Chinese Law and Comparative Law and MA

The Master of Arts in Chinese Law and Comparative Law at the University of Göttingen offers students a comprehensive and in-depth understanding of the legal systems of China in comparison with other major legal traditions around the world. This interdisciplinary programme combines theoretical legal studies with practical insights into Chinese laws, regulations, and legal institutions, enabling graduates to analyze and interpret the complex legal landscape of China within a broader international and comparative context. Students will examine key areas such as civil law, commercial law, constitutional law, administrative law, and criminal law, while paying particular attention to the unique features of Chinese legal development and current reforms. Emphasizing both academic rigour and practical relevance, the programme incorporates case studies, legal practice exercises, and opportunities for internships, allowing students to gain valuable insights into Chinese legal procedures and their implications for international business, diplomacy, and academia. The curriculum is designed for students from diverse backgrounds, including law, political science, international relations, and Asian studies, fostering a multidisciplinary perspective essential for understanding China's role on the global stage. Through seminars, workshops, and guest lectures by renowned legal experts and practitioners, students have the chance to engage actively with current issues in Chinese law and its interaction with international legal norms. The programme aims to equip graduates with critical thinking skills, research competencies, and cultural literacy necessary for careers in international law firms, government agencies, NGOs, or academia. Graduates will be uniquely qualified to contribute to cross-cultural legal negotiations, policymaking, and scholarly research related to China and comparative legal systems. The University of Göttingen's academic environment, combining rigorous scholarship with a supportive international community, provides an ideal setting for deepening legal expertise and fostering professional networks. The programme culminates in a master's thesis that allows students to develop their research skills and contribute original insights into Chinese or comparative law. Overall, this MA programme prepares students for demanding careers that require nuanced understanding of Chinese law and its global interactions, making it an excellent choice for those committed to engaging with one of the world’s evolving legal landscapes.

Educational organisation

During the course of study students gain knowledge in the field of Chinese Law and Comparative Law and can choose between two specifications: "Chinese Studies" with courses in regional studies, Chinese legal thought and legal history (MA), or "Law Studies" consisting of advanced law courses (LLM).
In the first semester in Göttingen, students will expand and deepen their knowledge of law and the Chinese language. While graduates of sinology focus on deepening their knowledge of law, law graduates increase their Chinese language skills.
The second and third semesters are spent in Nanjing, where Chinese law will be the main focus. Depending on their proficiency in Chinese, students also attend Chinese language courses at various levels.
The fourth semester is reserved for preparing and writing the Master's thesis in Göttingen.

Study abroad unit(s)

Students spend the second and third semesters at Nanjing University, China.

Forms of assessment

Course examinations (written and oral examinations, term papers); Master's thesis in German with an abstract written in Chinese; oral examination

Course objectives

Graduates will have excellent job opportunities, especially in the economic field, the legal profession, or in consultancy, in the Department of Foreign Affairs or other legal bodies, as well as in research and teaching areas.

Language requirements

Applicants must provide proof of basic knowledge of the Chinese language (study focus "Chinese Studies" MA: HSK 3; study focus "Law Studies" LLM: HSK 2-3, CEFR A.2.1.).
Non-native speakers of German must provide proof of their fluency in German (TDN 4/DSH 2).

Required DSH / TestDaF

Yes

Academic requirements

Applicants must have completed a Bachelor's programme (or equivalent) in law or Chinese studies or another relevant subject.
The minimum requirement for admission to the MA programme (study focus "Chinese Studies") is 36 credits from law courses and proof of proficiency in the Chinese language (HSK 3).
The LLM programme (study focus "Law Studies") requires a minimum of 66 credits from law courses and proof of basic knowledge of the Chinese language (HSK 2-3, CEFR A.2.1.).
For further information, please visit our website:
http://www.uni-goettingen.de/de/423274.html

Enrolment fees

University of Göttingen: approx. 300 EUR per semester. Fees include a pre-paid semester ticket which entitles students to use regional trains free of charge within the federal states of Lower Saxony and Bremen, as well as city buses. Students of the University of Göttingen receive discounts for cultural events.
http://www.uni-goettingen.de/fee
Nanjing University: students are exempted from enrolment fees. During the study abroad period, participants only have to pay the tuition fees (see above).

Costs of living

The average cost of living in Göttingen is modest compared to other major university cities in Germany. Currently, expenses for accommodation, food, health insurance and books reach approx. 700-750 EUR per month. Please note that fees for health insurance may vary according to age. Living expenses might be slightly higher.

Job opportunities

The University of Göttingen supports students in finding part-time jobs in local industries and businesses. A number of student jobs are also available at the university. Please note that restrictions may apply with your scholarship or work contract.

Arrival support

The International Office provides a complimentary pick-up service ("Buddy Exchange Service") from Göttingen railway station to the accommodation. German students help newly arrived students to adapt to the university and the city during their first weeks. There is also an orientation week for new international students, which provides valuable information about Göttingen and the university.
http://www.uni-goettingen.de/en/49307.html
http://www.uni-goettingen.de/en/196392.html

Services and support for international students

The International Office assists international students with all administrative questions regarding their stay in Germany, e.g. enrolment, visa, foreigners' registration office, health insurance and financing of their studies. Furthermore, it features a broad cultural programme, e.g. international cultural evenings, language workshops, theatre courses, films, dance classes, theatre and opera visits. Trips to various tourist destinations in Germany are offered throughout the year.
http://www.uni-goettingen.de/en/48483.html

Accommodation

In Göttingen, the International Office, in collaboration with the student services organisation ("Studentenwerk"), helps students find adequate accommodation. Many international students live in student residences. These have single apartments or shared apartments with individual rooms. There are also apartments available for couples and families with children.
http://www.uni-goettingen.de/en/364086.html