Key information
- Duration:
- 1 year full time, 2 years part time
- Start date:
- September 2025
- Apply by:
- 1 August 2025 (international), 1 September 2025 (UK)
Many believe international human rights law is one of our greatest moral achievements. However, huge gaps remain between the theory and the practice of human rights implementation.
On this LLM, you’ll gain the intellectual and practical skills to understand human rights issues in many different contexts. You’ll study:
- the interconnections between international human rights law and regional and national systems of human rights protection
- legal texts such as treaties, declarations and case law
- critiques of rights as well as the legal and practical context of contemporary issues and challenges.
Interdisciplinary human rights research is a research strength at Sussex and reflected in our teaching. You’ll engage with our team of established human rights researchers and get involved with the Sussex Centre for Human Rights Research.
At Sussex Law School, you’ll gain a global perspective, and have the chance to network with other activists and practitioners from around the world. These networks will also be valuable after you graduate. You’ll also have the opportunity to apply for the Human Rights Law Clinic option to gain practical insights.
We understand that deciding where and what to study is a very important decision. We’ll make all reasonable efforts to provide you with the courses, services and facilities described in this prospectus. However, if we need to make material changes, for example due to government or regulatory requirements, or unanticipated staff changes, we’ll let you know as soon as possible.
Putting theory into practice – Poppy Ni Bhroithe-Barnett, International Human Rights Law LLM
Virtual Masters Open Day
Join us online to find out the essentials of Masters study.
Saturday 23 November, 10.30am - 2.30pm
Entry requirements
| Degree requirements | You should normally have an upper second-class (2.1) undergraduate honours degree or above. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please select your country from the list.
Argentina
| Degree requirements | Licenciado/Titulo with a minimum final mark of at least 6.0-7.0 depending on your university. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Australia
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum second-class lower division. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Azerbaijan
| Degree requirements | Magistr or Specialist Diploma with a minimum average mark of at least 4 or 81% |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Bahrain
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA 2.5/4.0 (Grade C+). |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Bangladesh
| Degree requirements | A 4-year Bachelor degree with a minimum GPA of at least 3.2/4.0 |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Brazil
| Degree requirements | Bacharel, Licenciado or professional title with a minimum final mark of at least 7. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Brunei
| Degree requirements | Bachelors (Honours) degree with a minimum second class lower division or CGPA 2.7/4.0. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Canada
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA 3.0/4.0 (grade B). |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Chile
| Degree requirements | Licenciado with a minimum final mark of at least 4.5-5.0/7 depending on your university. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
China
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum overall mark of at least 65%-70% depending on your university. Sussex uses Project 211/985 to inform offer levels. As evidence of completing your degree you must provide both a Degree Certificate and Graduation Certificate. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Colombia
| Degree requirements | Licenciado with ‘Acreditacion de alta calidad’ and a minimum CGPA of 3.0. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Cyprus
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree or Ptychion with a minimum final mark of at least 6.5. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Denmark
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum overall mark of at least 7 (Fair Performance). |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Ecuador
| Degree requirements | Licenciado with a minimum final mark of at least 15/20. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Egypt
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree from a university with a minimum overall grade of at least 70%. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
France
| Degree requirements | Licence with mention assez bien or Maîtrise with a minimum final mark of at least 12. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Germany
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree or Magister Artium with a minimum final mark of 2.7 or better. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Ghana
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree from a public university with a minimum second-class lower division. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Greece
| Degree requirements | Ptychion from an AEI with a minimum final mark of at least 6.5. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Hong Kong
| Degree requirements | Bachelors (Honours) degree with a minimum second-class lower division. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
India
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum overall mark of at least 50-65% depending on your university. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Indonesia
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree from an 'A' accredited university with a minimum CGPA of 2.8/4.0. Bachelors degree from a 'B' accredited university with a minimum CGPA of 3.0/4.0. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Iran
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree (Licence or Karshenasi) with a minimum final mark of at least 14. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Italy
| Degree requirements | Diploma di Laurea with a minimum overall mark of at least 101. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Japan
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum C/GPA of at least 3.0/4.0 or equivalent. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Jordan
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA of at least 2.8/4.0 or 75%. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Kazakhstan
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum overall mark of 3.75 or better (on a scale of 1-5)/CGPA 2,67. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Kenya
| Degree requirements | Bachelors (Honours) degree with a minimum second-class lower division. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Kuwait
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA of at least 2.8/4.0 or B. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Lebanon
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA 3.0/4.0 or 13/20. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Malawi
| Degree requirements | Masters degree, depending on your university. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Malaysia
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA of at least 2.7/4.0. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Mexico
| Degree requirements | Licenciado with a minimum final mark of at least 7/10. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Nepal
| Degree requirements | A 4-year Bachelor degree with a minimum GPA of at least 3.0/4.0 |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Nigeria
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum second-class lower division or CGPA of at least 2.8-2.99/4.0, 3.0-3.49/5.0, or 4.0-4.6/7.0. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Norway
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum overall grade of C. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Oman
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA of at least 2.8/4.0. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Pakistan
| Degree requirements | Four-year Bachelors degree with an overall mark of at least 60%-65% or CGPA 2.4 - 2.6 depending on your university. Masters degree following a 3-year Bachelors degree with an overall mark of at least 60%-65% or CGPA 2.4 - 2.6 depending on your university. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Palestine
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum of at least 70% or CGPA of at least 3.0/4.0 |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Paraguay
| Degree requirements | Bachelors with a minimum final mark of at least 7/10. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Peru
| Degree requirements | Licenciado with a minimum final mark of at least 12/20 from a public university or 14/20 from a private university. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Philippines
| Degree requirements | Masters degree with a minimum of 1.75/5.0 (where 1 is the highest) or 3.5/4.0 |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Qatar
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum overall CPGA of at least 2.8 (on a scale of 4). |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Russia
| Degree requirements | Bakalavr or Specialist Diploma with a minimum average mark of at least 4. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Saudi Arabia
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA of 3.0/5.0 or 2.8/4.0. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Singapore
| Degree requirements | Bachelors (Honours) degree with a minimum second-class lower division or CAP 3.5. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
South Africa
| Degree requirements | Bachelors (honours) degree with a minimum second-class division 2. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
South Korea
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA of at least 3.0/4.5 or 2.8/4.3 or B. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Spain
| Degree requirements | Licenciado with a minimum final mark of at least 2/4 or 6/10. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Sri Lanka
| Degree requirements | Bachelors Special degree with a minimum lower second honours. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Switzerland
| Degree requirements | Licence or Diplôme with a minimum 4.5/6 or 7/10. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Taiwan
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum overall mark of at least 65%-75% depending on your university. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Thailand
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA of at least 2.5 -2.8/4.0 or equivalent depending on your university. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Turkey
| Degree requirements | Lisans Diplomasi with a minimum CGPA of at least 2.6 - 2.8/4.0 or equivalent depending on your university. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
United Arab Emirates
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA of at least 2.8/4.0 or equivalent. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
USA
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA of at least 3.0/4.0. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Uzbekistan
| Degree requirements | Specialist Diploma with an average mark of at least 70%. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Vietnam
| Degree requirements | Bachelors degree (with a Graduate Thesis/research component) with a minimum CGPA of at least 3.0/4.0 or 7.0/10. As evidence of completing your degree you must provide both proof of graduation in addition to your transcript. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Zambia
| Degree requirements | Masters degree with a minimum GPA of 2.0/2.5 or equivalent. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Zimbabwe
| Degree requirements | Bachelors (Honours) degree with a minimum second-class lower division. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
My country is not listed
If your country is not listed, you need to contact us and find out the qualification level you should have for this course. Contact us
| Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should normally be in law or a relevant subject such as history, human rights, international relations, political science, politics, or sociology. You may still be considered if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
|---|
English language requirements
IELTS (Academic)
Standard level (6.0 overall, including at least 5.5 in each component).
IELTS scores are valid for two years from the test date. You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course. Find out more about IELTS
We accept IELTS One Skills Retake.
We do not accept IELTS Online.
Alternative English language qualifications
Proficiency tests
Cambridge Advanced Certificate in English (CAE)
169 overall, including at least 162 in each skill.
We would normally expect the CAE test to have been taken within two years before the start of your course.
You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Find out more about Cambridge English: Advanced
Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE)
169 overall, including at least 162 in each skill.
We would normally expect the CPE test to have been taken within two years before the start of your course.
You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Find out more about Cambridge English: Proficiency
LanguageCert Academic SELT
Standard level (65 overall, including at least 60 in each component).
LanguageCert Academic SELT scores are valid for two years from the test date. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course. Find out more about LanguageCert Academic SELT
We only accept LanguageCert when taken at SELT Test Centres.
We do not accept the online version. We also do not accept the non-SELT version.
LanguageCert International ESOL SELT
International ESOL SELT B2 with a minimum of 36 in each component.
LanguageCert International ESOL scores are valid for two years from the test date. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course. Find out more about LanguageCert SELT
We only accept LanguageCert when taken at SELT Test Centres. We do not accept the online version.
Pearson (PTE Academic)
Standard level (59 overall, including at least 59 in all four skills).
PTE (Academic) scores are valid for two years from the test date. You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course. Find out more about Pearson (PTE Academic)
We do not accept the PTE Academic Online test.
TOEFL (iBT)
Standard level (80 overall, including at least 17 in Listening, 18 in Reading, 20 in Speaking, 17 in Writing).
TOEFL (iBT) scores are valid for two years from the test date. You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course. Find out more about TOEFL (iBT)
We do not accept TOEFL (iBT) Home Edition.
The TOEFL Institution Code for the University of Sussex is 9166.
English language qualifications
AS/A-level (GCE)
Grade C or above in English Language.
Hong Kong Advanced Level Examination (HKALE)/ AS or A Level: grade C or above in Use of English.
GCE O-level
Grade C or above in English.
Brunei/Cambridge GCE O-level in English: grades 1-6.
Singapore/Cambridge GCE O-level in English: grades 1-6.
GCSE or IGCSE
Grade C or above in English as a First Language (Grade 4 or above in GCSE from 2017).
Grade B or above in English as a Second Language.
Ghana Senior Secondary School Certificate
If awarded before 1993: grades 1-6 in English language.
If awarded between 1993 and 2005: grades A-D in English language.
Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE)
Level 4, including at least 3 in each component in English Language.
Indian School Certificate (Standard XII)
The Indian School Certificate is accepted at the grades below when awarded by the following examination boards:
Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) – English Core only: 70%
Council for Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE) - English: 70%
International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB)
English A or English B at grade 5 or above.
Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education
Grades A - C in English language
Malaysian Certificate of Education (SPM) 1119/GCE O-level
If taken before the end of 2008: grades 1-6 in English Language.
If taken from 2009 onwards: grade C or above in English Language.
The qualification must be jointly awarded by the University of Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate (UCLES).
West African Senior School Certificate
Grades A1-C6 (1-6) in English language when awarded by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) or the National Examinations Council (NECO).
Country exceptions
Select to see the list of exempt English-speaking countries
If you are a national of one of the countries below, or if you have recently completed a qualification equivalent to a UK Bachelors degree or higher in one of these countries, you will normally meet our English requirement. Note that qualifications obtained by distance learning or awarded by studying outside these countries cannot be accepted for English language purposes.
You will normally be expected to have completed the qualification within two years before starting your course at Sussex. If the qualification was obtained earlier than this, we would expect you to be able to demonstrate that you have maintained a good level of English, for example by living in an English-speaking country or working in an occupation that required you to use English regularly and to a high level.
Please note that this list is determined by the UK’s Home Office, not by the University of Sussex.
List of exempt countries:
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Australia
- Bahamas
- Barbados
- Belize
- Canada**
- Dominica
- Grenada
- Guyana
- Ireland
- Jamaica
- New Zealand
- St Kitts and Nevis
- St Lucia
- St Vincent and the Grenadines
- The British Overseas Territories
- Trinidad and Tobago
- United Kingdom
- USA
** Canada: you must be a national of Canada; other nationals not on this list who have a degree from a Canadian institution will not normally be exempt from needing to provide evidence of English.
English language support
If you don’t meet the English language requirements for your degree, you may be able to take a pre-sessional course
Visas and immigration
Find out how to apply for a student visa
Admissions information for applicants
| How to apply | You will be able to apply from November 2024.
|
|---|---|
| Personal statement | Yes. You must submit a personal statement as part of your application. |
If your qualifications aren’t listed or you have a question about entry requirements, contact us
For details on any additional costs, check out the Fees and scholarships section.
Pre-Masters
Need to boost your academic skills for your taught course? Find out about Pre-Masters routes
Application deadlines
1 August 2025 (international), 1 September 2025 (UK)
We strongly recommend an earlier application where possible, as some courses are in high demand and may close before the above dates. Find out more at How to apply for a Masters course
Modules
Full-time and part-time study
Choose to study this course full time or part time, to fit around your work and personal life. Modules for the full-time course are listed below. For details about the part-time course, contact us.
Core modules
Core modules are taken by all students on the course. They give you a solid grounding in your chosen subject and prepare you to explore the topics that interest you most.
Autumn teaching
- Advanced Legal Research and Writing
- Critiquing International Law
- International Human Rights Law
- Principles of International Law
Spring and summer teaching
Options
Alongside your core modules, you can choose options to broaden your horizons and tailor your course to your interests. This list gives you a flavour of our options, which are kept under review and may change, for example in response to student feedback or the latest research.
While it’s our aim for students to take their preferred combinations of options, this can’t be guaranteed and will be subject to timetabling. Options may be grouped and if so, students will be able to choose a set number of options from the selection available in any particular group.
Spring teaching
- Anthropology of Law
- Civil and Political Rights: Contemporary Challenges
- Governance of the Global Digital Economy
- Human Rights Law Clinic
- Human Trafficking and Modern Slavery
- Indigenous and Minority Rights
- International Business and Human Rights
- International Crimes
- International Environmental Law
- Law, Religion, and Human Rights
- LGBTQI Rights: International and Comparative Perspectives
- Migration, Rights and Governance
- Socioeconomic rights: economic violence, social justice and human rights law
- Women and Human Rights
Human Rights Law Clinic
You’ll have the opportunity to apply for the Human Rights Law Clinic option. Selection is based on an application process and the successful completion of the International Human Rights Law core module.
The Clinic gives you the chance to build on law and theory through the preparation of pro bono legal opinions for real clients including international organisations and non-governmental organisations. You’ll gain practical insights by working in a team to produce a research memorandum on a contemporary human rights challenge.
Human rights and the environment
We all depend on the environment we live in. The links between human rights, climate change and the environment are increasingly recognised, and career opportunities in the field are growing rapidly.
On this course, you have the opportunity to choose from a range of options that go beyond the core of international human rights law. This means you can develop an understanding of the international legal frameworks relevant to climate change and the environment. As a graduate, you’ll find yourself at the cutting-edge of the human rights agenda.
We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We’re planning to run these modules in the academic year 2024/25. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to feedback, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum. We’ll make sure to let you know of any material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.
We’ll do our best to provide as much optional choice as we can, but timetabling constraints mean it may not be possible to take some module combinations. The structure of a small number of courses means that the order of modules or the streams you choose may determine whether modules are core or optional. This means that your core modules or options may differ from what’s shown here.
Check back in January 2025 for the modules running in the academic year 2025/26.
I think the impact of my work is mostly visible through my students. I teach them the things they need to make people’s lives better, and they change the world – which is a real privilege to see.”Stephanie Berry
Senior Lecturer in Human Rights Law
Read Stephanie’s story
Find out about LLM degrees at the University of Sussex
Our experts
I thoroughly enjoy teaching on this LLM. We have a variety of world views and a range of real-world experience in the classroom – lively debates are guaranteed!”Dr Stephanie Berry
Senior Lecturer in International Human Rights Law
Dr Stephanie Berry
Senior Lecturer in International Human Rights Law
Dr Shahrzad Fouladvand
Senior Lecturer in International Criminal Law
Fees and scholarships
How much does it cost?
Fees
- Home students:
- £11,025 per year for full-time students
- Channel Islands and Isle of Man students:
- £11,025 per year for full-time students
- International students:
- £22,575 per year for full-time students
If you study part time over two years, you’ll be charged 50% of the equivalent full-time fee in each year of study. Your second-year fee – if you continue your studies without a break – will be subject to a 3% increase (subject to rounding).
If you’re a self-funded international student, you’re required to pay a tuition fee deposit. Find out more about Masters tuition fee deposits
Additional costs
Note about additional costs
Please note that all costs are best estimates based on current market values. Activities may be subject to unavoidable change in response to Government advice. We’ll let you know at the earliest opportunity. We review estimates every year and they may vary with inflation. Find out how to budget for student life.
International Human Rights Law texts
We recommend you buy certain optional texts for around £30 to £35. These texts are available online from the University and from other outlets.
Optional field trip
This course offers an optional field trip to The Hague once a year. If you wish to attend, it will cost around £100 to £180.
Recommended texts
The optional but recommended texts for this course cost between £20 and £50.
Living costs
Find out typical living costs for studying at Sussex
Find out about our terms and conditions
How can I fund my course?
Scholarships
Our goal is to ensure that every student who wants to study with us is able to regardless of financial barriers, so that we continue to attract talented and unique people.
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Sussex Bangladesh Scholarship (Masters)
Unlimited £4,000 scholarships for applicants who are nationals of Bangladesh
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Sussex Egypt Scholarship (Masters)
Unlimited £4,000 scholarships for applicants who are nationals of Egypt
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Sussex India Scholarship (Masters)
Unlimited £4,000 scholarships for applicants who are nationals of India
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Sussex Nigeria Scholarship (Masters)
Unlimited £4,000 scholarships for applicants who are nationals of Nigeria
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Sussex Pakistan Scholarship (Masters)
Unlimited £4,000 scholarships for applicants who are nationals of Pakistan
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Sussex Turkey Scholarship (Masters)
Unlimited £4,000 scholarships for applicants who are nationals of Turkey
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Sussex Vietnam Scholarship (Masters)
Unlimited £4,000 scholarships for applicants who are nationals of Vietnam
Working while you study
Our Careers and Employability Centre can help you find part-time work while you study. Find out more about career development and part-time work
Careers
On this LLM, you’ll gain the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue and advance within careers in human rights – from legal practice, to advocacy and campaigning, to further research.
Our graduates have gone on to a variety of roles across the world:
- leading human rights law firms
- international NGOs
- government and civil service.
Some of our graduates have also gone on to further study and careers in academia.
Graduate destinations
Recent Sussex Law School graduates have gone on to jobs including:
- legal consultant, Global Rights Compliance LLP
- refugee researcher, Amnesty International UK
- administrative law division intern, United Nations (New York).
(Sussex Law School careers database)
Working pro bono for Amnesty International in the Human Rights Law Clinic was the highlight of my degree. I’ve gained so much confidence – now I’m working for a leading human rights law firm.”Louise Plumstead
International Human Rights Law LLM graduate
Paralegal in Public Law, Bindmans