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Law in a time of International and European crisis

Dive into European and International Law

In this track you will study the core principles of European and international law and explore the role of law in a globalising world. You will reflect critically on key issues such as sovereignty, democracy, security, human rights, and economic inequality. Practical examples from the courses include questions like: How can Amsterdam regulate Airbnb in its city? Does EU law protect individuals against algorithmic discrimination? When should national courts block the export of weapons to states at war? And can the EU launch a military operation against ‘migrant smuggling’ in the Mediterranean Sea?

Elective courses allow you to specialise in topics such as human rights, economic trade, climate law, migration, or digitalisation. Many lectures are taught by experts who bring real-world cases into the classroom, linking theory with practice.

You will develop essential academic and legal skills such as legal reasoning, writing, presenting, and advising. You will learn to analyse legislation and policy critically and offer creative solutions to complex legal challenges.

There are also opportunities to gain experience through internships or studying abroad. This programme prepares you for a career in legal practice, government, international and European institutions, policymaking, or academia.

The programme starts on 1 September and 1 February.

VU Master's Event

Saturday 7 March 2026

International Master's webinar

Create a My Study Choice account or log in to watch the recording

International applications

Want to know if you can be admitted?

Curriculum

The compulsory courses for this track are European and International Law, Legal Methodology, Transnational Human Rights and Globalisation and the Master’s Thesis in Law. In addition, you can choose from a wide range of electives, including International Weapons Law, International Humanitarian Law, EU Internal Market Law, and the Philosophy of International Law and Migration.

Compulsory courses

  • European and International Law
  • Legal Methodology
  • Transnational Human Rights and Globalisation 
  • Master’s Thesis

Please consult the Study Guide for the full curriculum, including integration and elective courses.

Internships

Doing an internship is an excellent way to explore the career path you want to pursue. During your internship, you will gain relevant work experience, which can increase your chances of finding the right job. The Law programme does not require an internship. However, you are encouraged to complete one, for example at a law firm, court, public prosecutor’s office, NGO, or government organisation.

You can also gain international experience by doing an internship abroad. You will take the initiative for your own internship. While you will receive guidance from the faculty coordinator, day-to-day supervision will be provided by a supervisor from the organisation where you complete your internship.

Plenty of freedom to choose

Tailor your studies through electives in areas such as human rights, security, economic or constitutional law, or global issues like climate change and digitalisation. This track is closely connected to the friendly and diverse Department of Transnational Legal Studies. Lecturers are active researchers who contribute to public and academic debates on European and international law.

Sofia Leal Truque

Sofia Leal Truque from Colombia shares her experience in the Master’s programme in European and International Law.

Discover your career prospects

Would like to know more about this track?

Please contact Dion Kramer

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