NLUD-SOAS Joint LLM/MA in Environmental Justice in South Asia

Program Overview

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The LLM/MA in Environmental Justice in South Asia is a unique program offered jointly by SOAS University of London and the National Law University Delhi, India. It provides students with a deep understanding of environmental issues from a global South perspective, focusing on South Asia. The program combines taught modules, a clinical component, and a dissertation, equipping graduates with specialized knowledge in environmental law and skills for successful career progression in various sectors.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview

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The LLM/MA in Environmental Justice in South Asia

is an innovative 1-year, full-time course offered jointly by SOAS University of London and the National Law University Delhi, India. This unique program provides students with a deep understanding of environmental issues from a global South perspective. It focuses on South Asia, offering students an in-depth exploration of environmental law and its application to various areas, particularly within the South Asian context.

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Objectives:

• Equip graduates with specialized knowledge in environmental law, specifically in relation to South Asia.
• Offer an opportunity to study environmental law and its application across a range of fields with specific reference to South Asia.
• Develop research skills in environmental law.
• Enhance exposure to legal and environmental issues in both the Global North and Global South.
• Provide graduates with the necessary skills for successful career progression.

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Outline

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Structure:

• The LLM/MA Environmental Justice in South Asia program consists of 180 SOAS credits/120 NLUD credits.
• It comprises taught modules, a clinical component, and a dissertation.
• Students can opt for either an LLM or an MA degree.
• Students take modules from SOAS during the Fall semester (September to January) and modules from NLUD during the Spring semester (February to June)

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Taught modules:

• The program offers a mix of compulsory and optional elective modules.
• SOAS offers three compulsory modules:
• Foundations of Environmental Justice with reference to South Asia
• International environmental law and policy with reference to South Asia
• Research Methods
• NLUD offers four compulsory modules:
• Environmental Law and Policy in India
• Natural Resources Law and Policy in South Asia
• Quantitative Research Methods & Environmental Justice Clinic
• Climate Justice and Climate Law: South-North Perspectives

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Dissertation:

• Students complete a 60-credit dissertation, which can be undertaken at either SOAS, NLUD, or remotely.
• The dissertation is a supervised piece of independent research on a topic chosen by the student and their supervisor.

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Assessment

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Assessment methods:

• The program utilizes a variety of assessment methods including:
• Essays
• Presentations
• Exams
• Research reports
• Clinic assignments
• Criteria may include:
• Knowledge and understanding of the subject matter
• Critical analysis and evaluation skills
• Research skills
• Writing and presentation skills
• Originality of thought
• Engagement with relevant literature
• Adherence to ethical research standards

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Teaching

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Teaching methods:

• The program uses a variety of teaching methods, including:
• Lectures
• Seminars
• Workshops
• Guest lectures
• Field visits
• Clinical practice

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Faculty:

• The program boasts experienced and internationally recognized faculty in environmental law, specializing in the South Asian context.
• Faculty members come from both SOAS and NLUD, offering diverse perspectives and expertise.

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Other

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Living in London:

Due to the short-term stay in London for the course, students will not be able to use SOAS Halls of residence. Instead, accommodation is arranged in partnership with agencies.

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Field visits:

The program offers optional field visits to relevant organizations and sites, providing students with firsthand exposure to environmental justice issues in South Asia.

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Careers

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Career opportunities:

• The program equips graduates with a range of skills and knowledge, making them highly employable in diverse sectors including:
• International organizations
• Non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
• Government agencies
• Law firms and legal research institutes
• Academia

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Career resources:

SOAS provides career support to its students, including career counseling, workshops, and job fairs.