Introducing LLM Environmental Law and Sustainable Development — SOAS
Are you passionate about tackling global environmental challenges? Philippe Cullet, professor of international and environmental law explains how the LLM in Environmental Law and Sustainable Development at SOAS, University of London is designed for forward-thinking students who want to make a real impact
What is the LLM Environmental Law and Sustainable Development?
The course offers modules that blend international and national perspectives on core areas of environmental law, emphasising the Global South. These include:
- climate change
- resource exploitation
- emerging legal concepts such as the rights of nature.
The programme is based on research from SOAS's Law, Environment and Development Centre (LEDC). This is the hub for environmental research in the law school, hosting:
- PhD students
- seminars
- the Law, Environment and Development Journal.
As an LLM Environmental Law student at SOAS, you'll have the opportunity to join the LEDC as a student member, connecting you with the wider research community, including scholars from various departments and interdisciplinary centres such as the:
- Centre for Development Environment and Policy
- Centre for Water and Development
- Centre for Energy and Climate Policy.
What skills will students gain from the course?
This course empowers students to grow personally and professionally, opening doors to PhD-level research. By the end, you'll be equipped with advanced research skills, a broad understanding of global issues, and the tools to advance your career.
You will gain in-depth knowledge of environmental law through an international and comparative lens. You'll explore the theory and practice of environmental law, its impact in diverse global contexts (particularly its role in sustainable development in the Global South), and the function of legal institutions in managing the environment and natural resources.
Where can the course lead?
Graduates emerge as critically engaged citizens, ready to contribute meaningfully to their communities and societies.
Equipped with a deep understanding of the legal complexities behind today's global challenges, our alumni are highly sought after by employers for their analytical skills, specialised knowledge, and global perspective.
They pursue diverse careers in:
- academia
- environmental law
- government
- non-government originations (NGOs) and consultancies
- policy work at national and international levels (including the United Nations).
What types of students would suit this course?
If you're concerned about global environmental crises like climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution, and how they manifest differently in the Global South and North, this programme is for you.
It's well-suited for LLB graduates, those with related degrees, and professionals in law or other fields who want to explore the theory and practice of environmental law, especially in the context of the Global South.
Find out more
- Take a look at the SOAS LLM Environmental Law and Sustainable Development.
- Read all about doing an LLM degree.
- See what's on offer in the law and environment and agriculture sectors.