Introduction
Combine the key specialist topics of criminal justice with some of today’s most powerful human rights issues, studying cases from around the world in a variety of contexts. With our carefully designed LLM, you’ll have the opportunity to further your understanding of how the two topics impact each other whilst expanding your employability prospects.
Study Information
Study Options
- Learning Mode
- On Campus Learning
- Degree Qualification
- LLM
- Duration
- 12 months or 24 months
- Study Mode
- Full Time or Part Time
- Start Month
- September or January
One of the biggest changes in recent times has been the increasing global demand for criminal justice systems to comply with human rights. Whether you’re studying international conventions to confront human trafficking or legal frameworks to investigate war crimes, this programme will help you explore both Criminal Justice and Human Rights in depth and breadth and will identify how the two topics impact each other. You will have the opportunity to study subjects such as Criminological Theories, Criminal Evidence and Proof and The Use of Force in International Law. This programme was designed in collaboration with criminal justice and human rights experts as well as our internal staff at the University. With this combined input, you will gain unique insights into both subjects from an international perspective, which will advance your understanding of the factors that influence them. The programme has been carefully coordinated to align with the competencies required for today’s international job market. The University of Aberdeen is known for attracting world-class teaching staff with international experience in their specialist subjects. You will have access to first rate teaching from globally respected staff, such as Programme Director Professor Duff, who specialises in criminal justice, evidence and procedure. He has also worked at the Centre for Criminological Research in the University of Oxford, the City University of Hong Kong and the University of the South Pacific.
Available Programmes of Study
Please note: Students staring their LLM programme in January write their Dissertation project during the Summer semester.
- LLM 12 months or 24 months On Campus Learning Full Time or Part Time January View
-
Programme Information
- Semester 1
-
Semester 1
For January students, the first semester covers courses with the prefix LS55 and there is the compulsory course LS551T Critical Legal Thinking and Scholarship.
Compulsory Courses
- Critical Legal Thinking and Scholarship (LS551T)
-
This compulsory course provides students from diverse legal and educational backgrounds with a common understanding of the core research, analytical, and writing skills which would be required to excel in LLM-Taught courses. It commences with a few lectures and progresses to working in a workshop environment and finally to the submission of an individual assignment. It also incorporates elements such as library workshops to provide students with hands-on experience with the resources available for course and dissertation work.
View detailed information about this course
Optional Courses
Thereafter four optional courses must be selected over semesters one and three.
At least two must be selected from the Criminal Justice programme and at least one from the Human Rights programme. One course may be selected from another LLM programme (excluding, LS501E, and LS551K).- Criminal Evidence and Proof (LS551R)
-
30 Credit Points
This course is comparative in nature and examines in depth various, key evidentiary doctrines, focussing upon the jurisprudence of the European Court of Human Rights and differences in the approaches adopted by national jurisdictions. Topics addressed include: the nature of proof; expert evidence; vulnerable witnesses; hearsay; the right to confrontation; similar facts evidence; corroboration; and the presumption of innocence. The emphasis is not so much on ‘black-letter law’ but on the principles and policies, often clashing, which underlie the detailed legal rules and regulations governing the relevant types of evidence.
View detailed information about this course - Criminal Law (LS551S)
-
30 Credit Points
The course examines current debates in criminal law from theoretical and comparative perspectives – drawing on insights from different jurisdictions. Topics include: principles of criminalisation (i.e. discussion of what types of conduct should be criminalised, the moral justification for creating criminal laws and what limits should be set on the state’s power to enact criminal laws); mental capacity, age and criminal responsibility; current definitions of (and proposals to reform) the crimes of murder and rape; necessity and coercion defences; and homicide by victims of domestic abuse.
View detailed information about this course - The use of Force in International Law (LS5549)
-
30 Credit Points
The course analyses how international law regulates the use of armed forces between States. It is of interest to students who want to understand the legal considerations which frame contemporary conflicts. The course will study the fundamental principle of the prohibition on the use of inter-State force. It will examine the current exceptions to this principle, and how States try to justify the use of force. Consequently, the course will study the most recent recourses to force on the international plane, in particular in Kosovo, Afghanistan, Iraq, Libya, Syria, and Ukraine. Teaching will be delivered mainly through discussion based seminars.
View detailed information about this course - International Human Rights Law (LS5590)
-
30 Credit Points
The course was designed to help students build competence in dealing with the doctrinal issues about international human rights. It involves understanding the place of human rights in public international law, finding one’s way around the foundational human rights documents and the jurisprudence of human rights bodies. The course delivery puts heavy emphasis on classroom discussion on the controversial issues on contemporary human rights law that shape doctrinal development in this field: the justifiability of torture, the limits of freedom of religion, the justiciability of social rights, etc
View detailed information about this course - International Humanitarian Law (LS551G)
-
30 Credit Points
The course explores the history, nature and salient features of the principles of ‘the laws and customs of war’, also called IHL; they are enshrined, inter alia, in the Geneva Conventions of 1949 and their Additional Protocols of 1977. The principles of distinction, humanity, necessity and proportionality as applied to contemporary armed conflicts are examined. The course emphasises the rules and challenges pertaining to civilian immunity, occupation, legal controls on weapons and how IHL is implemented and enforced. It also clarifies the differences/similarities between IHL and international human rights law and the law on the use of force.
View detailed information about this course
- Semester 2
-
Semester 2
The compulsory dissertation provides the opportunity to research and explore in more detail a specific legal area of your choice.
Compulsory Courses
- Master of Laws Dissertation (LS5904)
-
60 Credit Points
Between May and mid-August students prepare a 10,000 word dissertation on a topic of their choice related to their specialist LLM programme. Students are instructed through the delivery of a preparatory lecture, two supervisory meetings and a two hour dissertation planning workshop in a small group setting. Students are expected to spend considerable time on independent research throughout the course of the dissertation module, including; preparation of dissertation plan, amendment of plan in accordance with supervisory comments, preparation for the dissertation workshop, and, of course, in the final 10,000 word dissertation itself.
View detailed information about this course
- Semester 3
-
Semester 3
In September, January start students will take courses starting with LS50.
Optional Courses
- Issues in Criminal Justice (LS5096)
-
30 Credit Points
This course is comparative in nature and examines in depth certain aspects of the criminal justice process, focussing upon differences between the adversarial and inquisitorial models. Examples are mainly drawn from Scotland, England and continental Europe. Topics addressed include: prosecution systems; the position of the accused; the status granted to the victim; plea-bargaining; the trial process; and appeals. The emphasis is not so much on ‘black-letter law’ but on the principles and policies, often clashing, which underlie the detailed legal rules and regulations governing the relevant institutions and processes.
View detailed information about this course - International Law: A Time of Challenges (LS501U)
-
30 Credit Points
The course analyses recent developments in public international law. It first considers the sources of public international law. The question is then asked whether traditional public international law can regulate pressing issues on the international plane. Examples of these problems are: international terrorism, nuclear weapons proliferation, protection of human rights, ethnic conflicts, climate change. The course encourages the participant-student to think creatively as an international lawyer to resolve contemporary international dilemmas.
View detailed information about this course
Programme Fees
Fee information Fee category Cost EU / International students £19,400 Tuition Fees for 2021/22 Academic Year Home / RUK £10,200 Tuition Fees for 2021/22 Academic Year - LLM 12 months or 24 months On Campus Learning Full Time or Part Time September View
-
Programme Information
- Semester 1
-
Semester 1
The information listed below is for September start students.
Compulsory Courses
All candidates must take the following course:
- Critical Legal Thinking and Scholarship (LS501T)
-
This compulsory course provides students from diverse legal and educational backgrounds with a common understanding of the core research, analytical, and writing skills which would be required to excel in LLM-Taught courses. It commences with a few lectures and progresses to working in a workshop environment and finally to the submission of an individual assignment. It also incorporates elements such as library workshops to provide students with hands-on experience with the resources available for course and dissertation work.
View detailed information about this course
Optional Courses
Thereafter four optional courses must be selected over semesters one and two.
At least two must be selected from the Criminal Justice programme and at least one from the Human Rights programme. One course may be selected from another LLM programme (excluding, LS501E, and LS551K).- Issues in Criminal Justice (LS5096)
-
30 Credit Points
This course is comparative in nature and examines in depth certain aspects of the criminal justice process, focussing upon differences between the adversarial and inquisitorial models. Examples are mainly drawn from Scotland, England and continental Europe. Topics addressed include: prosecution systems; the position of the accused; the status granted to the victim; plea-bargaining; the trial process; and appeals. The emphasis is not so much on ‘black-letter law’ but on the principles and policies, often clashing, which underlie the detailed legal rules and regulations governing the relevant institutions and processes.
View detailed information about this course - International Law: A Time of Challenges (LS501U)
-
30 Credit Points
The course analyses recent developments in public international law. It first considers the sources of public international law. The question is then asked whether traditional public international law can regulate pressing issues on the international plane. Examples of these problems are: international terrorism, nuclear weapons proliferation, protection of human rights, ethnic conflicts, climate change. The course encourages the participant-student to think creatively as an international lawyer to resolve contemporary international dilemmas.
View detailed information about this course
- Semester 2
-
Semester 2
Optional Courses
- Criminal Evidence and Proof (LS551R)
-
30 Credit Points
This course is comparative in nature and examines in depth various, key evidentiary doctrines, focussing upon the jurisprudence of the European Court of Human Rights and differences in the approaches adopted by national jurisdictions. Topics addressed include: the nature of proof; expert evidence; vulnerable witnesses; hearsay; the right to confrontation; similar facts evidence; corroboration; and the presumption of innocence. The emphasis is not so much on ‘black-letter law’ but on the principles and policies, often clashing, which underlie the detailed legal rules and regulations governing the relevant types of evidence.
View detailed information about this course - Criminal Law (LS551S)
-
30 Credit Points
The course examines current debates in criminal law from theoretical and comparative perspectives – drawing on insights from different jurisdictions. Topics include: principles of criminalisation (i.e. discussion of what types of conduct should be criminalised, the moral justification for creating criminal laws and what limits should be set on the state’s power to enact criminal laws); mental capacity, age and criminal responsibility; current definitions of (and proposals to reform) the crimes of murder and rape; necessity and coercion defences; and homicide by victims of domestic abuse.
View detailed information about this course - The use of Force in International Law (LS5549)
-
30 Credit Points
The course analyses how international law regulates the use of armed forces between States. It is of interest to students who want to understand the legal considerations which frame contemporary conflicts. The course will study the fundamental principle of the prohibition on the use of inter-State force. It will examine the current exceptions to this principle, and how States try to justify the use of force. Consequently, the course will study the most recent recourses to force on the international plane, in particular in Kosovo, Afghanistan, Iraq, Libya, Syria, and Ukraine. Teaching will be delivered mainly through discussion based seminars.
View detailed information about this course - International Human Rights Law (LS5590)
-
30 Credit Points
The course was designed to help students build competence in dealing with the doctrinal issues about international human rights. It involves understanding the place of human rights in public international law, finding one’s way around the foundational human rights documents and the jurisprudence of human rights bodies. The course delivery puts heavy emphasis on classroom discussion on the controversial issues on contemporary human rights law that shape doctrinal development in this field: the justifiability of torture, the limits of freedom of religion, the justiciability of social rights, etc
View detailed information about this course - International Humanitarian Law (LS551G)
-
30 Credit Points
The course explores the history, nature and salient features of the principles of ‘the laws and customs of war’, also called IHL; they are enshrined, inter alia, in the Geneva Conventions of 1949 and their Additional Protocols of 1977. The principles of distinction, humanity, necessity and proportionality as applied to contemporary armed conflicts are examined. The course emphasises the rules and challenges pertaining to civilian immunity, occupation, legal controls on weapons and how IHL is implemented and enforced. It also clarifies the differences/similarities between IHL and international human rights law and the law on the use of force.
View detailed information about this course
- Semester 3
-
Semester 3
The compulsory dissertation provides the opportunity to research and explore in more detail a specific legal area of your choice.
Compulsory Courses
- Master of Laws Dissertation (LS5904)
-
60 Credit Points
Between May and mid-August students prepare a 10,000 word dissertation on a topic of their choice related to their specialist LLM programme. Students are instructed through the delivery of a preparatory lecture, two supervisory meetings and a two hour dissertation planning workshop in a small group setting. Students are expected to spend considerable time on independent research throughout the course of the dissertation module, including; preparation of dissertation plan, amendment of plan in accordance with supervisory comments, preparation for the dissertation workshop, and, of course, in the final 10,000 word dissertation itself.
View detailed information about this course
Programme Fees
Fee information Fee category Cost EU / International students £19,400 Tuition Fees for 2021/22 Academic Year Home / RUK £10,200 Tuition Fees for 2021/22 Academic Year
Criminal Justice and Human Rights
We will endeavour to make all course options available; however, these may be subject to timetabling and other constraints. Please see our InfoHub pages for further information.
How You'll Study
In addition to being taught through traditional lectures and seminars, the University Law School employs a range of teaching methods to suit your learning style. Even when studying independently, you will benefit from having regular contact with your course coordinator and other members of the teaching staff.
Learning Methods
- Lectures
- Seminars
Assessment Methods
Assessment: By course work, by written examination, or by a combination of these, as prescribed for each course. The degree of LLM shall not be awarded to a candidate who fails to achieve a CGS grade of D3 or above in the specified dissertation course, irrespective of their performance in other courses: such candidates may, at the discretion of the Examiners, be awarded a Postgraduate Diploma or Postgraduate Certificate.
Why Study Criminal Justice and Human Rights?
Ever since the University’s opening in 1495, the Law School has played an integral role in Aberdeen’s history - and there’s no substitute for experience.
- Study Law at a top 10 UK Law School (Complete University Guide 2020)
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In an LLM exit survey we carried out in 2016, 98% of students felt that their LLM had added value to their career prospects and 97% would recommend their course to others.
- There are over 40 nationalities within the School of Law postgraduate community, so you will benefit from the experiences of international students from all over the world.
Students choose to study Law at Aberdeen because of our reputation for academic excellence and unrivalled student experience. At Aberdeen, you will:
- Gain an advanced understanding of how both criminal justice and human rights are two of the key drivers for change in today’s world.
- Develop your critical thinking and deepen your knowledge of the relationship between criminal justice and human rights, which will help establish your career as a legal professional.
- Benefit from studying at one of the oldest universities in the UK where teaching is always modern and forward-thinking.
- Benefit from the inclusive teaching approach that our staff adopt, ensuring that you will learn in a way that suits your learning style.
- Have access to our faculty experts whenever you need, which will maximise the interaction of ideas and create a relaxed, informal forum for learning.
- Study alongside a diverse mix of international students and gain a deeper understanding of how criminal justice and human rights interact in different countries and cultures.
You will be part of a vibrant, close-knit community of students that provides a personal and friendly atmosphere where staff have the opportunity to know students by name and can closely monitor progress.
Entry Requirements
Qualifications
The information below is provided as a guide only and does not guarantee entry to the University of Aberdeen.
Normally a 2:1 honours degree in Law (or another related discipline) or equivalent.
Document requirements application, we require at least:
- A full transcript showing all the subjects you studied and marks you achieved in your degree(s).
- A detailed personal statement explaining your reasons for choosing this programme.
- CV/Resume optional.
- Reference letter from your university discussing your academic ability.
Please enter your country to view country-specific entry requirements.
English Language Requirements
To study for a Postgraduate Taught degree at the University of Aberdeen it is essential that you can speak, understand, read, and write English fluently. The minimum requirements for this degree are as follows:
IELTS Academic:
OVERALL - 6.5 with: Listening - 5.5; Reading - 6.0; Speaking - 5.5; Writing - 6.0
TOEFL iBT:
OVERALL - 90 with: Listening - 17; Reading - 21; Speaking - 20; Writing - 21
PTE Academic:
OVERALL - 62 with: Listening - 59; Reading - 59; Speaking - 59; Writing - 59
Cambridge English B2 First, C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency:
OVERALL - 176 with: Listening - 162; Reading - 169; Speaking - 162; Writing - 169
Read more about specific English Language requirements here.
Document Requirements
You will be required to supply the following documentation with your application as proof you meet the entry requirements of this degree programme. If you have not yet completed your current programme of study, then you can still apply and you can provide your Degree Certificate at a later date.
- Degree Transcript
- a full transcript showing all the subjects you studied and the marks you have achieved in your degree(s) (original & official English translation)
- Personal Statement
- a detailed personal statement explaining your motivation for this particular programme
- Reference
- a reference letter from your university discussing your academic ability. If you have been out of education for a long time you may wish to use your current or most recent employer, or another professional person
International Applicants
Fee Information
International non-EU Applicants
Further Information about tuition fees and the cost of living in Aberdeen
Additional Fee Information
- Fees for individual programmes can be viewed in the Programmes section above.
- In exceptional circumstances there may be additional fees associated with specialist courses, for example field trips. Any additional fees for a course can be found in our Catalogue of Courses.
- For more information about tuition fees for this programme, including payment plans and our refund policy, please visit our InfoHub Tuition Fees page.
Funding Opportunities
The James Carnegie maintenance scholarship for postgraduate students is available with this degree.
Scholarships
Eligible self-funded international Masters students will receive the Aberdeen Global Scholarship. Visit our Funding Database to find out more and see our full range of scholarships.
Postgraduate Virtual Open Day
On Tuesday 18th May, The University of Aberdeen will hold a Postgraduate Virtual Open Day.
It is open to everyone who is interested in Postgraduate Taught and Research study.
Find out moreCareers
By studying Criminal Justice and Human Rights at Aberdeen, you will gain a unique insight into the two disciplines from an international perspective. You will benefit from having a competitive advantage in the job market, particularly in careers related to foreign and security policies and international organisations. The programme will also provide a solid grounding for an academic career and help you prepare for a PhD.
Our Experts
Dr Mátyás Bódig is a Senior Lecturer at the University of Aberdeen. At the Law School, he is Director of Postgraduate Taught Programmes, as well as Programme Coordinator for LLM in Human Rights.
Professor Duff specialises in criminal justice, evidence and procedure. He worked at the Centre for Criminological Research in the University of Oxford, the City University of Hong Kong and the University of the South Pacific.
- Other Experts
- Isla Mairi Fraser Callander
- Elizabeth Eleanor Ruth Shaw
- Ilona Catherine MacDonald Cairns
- Programme Coordinators
- Peter Robert Duff
- Matyas Bodig, The University of Aberdeen
Information About Staff Changes
You will be taught by a range of experts including professors, lecturers, teaching fellows and postgraduate tutors. Staff changes will occur from time to time; please see our InfoHub pages for further information.
Get in Touch
Contact Details
- Address
-
School of Law
University of Aberdeen
Taylor Building
Aberdeen
AB24 3UB