International Law (LAWS70173)

This subject is an introduction to the foundational principles and rules of the public international legal order. It is designed as an introduction to international law and, therefore, provides students with an understanding of the key concepts of international law, its history and contemporary relevance, sources of international law and the role of some key international institutions, such as the United Nations (UN). The subject is grounded in both theory and practice in order to consider how international law works in shaping and dealing with a range of issues such as dispute settlement, jurisdiction and immunities, and the use of force. Contemporary examples will be used to enrich student learning. Students will be encouraged to critically evaluate the position and relevance of international law in international politics and society by addressing past and current developments through case studies. The members of the teaching team are scholars in international law who have developed specific areas of specialisation in international law.

Indicative list of principal topics:

• The nature, purpose and language of international law
• Sources of international law
• International legal personality, statehood and sovereignty
• Jurisdiction of states and jurisdictional immunities
• The responsibility of states for violations of international law
• Peaceful settlement of disputes and the functions of the International Court of Justice
• Regulation of the use of force in international relations (jus ad bellum)

This subject provides an introduction to the basic concepts and norms of the public international legal order. It is designed for those with no (or very limited) background in international law. Students who have completed an undergraduate subject in international law or have some professional experience are advised to consider other international law offerings.

 

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Important information about this Subject

This subject is a pre-requisite for many other international law subjects in the Melbourne Law Masters. We recommend part-time students enrol in this subject when they first start their program of study. For full-time students, Principles of International Law (LAWS90295) is the alternative five-day intensive offering.

All students enrolled in the following internationally focussed courses are strongly recommended to take either LAWS90295 Principles of International Law or LAWS70173 International Law (if you don't already have prior professional or educational background in public international law): 

• Master of Environmental Law
• Master of Human Rights Law; 
• Master of Law and Development;
• Master of Public and International Law;
• Graduate Diploma in Environmental Law
• Graduate Diploma in Human Rights Law
• Graduate Diploma in Environmental Law
• Graduate Diploma in International Law.
  

More information on course planning in the Melbourne Law Masters.

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