Hi all,

I am currently facing a predicament. I am looking to specialize in public international law for my masters, and I have been fortunate enough to be accepted to both above mentioned institutions. As a raw comparison of the course itself and the credibility of the institutions themselves in this specific field (ignoring 'rankings' of the unis as a whole) which is a better option. As it stands for me also, pending the outcome of scholarship applications, fee wise I would be looking at 14000 pounds vs 1790 euro due to my Italian citizenship (I do not have a sufficient nexus with Scotland to be awarded a 'home/eu' rate - tbh I think including the eu in this fee class is rather deceptive!). Additional to this, the proximity of Leiden to the Hague, the lower cost of living in NDE. Alas, with Edinburgh you have the prestige and reputation that the uni has, which if I decide to move into private practice would surely aid applications.

Any thoughts are more than welcome!

Thanks all!

For a career in public international law I would definitely and without any hesitation go for Leiden! The program enjoys a strong recognition, particularly if you want to specialize in international criminal law. And the proximity to The Hague is an invaluable asset!
Currently working for the UN and few of my colleagues did their LLM at Leiden. Never heard about Edinburgh University.

Thanks for your tip - I know for an academic perspective the LLM in Public International Law at Edinburgh is quite renowned, but insofar as whether it is favoured in the industry, is something that is not known to me. I expected to a certain extent that Leiden would be a better rounded option due to the proximity to the Hague and presumably better opportunities to score internships at the ICC, ICJ, UN, etc.

Any other insights?

Thanks again all...

Hi there

I had the same predicament and opted for Edinburgh. Prof Bill Gilmore is very well known in the industry and Edinburgh is a great University as well as town. Leiden is undoubtedly a top International law school however overall - their university rankings are very low compared to Edinburgh hence i chose Edinburgh.
Think either way you'll be good - go with your gut!!