LL.M Comparative Media Law

Course details

The LL. M Comparative Media Law Degree is the first and only course of its type to be offered in the Republic of Ireland.

It is a specialised programme which examines the regulation of media in Ireland and internationally. In particular, Irish and international developments relating to restrictions on the media ranging from the laws on privacy, defamation, contempt of court and freedom of information are examined in depth. The statutory regulation of the media in Ireland and throughout the European Union is also analysed.

This course is ideal for those with an interest in the legal and ethical issues surrounding freedom of expression worldwide and with a genuine desire to study media law.

Through its association with Independent News & Media, the College has access to the very best practitioners in this area whether they be legal professionals practicing media law or editors or journalists who grapple with these legal issues on a daily basis.

Together with the College’s experienced and enthusiastic teaching team, the LL.M degree provides a unique opportunity for students to learn about the theoretical aspects of law and how it operates in practice.

The LL.M Media Law Degree is not confined to those who have studied law at undergraduate level. It is also open to those from other disciplines such as the Arts, Journalism and other related programmes.

Syllabus

Semester 1

• Research Methods
• Freedom of Expression: Constitutional Perspectives
• Defamation & the Media

Semester 2

• Law of Privacy
• Media Regulation
• Elective (choose one):Defamation: Practice & Procedure; Freedom of Information Law; Intellectual Property; Law & the Media

Semester 3

• Thesis (15,000 – 20,000 words)

Entry Requirements

• The LL.M is not confined to those who have studied law at undergraduate level. It is also open to those from other disciplines such as the Arts, Journalism and other related programmes.
• At least a lower second-class (2.2) degree in law or a related discipline or foreign equivalent or relevant work experience, including having held a position of responsibility relevant to the LL.M.
• Where the applicant’s first language is not English, the applicant must also demonstrate proficiency in English: the minimum standard is British Council IELTS band 6.5, or TOEFL scores of 575 (paper-based), 232 (computer-based) or 89 (internet-based).
• We welcome applications from those who do not have the entry requirements outlined here. The University will consider applications on the basis of evidence of personal, professional and educational experience which indicate an applicant’s ability to meet the demands of a Masters. We like to give such applicants every opportunity to show that they have the motivation and ability to succeed in their chosen programme of study.