Who Is This Course For? 

The LLM (International and Comparative Disability Law and Policy) offers an in-depth study of disability rights law, international policy frameworks, and comparative legal systems. Combining academic study with practical training and research, it engages students with global disability advocacy and policy initiatives. 

This LLM is ideal for law graduates and professionals seeking expertise in disability law, students interested in human rights, advocacy, and equality law, and those pursuing careers in international organisations, government, NGOs, law firms, or consultancy. It also suits students combining legal knowledge with interdisciplinary skills in social policy, education, or healthcare law, or preparing for further research. 

If you are motivated by international legal challenges, committed to advancing disability rights, and eager to engage with a global community of scholars and practitioners, this programme equips you with the knowledge, skills, and experience to make a meaningful impact. 

Programme Structure 

Core modules (40 modules): 

• Advanced Legal Research and Methods (10 credits)
• Minor Thesis (30 credits) or Work Placements (30 credits) 

Optional Modules (50 credits) may include: 

The School reserves the right to amend or withdraw modules subject to demand and other operational considerations.   

LLM Programme Modules 

• EU Competition Law (10 credits) 
• Law of International Business Transactions (10 credits) 
• VIS Moot (20 credits) 
• Advanced Intellectual Property Law and Development (10 credits)  
• Law and Economics of Corporate Transactions (10 credits)  
• Legal Skills: Commercial Practice, Advocacy and Dispute Resolution (10 credits)  
• Economics and the Global Economy (10 credits)   

Work Placements  

Students have the opportunity to apply for a limited number of work placements. Selection for these competitive placements is based on interviews conducted by the employment partner, offering valuable real-world legal experience and professional networking opportunities. Students undertake such Work Placements (30 credits) as an alternate to the minor thesis (30 credits).

Curriculum Information

• Global Disability Law Expertise: Study international and comparative disability law with guidance from world-leading scholars at the Centre for Disability Law and Policy (CDLP). 
• Practical Training & Field Work: Gain hands-on experience through research projects, policy initiatives, and collaborations with NGOs, advocacy groups, and international organisations. 
• Flexible Specialisations: Tailor your studies with optional modules in inclusive education, employment rights, healthcare law, or social policy. 
• Research-Led Learning: Engage in cutting-edge research and develop advanced skills in legal analysis, policy design, and advocacy. 
• Career-Enhancing Opportunities: Prepare for impactful careers in law, policy, advocacy, government, NGOs, or further academic research. 
• Real-World Application: Apply your learning to practical projects that address contemporary global disability challenges and legal reform.

Graduates of the LLM (International and Comparative Disability Law and Policy) are well-prepared for careers in international and comparative law, disability rights advocacy, human rights policy, and equality initiatives. 

Graduates are in demand across sectors including: 

• International organisations: United Nations, World Health Organization, European Union agencies. 
• Government bodies and regulators: Ministries of Justice, Equality Commissions, disability rights agencies. 
• Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and advocacy groups: International Disability Alliance, Inclusion Europe, national disability advocacy organisations. 
• Law firms and consultancy: Specialising in human rights, equality law, and corporate social responsibility. 
• Academic and research institutions: Universities, think tanks, and policy research centres. 

Typical roles for graduates include Disability Rights Policy Advisor, Human Rights Advocate or Consultant, Legal Counsel or Legal Analyst, Equality and Diversity Officer, Researcher in law, policy, or social justice. 

With experience, graduates can progress to senior leadership roles in NGOs, government or international institutions, consultancy leadership positions, and academic or research careers. The programme also provides a strong foundation for pursuing PhD studies and advanced legal research. 

The LLM in International & Comparative Disability Law and Policy partners with the United Nations Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities who offer the opportunity for a prestigious internship in Geneva.

During the placement, students provide research support for the Committee’s work and have the opportunity to observe and participate in Committee sessions, gaining hands-on experience in international disability rights policy.

While the internship is unpaid, it provides an unparalleled opportunity to develop expertise in disability law and policy, build an international network, and enhance employability in rights-based organisations, government, and intergovernmental bodies.

This internship takes place over the summer term, following the completion of the taught modules. Selection is on a competitive basis, based on academic performance, interest in disability law and policy, and suitability for research in an international context.

• Professor Eilionóir Flynn 
• Dr Janos Fiala-Butora (Programme Director) 

How will I learn?

The LLM in International & Comparative Disability Law and Policy offers a dynamic, practice-oriented learning environment that combines rigorous legal study with real-world engagement in disability law and policy. 

You will participate in interactive lectures, seminars, workshops, and group projects led by expert faculty and researchers at the Centre for Disability Law and Policy, who are actively involved in cutting-edge research on international human rights, disability rights, and social justice. The programme emphasises applied learning, exploring how legal systems, international conventions, and national policies shape and respond to the rights of persons with disabilities. 

Learning methods include case studies, policy analysis, and comparative research, helping you link theoretical frameworks with practical developments in disability law and human rights. Workshops in legal writing, advocacy, and policy drafting build practical skills, while independent research and your final Minor Thesis support critical thinking, analytical skills, and subject expertise in disability law and policy. 

How Will I Be Assessed? 

Throughout the programme, your progress will be assessed through a combination of written assignments, presentations, and an independent research thesis, designed to foster both academic development and practical skill-building in disability law and policy. 

1. Taught Modules: Most modules are assessed through written assignments, including legal essays, case studies, and policy reviews. Formative assessments and presentations are also used to support ongoing learning and skills development.
2. Presentations and Class Participation: You will have opportunities to present legal and policy arguments and engage in structured discussions, developing oral advocacy, analytical reasoning, and communication skills. These components often contribute to continuous assessment.
3. Minor Thesis (30 ECTS credits): You will complete a substantial, independently researched thesis on a topic of your choice related to international or comparative disability law and policy. Supervised by a faculty expert, this project allows you to demonstrate advanced skills in legal research, policy analysis, and academic writing. 

This assessment framework is designed to build advanced skills in legal research, policy evaluation, advocacy, and critical thinking, preparing you for careers in international organisations, government, NGOs, or further academic research. 

Explore our News and Events to discover our seminars, research talks, and activities that will expand your knowledge, build skills, and connect you with experts while you studying at University of Galway. 

Course queries: 

janos.fiala-butora@universityofgalway.ie

Or  

lawpostgrad@universityofgalway.ie 

Programme Directors:  

Dr Janos Fiala-Butora 
Centre for Disability Law and Policy
School of Law, 
College of Business, Public Policy and Law 
E: janos.fiala-butora@universityofgalway.ie 

• Critical thinking and problem-solving: Analysing complex legal, policy, and social scenarios in disability law to develop sound, strategic solutions.
• Research and analytical skills: Conducting high-level comparative and international legal research, evaluating UN and regional human rights instruments, and applying findings in policy and advocacy contexts.
• Written and oral communication: Drafting policy briefs, legal analyses, and research reports; presenting arguments clearly; and engaging effectively with diverse audiences including practitioners, policymakers, and advocacy groups.
• Negotiation and advocacy: Building persuasive legal and policy arguments and contributing to discussions on disability rights, policy reform, and implementation of international conventions.
• Project and time management: Balancing multiple assessments, research projects, and optional internships, while delivering high-quality work under deadlines.
• Cultural awareness and adaptability: Understanding and engaging with diverse legal, social, and cultural approaches to disability law across international and comparative contexts.
• Teamwork and collaboration: Working effectively with peers, faculty, practitioners, and international experts on group projects, workshops, and optional internships.

Candidates must hold at least a Second Class Honours, Grade 1, Level 8 primary degree in in law.

In exceptional circumstances, an applicant holding a degree in another discipline or a degree of less than an approved Second Class Honours Degree, Grade 1 (H2.1) standard may be considered where they have  

other relevant academic accomplishments as well as relevant work experience. 

Academic entry requirements standardised per country are available here.  

English Language Entry Requirements 

For applicants whose first language is not English, an English language proficiency of IELTS score of 6.5 is required (with no less than 6.5 in Writing and no less than 6.0 in any other band) or equivalent.  

More information on English language test equivalency are available here.  

Supporting Documents  

You will be required to provide supporting documentation as part of your application. You can check here what supporting documents are required for this course.

You can apply online to the University of Galway application portal here.  

Please review the entry requirements set out in the section above.  

You will be required to upload supporting documentation to your application electronically. See the section above on entry requirements for further information on the supporting documentation required for this course.  

Closing Dates 

For this programme, there is no specific closing date for receipt of applications. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis and course quotes will be reviewed continuously throughout the application cycle.  

Notes

• You will need an active email account to use the website and you'll be guided through the system, step by step, until you complete the online form.
• Browse the FAQ's section for further guidance.

Fees for Academic Year 2026/27

For 26/27 entrants, where the course duration is greater than 1 year, there is an inflationary increase approved of 1.8% per annum for continuing years fees.

Postgraduate students in receipt of a SUSI grant – please note an F4 grant is where SUSI will pay €4,500 towards your tuition (2026/27).  You will be liable for the remainder of the total fee.  A P1 grant is where SUSI will pay tuition up to a maximum of €6,270. SUSI will not cover the student levy of €140.

Note to non-EU students: learn about the 24-month Stayback Visa here. 

Fieldtrips 

The LLM includes extracurricular field trips such as visits to Global Legal firm, providing students with real-world insights and enhancing their professional skills. 

There are some minor travel costs attached to participating in extracurricular fieldtrips (approximate cost of €100-200). 

Postgraduate Excellence Scholarships

This scholarship is valued at €1,500 for EU students applying for full-time taught master's postgraduate courses. You will be eligible if: 

• You have been accepted to a full-time taught master's course at University of Galway, 
• You have attained a first class honours (or equivalent) in a Level 8 primary degree.  

An application for the scholarship scheme is required (separate to the application for a place on the programme). The application portal for 2025 is now open and available here. Applications will close on the 30th September 2025. Full details available here.  

Global Scholarships

University of Galway offers a range of merit-based scholarships to students from a number of countries outside of the EU. Visit here for schemes currently available.  

School of Law Global Scholarship:  

Eligible postgraduate students can receive a scholarship covering up to 50% off their tuition fees. Full details available here. 

Application Process 

Students applying for full time postgraduate programmes from outside of the European Union (EU), You can apply online to the University of Galway application portal here.  

Our application portal opens on the 1st October each year for entry the following September.   

Further Information 

Please visit the postgraduate admissions webpage for further information on closing dates, documentation requirements, application fees and the application process.  

https://www.universityofgalway.ie/business-public-policy-law/school-of-law/news/ 

 School of Law - University of Galway 

Centre for Disability Law and Policy - University of Galway