Once someone has decided that she wants to focus her legal studies on international law, it is important that she choose the best school. Although many law schools across the globe offer basic courses on international legal topics, a good school of international law will offer much more. For example, potential students should look for an institute or center that is focused solely on the study of international law. In addition, the professors at a good school of international law should have specialized knowledge on and experience working with international legal issues. There should be plenty of ways for students to further their studies through publication opportunities, internships, fellowships, clerkships, and study abroad programs as well.
Many of the top schools that specialize in international law have special divisions that focus specifically on international law topics. Although these schools will provide a general legal education as well, the primary focus is on international legal issues. These types of law schools may be found in the form of separate institutions, centers, or they may actually be separate schools within a university.
A key to finding the best school of international law is to look at the credentials of the professors. They should have specialized knowledge on international legal issues. For example, they may have worked with the United Nations, the European Union, or the World Trade Organization. They may belong to various international legal societies, or they may have been published on topics related to international law topics in books or legal journals.
Looking for advanced degree programs is another good way to select the best school of international law. For example, some schools offer a master of laws (L.L.M.) degree. The L.L.M. program may give more detailed instruction and real-life knowledge to students on international law topics. Not all schools offer an L.L.M. program and not all L.L.M. programs specialize in international law. It is important to study school brochures and Internet websites to see exactly what courses are offered.
One of the best ways to choose a good school of international law is to research the school to see what kinds of opportunities the students are offered. For example, internships, fellowships, and clerkships at various international organizations should be available to students. In addition, there should be a history of student publications in a variety of journals. Finally, the students should be given the opportunity to study or work abroad for a summer, a semester, or a year.