International Civil and Commercial Law (Advanced LL.M.)

Career preparation

Career preparation and professional development

The ICCL programme is specifically designed to prepare you for a successful legal career by offering practical experience and professional training throughout the course. This includes:

• Site visits: Regular visits to key international institutions and prominent law firms. These visits provide you with invaluable insights into the functioning of civil and commercial law in an international context and give you the chance to meet key decision-makers in the field.
• Moot Court and legal writing: Throughout the programme, you will participate in moot courts that simulate real-life legal cases, giving you the opportunity to develop your skills in legal analysis, writing, and oral advocacy. This practical experience will enhance your abilities to represent clients and argue cases in court.
• Study trip: An exclusive study trip to international legal institutions. This trip allows you to see civil and commercial law  law in action in an EU context, making it an invaluable part of your education.
• Guest lectures and professional interaction: Our faculty includes highly regarded legal professionals who bring experience of law in action into the classroom. Guest lecturers from law firms, international organizations, and government agencies provide additional expertise, offering you the opportunity to learn about the latest trends and issues from practitioners.

Building your international network

The ICCL programme emphasizes the importance of building a strong professional network to support your future career through classroom interactions, collaborating with classmates who come from diverse legal backgrounds and have varied professional experiences.

Expectations

It’s important to note that securing employment in the Netherlands, particularly for non-EU students, can be challenging due to the competitive nature of the job market and the legal requirements for work permits. While the ICCL programme provides excellent preparation for work in an international context, it is crucial for students to understand the challenges of finding a job in the Netherlands as a non-EU graduate. Our Career Services team offers tailored advice and resources to help non-EU students navigate this process and maximise their opportunities, including tips on finding positions within multinational companies that have a presence in the Netherlands or positions that do not require work permits.

Career services

In addition to the practical training provided throughout the programme, the Leiden University Career Services supports students in their transition to the workforce. They organise career fairs, networking events, and workshops that help you prepare for the job market. You will also have access to exclusive job listings, internship opportunities, and personalised career advice.