I got into both programs: Advanced LLM in Public International Law in Leiden and the Geneva Academy of International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights. Which one should I choose?

Leiden, coz then you will join me :P

Hi Thomas. You are having the same problem as me. I can't decide between the MAS at the Geneva Academy and the Leiden Advanced Master. I think the course at the Academy is slightly broader (for instance, I do not want to miss out on the opportunity to study refugee law) so I think it is preferable for me as I am not convinced I want to go straight into the international court system. However, if that is your aim, Leiden does seem to be focused on that. I also want to do some papers in French and brush up my language skills. I am slightly worried by the fact that some people seem a bit vague about the Academy (dont really know what it is) whereas most people rave about Leiden (although confusingly one person did tell me that it was trading on its old reputation and that the courses/ teachers werent great). All in all I am finding it difficult to decide.

Can anyone reassure me of the quality of the Academy programme?

Hi people. I did the Utrecht LLM in International Human Rights & Criminal Justice a couple of years ago, so I guess I have some rough idea on the programs offered in the broader field. Back when I was applying, I did not get an offer by Leiden's PIL program, although Leiden was my top choice. Throughout my year in NL I met some people who were doing the Leiden programme, who were really brilliant and said that the courses and teachers were great. So I believe the reason why Leiden has a good reputation is because people there really do a good job, not just because it used to have a network of illustrious alumni. I've the heard the same "old reputation" argument about Oxford as well, so I guess it's just a motto that people use to belittle very prestigious universities).

I haven't heard much about the Geneva Academy. I really don't know anyone, who has studied there. I would say it's kind of a risk to take the Geneva offer. Leiden is a sure thing; I mean it's tested. People know it's good, because they know of people who have done the LLM there and excelled afterwards. You only get the chance to do the LLM once, don't risk it.