LLM by coursework
International Criminal law
Transitional Justice
LLM by thesis and LLD/PhD
Funding opportunities
LLM by coursework
The LLM in Transnational Criminal Justice offers students an opportunity to pursue a specialisation in transnational criminal justice through a combination of advanced taught course and research. Students develop and sharpen their understanding of concepts and theory in the field and lay a solid foundation for further studies or practice. The course examines how the criminal law aspect of international law and the international law aspect of criminal law combine to provide a legal mechanism for national and international response to human rights violations both at the level of international criminal justice system and in the context of transitional justice in post-conflict societies. The programme consists of two modules—I-International Criminal Law (ICL) and Transitional Justice (TJ), taught in the second semester. Students also submit a mini-thesis of 30,000 words.
International Criminal Law
This module traces the historical origin of ICL, its normative evolution and institutional development as a branch of public international law. It engages with the theoretical foundations and practical application of ICL principles focusing on the core crimes of genocide, war crimes, crime against humanity and the crime of aggression. It examines the mechanisms and institutions of enforcing ICL such as the International Criminal Court and other international criminal tribunals. The module also considers critical approaches to ICL and offers a critical reflection on ICL, its present challenges and prospects in the struggle for accountability and end to impunity.
Transitional Justice
This module examines the concept of TJ in countries undergoing transition from violent conflict and human rights abuses to peaceful and democratic society based on the rule of law and justice. It draws on contemporary case studies in African countries and elsewhere in the world navigating the delicate balance of transition from violent conflict to democratic society governed by the rule of law, peace and justice while promoting truth, reconciliation and ensuring accountability. Core theoretical and practical issues, including the peace/justice and truth/reconciliation debates; the choice of appropriate legal framework for achieving peace and justice; regional dynamics and transitional societies in a global context are examined. The course will consider critical reflection on traditional approaches to TJ processes, successes and failures, challenges and opportunities, as well as possible alternative approaches.
This programme is ideal for law graduates seeking to pursue a career in academia, NGOs, IGOs, government departments or agencies and think tanks. Policy-makers, legislators, legal advisers, diplomats, legal consultants, members of civil society groups and international organisations would find the programme rewarding.
LLM by thesis and LLD/PhD
Students may register to study towards the LLM by full thesis. Applications for enrolment in our LLD/PhD Programmes are also welcome. For more information, please visit click here.
LLM in Transnational Criminal Justice Programme Convenor: Prof John-Mark Iyi. Contact email:
Funding opportunities: A partial bursary is available for qualified applicants.
How to apply: For more information, visit www.uwc.ac.za.
Admission enquiries: Contact Ms. Candice James at or Ms. Lauren Loubser at .