Business and Law

The Bachelor of Business and Law at the University of Antwerp offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary education designed to prepare students for a diverse range of careers in the fields of business, law, and management. This program combines foundational knowledge in business administration with a thorough understanding of legal principles, enabling graduates to navigate complex legal and commercial environments confidently. Throughout the three-year program, students will acquire essential skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and decision-making, all within an international and multicultural context. The curriculum covers core topics including economics, accounting, marketing, human resource management, contract law, corporate law, EU law, and ethics, fostering a well-rounded understanding of the interrelations between business practices and legal frameworks.

The program emphasizes practical learning through case studies, internships, and project work, offering students opportunities to apply their theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges. Additionally, students can specialize in areas such as international business law or corporate governance, tailoring their education to specific career interests. The University of Antwerp’s strategic location in Belgium provides access to a vibrant European business environment, facilitating networking and internship options in both the private and public sectors. The program is taught by experienced academics and professionals who ensure that the curriculum remains relevant and aligned with current industry standards and legal developments.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Business and Law degree are equipped to pursue careers in multinational corporations, legal consultancy firms, government agencies, or to continue their studies through master's programs in law, business administration, or related fields. The university’s focus on critical analysis, ethical reasoning, and intercultural competence prepares students to become responsible and innovative professionals capable of making a positive impact in a globalized world. Whether aiming for a career in legal advisory, business management, or entrepreneurship, students will find a dynamic learning environment that fosters personal growth and professional success.

The Research Program

Within the law faculty, research is performed on European law, tax law, economic law(including commercial law, company law and financial law) and the patrimonial aspects of family law. The merging of this research into one Research Group with a strong focus on “Business and law” has many concrete advantages.
Research results that fit in the framework of the coordinating program get a (more) clear-cut profile and coherence. Subsequently, the visibility of both the program and the individual researchers profits from the inclusion of articles, books, dissertations and research projects in the Research Program. This also applies to the organization of a workshop, conference or congress.
The Research Program is placed on the cutting edge of European, fiscal and economic law and ties in with the broad notion of a business, in a functional, non-normative manner. This firstly includes market-bound companies, governmental companies and non-profit organizations that perform economic activities.
The Research Program also encompasses the legal statute of companies and family fortunes that are exploited as a business. The program does not primarily focus on the family as such. The law with a specific meaning for the business is the central point.

Requirements

• Applicants must hold a master’s degree
• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): minimum score of 550 for the paper-based test or 79 for the Internet-based test. Information about this test is available at the TOEFL-website. IOB does not accept the TOEFL ITP.
• IELTS (International English Language Testing System): minimum score of 6.5 and a minimum score of 6.0 on each component. Information about this test is available at the IELTS-website.
• A copy of your valid passport or identity card/a curriculum vitae
• A motivation letter
• A legalised copy of your degree certificate (please read more information on legalisation)
• Applicants that are enrolled in the final year should submit an original and signed letter from their college or university confirming that they are expected to finalise the program at the end of the current academic year
• A copy of your academic transcripts, provided with a stamp of the university

Scholarships

• An assistant mandate - salaried assistant; 
• An appointment to a research project that was requested by a promoter and subsidized assigned by internal (BOF) or external (international, national, regional, local) research resources; 
• A personal doctoral fellowship (eg FWO-aspirant and analog mandates, IWT grant for strategic basic research, temporary mandate (opvangmandaat) of the Special Research Fund - BOF specific funds that grant scholarships); 

The Business and Law programme at the University of Antwerp is an interdisciplinary undergraduate program that combines core principles of business management with the legal framework that governs commercial activities. This programme aims to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of both business operations and legal regulations, enabling them to navigate and manage complex legal and economic environments effectively. The curriculum typically includes courses in management, marketing, finance, accounting, corporate law, contract law, labor law, and European law, providing students with a solid foundation in both fields. Students also learn about international business practices, strategic decision-making, and ethical considerations in business. The programme emphasizes practical skills through case studies, internships, and projects that simulate real-world scenarios, preparing graduates for careers in various sectors such as corporate management, legal consultancy, compliance, and consultancy services. The university's strong ties with industry partners and legal institutions offer opportunities for networking, internships, and employment after graduation. Students are encouraged to develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills, which are essential in today's globalized business environment. The programme is designed to be accessible for students with diverse academic backgrounds and offers support for academic and career development. Graduates of the Business and Law programme often pursue careers in corporate law, compliance management, consulting, or continue their studies through Master’s programmes in law, business administration, or related fields. The programme also prepares students for roles that require bilingual skills and an understanding of international legal and business standards, reflecting the evolving demands of the global marketplace. Overall, the Business and Law programme at the University of Antwerp provides a rigorous, integrated education that combines theoretical knowledge with practical application, ensuring students are well-prepared for the challenges of modern business environments and legal systems.