COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Laws in Advanced Studies in International Children’s Rights (LL.M.) at Leiden University is designed for students and professionals who wish to specialise in the legal protection of children worldwide. During this one-year program, you will gain a thorough understanding of the legal frameworks, policies, and processes that translate children’s rights into practice at international, regional, and national levels. You will study issues such as child protection, juvenile justice, and children’s participation, while critically examining how international conventions and domestic laws work together to safeguard children’s interests.The program is particularly suited to those with a legal background. Eligible participants include legal professionals, holders of a full law degree qualifying for legal practice, or graduates from related disciplines who possess sufficient knowledge of law. Through a combination of lectures, seminars, and interactive workshops, students develop advanced analytical, research, and advocacy skills, enabling them to assess legal instruments, analyse case law, and formulate evidence-based recommendations. The curriculum also emphasises practical applications, including drafting legal documents, preparing policy proposals, and understanding ethical and procedural issues when working with children in legal contexts.Leiden’s LL.M. in International Children’s Rights has been rated excellent by the Accreditation Organisation of the Netherlands and Flanders (NVAO), reflecting the program’s high academic standards and quality of teaching. Students benefit from the expertise of leading scholars and practitioners, and the program provides opportunities to connect with alumni who are active in international organisations, non-governmental organisations, government agencies, and research institutions.Graduates of the program are well-prepared for careers in advocacy, policy development, legal practice, research, and international or regional institutions focused on children’s rights. The program equips students with the specialist knowledge and professional skills needed to make a tangible impact on the protection and promotion of children’s rights globally.