LL.M. in Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law

ONLY SPECIALIZED LL.M. DEGREE AMONG TOP-RANKED INTERNATIONAL LAW PROGRAMS IN THE U.S.

Our Program - AUWCL offers one of the most prestigious advanced LL.M. degrees in Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law in the U.S. It the only specialized advanced degree among the top law schools in the United States. Globally renowned, our program offers a unique specialized curriculum taught by a prominent group of AUWCL and international faculty which includes over 40 internationally preeminent and experienced leaders in the field of human rights and humanitarian law. 

Our Expert Faculty, frequently cited in the field, includes presidents and judges from international and regional courts, former presidents of the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights, UN special rapporteurs, members of UN human rights committees, and leaders of civil society organizations from around the world. Among the top 9 programs in International Law in the US (USA News)1, American University Washington College of Law (AUWCL) strategically positions the HRHL LL.M. among the world's leading programs.  

Our curriculum is designed to provide unique opportunities for solid intellectual challenge and growth through in-depth exploration of each subject matter. Our courses cover a wide range of relevant topics and expose students to a rich exchange of views, not just with peers but also with unparalleled access to expert faculty.  Some of our courses include International Humanitarian Law, International Human Rights Courts and Monitoring Bodies, Law of the Sea, Responses to Conflict-Based Sexual and Gender Violence, Asylum and Refugee Law, International Environmental Law, Gender, Cultural Differences and International Human Rights, International Business and Human Rights, Law of the Armed Conflict, Strategic Litigation and many more. 

Our Community - The LL.M. Program, bringing students from every corner of the world, is a richly inclusive and diverse community of inter-connected legal professionals devoted to human rights and humanitarian law.  The program equips students with a deep understanding of international human rights theory and practice through specialized courses, research, and externships. With a legacy spanning decades, the program has produced a dynamic community of lawyers dedicated to advancing global human rights which includes thousands of successful graduates from over 100 countries. Many of our alumni play pivotal roles in shaping global policy and holding key positions in regional human rights courts and global institutions. 

Location - The program, located in Washington, DC, provides students with unparalleled opportunities to develop their skills and further their careers in human rights with access to international organizations, private sector opportunities, and one of the largest networks of NGOs in the world. 

Tracks - The LL.M., a flexible advanced degree program for legal professionals, is offered in three tracks (Residential, Hybrid, and Online) and two languages (English and Spanish).

The Residential track is offered only in English (In Spanish in certain cases) and students have access to over 40 classes offered in the Spring and Fall semesters, as well as the nearly two-dozen human rights specialized courses offered during the Program of Advanced studies each summer. In addition, students can complete externships and/or independent studies for credit. Through the Residential track students can become eligible to sit for the New York Bar Exam.

The Hybrid and Online tracks are offered both in English and Spanish. Students take online live classes each Fall and Spring semesters. In addition, students can complete externships and/or independent studies for credit. These tracks are not compatible with the New York Bar requirements.  Students on the Hybrid track must attend in-person classes during the summer during the Program of Advanced Studies.

Duration - The LL.M. degree requires completion of 24 credits. The duration of the program varies depending on the track (Residential, Hybrid, or Online) and the number of credits students register per semester.  Residential students regularly complete the degree in two semesters (12 credits each).  With a flexible combination of credits earned in class, externships and independent studies, hybrid and online students can match that timeline. 

Career Opportunities - The HRHL LL.M. encourages the development of professional networking relationships for career opportunities. While enrolled, students can immerse themselves in externship opportunities, engage with the work of UN specialized organizations in Geneva, prepare for the New York Bar Exam, participate in research initiatives, and more. Students have access to a specialized Career Counselor to advise them on opportunities for externships as well as jobs after graduation.  

Cost - The tuition of the LL.M. program is calculated based on credits registered per semester. The degree requires completion of 24 credits. Each credit costs $2,386, with a total program cost of $57,264 for all tracks - in-person, hybrid, and online. 

Application Requirements include an online application with a $55 fee, official academic records, a personal statement, proof of English proficiency if taking the English track, and two letters of recommendation.  More information: https://www.wcl.american.edu/impact/initiatives-programs/hracademy/llm/ 

Application Deadlines -  
Fall semester (August - December): 
Residential: May 1 
Online/Hybrid tracks: June 1 

Spring semester (January - May): 
Residential: November 1 
Online/Hybrid tracks: November 30 

Scholarships - Partial tuition scholarships for qualifying candidates are available each semester. Scholarships are awarded after you have been admitted to the LL.M. Program, so apply early. Awards are evaluated in the order they are received.  

Our scholarships include Merit Scholarships (7 credits), Summer Program Scholarship (12 credits for ex-participants), Inter-American Moot Court Competition Scholarships (12 credits for ex-participants), Civil Society (12 credits), and OAS/AUWCL Scholarships (50% of tuition).  

How to Apply for a Scholarship - Submit your online application for the LL.M. Program, indicating the scholarship you wish to apply for along with a statement describing your interest in the program, and your financial need.