This module is not currently running in 2024 to 2025.
This module provides a detailed study of the history, rules, doctrines and institutions of public international law. It offers a critical analysis of the international legal order and a firm basis upon which to found arguments concerning the political importance of international law. The module pays special attention to the way in which the evolution and operation of the international legal order influence not only international relations, but also daily domestic life.
At the end of the course students will be able to assess, both internally and in context, the main rules, doctrines and institutions of public international law. Students will also develop the necessary tools to reflect critically on some of the most important problems and tensions that define the contemporary global order: from calamities resulting from war, international interventions and surveillance strategies in countries like Afghanistan, Libya and Pakistan, to the everyday effects of increasing socio-economic disparities and environmental decay in both the Global South and the Global North.
Total contact hours: 20
Private study hours: 180
Total study hours: 200
Canterbury - LLM in (Specialisation); PG Diploma in (Specialisation); PG Certificate in Law
Brussels - LLM in (Specialisation); PG Diploma in (Specialisation); PG Certificate in (Specialisation); MA in International Development; MA in International Political Economy; MA in International Relations.
Main assessment methods
Essay - 5000 words: 100%
Reassessment methods
Reassessment Instrument: 100% coursework
Cassese, Antonio, International Law (2nd ed. OUP, 2005)
Evans, Malcolm, International Law (4th edn, OUP, 2014)
Klabbers, Jan, International Law (CUP, 2013).
Malanczuk, Peter and Akehurst's, Michael, Modern Introduction to International Law (7th ed, Routledge, 1997).
Shaw, Malcom, International Law (7th ed. CUP, 2014).
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
The intended subject specific learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
8.1 Demonstrate a critical awareness of the significance of International Law within the field of International Relations
8.2 Demonstrate a sophisticated knowledge and understanding of the concepts, principles and rules of International Law
8.3 Demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the current theoretical and doctrinal debates within International Law
8.4 Critically apply international legal methods to international legal problems
8.5 Demonstrate an intricate familiarity with the operations of the institutions of International Law, especially the United Nations and the
International Court of Justice
The intended generic learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
9.1 Present and apply relevant knowledge and understanding in the form of reasoned and supported argument;
9.2 Carry out thorough and independent research analysing various points of view and using wide sources;
9.3 Express themselves to a high standard in a coherent form;
9.4 Undertake appropriate further training or research in the field.
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