The Master of  Applied Criminal Law (LLM-ACL) at INES-Ruhengeri is a comprehensive two-year program designed to address the specific needs of the Rwandan Judiciary and beyond. The program is tailored for legal professionals who currently hold only a bachelor's degree in law, offering them advanced training in criminal science, criminology, and criminal procedure. This specialized education equips graduates with the practical skills required to excel in complex criminal investigations, prosecutions, and trials, thereby fulfilling the growing demand for highly qualified practitioners in Rwanda and internationally.

Graduates of the LLM-ACL program will be well-prepared for a variety of career paths, including roles in the National Public Prosecution Authority, the judiciary, private legal practice, and consultancy. The program also serves as a solid foundation for those pursuing further academic research or advanced studies in criminal law and criminology, including PhD programs.

Program Philosophy and Objectives

The LLM-ACL program is committed to delivering cutting-edge education that meets the evolving challenges of the judicial field. The curriculum is designed to instill professional ethics, enhance legal research skills, and foster innovative approaches to judicial practice. Graduates will be equipped to contribute effectively to Rwanda's criminal justice system and to broader regional efforts within the East African Community.

The program's specific objectives include:

• Enhancing the capacity of judicial practitioners: Graduates will acquire advanced skills in criminal law, enabling them to conduct complex investigations, prosecute cases, and manage criminal trials with competence and ethical integrity.
• Contributing to Rwanda’s human capital development: By training highly skilled legal professionals, the program supports the nation's goals of eliminating criminality and fostering a just society.
• Promoting servant-leadership and ethical practice: The program emphasizes the importance of serving humanity with integrity, ensuring that graduates become moral and spiritual role models in their professional lives.

Graduates of the Master of Applied Criminal Law (LLM-ACL) from INES-Ruhengeri will find diverse and rewarding career opportunities in both national and international legal arenas. The program’s emphasis on advanced criminal law, criminology, and forensic science prepares students for several impactful roles, including:

• Criminal Defense Attorney: Specialize in defending individuals accused of crimes, using advanced knowledge of criminal law and procedure to ensure fair trials and effective representation.

• Prosecutor: Work as a prosecutor to bring criminal cases to court, using expertise in criminal law to build strong cases against accused individuals and seek justice for victims and society.

• Forensic Legal Expert: Serve as a forensic legal expert, providing critical analysis and expert testimony in criminal trials involving complex evidence, thanks to the integration of forensic science and legal studies.

• Criminal Investigator: Pursue roles as a criminal investigator, applying knowledge of criminal law and criminology to investigate and solve serious crimes, gather evidence, and support law enforcement agencies.

• Legal Consultant in Criminal Law: Offer consultancy services to law firms, governmental bodies, or international organizations, advising on criminal law matters, legal procedures, and best practices in forensic investigations.

• Judicial Officer: Prepare for roles within the judiciary, such as judges or magistrates, applying expertise in criminal law to adjudicate cases, uphold justice, and contribute to the integrity of the legal system.

• Policy Advisor: Influence criminal justice policies and reforms, particularly in areas such as gender-based violence (GBV), juvenile justice, and international criminal law.

• Academic and Researcher: Become a professor or researcher, contributing to the field through teaching and conducting advanced research on criminal law, criminology, and related topics.

• International Legal Advisor: Work with international organizations, such as the East African Court of Justice, advising on cross-border criminal issues and contributing to global legal frameworks.

• Human Rights Advocate: Join NGOs or advocacy groups, focusing on human rights abuses, legal protections for vulnerable populations, and justice for marginalized groups, equipped with knowledge in criminal justice and human rights.