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LL-M in International Trade And Investment Law at University of Kerala
Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
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About the Specialization
What is International Trade and Investment Law at University of Kerala Thiruvananthapuram?
This International Trade and Investment Law program at University of Kerala focuses on the intricate legal framework governing global commerce and capital flows. It addresses the growing need for specialized legal professionals in India''''s expanding international economic engagement, providing a robust understanding of WTO rules, investment treaties, and dispute resolution mechanisms. The program prepares students for roles in a dynamic and globally integrated Indian market.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for law graduates seeking entry into the specialized fields of international trade and investment. It also benefits practicing lawyers looking to upskill in areas like WTO law, arbitration, and cross-border transactions. Fresh graduates with a keen interest in global economic policies and international relations, aiming for careers in law firms, government agencies, or international organizations, will find this program highly relevant.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse India-specific career paths, including roles as legal advisors in MNCs, trade policy analysts in government, international arbitrators, or specialists in law firms. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 4-8 LPA, with significant growth potential in specialized areas. The program aligns with the demands of India''''s evolving economic landscape, fostering expertise in navigating complex international legal challenges.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Legal Research Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Thoroughly grasp legal research methodologies and writing skills from LL.M 102. Utilize university library resources, online legal databases like Manupatra or SCC Online, and citation tools. Develop a habit of reading academic journals and legal commentaries to build a strong theoretical base and improve analytical abilities.
Tools & Resources
University Library, Manupatra/SCC Online, Legal databases, Reference books
Career Connection
Strong research skills are foundational for any legal career, enabling effective legal analysis, drafting, and problem-solving, crucial for legal internships and future employment.
Build a Robust Foundational Knowledge- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on understanding core legal principles from subjects like Constitutional Law and Comparative Public Law. Participate actively in classroom discussions, seek clarification from faculty, and form study groups with peers to debate complex legal concepts. This interdisciplinary approach enhances critical thinking required for specialized subjects.
Tools & Resources
Textbooks, Class lectures, Peer study groups, Faculty consultations
Career Connection
A strong foundation in general law and public law prepares students to contextualize international trade and investment issues within national legal systems, essential for nuanced legal advice and policy formulation.
Engage in Early Legal Writing Practice- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond assignments, proactively write short legal essays or case comments on contemporary issues. Submit them to faculty for feedback or consider publishing in student law reviews. This refines writing clarity, logical argumentation, and helps articulate complex legal ideas effectively.
Tools & Resources
Legal writing guides, Grammarly, University''''s law journal
Career Connection
Proficiency in legal writing is highly valued by employers for drafting legal opinions, contracts, and policy documents, directly impacting internship and job prospects.
Intermediate Stage
Specialize in International Trade Law Concepts- (Semester 2-3)
Deep dive into International Trade Law and International Investment Law. Attend webinars and workshops on WTO agreements, BITs, and international trade disputes. Analyze real-world trade cases and investment arbitration awards. Seek opportunities for short-term projects or research papers focusing on these areas.
Tools & Resources
WTO website, UNCTAD resources, International arbitration reports, Legal blogs
Career Connection
Developing deep specialization knowledge is critical for securing internships and roles in trade law firms, government departments (like DGFT), or as in-house counsel for import/export companies.
Participate in Moot Court Competitions- (Semester 2-3)
Actively join moot court competitions, especially those focused on international trade law, investment arbitration, or public international law. This provides invaluable experience in legal research, oral advocacy, and team collaboration, simulating real-world legal practice. Focus on improving argumentation and presentation skills.
Tools & Resources
Moot court societies, Previous moot propositions, International law journals
Career Connection
Mooting hones advocacy and analytical skills, which are highly desirable for roles in litigation, arbitration, and international legal advisory, enhancing employability for top firms and chambers.
Network with Industry Professionals- (Semester 2-3)
Attend legal conferences, seminars, and alumni events related to international law and business. Connect with lawyers, policymakers, and academics working in trade and investment. Utilize platforms like LinkedIn to build professional relationships and explore mentorship opportunities. This expands career horizons beyond the campus.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional legal associations (e.g., IBA India Chapter), University alumni network
Career Connection
Networking is vital for discovering hidden job markets, securing referrals, and gaining insights into industry trends, often leading directly to internships and placement opportunities.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Relevant Dissertation- (Semester 4)
Choose a dissertation topic directly relevant to International Trade and Investment Law, preferably addressing a current, impactful legal issue in the Indian context. Engage deeply with faculty supervisors, conduct extensive original research, and aim for a publication-worthy output. This showcases advanced research and analytical capabilities.
Tools & Resources
Academic journals, Legal databases, University research grants (if available)
Career Connection
A strong dissertation demonstrates specialized expertise and research acumen, making candidates highly attractive for specialized legal roles, research positions, and even academic careers.
Target Specialized Internships- (Semester 4)
Actively seek internships with law firms specializing in trade/investment law, legal departments of export-import companies, government trade bodies (like Directorate General of Foreign Trade, Department of Economic Affairs), or international organizations. Gain practical exposure to drafting, compliance, and dispute resolution in this field.
Tools & Resources
University placement cell, Online job portals (e.g., Lawctopus), Direct firm applications
Career Connection
Practical internship experience is paramount for securing full-time employment, providing hands-on skills, industry contacts, and often leading to pre-placement offers.
Prepare for Career Interviews and Assessments- (Semester 4)
Refine resume and cover letters, tailoring them for specific roles in international trade and investment law. Practice interview questions, including behavioral and technical legal queries. Understand typical assessment processes, like case studies or legal drafting tests, often used by top law firms and organizations.
Tools & Resources
Career counseling services, Mock interviews, Legal aptitude tests online
Career Connection
Effective interview and assessment preparation directly increases the chances of converting internship experiences into full-time employment and securing desired roles post-graduation.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- LL.B Degree from University of Kerala or any other University recognized by the University of Kerala as equivalent thereto with not less than 50% marks in the aggregate. (45% for SEBC, 40% for SC/ST)
Duration: 2 years / 4 semesters
Credits: 56 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LL.M 101 | Law and Social Transformation in India | Core | 4 | Meaning and Definitions of Law and Social Transformation, Impact of Constitution on Social Transformation, Judicial Contribution to Social Transformation, Economic and Social Legislation, Social Welfare Legislations |
| LL.M 102 | Research Methodology and Legal Writing | Core | 4 | Meaning, Objectives, and Significance of Legal Research, Research Design and Data Collection, Techniques of Legal Research, Legal Writing and Referencing, Computer Applications in Legal Research |
| LL.M 103 | Constitutional Law and Administrative Law | Core | 4 | Constitutionalism and Basic Structure Doctrine, Federalism and Center-State Relations, Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles, Rule of Law and Administrative Discretion, Judicial Review and Tribunals |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LL.M 201 | Comparative Public Law | Core | 4 | Meaning and Importance of Comparative Public Law, Forms of Government (USA, UK, France, Germany), Constitutional Adjudication (USA, UK, France, Germany), Administrative Law Concepts in different Jurisdictions, Impact of Globalization on Public Law |
| LL.M 202 | Law of Human Rights | Core | 4 | Concept and Classification of Human Rights, International Bill of Rights, UN Human Rights System, Regional Human Rights Systems, Human Rights Protection in India |
| LL.M 203 ITIL | International Trade Law | Specialization Core | 4 | Introduction to International Economic Law, Historical Development of GATT and WTO, Principles of WTO Law (MFN, National Treatment), Trade in Goods: Agreements on Agriculture, SPS, TBT, Trade in Services (GATS) and TRIPS |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LL.M 301 ITIL | International Investment Law | Specialization Core | 4 | Introduction to International Investment Law, Sources and Principles of International Investment Law, Investment Treaties (BITs, FTAs), Investor-State Dispute Settlement (ISDS), Host State Regulatory Powers and Investment Protection |
| LL.M 302 ITIL | International Commercial Arbitration | Specialization Core | 4 | Introduction to Arbitration Law, Arbitration Agreement and Arbitral Proceedings, Role of Courts in Arbitration (Interim Measures, Enforcement), UNCITRAL Model Law and New York Convention, International Arbitration Institutions (ICC, LCIA) |
| LL.M 303 ITIL | Elective Paper | Elective | 4 |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LL.M 401 ITIL | Law Relating to GATT, WTO, TRIPS & TRIMS | Specialization Core | 4 | General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT), Structure and Functions of the World Trade Organization (WTO), Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS), Agreement on Trade-Related Investment Measures (TRIMS), Dispute Settlement Understanding (DSU) |
| LL.M 402 ITIL | Elective Paper | Elective | 4 | |
| LL.M 403 | Dissertation | Project | 12 | Identification of Research Problem, Literature Review and Hypothesis Formulation, Data Collection and Analysis, Thesis Writing and Presentation, Viva-Voce Examination |
