and an optional work placement.
Teaching, learning and assessment methods include lectures, discussion-oriented seminars, work placements, project-based teamwork, law clinics, e-learning, dissertation, written assignments and exams and oral presentations.
Depending on your pathway choice, you will be awarded one of the following degrees upon completion:
- LLM Track: International Law of Security, Peace & Sustainable Development LLM (joint degree of Leuphana & Glasgow), and Master’s in International Security (IBEI)
- MA Track: International Law of Security, Peace & Sustainable Development MA (Leuphana), Master’s in International Security (IBEI), and International Law of Security, Peace & Sustainable Development LLM (Glasgow)
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Year One
Leuphana University of Lüneburg (October - January)
Core courses
- Global Security and Peaceful Dispute Settlement in International Law
- International Economic Law and Sustainability
- International Sustainability Law
- Sustainable Ocean Law and Governance
Optional courses – choose one
- Environmental Law
- Public International Law
Complementary studies* – choose one
- Concepts, Structures and Practices of National and International Policy for Sustainable Development
- Lecture Series: Security, Power, and Law in the 21st Century
*subject to change
Institut Barcelona d’Estudis Internacionals (IBEI) (February - June)
Core courses
- Research Methods in International Security
- Theories of International Security
Optional courses
- Choose two from Elective Courses in semester two
- Choose two from Elective Courses in International Security in semester two
Optional summer schoool
- Options change yearly. Check the consortium website for latest offering.
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Year Two
University of Glasgow (September - December)
Core courses
- International Law & International Security
Optional courses – choose two
- Advanced Introduction to International Criminal Law
- Advanced Introduction to the Law of the United Nations
- Climate Change Law & Governance
- International Courts & Tribunals
- International Human Rights Law
- International Law & Security in a Digital World
- The Laws of Armed Conflict
Université Libre de Bruxelles (September - December)
Core courses
- Exercises of Public International Law
- International Litigation and Pleading Exercises (in English and French)
- Methodology of International Law / Méthodologie du droit international (in French)
Optional courses – choose three
- Environmental Law / Droit de l’Environnement (in French)
- International and European Criminal Law
- International Dispute Settlement / Règlement des différends internationaux (in French)
- Laws of Armed Conflict (in English and French)
- Terrorism and International Law
Universidade NOVA de Lisboa (September - December)
Core courses
- Globalisation and Security
- International Humanitarian Law
- Security, Governance and the Rule of Law
Optional courses – choose at least 12 ECTS
- Cybersecurity and Governance (6 ECTS)
- Diplomatic and Consular Law (6 ECTS)
- Emerging Technologies: Governance and Regulation (4 ECTS)
- Intelligence and Strategic Analysis (6 ECTS)
- International Law of the Sea and International Courts (6 ECTS)
- Transitional Justice (4 ECTS)
University of Tartu (September - December)
Core courses
- History and Theory of International Law
- Human Rights Law
- Law of International Institutions
- Protection of Marginalised Groups in International Human Rights Law
Optional courses – choose one
- European Human Rights Law
- Human Rights and Education
- International Criminal Law
- Law and Practice of the United Nations
Dissertation (Semester 2)
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Programme alteration or discontinuation
The University of Glasgow endeavours
to run all programmes as advertised. In exceptional circumstances, however, the University may withdraw
or alter a programme. For more information, please see: Student contract.
Career prospects
Combining advanced legal training with multidisciplinary perspectives, international mobility and practical experience, the programme equips students to address today's most pressing global challenges, from armed conflict and cybersecurity to climate change, human rights and sustainable development, in complex international settings.
Graduates develop the legal expertise, policy insight and intercultural competencies sought by employers operating across domestic, transnational and international environments.
Career pathways include roles in:
- International organisations, including the United Nations system and other intergovernmental institutions
- European Union institutions and agencies
- National governments, foreign ministries and public administrations
- International courts and tribunals
- International and national NGOs working in human rights, peacebuilding, humanitarian action and sustainable development
- Think tanks, research institutes and policy organisations
- Legal practice, consultancy and corporate compliance with an international or cross-border focus.
The programme also provides an excellent foundation for doctoral study and academic careers in international law, international relations and related disciplines. Graduates leave with not only a highly respected Erasmus Mundus qualification, but also an international professional network spanning six leading European universities and a broad range of institutional partners, providing valuable connections for future career development.
Fees & funding
Tuition fees for 2026-27
LLM
Please note that applications are processed by Leuphana University of Lüneburg. For more information about tuition fees please visit the consortium website.
MA
Please note that applications are processed by Leuphana University of Lüneburg. For more information about tuition fees please visit the consortium website.
Fee status
Additional fees
- Fee for re-assessment of a dissertation (PGT programme): £370
- Submission of thesis after deadline lapsed: £350
- Registration/exam only fee: £170
Entry requirements
For full details, including English language requirements, please visit the ILSPSD consortium website.
English language requirements
International students
We are proud of our diverse University community that includes students and staff from more than 140 different countries.
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