Why Study / Key Benefits

The Postgraduate Certificate in International Law and Politics (PGCertIntLaw&Pols) is designed for students who want advanced knowledge of international law together with an understanding of international relations, diplomacy and global politics.

Key benefits include:

• Advanced study of public international law and international relations.
• Opportunity to specialise through elective courses such as World Trade Law, International Criminal Law, International Environmental Law and International Investment Law and Arbitration.
• A multidisciplinary approach combining the Faculty of Law with international politics and international relations.
• A particular focus on Aotearoa New Zealand's position in world politics and the complexities of international relations.
• Potential pathway into the Master of Laws (International Law and Politics).
• Preparation for work involving government, foreign ministries, international organisations, international business, law firms and NGOs

Programme Structure and Subjects / Topics

The 60-point certificate consists of:

1. Compulsory courses – 30 points

• ILAP613 – Advanced Principles of Public International Law
• ILAP614 – Principles and Practice of International Relations and Diplomacy

Each is worth 15 points.

2. Elective courses – 30 points

Students select two 15-point courses from the approved International Law and Politics elective schedule, subject to programme approval and course availability.

Courses appearing in UC's 2026 course information include:

• ILAP604 – International Criminal Law
• ILAP608 – World Trade Law
• ILAP612 – International Environmental Law
• ILAP623 – Fintech and the Law
• ILAP629 – Special Topic
• ILAP634 – International Investment Law and Arbitration

Disciplines / Specialisations

There are no formal majors or minors within the PGCertIntLaw&Pols.

However, the certificate allows students to develop a specialised focus through their two elective courses.

Potential areas include:

• Public international law
• International relations and diplomacy
• International criminal law
• World trade law
• International environmental law
• International investment law and arbitration
• Other approved International Law and Politics topics, depending on availability.

Programme Highlights

• 60-point postgraduate qualification.
• First offered in 2025.
• February and July entry points.
• Can be completed within 2 years part-time.
• Combines international law with international relations and diplomacy.
• Includes 30 points of compulsory study and 30 points of electives.
• Individual programmes of study require approval by the Executive Dean of Law or delegate.
• No majors or minors.
• Strong connection to New Zealand's international position and global affairs.
• Potential progression into the Master of Laws (International Law and Politics).

Career Outcomes

UC indicates that the programme develops skills suitable for advanced work involving:

• Government departments
• Foreign ministries
• International organisations
• International business
• Law firms
• International non-governmental organisations
• Global policy and international affairs roles

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

The qualification regulations currently in force came into effect on 1 January 2025, and the certificate was first offered in 2025.

Important current requirements include:

• Programme of study must be approved by the Executive Dean of Law or delegate.
• Students must complete 60 points.
• There are no majors or minors.
• Maximum completion period is 24 months.
• Students must pass each enrolled course.
• Only one course failure may be permitted for re-enrolment under exceptional circumstances and with the required approval.
• Honours, Distinction and Merit are not awarded for this qualification.

International Student Visa Requirements

International students intending to study in New Zealand normally need an appropriate New Zealand student visa.

For a Fee Paying Student Visa, Immigration New Zealand currently states:

• Cost: from NZ$850
• Processing: 80% within 8 weeks
• Maximum stay: up to 4 years, depending on circumstances
• Offer of place from an approved education provider
• Evidence of tuition payment or ability to pay
• Evidence of sufficient living funds
• Acceptable medical and travel insurance
• Genuine intention to study
• Good health and character
• Evidence that the student can leave New Zealand at the end of the stay.