Studying environmental law abroad

What is environmental law?

Environmental law governs how humans interact with the environment, covering issues like pollution, climate change, and conservation.

Studying in this field at university will involve exploring legislation, case law, and policies that protect natural resources and regulate industries.

During your studies you should expect to analyse legal frameworks, engage in debates, and study real world cases. Modules often include environmental ethics, international law, and sustainability.

An environmental law degree is ideal for you if you are passionate about law, policy, and environmental protection, offering you pathways to advocacy, policymaking, or legal practice.

Why study environmental law abroad?

Studying environmental law abroad offers you a global perspective on sustainability, climate policy, and legal frameworks. You will gain diverse insights, access to top institutions, and networking opportunities.

Your career prospects will be enhanced, as global organisations and NGOs will be seeking out your expertise, adaptability, and cross cultural communication skills.

What you will study

An environmental law program at university typically covers:

• Foundations of Environmental Law – Key principles, legal frameworks, and international treaties.
• Climate Change Law – Policies, regulations, and legal responses to global warming.
• Natural Resource Management – Laws governing land, water, forests, and biodiversity.
• Pollution Control & Waste Management – Legal mechanisms addressing air, water, and soil pollution.
• International & Comparative Environmental Law – Cross-border environmental governance.
• Environmental Justice & Human Rights – The intersection of law, policy, and social equity.
• Sustainability & Corporate Responsibility – Environmental regulations affecting businesses.
• Legal Research & Advocacy – Practical skills for litigation, policymaking, and compliance.

Accreditation

Completing an environmental law degree usually award you with an LLB (Bachelor of Laws) or a BSc/BA in Law with Environmental Studies. A masters degree, such as an LLM in Environmental Law will provide you with advanced expertise and knowledge.

Accreditation depends on where you choose to practice law, but your degree might be recognised by legal bodies like the Bar Council or Law Society. Some programs will offer specialised certifications in environmental policy or sustainability, which can enhance your career prospects.

Careers

As a graduate of an environmental law degree you will have a range of career opportunities across public, private, and nonprofit sectors.

You could become an environmental lawyer, representing clients in cases related to regulations, sustainability, and conservation. You might work as a corporate sustainability advisor, helping companies to comply with environmental laws and implement new practices.

If you choose to pursue a career as a government policy advisor you will work with agencies to develop and enforce policies, while environmental consultants offer expertise on impact assessments and legal compliance.

Opportunities also exist in nonprofit advocacy groups, pushing for policy changes, and as in-house counsel, advising corporations on legal issues related to environmental issues. Many of these roles can lead to international careers in environmental law and advocacy.