Applications are now open for the International Studies Programme, a Master’s Degree in Law fully taught in English and focused on International Law, European Law, Human Rights, Political History, Strategy and International Relations.
At a time when the international order is facing particularly demanding challenges, the International Studies Programme offers students a solid legal education with an interdisciplinary and international outlook. The Programme provides an opportunity to study some of the most pressing issues on the global agenda, from the role of international organisations and the protection of human rights to the use of force, diplomacy, international justice, European Law and the new questions facing the legal community worldwide.
According to Professor José Alberto Azeredo Lopes, Programme Coordinator, the study of International Law is especially relevant today. In a context marked by international crises, armed conflicts and tensions within the multilateral system, a rigorous understanding of this field continues to offer important academic and professional opportunities. More than ever, he stresses, there is a need for well-prepared lawyers and international specialists, able to understand complex legal and political contexts and to work with technical knowledge, critical judgement, and institutional awareness.
The International Studies Programme is distinguished by the diversity of its curriculum and by the contribution of Portuguese lecturers, guest professors and international experts from different countries and fields of expertise. This international dimension gives students contact with different perspectives on law, institutions and international relations, strengthening their ability to analyse, argue and make informed decisions.
The experiences of students and alumni reflect the international and multidisciplinary identity of the Programme. Sabahat Rahim Baig, a first-year student from Pakistan, highlights the academic reputation of Universidade Católica Portuguesa in Porto and the international environment of the School, as well as the possibility of pursuing a career linked to International Law, human rights and diplomacy. Naman Tariq, also a first-year student, values the opportunity to study European Law and to apply theoretical knowledge to real and practical cases, in an experience that has helped him develop his critical thinking and clarify his academic and professional path. Among the Programme’s alumni, Marta Pereira Cachide highlights the diversity of the curriculum, participation in the ISP Dialogues, contact with professors from different fields and countries, and the opportunity to engage with students of various nationalities, aspects that contributed to her academic and personal development and to a stronger preparation for the challenges of the contemporary international landscape.
The Programme prepares students for careers in different areas, including public administration, diplomatic and consular services, international organisations, non-governmental organisations, consultancy in international or public affairs and multinational companies.
Applications for the third round are open until 20 August 2026. Classes are expected to begin in September 2026, at the Porto campus of Universidade Católica Portuguesa.
Applications must be submitted through the application platform of Universidade Católica Portuguesa. For further information, applicants may contact admissions.porto@ucp.pt or complete the following form.