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Foundations of International Law - LAW00014C

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  • Department: The York Law School
  • Credit value: 20 credits
  • Credit level: C
  • Academic year of delivery: 2023-24
    • See module specification for other years: 2026-27

Module summary

This module will consider the foundational elements of International law in order to consider the approach of domestic law and to advance learning objectives for students wishing to understand the full scope of law and context. Moreover, this module will give students a greater understanding and appreciation of domestic and EU law's effects on the global stage. 

Module will run

Occurrence Teaching period
A Semester 1 2023-24

Module aims

Students will begin to consider the foundations of the international legal system, treaty interpretation, and foundational international understanding of the core concepts. The purpose of this model is to understand the nature of international law while carrying out their LLB programme and to be able to reflect the status of international law in a hierarchical society of laws.

Module learning outcomes

  • Explain, apply, discuss and critically evaluate well-established international law concepts, principles, theories and perspectives
  • Discuss and critique the development and purpose of international law
  • Develop individual opinions and arguments on international law issues by appropriately critiquing academic evidence
  • Plan, implement and evaluate research methodologies and strategies, and locate relevant and reliable sources and authorities
  • Demonstrate understanding of norms of scholarly practice

Module content

Students will learn about the different courts, tribunals and organisations within international law and how they feature within domestic law. Moreover, a foundational understanding of geopolitics, treaty interpretation and the significance of legal jurisprudence will all be a factor in building up knowledge and an appreciation of international law. The seminars will be delivered as a socratic seminar which aims to build confidence, academic understanding and legal development. 

Indicative assessment

Task % of module mark
Essay/coursework 100.0

Special assessment rules

None

Indicative reassessment

Task % of module mark
Essay/coursework 100.0

Module feedback

Feedback will be offered orally during seminars and lectures, in addition to writing feedback on the assessment.

Indicative reading

Shaw MN, International Law (9th Edn Cambridge University Press 2021)


The information on this page is indicative of the module that is currently on offer. The University constantly explores ways to enhance and improve its degree programmes and therefore reserves the right to make variations to the content and method of delivery of modules, and to discontinue modules, if such action is reasonably considered to be necessary. In some instances it may be appropriate for the University to notify and consult with affected students about module changes in accordance with the University's policy on the Approval of Modifications to Existing Taught Programmes of Study.