Why this programme
At the European Law School, we educate European jurists in a globalizing world.
Our students develop the analytical and critical thinking skills that are essential to the legal discipline. You will learn how to analyse, compare, and reflect critically on the choices made across different legal systems. The programme also focuses on the role of European law in the world and explores the interaction between national, European, and international legal frameworks. Throughout your studies, you will be challenged to think about how law can help address complex issues facing European and global societies.
Why in Maastricht
Maastricht, home to the historic Maastricht Treaty, offers the perfect setting for a truly international legal education. Located in the heart of Europe, Maastricht University attracts a diverse, global student community. The students in the European Law School programme represent close to 60 different nationalities, and 41% of the academic staff at the Faculty of Law come from abroad. Such diversity creates an international atmosphere that is strengthened by the programme’s global orientation.
For over 30 years, Maastricht University has been a leading hub for research and education in European and comparative law. Here, you’ll learn in a cross-border environment that prepares you for an international career, all while living in a lively student city known for its international spirit.
What will you learn?
The European Law School bachelor’s programme spans three years. In the first two years, you’ll build a solid foundation across the main fields of law, including constitutional law, private law, international law, and European Union law, while learning to apply a comparative perspective. You'll also study the historical, philosophical, and economic roots of legal systems. Throughout the programme, you will develop practical skills through legal challenges, research projects, and moot court competitions.
In the final year, you can tailor your degree by choosing electives, studying abroad, or doing an internship, allowing you to specialise and prepare for an international legal career.
How will you learn?
Our unique Problem-Based Learning method stimulates you to think beyond the classroom and consider your role as a global citizen. Through collaboration in small groups and project work, you’ll see the real-world impact of what you’re learning, opening your eyes to the broader responsibility that comes with knowledge.
You will be trained in many different (legal) skills like working with reference books, mediation, negotiation, and advanced legal writing skills. Additonally, you will have the possibility to join international moot court competitions, where our law faculty has built an excellent reputation for performing outstandingly and has been awarded the first prize in competitions such as the European Law Moot Court Competition, the VAR Moot Court Competition and the National Round of the Philip Jessup Moot Competition.
Dual Degree Programme
Looking to combine European and Spanish law in an international study experience? Maastricht University and Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM) offer a 4-year Dual Degree Programme. You’ll study two years in Maastricht and two years in Madrid, earning an LL.B in European and Comparative Law (Maastricht) and an LL.B in Spanish Law (UAM).
The first two years focus on European and comparative law, while the final two years deepen your knowledge of Spanish law. Throughout, you’ll build key legal skills like research, writing, and advocacy.
Students apply through a selection procedure in the second year of the European Law School, based on GPA, study progress, Spanish language skills, and motivation.