Master of Laws in International Law (LLM)

Whether negotiating multilateral treaties, drafting resolutions at the United Nations, or shaping human rights policies, practicing international law often means working outside of the courtroom. Fletcher’s LLM program offers a singularly comprehensive approach to international law, setting you apart by contextualizing your legal studies within a multidisciplinary education in international affairs.

At Fletcher, you’ll study with global leaders who bring real-world law and policy experience in areas such as negotiation and conflict resolution, human security, trade and international business, migration, human rights, cybersecurity, and climate and energy. Uniquely embedded within a global affairs school, our LLM program offers unmatched legal depth and contextual breadth, helping you develop a profound and versatile foundation across disciplines—all in one academic year.

Designed for students from around the world, the LLM at Fletcher draws individuals with diverse backgrounds in law, civil society, the military, and the private sector. Here, you will go beyond what’s possible with a traditional law degree, gaining an interdisciplinary perspective on the promises and limits of legal frameworks and their role alongside other global solutions.

Learn to ask deeper questions – and pursue more complex answers – in Fletcher’s dynamic academic community of thinkers and advocates.

Study international humanitarian law with faculty immersed in the field, alongside peers who come from a legal or military background, or who have lived through international conflict as civilians. Learn to consider international problems – not just as lawyers – but from the perspectives of various stakeholders and constituencies affected by the legal context.

Through one-on-one faculty mentorship, professional support with the Office of Career Services, and a focused one-year degree, prepare for a career in government, the private sector, NGOs, IGOs such as the World Bank or the United Nations, or academia. Gain practical experience working on cutting-edge legal research with the Center for International Law and Governance. Advocate for human rights and present reports in Geneva and New York with the International Law Practicum.

Join high table discussions, where legal advocates, academics, and practitioners come together to discuss how to use law to address global challenges not just through litigation and doctrine but also through multilateral or bilateral agreements, formal and informal diplomacy, legislative change, executive action, or grassroots mobilization.