Program Director: Gillian Ready - gillian.ready@queensu.ca
In Summary:
Reflecting Queen's Law's commitment to an international perspective in the study of law, the International Law Programs are integrated academic programs in international law that run in May and June. This unique learning opportunity combines an 8-week intensive course of international law with field study visits to law firms, international organizations, and international courts. Instructors and guests are prominent figures in international law, and bring their practical experience to the classroom. The program offers networking opportunities, including a career options evening with alumni and friends of the program. Students choose a program stream in either International Business Law or Public International Law.
Course Highlights: 
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Gain a comprehensive overview of the field of international law from leading practitioners and academics.
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Study in small and highly interactive classes.
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Visit international courts, international organizations, law firms, and Canadian missions in London, The Hague, and Geneva (Public International Law) or London, Brussels, Paris, and Geneva (International Business Law).
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Find out how to build a career in international law.
Course Information:
International Business Law
The International Business Law program begins with a two-week introductory course, the first week of which is taken jointly by students in both programs. Classes in the IBL program then focus on public international law governing international trade and investment, and provide an overview of the fields of activity of the World Trade Organization (WTO), with a focus on multilateral trade negotiations and dispute settlement. Students learn about the law governing international business transactions as well as the different forms of dispute resolution that are open to the parties in such transactions.
Courses and instructors
- Introduction to International Business Law (the first week is taken jointly with students in the Public International Law program) (3 credits)
- International Economic Law (3 credits)
- International Commercial Law (3 credits)
Public International Law
The Public International Law program begins with a two-week introductory course, the first week of which is taken jointly by students in both programs. Classes in the PIL program then provide an overview of the international law of human rights and the more specialized protections applicable to refugees, as well as the interrelationship between these bodies of law. Students are introduced to the law governing the conduct of armed conflict and to the crimes for which individuals incur individual criminal responsibility under international law, including war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide.
Courses and instructors
- Introduction to Public International Law (the first week is taken jointly with students in the International Business Law program) (3 credits)
- International Protection of Human Rights and Refugees (3 credits)
- The Law of Armed Conflict and International Crimes (3 credits)
Experiential Learning Opportunities:
International Business Law
Typical field studies include:
- Clifford Chance LLP (London)
- European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (London)
Public International Law
Typical field studies include:
- Canadian High Commission (London)
- The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (London)
Prerequisites and Exclusions:
Please note this program is for students registered in a J.D. or LL.B. program at an accredited Canadian or American university.
Certification:
Upon the successful completion of one of the International Law Programs, visiting students may request a “Certificate of Completion” in International Business Law or Public International Law from the Faculty of Law. Please email lawstsrv@queensu.ca to request a certificate.
