International admission to the University of Tartu School of Law has started

International Law and Human Rights
Author: Andrea Rotenberg

The School of Law at the University of Tartu will accept applications for an English-taught two-year Master’s programme in International Law and Human Rights from 2 January to 15 March.

International Law and Human Rights

The Master’s programme in International Law and Human Rights is two-year, English-taught programme at the school of Law of the University of Tartu, designed to provide an in-depth understanding of principles, norms, practices and problem areas in international law and human rights. With a focus on both theoretical and practical knowledge, this programme equips graduates for high-level legal careers both in Estonia and globally. Studies take place in Estonia’s capital city, Tallinn.

Why Study International Law and Human Rights at the University of Tartu?

  • Comprehensive and Flexible Curriculum: Gain a strong foundation in international law and human rights through our compulsory courses, with the freedom to specialise through a wide range of elective courses tailored to your interests and career goals.
  • Unique Comparative Perspective: Learn from Estonia’s rich historical experience and unique location at the crossroads between the West and Russia, offering insights into global and regional legal challenges.
  • Hands-On Learning: Apply your knowledge through a compulsory practice component, gaining real-world experience and developing professional skills in top legal environments.
  • Prestigious Legacy: Join a programme at one of the region’s oldest law schools (founded in 1632) that has shaped Estonia's legal elite, including 87% of attorneys, 95% of prosecutors, and nearly all judges.
  • Esteemed Alumni Network: Follow in the footsteps of University of Tartu graduates serving as judges at the European Court of Human Rights and the Court of Justice of the European Union.
  • Strategic Location in Tallinn: Study in Estonia's capital, close to key state institutions, providing direct access to internships, networking, and real-world applications of your studies.

Career prospects and skills

Graduates of the Master’s programme in International Law and Human Rights are equipped with advanced legal knowledge, critical thinking, and practical skills to excel in diverse career paths. Opportunities include roles in international organizations, government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and private legal practice. The programme also prepares students for further academic research or teaching in the field of international law and human rights, as a number of our program’s students have also continued with their PhD studies in international law and human rights.

Explore the admission requirements for the programme on the University of Tartu website.

International students can apply via DreamApply, and Estonian students can submit their applications via SAIS.

Applications to international master’s studies can be submitted until 15 March.

Prospective students are welcome to join the Virtual Open Day 2026 on 15 January to hear more about the University of Tartu, the admission requirements, how to apply, the student life, and to attend programme info sessions.

Applications to international master’s studies can be submitted until 15 March.

Application requirements depend on the curriculum. For detailed information, see the web page of the particular curriculum. Estonian applicants can start submitting their applications to international curricula in the admission information system SAIS on 1 February. For more information, see the University of Tartu admissions website in English or in Estonian.

Register here for the Virtual Open Day 2026 on 15 January 2026 to hear more about the programme

Further Information:
Elizabeth Kasa-Mälksoo, Programme Director of International Law and Human Rights Master’s programme: [email protected]