Georgetown University

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced doctrinal courses, comparative study, and applied practice to explore how law shapes and responds to gendered inequalities across jurisdictions. Core subject matter typically includes international human rights law, gender and the law, comparative family and personal status laws, international criminal law (with attention to sexual and gender-based crimes), refugee and migration law, and transitional justice. Students are also introduced to feminist legal theory, intersectionality, and methodologies for gender-sensitive legal research.

Study formats include seminars, small-group workshops and advanced elective modules. Students commonly complete a substantial research paper or supervised thesis on a topic such as litigation strategies against gender-based violence, comparative abortion regulation, forced migration and gendered harms, or the gendered impacts of trade and economic policy. Practical learning is embedded through clinical placements, externships, practicum-style courses and opportunities to work with advocacy organisations or international bodies based in Washington, D.C.

• Core topics: international human rights; gender and sexuality law; comparative family law; international criminal law and sexual violence.
• Research methods: feminist and intersectional approaches to legal research; comparative legal methods.
• Practice elements: clinics, externships, policy labs and experiential projects with NGOs or international agencies.
• Capstone: supervised research paper or thesis demonstrating original analysis.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a first degree in law (for example an LL.B., J.D. or equivalent). Candidates with substantial professional experience in law, human rights, policy, or international development may also be considered, particularly for programmes that accept non-law graduate entrants.

• Academic transcripts demonstrating a strong record in prior legal or relevant social-science study.
• A personal statement outlining your interest in gender, international and comparative law and how the programme fits your career or research goals.
• Letters of recommendation (usually two) from academic or professional referees who can address your suitability for advanced legal study.
• A current curriculum vitae or résumé detailing legal, research or relevant professional experience.
• For applicants whose first language is not English, evidence of English proficiency through recognised tests unless exempt by prior study or institutional policy.
• Some applicants may be asked for a writing sample to demonstrate legal research and analysis skills.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue a wide range of careers that draw on both legal expertise and gender-focused analysis. Common pathways include roles with international and regional organisations, human rights and women’s rights NGOs, public-interest litigators, government ministries and equality bodies, policy and advocacy units, and donor or development agencies. Alumni also move into academia and research, advising on law reform, refugee and migration services, or specialised private practice in areas such as family law, human rights litigation and transnational compliance.

The combination of comparative study and practical placements makes this qualification especially valuable for professionals aiming to work on cross-border issues—such as trafficking, forced migration, gender-based violence and reproductive rights—where law, policy and advocacy intersect.

Why study at Georgetown University

Georgetown University provides a distinctive environment for advanced study of gender, international and comparative law because of its location in Washington, D.C., and its strong connections to policy-makers, international organisations, and leading advocacy groups. Students benefit from access to experienced faculty who combine doctrinal expertise with international practice, as well as a range of clinical programmes and externship opportunities that allow direct engagement with real-world cases and policy work.

Interdisciplinary collaboration is another strength: students can draw on neighbouring schools and centres for supplementary study in international affairs, public policy, gender studies and human rights. These resources, together with a diverse student body and extensive professional networks, support both academic research and career development in public interest law, international institutions and comparative legal practice.