Master of International Human Rights and Humanitarian Law
Master of International Human Rights and Humanitarian Law
Our LL.M. degree offers the unique opportunity of studying for an intensive eight week schedule for each of the two terms, followed by one term of practice during which students undertake their Master’s thesis. For those wishing to extend their studies, we offer part-time options of up to six semesters.
Programme Highlights
This unique programme integrates protection of human rights in times of peace with protection during situations of armed conflict, combining traditional international human rights law with international humanitarian law, taking in problems of terrorism, civil war, peace-keeping missions, and other humanitarian interventions.
It provides solid theoretical foundations and practical skills, preparing for career opportunities in policy-making, international or national public service, public or private legal practice, non-governmental organisations both International and national, or in academic teaching, research and publication.
Key Features
- Practical application: development of practical skills in applying international legal standards of protection to particular circumstances, for example in court proceedings, public administration and other institutional settings, forensic investigation, conflict resolution, peace negotiation and post-conflict transition.
- Comprehensive knowledge: deep understanding of international legal frameworks for individual protection, spanning the full range of circumstances from peace to declared warfare, addressing philosophical, political, and historical foundations.
- Intercultural communication: enhancement of multicutural communication competences and awareness, and sharing of knowledge and experience, through intensive interaction in a distinctive multinational setting of students and professors.
- Research abilities: strengthening of skills and techniques needed in academic and scientific investigation and research, report preparation, policy advice, and scholarly publication.
- Legal expertise: comprehensive attention to international rights and guarantees, and their protection and enforcement through diverse remedial regimes, institutions, and procedures.
Admissions
Winter Semester 2026/27, beginning 1 October 2026.
- Early admission deadline: 1 August 2026, 23:59 CET (recommended for students needing a visa for Germany). Apply here!
- Regular admissions deadline: 1 September 2026, 23:59 CET. Apply here!
- University degree in law, or equivalent qualification
- Adequate ability in English, both spoken and written, sufficient for reading and understanding academic literature, writing scholarly papers, and engaging competently in postgraduate discourse; evidenced by:
- test result of at least 93 in TOEFL IBT, 180 in Cambridge Advanced Certificate (C1), or average 7 in IELTS (with not less than 6,5 for each component); or
- at least four years school education in English; or
- equivalent evidence, for example, school education, university study, or professional work experience in English.
German language proficiency is not required for the IHL programme.
- High level of motivation to participate in the IHL programme
- At least one year’s practical professional experience
- whether a paid or unpaid (volunteer) position
- exemption from this requirement may be granted by the Admissions Board
- Tuition fee payment in accordance with the Fees Regulations of the Viadrina European University.
The following documents need to be submitted with the application:
- curriculum vitae (CV) (in English; maximum 4 A4 pages);
- certified copy of all university degrees held, together with certified academic transcript for all subjects and grades (in English, German or French);
- proof of competence in the English language ― official certificates or other appropriate written evidence (see admission prerequisites above for details);
- evidence of relevant practical experience ― written confirmation from a relevant employer or organisation, or application for exemption (see admission prerequisites above for details);
All required documentation should be properly scanned and submitted in PDF format.
Applications without the complete required documentation cannot be considered.
Curriculum
The IHL masters programme is 3-semester Master of Laws (LLM) (full-time), with semesters 1 and 2 reserved for coursework, and semester 3 for a Master's Thesis and an internship within the programme focus. The entire full-time programme should be completed in approximately 18 months.
A part-time option allows the period of study to be extended to up to 6 semesters. This flexible variation may particularly benefit for students intending to work and study at the same time.
General coursework framework
Coursework is undertaken in both academic Winter and Summer Semesters. IHL coursework consists of both face-to-face and distance-learning elements. The former, lectures and seminars, require personal attendance during the first 10 weeks of each semester (April-June in summer; October-December in winter). These presence sessions take place on-campus at the Viadrina European University in Frankfurt (Oder), Germany .
Students are expected to prepare intensively for lectures and seminars, and to do individual follow-up study through distance learning afterwards.
Each coursework semester is organized in three phases:
- Phase 1: weeks 1-10, lectures, seminars & first-attempt exams on campus
- Phase 2: weeks 11-20, online assignments (first-attempt essays)
- Phase 3: weeks 21-26, re-sit exams on campus & re-sit essays
Coursework module overview:
Winter Semester (30 ECTS)
- IHL010 Introduction to international human rights and humanitarian law
- IHL020 Civil and political rights
- IHL030 Social rights, and prohibition of discrimination
- IHL110 Conflict management, and current issues in international humanitarian law
- IHL120 Mass violence, and legal responses
Summer Semester (30 ECTS)
- IHL040 Rights of disadvantaged groups
- IHL050 Law of refugees, and migration
- IHL060 Individual (criminal) responsibility, and state responsibility
- IHL210 Implementation, and representation of interests
- IHL220 Constitutional principles
Our faculty
Our programme brings together an international faculty of distinguished academics and experienced practitioners whose expertise spans the central fields of international human rights law, international humanitarian law and related areas of public international law.
Prof. Dr. Markus P. Beham, LL.M. (Columbia)
Professor of Public Law, Public International and European Law
Course taught in the Master programme:
- IHL060B – State Responsibility
Main institutions:
- Europa-Universität Viadrina Frankfurt (Oder), Faculty of Law
- Karl-Franzens-Universität Graz; Theresian Military Academy
Main fields of research:
- Public law in its international and European dimensions
- International dispute settlement, especially arbitration
- Public economic law, especially procurement law
- Law of transformation and sustainability law
- Legal methodology, legal philosophy and the history of international relations
Short academic profile
Prof. Dr. Markus P. Beham holds the Chair for Public Law, Public International and European Law at Europa-Universität Viadrina. He was appointed Professor of Public Law with a focus on public international law in April 2025, succeeding Prof. Dr. Wolff Heintschel von Heinegg. His academic profile combines public international law, European law, international dispute settlement, public economic law and sustainability-related transformation processes. He also teaches international economic law at the University of Graz and public international law and international organisations at the Theresian Military Academy.
Dr. Ulrike Brandl
Assistant Professor emerita
Course taught in the Master programme:
- IHL050B – Refugees, Internally Displaced Persons / Refugee Law
Main institution:
- University of Salzburg, Department of Legal Theory, International and European Law
Main fields of research:
- Refugee law
- Asylum and migration law
- Human rights protection
- International organisations
- Implementation of international legal obligations in domestic law
Short academic profile:
Dr. Ulrike Brandl is Assistant Professor emerita at the University of Salzburg. Her academic work focuses on refugee, asylum and migration law, human rights protection, international organisations, sources of international law and the implementation of international legal obligations in domestic law. Within the Master IHL programme, she teaches “Refugees, Internally Displaced Persons / Refugee Law”, a module she has taught for several semesters. Her research and publications address key questions of European asylum and migration law, including vulnerability, family reunification, the Dublin system, return procedures and alternatives to detention.
Prof. Dr. Wolff Heintschel von Heinegg
Professor emeritus of Public Law
Courses taught in the Master programme:
- IHL010B – International Humanitarian Law
- IHL110B – Current Issues in International Humanitarian Law
- IHL060B – State Responsibility
Main institutions:
- Europa-Universität Viadrina Frankfurt (Oder), Faculty of Law
- U.S. Naval War College; NATO Cooperative Cyber Defence Centre of Excellence
Main fields of research:
- International humanitarian law and the law of armed conflict
- Maritime law and the law of naval warfare
- Public international law and state responsibility
- International and European security law
- Constitutional law and foreign affairs powers
Short academic profile:
Prof. Dr. Wolff Heintschel von Heinegg is a leading scholar of public international law and international humanitarian law. He held the Chair of Public Law, in particular Public International Law, European Law and Comparative Law, at Europa-Universität Viadrina and is Professor emeritus at the Faculty of Law. His academic and practical work includes international humanitarian law, maritime law, international security law and state responsibility. He has served as Charles H. Stockton Professor of International Law at the U.S. Naval War College and has contributed to major expert processes, including the ICRC expert group on direct participation in hostilities and the Tallinn Manual process.
Prof. Dr. Peter Hilpold
Professor of Public International Law, European Law and Comparative Public Law
Course taught in Master programme
- IHL120B Responsibility to Protect
Main institutions
- University of Innsbruck, Institute of Italian Law
- University of Pavia
Main fields of research
- Public international law
- European law
- Comparative public law
- International economic law
- Human rights and minority protection
Short academic profile
Prof. Hilpold is Professor of Public International Law, European Law and Comparative Public Law at the University of Innsbruck and Professor of International Law at the University of Pavia. He has completed studies in law, business administration, economics and the humanities and is the author of more than 250 publications. He is co-editor and member of editorial or scientific boards of several journals, including Europa Ethnica, the Austrian Review of International and European Law and the Hague Yearbook of International Law.
Dr. Jane Alice Hofbauer, LL.M.
Course taught in the Master programme
- IHL010A International Human Rights Law
Main institution
- University of the Bundeswehr Munich, Section for International Law and Human Rights Law
Main fields of research
- International dispute settlement
- International legal order and theory
- International and European environmental law
- Sustainable development law
- Regional systems of human rights protection and indigenous rights
Short academic profile
Dr. Hofbauer studied law in Vienna, Amsterdam and Reykjavik and completed her doctorate at the University of Vienna on sovereignty and self-determination. She has worked as an environmental lawyer and at the Ludwig Boltzmann Institute of Human Rights. Since 2017, she has been a researcher at the University of the Bundeswehr Munich and, since 2025, Principal Investigator of the PeaceClaCC project. Her teaching and research focus on international law, human rights, environmental law and sustainable development.
Prof. Dr. Claudia Maria Hofmann
Professor of Public Law and European Social Law
Course taught in the Master programme:
- IHL030A Economic, Social and Cultural Rights
Main institutions:
- Europa-Universität Viadrina Frankfurt (Oder), Faculty of Law
Main fields of research:
- European social security coordination and European social policy
- International labour law
- Socio-economic human rights
- Interdisciplinary social law research
Short academic profile
Prof. Dr. Claudia Maria Hofmann holds the Chair of Public Law and European Social Law at Europa-Universität Viadrina, with a focus on interdisciplinary social law research. She is also an associated member of the Viadrina Center B/ORDERS IN MOTION. Her research connects European social law, international labour law, socio-economic human rights and interdisciplinary perspectives on social rights and social policy.
Dr. Anne-Isabel Holper
Applied Conflict Researcher
Course taught in the Master programme
- IHL110A
Main institution
- Europa-Universität Viadrina Frankfurt (Oder), Institute for Conflict Management (IKM)
Main fields of research
- Peace mediation and conflict management
- Negotiation, mediation and decision-making processes in international political conflicts
- Dilemma management and methods for “unsolvable” conflicts
- Systemic solution-oriented coaching and supervision
- Peacebuilding contexts including Ukraine, the Middle East and China
Short academic profile
Dr. Anne Holper is an applied conflict researcher at Viadrina’s Institute for Conflict Management and Co-Head of the Center for Peace Mediation. She holds a PhD in Political Philosophy/Applied Ethics and has a background in comparative literature, German literature and philosophy. Her work combines research, training and coaching in negotiation, mediation and decision-making processes in international political conflicts, including cooperation with the German Federal Foreign Office and the Robert Bosch Foundation.
Prof. Gerard C. Rowe
Professor emeritus of Public, Administrative, Environmental and Local Government Law
Courses taught in the Master programme:
- IHL030B – Prohibition of Discrimination
- IHL003 – Research & Writing (Thesis Preparation)
Main institution:
- Europa-Universität Viadrina Frankfurt (Oder)
- University of Luxembourg
Main fields of research:
- Anti-discrimination law
- European administrative law
- Comparative administrative law
- Environmental law
- Economic analysis of law
Short academic profile:
Prof. Rowe is Professor emeritus at Europa-Universität Viadrina and former Chair of the Academic Board of the Master IHL programme. His academic work focuses on EU and comparative administrative law, environmental law and the foundations of anti-discrimination law. He has held academic positions at the University of New South Wales, Viadrina and the University of Luxembourg and has contributed substantially to research and teaching on European administrative law and legal comparison.
Prof. Dr. Jernej Letnar Černič
Professor of Human Rights and Constitutional Law
Courses taught in the Master programme:
- IHL020A – Civil and Political Rights: Substantive Rights
- IHL220B – Justice and (Criminal) Enforcement
Main institution:
- European Faculty of Law and Faculty of Government and European Studies, New University (Ljubljana/Kranj), Slovenia
Main fields of research:
- Business and human rights
- Human rights law and constitutional law
- Rule of law and democracy
- International criminal law and transitional justice
- Investment law and corporate accountability
Short academic profile:
Prof. Letnar Černič is a human rights scholar with a strong international profile in business and human rights, the rule of law and constitutional law. His work includes publications on corporate accountability under socio-economic rights and on the impact of European institutions on the rule of law and democracy. He has professional experience in European and international legal institutions and has been involved in research projects on human rights protection, transitional justice and international criminal law.
Prof. Dr. Robert Frau
Professor of Public Law
Courses taught in the Master programme:
- IHL120A – Mass Violence and Genocide
- IHL002 – Case-law Workshop
Main institution:
- TU Bergakademie Freiberg, Professor of Public Law, in particular Raw Materials Law, Environmental and Commercial Law
Main fields of research:
- International criminal law
- International humanitarian law
- Public international law
- Raw materials law and resource governance
- Environmental and European public law
Short academic profile:
Prof. Frau teaches and researches at the interface of public law, international law and resource governance. His academic qualification includes a habilitation in public law, European law and public international law, with a habilitation project on raw materials and state conduct. Within the Master IHL programme, his teaching links legal responses to mass violence with international criminal law and international humanitarian law.
Professor William A. Schabas OC MRIA
Professor of International Law
Course taught in the Master programme
- IHL120A – Mass Violence and Genocide
Main institutions
- Middlesex University London, School of Law;
- Professor emeritus at Leiden University and the University of Galway
Main fields of research
- International human rights law
- International criminal law
- Genocide and crimes against humanity
- International courts and tribunals
- Racial discrimination and the death penalty
Short academic profile
Professor Schabas is Professor of International Law at Middlesex University in London, emeritus professor at Leiden University and the University of Galway, and honorary chairman of the Irish Centre for Human Rights. He has appeared as counsel before international and national courts and tribunals, including the International Court of Justice and the Grand Chamber of the European Court of Human Rights. He is the author of more than twenty books on international human rights law and international criminal law and is an Officer of the Order of Canada and a member of the Royal Irish Academy.
Prof. Dr. Carmen Thiele
Professor of Public International Law, Eastern European Law and Comparative Law
Courses taught in the Master programme
- IHL000 – Introduction to Public International Law
- IHL020B – Civil and Political Rights: Institutions and Enforcement Mechanisms
- IHL040B – Rights of Minorities and Peoples
Main institution:
- Europa-Universität Viadrina Frankfurt (Oder), Germany
Main fields of research:
- Public international law
- International human rights law
- EU fundamental rights
- Minority rights
- Eastern European law
Short academic profile
Prof. Thiele has been an adjunct professor at the Viadrina Faculty of Law since 2011 and teaches core modules in public international law, human rights institutions and minority rights. Her research addresses human rights in international law, EU fundamental rights, minority protection and Eastern European law. Her publications include work on freedom of assembly, effective legal remedies, environmental human rights case-law and commentaries on the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights.
Marissa Kardon Weber, J.D.
International Criminal and Human Rights Lawyer
Course taught in the Master programme:
- IHL210A – Performance & Implementation
Main institutions:
- Project Expedite Justice, Ukraine Program
- independent international legal consultant
Main fields of research:
- International criminal law
- Strategic litigation and accountability
- War crimes and atrocity crimes
- Transitional justice and reparations
- Victim representation and human rights advocacy
Short academic profile
Marissa Kardon Weber is an international criminal and human rights lawyer with practical experience in atrocity-crimes accountability, strategic litigation and human rights advocacy. Her professional work includes legal advisory roles on Ukraine-related accountability, Rohingya justice initiatives, Yazidi genocide accountability, transitional justice, victim representation and universal-jurisdiction efforts. She has also worked with the International Criminal Court and contributes to professional networks on human rights and international criminal justice.
Mag. Michael J. Moffatt, LL.M.
International Lawyer
Course taught in the Master programme:
- IHL210B – Representation of Interests
Main institutions:
- International Court of Justice, The Hague
- formerly United Nations Office of Legal Affairs, IAEA and University of Vienna
Main fields of research:
- Public international law
- Law of international organisations
- Nuclear law and disarmament
- Territorial disputes and international adjudication
- International legal theory and double standards
Short academic profile
Michael J. Moffatt is an international lawyer with professional experience at the International Court of Justice, the United Nations Office of Legal Affairs, the International Atomic Energy Agency and the University of Vienna. His academic and professional work focuses on public international law, international organisations, nuclear law, territorial disputes and international adjudication. He has taught public international law and related subjects at the University of Vienna and has published on nuclear disarmament, territorial rights and the international legal order.
Prof. Ryszard Piotrowicz
Professor of Law
Course taught in the Master programme:
- IHL050A – Migration Law
Main institution:
- Department of Law & Criminology, Prifysgol Aberystwyth University, United Kingdom
Main fields of research:
- International law
- Migration law
- Refugee law
- Human trafficking and smuggling
- International humanitarian law
Short academic profile
Prof. Piotrowicz has taught migration and refugee law for many years and has been Professor of Law at Aberystwyth University since 1999. His work focuses on migration law, refugee protection, human trafficking and smuggling, and the obligations of states towards victims of trafficking. He has advised international organisations and states, including the OSCE, the European Parliament and UNHCR, and served as Vice-President of GRETA, the Council of Europe Group of Experts on Action against Trafficking in Human Beings.
Dr. habil. Anikó Szalai
Associate Professor of Public International Law
Course taught in the Master programme:
- IHL030A – Economic, Social and Cultural Rights
Main institutions:
- Faculty of Law, University of Szeged, Hungary
- International and Regional Studies Institute
Main fields of research:
- Public international law
- Economic, social and cultural rights
- Anti-discrimination law and minority rights
- Law of international organisations
- Law of treaties
Short academic profile
Dr. habil. Szalai is a public international law scholar at the University of Szeged. Her research focuses on international law, minority protection, anti-discrimination law, the law of treaties and international organisations. She obtained her PhD in law in 2012 and her habilitation in legal studies in 2019, confirming her qualification to deliver independent university lectures. In the Master IHL programme, she teaches economic, social and cultural rights.
Arthur Traldi, J.D.
Senior Consultant
Course taught in the Master programme:
- IHL210B – Representation of Interests
Main institutions:
- Lexpat Global Services, United States
- Senior Fellow, American University Tech, Law & Security Program
Main fields of research:
- International criminal law
- Rule of law and accountability
- War crimes litigation
- Crimes against humanity
- Genocide investigations
Short academic profile
Arthur Traldi is a litigation and rule-of-law consultant with extensive courtroom and investigative experience in cases involving genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes and large-scale sexual abuse. He previously served at the ICTY and worked on major international criminal cases, including litigation involving Ratko Mladić and Radovan Karadžić. He advises on investigations, justice-sector capacity building and accountability strategies, and trains judges, lawyers and investigators handling complex crimes.
Dr. Pablo Pareja-Alcaraz
Lecturer in International Relations
Courses taught in the Master programme:
- 2015–2025: IHL010A – International Human Rights Law
- 2020–2024: IHL220A – Democracy, the Rule of Law and Administration
Main institutions:
- Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Department of International Public Law and International Relations, Barcelona
- Institut Barcelona d’Estudis Internacionals (IBEI), Erasmus Mundus Master in Public Policy
Main fields of research:
- International relations theory and international order
- Asian international relations and East Asian regional security
- Chinese foreign affairs
- Democracy, the rule of law and public policy
- International human rights law in global governance contexts
Short academic profile
Dr. Pareja-Alcaraz is a lecturer and Serra Húnter academic in International Relations at UPF and Academic Coordinator of the Erasmus Mundus Master in Public Policy at IBEI. He studied at the London School of Economics and Georgetown University and obtained his PhD from UPF in 2010. His teaching in the Master IHL programme focuses on international human rights law and constitutional principles, including democracy, the rule of law and administration.
Prof. Dr. Andreas R. Ziegler
Professor of International Law
Course taught in of the Master programme
- IHL020A Civil and Political Rights – Substantive Rights
Main institution
- University of Lausanne, Faculty of Law, Criminal Justice and Public Administration
- Centre for Comparative, European and International Law
Main fields of research
- Public international law
- European law
- International economic law
- International business law
- Human rights and comparative law
Short academic profile
Prof. Andreas R. Ziegler is Professor of International Law at the University of Lausanne and Director of its LLM Programme in International Business Law as well as its Centre for Comparative, European and International Law. He holds permanent visiting appointments at several universities, including St. Gallen, Saarland University, ETH Zurich, LUISS Rome and the University of Vienna. He previously worked for Swiss ministries and international organisations, has widely published on Swiss, international and European law, and regularly advises governments, international organisations, NGOs and private clients.
The internship is equivalent to 15 ECTS. The purpose of internship is to provide an experience in which the learning from the coursework of the programme can be put into practice. It has to be undertaken with an organisation which has connection to the topics and modules of the programme. This can cover a wide variety of organisations, both international and national, public or private, including the following types:
- international or national human rights bodies (for example, within the UN, or the Council of Europe or other regional human rights systems)
- NGOs (for example, amnesty international; Human Rights Watch), whether international or national.
- organisations concerned with humanitarian issues and aid (for example, UNHCR, Red Cross);
- bodies dealing with conflict management and international negotiation;
- police forces or military/defence institutions (depending to some extent on the particular focus of the activities carried out)
- academic bodies and research institutes focused on human rights (so long as this involves not simply attending further coursework on the subject but rather involves a practical focus on more specific issues or problems);
- a public prosecutor's office or a law firm (with a focus on human rights or related matters); or certain branches of public administration (for example, child welfare or anti-discrimination).
This list is not exhaustive, but gives an idea of the types of areas and activities which should be considered.
IHL students that have worked (or are still working) in a position which would be suitable for an internship, can have that experience recognized for the internship requirement. The determinations of the equivalence will consider the nature of the organisation, the type of work done, the length of time and how long ago the activity occurred. Even voluntary work with a suitable organisation, considered on the same basis, may be regarded as equivalent.
The IHL Masters Thesis (15 ECTS) demonstrates that the student is capable of independent academic research in the field covered by the IHL programme, and of presenting the results of this work in a form which meets the standards of postgraduate achievement. The thesis work is carried out, within a specified period, under the guidance of a supervisor assigned by the Chair, IHL Examinations Board.
Degree awarded
1st semester (full-time): Coursework (30 ECTS)
2nd semester (full-time): Coursework (30 ECTS)
3rd semester (full-time): Internship (15 ECTS) & Master Thesis (15 ECTS)
Students successfully completing the full-time 3-semester or part-time 6-semester programme are awarded the degree of Master of International Human Rights and Humanitarian Law (LLM) by the Faculty of Law, Viadrina European University Frankfurt (Oder).
1st semester (full-time): Coursework (30 ECTS)
2nd semester (full-time): Coursework (30 ECTS)
Students successfully completing the full-time 2-semester, or part-time 4-semester programme are awarded the academic qualification of Diploma of International Human Rights and Humanitarian Law (Diploma IHL) by the Faculty of Law, Viadrina European University Frankfurt (Oder).
Single semester (full-time): Coursework (30 ECTS)
Students successfully completing the full-time 1-semester or part-time 2-semester programme are awarded the academic qualification of Certificate of International Human Rights and Humanitarian Law (Certificate IHL) by the Faculty of Law, Viadrina European University Frankfurt (Oder).
Fees and Scholarships
LL.M. (90 ECTS points) 7.900,00 €
Diploma (60 ECTS points) 7.320,00 €
Certificate (30 ECTS points) 3.820,00 €
Tuition fees for each selected IHL programme qualification variant (LLM, Diploma, or Certificate) must be paid fully, in advance of starting the programme.
In addition to the respective tuition fees, a standard semester charge (currently approximately 380 €) applies for each semester. This administrative charge includes the cost of a student pass for public transport in Germany.
Additional fees apply, in accordance with University regulations, for additional semesters (beyond the standard full-time or part-time length) and/or for retaken (failed) courses.
Retake a course of 4 ECTS points 490,00 €
Retake a course of 3 ECTS points 370,00 €
Additional semester (1st and 2nd semester) 800,00 €
Additional semester (masters thesis and/ or internship) 400,00 €
Scholarships, stipends, or other forms of financial assistance may be available from external sources. These cannot be provided by the Viadrina European University or the IHL programme itself.
Applicants in need of financial assistance are strongly advised to make their own efforts and inquiries (especially with relevant public institutions, NGOs, foundations, and private bodies in their own country). Wherever possible, the Viadrina and the IHL programme will assist applicants to obtain external financial support, for example, by providing information and/or suggestions, or through a letter of support confirming admission or enrolment in the programme.
Study Trip
A study trip takes place in each academic year. This group activity provide IHL students with the opportunity for direct contact with, and observation of, the work of human rights professionals and institutions. Organizations visited may include European or international human rights bodies (for example, UN bodies and agencies, the Council of Europe, the European Court of Human Rights, the International Criminal Court, the International Court of Justice), various NGOs (for example, the Red Cross), media organizations, legal consulting bodies, and more.
The study trip typically takes place over 2-3 days, with expenses partially covered by the IHL programme. Participation in the study trip is voluntary, and places available may be limited in number for a given excursion. The IHL Masters Office takes responsibility for the organization of the study trip.
Regulations
Students of the Master IHL Program must comply with both, the Viadrina University regulation (ASPO) as well as the study-specific regulation (SPO).
Graduates' Opinions
I am deeply passionate about both Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law, because they give language and legal grounding to experiences that are often silenced.
Nadia Firdous, Human Rights Lawyer | Legal Research & Advocacy High Court of Jammu, Kashmir & Ledakh
Viadrina / Heide Fest
The program offers a unique content that is rarely found in European universities. One subject that particularly interests me within this program is humanitarian law. This area of study is diverse and extensive, providing ample opportunities for research. I was eager to study internationally, and I was fortunate enough to secure an internship opportunity in the USA. I spent ten months in New York.
Haider Ali, Entrepreneur and managing director of Reliance Tex & Tech Ltd in Bangladesh
Heide Fest
The most important thing I have learned is the importance of applying human rights and humanitarian principles in a contextual and people-centered way. The program has strengthened my ability to critically assess legal frameworks, engage with international standards, and advocate effectively for justice and the rule of law, skills I will continue to apply in my work at the Judiciary.
Fatoumatta Juldeh Camara, Judiciary of The Gambia, Hurricane Magistrate and Legal Researcher
Heide Fest / Viadrina
I sought to delve into international human rights law. The experience has equipped me with a profound understanding in bridging the gap between my non-legal background and the field of human rights Law.
Naoufal Bouzid, Partnerships Manager at CareerFoundry, Marocco
Heide Fest / Viadrina
Studying the International Humanitarian Law at Viadrina was more than academic - it was a global lab for ideas, law, and impact. I thrived in its dynamic, cross-border environment where theory met advocacy, and diverse voices shaped sharp, real-world thinking. It didn’t just teach me law - it inspired purpose
Vaishali Singh Human Rights Officer at Qatar Centre for Peace and Democracy
Viadrina / Heide Fest
General Information and Important Dates
On this page, you will find key infromations to support your arrival and settling at European University Viadrina and in Frankfurt (Oder).
The page provides guidance on topics such as VISA, travel and arrival procedures, health insurance, and other important matters.
Winter Semester 2025/2026
Semester period: 01.10.2025 - 31.03.2026
Lecture period: 13.10. 2025 - 27.11. 2025
Orientation week: 08.10.2025 - 10.10.2025
Graduation Ceremony: 26.11.2025
Exams period: 05.11. | 07.11. | 03.12. | 05.12.2025
Resit exams: 10.03. | 20.03. | 25.03. | 27.03.2026
Christmas holiday at the University: 22.12.2025 - 02.01.2026
Public holidays: 03.10.2025 | 31.10.2025 | 25.12.2025 | 01.01.2026
FAQ
Yes, if you have previously studied in English, you must give details of this in the description/motivation section of your IHL admission application.
The details should include: the name of the university/other institution; full title of the course(s) of study (and code number, if any); the degree(s) awarded; date(s) of award; the length of course(s) taken (number of semesters, starting and finishing dates).
You must attach appropriate supporting documentation for this information. This must show clearly that the language of instruction and examination was fully or substantially in English. The supporting documentation should include an official letter from the institution(s) confirming all the information, together with copies of the relevant degree certificate(s) and transcript(s), and web addresses for relevant online information on the course(s) concerned.
Previous experience may include any form of practical experience: work/professional employment; internship; voluntary work, freelance work; any other relevant comparable activities. This does not have to be formal/paid employment.
In your application you need provide details of this: identify the organization(s)/employer(s), describe your activities/responsibilities, state the time periods (starting and finishing dates, number of hours).
You should attach appropriate supporting documentation from the organization(s) concerned, such as an official letter from your immediate supervisor or from the appointment’s office, which confirms your information.
Attendance at all coursework lectures and other IHL events is compulsory. It is strongly recommended that you live in Frankfurt (Oder) during the whole period of coursework study. Living in Berlin is possible, but that involves a lot of time every day commuting by train to attend lectures; transport problems lead to missed lectures and seminars.
Frankfurt (Oder) has six student residences. You can apply for accommodation in one of these through the Studentenwerk Frankfurt Oder (Student Union).
Another accommodation option in Frankfurt (Oder) is the Verbuendungshaus fforst e.V. (not managed by the Student Union).
A refund is possible if your visa application is rejected. However, an official notice of the rejection from the embassy is required. In addition, the reason for the rejection must be outside of your control.
This means you must attend your visa appointment, bring all required documents to the appointment, and submit any additional documents if requested by the embassy. If your application is rejected because you did not meet these or similar requirements within your control, a refund is not possible.
Please note that the refund may be subject to bank fees and, where applicable, other service fees.
The IHL programme itself unfortunately cannot offer scholarships.
There are German foundations and other public bodies (DAAD or KAAD) which do offer scholarships for various study programmes, including IHL. Search online for information about these, and how to apply.
Scholarships, stipends or bursaries may be available from public national or regional bodies in your own country. Even private local organizations (for example, Rotary, some religious or charitable bodies, NGOs, even some employers) may be willing to support participation in an international programme such as IHL.
The IHL Masters Office can provide a letter showing you have been admitted to the IHL programme, where needed by a scholarship provider. Seek and apply for scholarship support very early, to avoid delay in starting in the IHL programme.
The program includes both face-to-face and distance-learning elements.
IHL coursework (lectures, seminars, workshop, examinations, and other academic events) take place in Frankfurt (Oder) during the first 10 weeks of each semester (April–June in the summer semester, October–December in the winter semester). All coursework session and events require personal on-campus attendance at the Viadrina European University, Frankfurt (Oder); strict attendance records are kept.
The remainder of each coursework semester is reserved for follow-up work via distance learning, using online resources.
Your work on the IHL Masters Thesis does not have to be conducted in Frankfurt (Oder). Conduct of the required internship occurs where the placement organization is located.
Part-time students attend on-campus lectures in Frankfurt (Oder) for three to four weeks each semester, usually in October/November or April/May. Classes are held two to five days a week from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Students can take up to four courses (2 modules) per semester and study alongside full-time students. The program lasts six semesters (3 years), with the last two semesters focused on an internship and a master’s thesis. Outside of on-campus weeks, attendance is not required between semesters.
A part-time study agreement must be arranged with the Examination Board before starting or when transferring from full-time status. Students can also apply for an extension of their study period if necessary.
What Part-Time study is not:
- it is not a remote or online-only program; on-campus attendance is required during specified periods.
- it does not offer a different set of courses or a separate timetable; part-time students attend classes with full-time students.
- it is not a condensed or accelerated option; students complete the same total coursework as full-time students over a longer period.
You can contact the IHL Masters Office by telephone (during regular office hours) or via email. You can also visit the Masters Office personally during regular office hours, but you are strongly recommended to make an appointment in advance in case staff need to be absent for any reason.
All contact information for the Masters Office, including details of office hours are available on the IHL website, and once you are enrolled, on the IHL Moodle webpages.
Academic Direction
IHL Academic Board
Prof. Dr. Markus P. Beham, LL.M. (Columbia)
Viadrina European University Frankfurt (Oder)
Professor & Chair, IHL Academic Board
Viadrina European University Frankfurt (Oder)
Professor & Chair, IHL Examinations Board
Viadrina European University Frankfurt (Oder)
Professor & Chair, IHL Admissions Board
Contact Information
Linda Aguilar
Master's Officer
Room: HG 181
+49 335 5534 2624
app-master-ihl@europa-uni.de
Office hours:
Wednesdays, 11:00 - 13:00
Phone hours:
Wednesdays, 14:00 - 16:00
Eileen O'Grady
Master's Office Secretary
Room: HG 181
+49 335 5534 2832
app-master-ihl@europa-uni.de
Office hours:
Tuesday and Thursday, 09:00 - 11:00
Phone hours:
Tuesday and Thursday, 09:00 - 11:00
Christoph Wiedemann
Graduate Assistant
shk-master-ihl@europa-uni.de
Lidia Dabrowska
Graduate Assistant
shk-master-ihl@europa-uni.de
Serafina Kern
Student Assistant
shk-master-ihl@europa-uni.de
Julia Chuchler
Student Assistant
shk-master-ihl@europa-uni.de