Master of Arts in International Law and the Settlement of Disputes
Format: Onsite, Hybrid, or Online
Programme Start Onsite: 7 September 2026
Programme Start Hybrid: 7 September 2026
Programme Start Online: 6 July 2026
Application Deadline Onsite: 30 April 2026
Application Deadline Hybrid: 30 April 2026
Application Deadline Online: 25 June 2026
Programme Overview
The Master of Arts in International Law and the Settlement of Disputes (onsite, hybrid, and online formats) is a graduate programme that offers students an understanding of the role that international law and institutions play in the settlement of international and transnational disputes. This specialization examines the role of national and international courts and tribunals in contributing to the settlement of disputes.
As international and transnational adjudication has acquired a more prominent role in international relations, it is essential to understand how these global and regional courts are responding to the challenges of the early 21st century.
Students will examine the role of international law in the settlement of disputes in a wide array of fields such as human rights, armed conflicts, territorial and maritime border issues, environment and climate change, multilateral trade, and investments, amongst others. Students will learn the traditional legal processes employed in international and transnational adjudication, as well as alternative forms of dispute settlement prevalent in international law.
In addition, students will attend skills-development sessions and coaching sessions designed to support their professional careers and employability.
Students will have an opportunity to participate in an optional field visit to Geneva (Switzerland) and/or The Hague (Netherlands), immersing themselves in the heart of diplomacy and international law.
This programme is offered in an Onsite Format (face-to-face on the UPEACE campus in Costa Rica), in a Hybrid Format (asynchronous classes online and face-to-face on the UPEACE campus in Costa Rica), and an Online Format (within the UPEACE Virtual Learning Environment).
Programme Information
Onsite Programme Modules
Hybrid Programme Modules
Online Programme Modules
Field Visits
Admissions
Fees
FAQs
Onsite Programme Modules
Onsite Programme Modules
The ONSITE Master of Arts in International Law and the Settlement of Disputes will be implemented face-to-face in San José, Costa Rica on UPEACE’s campus. Some courses taught by UNITAR may, if necessary, be delivered synchronously through virtual modality, although students will be required to be on campus.
Course List:
- Foundation Course (UPEACE)
- Public International Law (UPEACE)
- United Nations System (UPEACE)
- International Human Rights Law (UPEACE)
- Universal Human Rights system (UPEACE)
- Law Related to Armed Conflict I (Ius ad Bellum) (UPEACE)
- Law Related to Armed Conflict II (Ius in Bello) (UPEACE)
- International Criminal Law and Transitional Justice (UPEACE)
- International and Transnational Adjudication (UPEACE)
- International Trade and Investment Law and the Settlement of Disputes (UNITAR)
- Cyberlaw and Warfare (UNITAR)
- Maritime and Territorial Dispute Settlement (UPEACE)
- International Environmental Law and the Settlement of Disputes (UPEACE)
- Skills for a Successful International Career (UNITAR)
- Alternative Dispute Resolution in International Law (UPEACE)
- Model United Nations Conference (UPEACE)
- Thesis or Internship (UPEACE)
Onsite M.A. in International Law and the Settlement of Disputes Calendar (2025-2026): click here.
Hybrid Programme Modules
Hybrid Programme Modules
The HYBRID Master of Arts in International Law and the Settlement of Disputes will be implemented both face-to-face on the UPEACE campus in Costa Rica during the first semester and online during the second, third and fourth semesters. All online subjects will be hosted on UPEACE’s Virtual Learning Environment.
Course List:
- Foundation Course (UPEACE)
- Public International Law (UPEACE)
- United Nations System (UPEACE)
- International Human Rights Law (UPEACE)
- Universal Human Rights system (UPEACE)
- Law Related to Armed Conflict I (Ius ad Bellum) (UPEACE)
- Law Related to Armed Conflict II (Ius in Bello) (UPEACE)
- International Criminal Law (UPEACE)
- International Environmental Law (UPEACE)
- Law of Treaties (UNITAR)
- Transitional Justice (UPEACE)
- International Trade and Investment Law and the Settlement of Disputes (UNITAR)
- Cyberlaw and Warfare (UNITAR)
- Maritime and Territorial Dispute Settlement (UPEACE)
- Skills for a Successful International Career (UNITAR)
- Workshop on Negotiation and Mediation Skills (UPEACE)
- Law of International Organizations (UNITAR)
- International Environmental Law (UPEACE)
- International and Transnational Adjudication (UPEACE)
- Final Graduation Project
- Thesis or Internship (UPEACE)
Hybrid M.A. in International Law and the Settlement of Disputes Calendar (2025-2027): click here.
Online Programme Modules
Online Programme Modules
The ONLINE Master of Arts in International Law and the Settlement of Disputes will be implemented entirely online. All subjects will be hosted on UPEACE’s Virtual Learning Environment.
Course List:
- Foundation Course (UPEACE)
- Public International Law (UPEACE)
- United Nations System (UPEACE)
- International Human Rights Law (UPEACE)
- Law Related to Armed Conflict I (Ius ad Bellum) (UPEACE)
- Law Related to Armed Conflict II (Ius in Bello) (UPEACE)
- Law of International Organizations (UNITAR)
- International Criminal Law (UPEACE)
- International Environmental Law (UPEACE)
- Law of Treaties (UNITAR )
- Transitional Justice (UPEACE)
- International Trade and Investment Law and the Settlement of Disputes (UNITAR )
- Cyberlaw and Warfare (UNITAR)
- Maritime and Territorial Dispute Settlement (UPEACE)
- Workshop on Negotiation and Mediation Skills (UPEACE)
- Skills for a Successful International Career (UNITAR)
- International Environmental Law (UPEACE)
- International and Transnational Adjudication (UPEACE)
- Final Graduation Project
- Thesis or Internship (UPEACE)
Online M.A. in International Law and the Settlement of Disputes Calendar (2025-2027): click here.
Field Visits
Field Visits
Students admitted to the programme are offered a unique opportunity to partake in an optional field visit to Geneva, Switzerland, and/or The Hague, Netherlands, immersing themselves in the heart of diplomacy and international law.
The five-day field trip(s) cost USD 1,500 each and include exclusive experiences such as visiting various international organizations, the ICRC museum in Geneva, the ICJ in The Hague, and engaging in networking sessions with diplomats, personnel from permanent missions accredited to the UN, civil servants working in international organizations, and representatives from civil society.
Scheduled for the summer, the confirmed dates for these optional field visits will be shared with interested students by UPEACE and UNITAR well in advance. Students have the flexibility to enrol in either the Geneva or The Hague visit individually, or they can choose to participate in both field trips to maximize their learning experience.
(*) Please note that the fellowship programme does not include travel, accommodation, food, or visa expenses. Please note that students should have a valid health insurance plan in place during their stay in Switzerland and/or The Netherlands.
Admissions
Fees
Costs
The costs for pursuing the Master of Arts in International Law and the Settlement of Dispures can be found below:
Onsite:
The cost for pursuing an ONSITE M.A. in International law and the Settlement of Disputes is USD 19,500*. This includes tuition, administrative fees, and other associated costs. It is important to note that additional expenses, such as textbooks and field visits may not be covered by this figure.
(*) UN staff and Costa Rican nationals can opt for a 50% waiver (tuition balance: 9,750 USD). All other applicants may apply for a 20% waiver (tuition balance: 15,600 USD), which may be granted in limited numbers by mutual decision of UPEACE and UNITAR to ensure equitable gender and regional representation.
Hybrid:
The cost for pursuing a HYBRID M.A. in International law and the Settlement of Disputes is USD 13,000*. This includes tuition, administrative fees, and other associated costs. It is important to note that additional expenses, such as textbooks, accommodation, field visits and living expenses, may not be covered by this figure.
(*) UN staff will be eligible for a 20% waiver (2,600 USD). Therefore, UN staff will pay 10,400 USD. Furthermore, Costa Rican citizens and residents will be eligible for a 30% waiver (3,900 USD). Therefore, Costa Rican nationals and residents will pay 9,100 USD.
Online:
The cost for pursuing an ONLINE M.A. in International Law and the Settlement of Disputes is USD 11,000*. This includes tuition, administrative fees, and other associated costs. It is important to note that additional expenses, such as textbooks and field visits may not be covered by this figure.
(*) UN staff will be eligible for a 20% waiver (2,200 USD). Therefore, UN staff will pay 8,800 USD. Furthermore, Costa Rican nationals and residents will be eligible for a 30% waiver (3,300 USD). Therefore, Costa Rican citizens and residents will pay 7,700 USD.
Scholarships and Discounts
Onsite Format
Hybrid Format
Online Format
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the start date of this programme?
The start date of this programme is 7 September 2026. Orientation is scheduled for 31 August-4 September 2026.
How much does this programme cost?
The cost of the programme is $19,500.00 USD.
Are there scholarships available?
Yes, scholarships are available. Please refer to the programme webpage for details. You can also consult our scholarships page here.
Is this a joint degree programme between UPEACE and UNITAR?
UPEACE and UNITAR offer this programme jointly. UPEACE has the mandate from the United Nations General Assembly and from the International Agreement that establishes it to award degrees, and as such, UPEACE is the degree-granting institution. UNITAR is the technical partner and delivers some courses, in addition to an optional field visit to Geneva and the Hague. As part of the curriculum, UNITAR also offers students in this programme a workshop on skills for a successful international career.
Is this programme available online?
No. This is a synchronous face-to-face program, with eventually some courses being taught online. However, this programme is also offered in hybrid (first semester onsite and three semesters online; total 2 years), and in fully online modalities (four semesters; 2 years).
What is the duration of this programme?
The duration of this programme is 2 semesters of course work with an extended time of 6 months to complete the final graduation project (a capstone project, internship, or thesis). The total time is approximately 18 months.
What is the final graduation project?
Students have three options for completing their graduation requirement:
1. Capstone Project
2. Internship
3. Thesis
Is this programme offered part-time or full-time?
This is a full-time programme.
Where is the campus located and what are the nearby towns like?
Our campus offers a unique setting in the tranquil, mountainous landscape of El Rodeo de Mora, Colón. You’ll enjoy the benefits of a quiet, natural environment without being isolated. Just a short 7-kilometer trip down the mountain brings you to the welcoming town of Ciudad Colón. Here, you can find everything you need for daily life, from banks and large supermarkets to local farmers’ markets, cozy coffee shops, and fitness centres. When you’re looking for a wider selection of stores and entertainment, you’re only 15 km from a large shopping mall and about 20 km from the cultural and urban offerings of the capital city, San José.
Is the campus accessible by public transportation?
The UPEACE campus in El Rodeo is not directly served by frequent public buses. To ensure easy access for all students, the university operates a complimentary private shuttle system.
Key Transportation Services:
• Ciudad Colón Shuttle: This is the primary service, making regular rounds between campus and the central hub of Ciudad Colón. From there, you can find more frequent public buses to other destinations.
• Staff Bus: This service extends your reach to the San Pedro/Montes de Oca area, home to the University of Costa Rica (UCR). This is ideal for students who live in or frequently travel to the eastern part of the San José metropolitan area.
Both services are free of charge for enrolled UPEACE students, making daily commuting both accessible and affordable.
Are the accommodations included in the tuition fee?
No, accommodations are not included in the tuition fee. This allows you the flexibility to choose from a wide range of housing options in the area based on your preferences and budget.
You can explore the available housing options here.
What does the housing situation close to the campus look like?
Upon acceptance to your programme, you will receive access to our exclusive housing platform. This platform lists a variety of accommodations to suit different needs and budgets in two primary locations:
• El Rodeo: The area closest to the UPEACE campus.
• Ciudad Colón: The nearby town, which offers more services.
Options typically include rooms in host families, studios, apartments, and shared houses.
For more information, please visit our housing page or contact our Housing Officer, Álvaro Castro, at acastro@upeace.org.
Is there a cafeteria on campus?
Yes. Our on-campus cafeteria offers a variety of meals, including breakfast, lunch, snacks, and smoothies, with options available for all dietary needs. For a different dining experience, UPEACE also operates a restaurant in its recreational park, which is open on weekends and holidays.
How can I obtain a Costa Rican visa?
The visa process varies for each student. After you are accepted into a programme, our dedicated Visa Officer will contact you to provide personalized guidance and support throughout the application process.
For general information, you can refer to our visa page. For specific questions, please email our Visa Officer, Cynthia Díaz, directly at cdiaz@upeace.org.
What is the admission process for this programme?
The process begins once we receive your complete application. It involves two key steps:
• First, our admissions team conducts an administrative review to ensure all documents are in order.
• Then, your application is evaluated by the programme’s academic committee, who makes the final admission decision based on your qualifications.
You will be notified of the outcome as soon as the evaluation is complete.
In what language is this programme taught?
The programme is fully taught in English.
What department does the International Law and Settlement of Disputes programme belong to?
This programme belongs to the Department of International Law.
Where do students work after graduating?
Our alumni work in a variety of fields and organizations. Some work for the United Nations or other intergovernmental organizations, some work at international or regional courts, some for governments including in diplomacy and civil service, some for non-governmental organizations (NGOs), while others follow a career in academia or the private sector such as law firms.
Does UPEACE help students find internships?
Our department faculty and staff assist you in identifying options for potential internships. We assign a personal supervisor to each student to work one-on-one on identifying the best options, considering the entry and exit profiles of students and their career interests.
Where are the professors in the programme from?
Our resident and visiting faculty members come from a variety of countries and backgrounds. Currently, we have professors from India, Venezuela, the Netherlands, Japan, Egypt, Costa Rica, South Africa, Mexico, Germany, the Philippines, and the United States of America.
How are courses organized?
Courses are generally organized in modules of one, two or three weeks. Each week comprises three hours of classes on each of the five working days (Saturday and Sunday are days off). At any given time, students undertake one specific course. Courses do not run through semesters. This allows the Department to bring the crème-de-la-crème among the experts and practitioners from around the world. Students receive a reader on our Learning Management System which details the readings and other material assigned for each day. Students must complete these daily readings before their next class.
What do the course assignments look like?
Assignments vary significantly across courses. Some courses that focus on foundational concepts may entail assignments that are more research-based, while those that focus on skills may entail hands-on assignments. Possible assignments include take-home exams, research essays, policy briefs, quizzes, individual or group presentations, simulations, case studies, moot courts, other forms of in-class activities, and oral exams.
Are there research and publication opportunities for students?
Yes, the Department has active lines of research and students are encouraged to join as assistants. Additionally, students can have their academic research papers published in our in-house Ideas for Peace platform.
Are there additional benefits to enrolling in this programme?
Yes, the programme engages professionals and experts from around the world, including senior officials at the UN and international courts. These networks have benefited students and graduates significantly. Additionally, students come from many countries and ensure a rich multicultural learning environment in our classrooms. In addition to receiving academic credits, some courses also allow students to receive certificates of training (i.e. from the ICRC or UNHCR) that can help enhance their CVs. Students also engage with lawyers at the Inter-American Court of Human Rights and have the opportunity to visit the Court. Students in this programme also have the opportunity to participate in an optional field visit to Geneva and the Hague organized separately by UNITAR.
Can students engage with the UPEACE Human Rights Centre?
Yes, the Department also hosts the UPEACE Human Rights Centre, which offers professional development diplomas and courses for working practitioners. The Centre also carries out research and implements projects for UN partners, including the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights. Students can directly engage as research or teaching assistants with the Centre. Find out more here.
Are there opportunities for extra-curricular activities?
Yes, there are many opportunities. Student-led clubs are a core part of campus life, with regular activities for yoga, football, volleyball, ping pong, Spanish classes, and more.
Beyond clubs, we host a series of “Brown-bag” lunchtime events throughout the year. These informal sessions feature special lectures from invited experts, practitioners, alumni, and faculty, providing a platform for informal learning and discussion. Students are also encouraged to organise their own events based on their interested and areas of expertise.