University of Edinburgh

What you'll study

The programme develops a deep understanding of the substantive and procedural rules that shape the global economic order. Core topics typically include public international law foundations, World Trade Organization (WTO) law, international investment law, international financial regulation, dispute settlement and trade remedies. You will also be able to choose from elective modules that may cover competition law and regulation, regional trade agreements, trade and human rights, trade and development, international tax law, and transnational commercial law.

Teaching normally combines seminars, directed reading and assessed coursework. Assessment methods include essays, take-home exams, oral presentations and a substantial research dissertation or major project that allows you to pursue a specialised area of interest under academic supervision.

Typical structure

• Mandatory or core modules establishing doctrinal and institutional foundations of international economic law.
• Optional modules allowing specialisation in areas such as investment protection, trade remedies, or financial regulation.
• Research dissertation or major project demonstrating independent research skills and subject mastery.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good undergraduate degree in law (or a non-law degree plus a recognised law conversion) from a recognised institution. The usual academic standard is equivalent to a UK upper second-class honours, though candidates with other combinations of qualifications and relevant professional experience may also be considered.

Applicants whose first language is not English will need to meet the University’s English language requirements; evidence of an approved test or other accepted qualification is required. Professional experience in legal practice, government, international organisations, or economics/policy may strengthen an application, particularly for mature or non-traditional applicants.

Career prospects

Graduates of the LLM in International Economic Law pursue a wide range of careers. Common destinations include international law firms and boutique practices specialising in trade, investment and arbitration; government departments and trade ministries; international organisations such as the WTO, World Bank, regional development banks and UN agencies; regulatory bodies and competition authorities; in-house legal teams of multinational corporations; and policy or advisory roles in think-tanks and NGOs.

The degree also provides a solid foundation for doctoral study and academic careers. Skills developed—legal analysis, comparative law, negotiation and research—are highly transferable and valued in both public- and private-sector roles that address cross-border economic issues.

Why study at University of Edinburgh

Edinburgh Law School offers a well-established environment for advanced study of international law, with faculty active in research on trade, investment and international dispute resolution. The university’s location provides access to a vibrant legal community, visiting practitioners and public seminars, and the broader institutional links that support placements and networking.

Students benefit from extensive library and research resources, interdisciplinary connections across the university (for example with economics and social policy specialists), and opportunities to engage with practical and policy-relevant work. Flexible study modes are typically available to accommodate full-time and part-time students, enabling a range of professional and academic pathways.