Course summary
The underlying philosophy of this collaborative degree is to afford students an interdisciplinary learning experience at the intersection of International Law, Security and Diplomacy. The University of Buckingham offers a distinctive opportunity to study these intersecting themes through a collaborative programme combining the strengths of the School of Law and the Centre for Security and Intelligence Studies (BUCSIS). This innovative degree fuses rigorous legal analysis with cutting-edge studies in security and intelligence, creating a bespoke interdisciplinary learning experience. Students will explore critical global challenges by engaging with modules such as International Law, the Law of War, and International and Comparative Human Rights Law from the Law School, alongside BUCSIS modules in Cyber Security and Globalization, Diplomacy, Terrorism, and National Security. By merging these dynamic fields, this programme equips students with a holistic understanding of international legal considerations and contemporary security issues, preparing them to thrive in careers that demand expertise in both domains. You will explore relevant and highly topical case studies from both legal and defence perspectives. These will include ongoing conflicts across the international community and continuing regional unrest in other parts of the world. The final dissertation project allows students to take either an LLM or MA degree, depending on the research area on which they wish to focus. Course Highlights This programme is designed to: Develop professionals that are equipped to tackle the legal and security challenges of the modern world with confidence and expertise. Develop a nuanced understanding of international legal principles alongside the critical security and intelligence frameworks. Leverage the expertise of both the Law School and BUCSIS, this course fosters academic rigour, practical insights, and a future-oriented professional outlook. Ensure close interaction between students and faculty with its intensive teaching model that combines lectures and small-group seminars.
Assessment method
Students are assessed via a diverse and inclusive range of assessment methods across both faculties, which may include: Group projects Individual projects Presentations (individual and group) Report writing of different lengths Essays Dissertations The programme includes dissertation options tailored to students’ specific interests in either law or security studies. Note that we do not utilise exams for these programmes.
Qualified teacher status (QTS)
To work as a teacher at a state school in England or Wales, you will need to achieve qualified teacher status (QTS). This is offered on this course for the following level:
- Course does not award QTS
How to apply
International applicants
With staff and students from over 90 countries around the world, the University enjoys a wonderful and culturally diverse atmosphere. Voted top for student satisfaction in the National Student Survey since 2006, we provide support for students from outside the UK including: assistance with visa application and renewal; guaranteed accommodation in halls of residence; and a personal tutor to support your academic studies. Academic staff are available to help and advise, and operate an open-door policy. We have the best staff to student ratio of any university in the UK. Our students have formed a number of overseas clubs, and there is a sports and social programme each term to ensure you enjoy your time with us. Our idyllic setting between Oxford and Milton Keynes offers access to a range of cultural and social activities and Bicester Village, the renowned shopping outlet is a short bus ride away. English Language requirements: it is very important that your English level is of a good standard for you to be successful in your studies. All applicants must achieve specific requirements in all four components (listening, reading, speaking and writing). Please check our website for more details of the undergraduate or postgraduate language requirements for your course. https://www.buckingham.ac.uk/international/english-language-requirements/
Entry requirements
The standard entry requirements for this course are: 2:2 LLB (Hons) degree from a UK institution (or equivalent from a foreign institution). Persons who have not attained a degree of the standard and type indicated in 1) will be accepted if they have had some practical experience in a legal or commercial environment.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
England | £10300 | Whole course |
Northern Ireland | £10300 | Whole course |
Scotland | £10300 | Whole course |
Wales | £10300 | Whole course |
Channel Islands | £10300 | Whole course |
EU | £16480 | Whole course |
International | £16480 | Whole course |
Republic of Ireland | £16480 | Whole course |
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
Sponsorship information
The University would like to encourage students – both undergraduates and postgraduates – to come to Buckingham regardless of their financial circumstances. The bursaries and scholarships we offer are awarded on merit and/or on financial need. You may only accept one University award. All awards are subject to your meeting the University’s academic entry requirements and abiding by the University’s rules and regulations. To be eligible to apply for a scholarship you will need to have been offered a place to study at Buckingham. For details of our current range of scholarships and bursaries please see our website: https://www.buckingham.ac.uk/admissions/scholarships
Provider information
University of Buckingham
Hunter Street
Buckingham
MK18 1EG