Module manager: Dr Amrita Mukherjee
Email: A.Mukherjee@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) View Timetable
Year running 2026/27
This module is not approved as a discovery module
International law analyses the contemporary global legal system and the challenges it faces, through its structures, legal norms, rules and institutions. The module examines this distinct legal system in relation to its history, authority, legitimacy, values and the enforcement of legal rules and norms. In particular, topics are considered in light of decolonising approaches. These raise fundamental questions about the many assumptions made and how international law must integrate and reflect diversity and equity in its institutions and legal system. The module begins by examining the nature and purpose of international law and then considers the sources of international law and the nature of statehood.
The objectives of this module are for students to develop an in-depth knowledge of international law as a distinct legal system with applicable legal rules, forming the basis of obligations. The examination of substantive areas will build in-depth knowledge of crucial areas of international law. The analysis of international disputes in terms of applicable norms, rules and soft law mechanisms will engage students in questions about the nature of the legal order, as well as challenging the fundamental foundations of the system. In bringing together a wide range of primary and secondary sources, critical judgements and evaluations will be made on the merits of particular approaches and reasoned alternative solutions.
The learning activities are designed to introduce students to the substantive and methodological aspects of international law through lectures. Seminars will require students to engage with both primary and secondary sources and relate them to specific contemporary problems.
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following learning outcomes relevant to International Law:
Explain and analyse legal and non-legal concepts, values, principles and rules in international law, showing how they are applied in different contexts;
Use theories and legal authorities to formulate responses to problems relating to international law;
Identify the significance of legal concepts, values, principles and rules of International Law within broader political, cultural and societal debates
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following skills learning outcomes:
1. Apply critical thinking to analyse complex legal issues, demonstrating creativity in problem-solving
2. Manage complex projects, setting realistic goals and deadlines
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lecture | 11 | 1 | 11 |
| Seminar | 5 | 1.5 | 7.5 |
| Private study hours | 181.5 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 18.5 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 200 | ||
A formal formative assessment opportunity will be provided for the summative assessment task, which is specifically pedagogically aligned to that task. As part of this, each student will receive feedback designed to support the development of knowledge and skills that will be later assessed in the summative task.
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework | Coursework | 100 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 100 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list
Last updated: 14/05/2026
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