Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Business, Competition and Regulatory Law

The Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Business, Competition and Regulatory Law at the Free University of Berlin offers an in-depth and comprehensive legal education tailored to address the complexities of modern economic and regulatory environments. This program is designed for students who aspire to develop specialized expertise in the fields of business law, competition law, and regulatory frameworks, equipping graduates with the analytical skills and legal knowledge necessary to excel in legal practice, academia, or policy-making roles within national and international contexts.

Structured over two academic semesters, the LL.M. program combines a rigorous curriculum with practical insights, allowing students to engage with core topics such as antitrust law, merger control, market regulation, intellectual property rights, commercial contracts, corporate governance, and compliance. The program emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, integrating economic analysis, legal theory, and policy considerations to provide a holistic understanding of the legal challenges faced by businesses and regulators today.

Students have the opportunity to benefit from the university’s experienced faculty members, who are experts in their respective fields, and to participate in seminars, workshops, and guest lectures by prominent practitioners and scholars. The program also encourages research and critical thinking, enabling students to develop their own legal arguments and contribute to ongoing debates within the discipline.

The LL.M. in Business, Competition and Regulatory Law prepares graduates for careers in law firms, regulatory agencies, multinational corporations, international organizations, and academia. It also offers a solid foundation for those considering doctoral studies or specialized legal consultancy roles. Recognizing the importance of practical experience, the program includes options for internships and collaborative projects, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings.

Furthermore, the university’s central location in Berlin provides students with unique networking opportunities and exposure to a vibrant legal and economic environment, fostering professional growth and intercultural exchange. Graduates of this program will be well-equipped to navigate the evolving landscape of business and competition law, contributing effectively to legal practice, policy development, or academic research at both national and international levels.

The Master's program in Business, Competition and Regulatory Law at Free University of Berlin offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare students for the complex legal challenges faced by businesses and regulatory authorities in today's dynamic economic environment. The program provides an in-depth understanding of the legal frameworks that govern commercial activities, market competition, and regulatory compliance at national and European levels. Students will explore key topics such as EU competition law, antitrust regulations, intellectual property rights, merger control, state aid rules, consumer protection, and the legal aspects of digital markets. The curriculum combines theoretical foundations with practical case studies, enabling students to develop analytical skills and strategic thinking necessary for advising corporations, regulatory bodies, or pursuing careers in legal consultancy and policy-making.

Throughout the program, students engage with expert faculty members who have extensive experience in both academia and legal practice. They participate in seminars, workshops, and internships to gain real-world insights and develop a nuanced understanding of regulatory processes and enforcement mechanisms. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, integrating economic, political, and legal perspectives to offer a holistic view of market regulation issues. Graduates of this program will be equipped to analyze complex legal problems, draft legal opinions, and formulate policy recommendations that foster fair competition while supporting innovation and economic growth.

In addition to core legal subjects, the program covers related areas such as corporate governance, dispute resolution, and compliance management, providing a 360-degree education for future legal professionals. Students also learn about international trade law, the role of national courts versus European tribunals, and the impact of global economic policies on market regulation. The program’s flexible structure includes elective modules allowing students to tailor their studies to specific interests, whether in digital economy law, environmental regulation, or sector-specific legal issues. Graduates will be well-prepared to pursue careers in law firms, governmental agencies, European institutions, or corporate legal departments, contributing to the development of fair and efficient market systems.

The MSc in Business, Competition and Regulatory Law at the Free University of Berlin is designed to provide students with comprehensive knowledge and analytical skills relating to the legal frameworks governing commercial activities, competition policy, and regulatory mechanisms. Applicants are typically required to hold a bachelor's degree or an equivalent qualification from a recognized university, demonstrating a solid foundation in law or related disciplines such as economics or political science. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary understanding, so prior experience or coursework in areas like economic analysis of law, European Union regulation, or administrative law is advantageous.

Proficiency in the English language is mandatory, with applicants needing to submit valid language certificates such as TOEFL or IELTS scores that meet the university's specified minimum requirements. Additionally, relevant professional experience, internships, or research projects related to competition law, regulatory policy, or business law can strengthen an application but are not always mandatory.

Candidates are expected to submit a motivation letter explaining their interest in the program and how it aligns with their career goals. Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees can also support the application. The admissions process considers academic performance, relevant experience, language proficiency, and motivation.

Once enrolled, students are required to complete core courses covering the fundamentals of competition law, EU regulatory frameworks, and legal aspects of economic policy. Elective courses allow specialization in areas such as international competition law, telecommunications regulation, or antitrust procedures. Practical training through seminars, case studies, and possibly internships enhances real-world understanding of regulatory challenges and legal practices.

Assessment methods include written exams, research papers, presentations, and participation in discussions. The program may also require a master's thesis demonstrating the student's ability to analyze complex legal issues and provide well-founded solutions within the context of business and regulatory law. Successful graduates acquire critical expertise applicable to careers in legal consultancy, regulatory authorities, international organizations, or academic research. The program aims to foster a nuanced understanding of the legal and economic dimensions of competition and regulation in a globalized market environment.

Program Title: Master of Business, Competition and Regulatory Law

Financial Information: The Master of Business, Competition and Regulatory Law at the Free University of Berlin offers students a comprehensive and specialized education in legal aspects related to business competition and regulation. The tuition fee for this program is approximately €1,500 per semester for EU students and €3,000 for non-EU students. The program is structured over two semesters of coursework, with a possible third semester dedicated to a thesis or internship, which may incur additional costs depending on the chosen activities and resources.

Funding opportunities are available for eligible students through various channels. The university provides scholarships based on academic merit, financial need, or specific criteria such as nationality or specialization focus. These scholarships can cover partial or full tuition fees and sometimes offer monthly stipends to assist with living expenses. Students are encouraged to apply for these scholarships early, as competition can be intense and deadlines are strict.

Additionally, students can seek external funding sources, including government grants, state study loans, or private scholarships from foundations and organizations dedicated to supporting students in law and related fields. The German government’s BAföG program offers means-tested financial support for eligible students, which can cover a portion of living expenses and/or tuition fees.

Cost of living in Berlin should also be considered when planning finances. On average, students may spend around €800 to €1,000 per month on accommodation, food, transportation, health insurance, and personal expenses. The university’s location in Berlin provides access to affordable student housing options and numerous student discounts, making it an attractive destination for international students seeking quality education at an affordable cost.

Part-time work opportunities are available for students to supplement their income during studies. International students from non-EU countries are permitted to work up to 120 full days or 240 half days per year, which can help offset living costs and provide practical experience related to their field of study.

In sum, financing the Master of Business, Competition and Regulatory Law at the Free University of Berlin involves consideration of tuition fees, living expenses, scholarships, external funding options, and potential income from part-time work. Prospective students are advised to plan their finances carefully and explore all available funding opportunities to support their studies in this specialized program.

The Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Business, Competition and Regulatory Law at the Free University of Berlin offers students an in-depth understanding of legal frameworks that govern business operations, competitive practices, and regulatory measures within both European and international contexts. This specialized program provides comprehensive coursework in competition law, regulatory policies, and business law, preparing graduates for careers in law firms, regulatory agencies, corporate legal departments, and international organizations. The program emphasizes the development of analytical skills necessary to interpret and apply complex legal regulations, manage legal risks in international business transactions, and advocate for fair competition practices.

Students have the opportunity to engage with renowned faculty who are experts in European and international competition law, along with modules covering legal aspects of market regulation, anti-trust policies, and compliance strategies. The curriculum often incorporates case studies, seminars, and practical exercises to enhance understanding of real-world legal challenges faced by corporations and regulatory authorities. Additionally, the program encourages interdisciplinary approaches, blending legal theory with economic analysis to analyze and address complex competition issues.

The university's location in Berlin enables students to benefit from Germany's influential legal and economic environment, as well as proximity to European Union institutions and major multinational corporations. This geographic advantage facilitates internships and partnerships that complement the academic experience. The program also stresses the importance of ethical standards and sustainable development, integrating these principles into legal practice and regulatory frameworks.

Graduates of the LL.M. in Business, Competition and Regulatory Law gain specialized knowledge that equips them to navigate the evolving landscape of international business law, participate in policy-making processes, or pursue academic careers. The program aims to cultivate a global perspective, ensuring that students understand diverse legal systems and regulatory practices across different jurisdictions. Overall, it is designed to produce highly competent legal professionals who can contribute effectively to the regulation and development of fair, competitive markets in an increasingly globalized economy.