In this LLM programme, students are trained in human rights at the international level, but also in international humanitarian law and other related fields of (international) law. Students learn about different human rights systems and how rights are interpreted within these systems and in different countries.
Official detailed information on the programme can be found here.
This is a selective LLM track, see Faculty pages here for further details.
The LLM International Human Rights Law is a track registered under the LLM CROHO label Public International Law (60856). This is a Top Rated Programme in the Netherlands.
| Semesters | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CoursesCourse Catalog > | 1a | 1b | 2a | 2b |
| International Human Rights Law (6 EC) | ||||
| International Institutional Law (6 EC) | ||||
| Seminar Human Rights (6 EC) | ||||
| International Crimes and Gross Human Rights Violations (6 EC) | ||||
| International Health Law (6 EC) | ||||
| International Humanitarian Law (6 EC, optional) | ||||
| Refugee and Asylum Law (6 EC, optional) | ||||
| Law in Practice (6 EC) | ||||
| Master's thesis (12 EC) | ||||
| European Human Rights Law (6 EC, optional) | ||||
| International Criminal Tribunals and Courts (6 EC, optional) | ||||
Students will have to participate in four compulsory courses and the compulsory seminar for this programme plus two optional compulsory courses. Like all masters, this programme is also concluded by writing a Master's thesis, worth 18 ECTS.
| Study programme | Organization | Transition |
|---|---|---|
| International and European Law | University of Groningen | No additional requirements |
| International Human Rights Law | University of Groningen | No additional requirements |
| European Law in a Global Context | University of Groningen | No additional requirements |
| Technology Law and Innovation | University of Groningen | No additional requirements |
| Specific requirements | More information |
|---|---|
| previous education |
LLB or equivalent |
| knowledge minimum |
basic knowledge of public international law, on a similar level as the course Public International Law, including some elementary human rights law and elementary knowledge of European Law |
| grade average |
On top of providing the Admissions Board with transcripts and diplomas, students should have an equivalent minimum GPA (Grade Point Average) of 7/10 (Dutch grading scale). |
| language test |
For more details about language requirements please check: https://bit.ly/2Ho7gkM |
| reference letter |
For further details about letter of reference please check: https://bit.ly/2Ho7gkM |
| (motivation-) letter |
For more details about motivation letter please check: https://bit.ly/2Ho7gkM |
| other admission requirements |
Curriculum vitae. For further information please check: https://bit.ly/2Ho7gkM |
This is a selective LLM, see Faculty pages for further details: https://www.rug.nl/rechten/education/international-programmes/llm/application/admission-requirements
| Type of student | Deadline | Start course |
|---|---|---|
| Dutch students | 01 May 2025 | 01 September 2025 |
| EU/EEA students | 01 May 2025 | 01 September 2025 |
| non-EU/EEA students | 01 May 2025 | 01 September 2025 |
| Specific requirements | More information |
|---|---|
| previous education |
LLB or equivalent |
| knowledge minimum |
basic knowledge of public international law, on a similar level as the course Public International Law, including some elementary human rights law and elementary knowledge of European Law |
| grade average |
On top of providing the Admissions Board with transcripts and diplomas, students should have an equivalent minimum GPA (Grade Point Average) of 7/10 (Dutch grading scale). |
| language test |
For more details about language requirements please check: https://bit.ly/2Ho7gkM |
| reference letter |
For further details about letter of reference please check: https://bit.ly/2Ho7gkM |
| (motivation-) letter |
For more details about motivation letter please check: https://bit.ly/2Ho7gkM |
| other admission requirements |
Curriculum vitae. For further information please check: https://bit.ly/2Ho7gkM |
This is a selective LLM, see Faculty pages for further details: https://www.rug.nl/rechten/education/international-programmes/llm/application/admission-requirements
| Type of student | Deadline | Start course |
|---|---|---|
| Dutch students | 01 May 2025 | 01 September 2025 |
| EU/EEA students | 01 May 2025 | 01 September 2025 |
| non-EU/EEA students | 01 May 2025 | 01 September 2025 |
| Nationality | Year | Fee | Programme form |
|---|---|---|---|
| EU/EEA | 2024-2025 | € 2530 | full-time |
| non-EU/EEA | 2024-2025 | € 20800 | full-time |
Practical information for:
The Law Faculty has established Centres of Expertise in order to let society at large benefit from our knowledge. A Centre of Expertise consists of a group of researchers with a specific legal knowledge, and the Centre's purpose is to distribute scientific knowledge to stakeholders outside the academic community and organise partnerships with these stakeholders. Our Centres of Expertise reflect specific fields of expertise currently available in the Law Faculty.
LLM International Human Rights Law
The University of Groningen is not only symbol of solid academic formation, cultural activities and sports complement this wonderful experience. Groningen is a truly life experience both inside and outside the classrooms
To study abroad was not a new experience for me when I decided to do my LLM programme in Groningen; but without a doubt it has been the best choice I could have made. As an international law student to study in the Netherlands offers you a wide scope of opportunities. Most of the top international tribunals have their seat here. An amazing quality programme and an impressive academic staff is offered. The University of Groningen is not only symbol of solid academic formation, cultural activities and sports complement this wonderful experience. Groningen is a truly life experience both inside and outside the classrooms. How does it sound to you to live in an International Student House with 320 people from different nationalities and cultures? The first time I heard about the University I had my doubts about why they are awarded as the most welcoming university in the Netherlands, now I fully understand. Ever since your application procedure, the staff will guide you; and do not feel silly asking questions, believe me, I had many and they helped me a lot! Currently I am applying for an internship in the International Criminal Court in The Hague, which will help to achieve my academic and professional goals. I need to say no more, you have to live the Groningen experience!
If you come across questions with regard to your programme, study progress, your way of studying, personal circumstances, etc., you can go to the International Office for guidance. All discussed in these conversations is treated confidentially.
