European Economic Law

European Economic Law at the University of Groningen offers a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of the legal frameworks governing economic activities within the European Union. This program is designed for students who are interested in understanding the intricate relationship between law, economics, and policy-making in a European context. Throughout the course, students will examine key areas such as competition law, state aid, free movement of goods and services, consumer protection, and the regulation of financial markets, among others. The curriculum emphasizes both the theoretical foundations and practical applications of European economic law, preparing graduates to navigate and influence the complex legal environment faced by businesses, governments, and legal practitioners operating within the EU.

Students will engage with case law, legislative texts, and policy debates to develop a nuanced understanding of how European economic law impacts economic integration, market functioning, and regulatory policy. The program also explores issues related to cross-border trade, digital markets, and sustainable development, ensuring that students are equipped with current knowledge relevant to today's dynamic economic landscape. Faculty members are experts in the field, providing personalized guidance and fostering critical thinking and analytical skills essential for careers in law firms, governmental institutions, international organizations, or academia.

The program emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, integrating legal analysis with economic reasoning to help students understand the broader implications of legal rules on economic actors and public interest. Additionally, students have opportunities for internships, research projects, and exchange programs, enhancing their practical skills and international perspective. Graduates of the European Economic Law program will be well-prepared to contribute to the development, interpretation, and application of European economic law at national and international levels, making them highly competitive in the global legal and economic sectors. The University of Groningen’s world-class facilities and close links with European institutions further enrich the learning experience, ensuring that students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical insights required for a successful career in European economic law.

European Economic Law at the University of Groningen offers an in-depth exploration of the legal frameworks that govern economic activities within the European Union. This programme provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the key principles, policies, and legal mechanisms that underpin the functioning of the EU’s internal market and economic integration. Throughout the course, students will examine the laws related to competition, state aid, consumer protection, and the regulation of financial markets, gaining insight into how these legal areas influence economic policy and business operations across member states.

The curriculum covers the EU’s external economic relations, including trade agreements, sanctions, and international trade law, enabling students to understand the EU’s role in global economic governance. A significant component of the programme is dedicated to the analysis of legal principles underlying economic policies such as harmonisation, free movement of goods, services, capital, and persons. Students also study the enforcement of EU economic law, including the roles of the European Court of Justice and national courts.

Practical skills are emphasized through case law analyses, legal drafting exercises, and participation in moot courts, preparing students for careers in legal practice, policy-making, consultancy, or academia. The programme encourages critical thinking about the economic implications of legal rules and the balance between regulation and market freedom.

Intensive seminars and interactive workshops facilitate engagement with current economic legal issues, fostering a dynamic learning environment. Graduates of the program will be equipped to analyze complex legal-economic problems, advise businesses and governmental agencies, or continue their studies in doctoral research. The Bachelor's and Master's tracks are designed to be flexible, enabling students to tailor their studies according to their interests in specific areas such as competition law, financial regulation, or international trade.

Overall, the European Economic Law programme at Groningen combines rigorous legal education with economic analysis, preparing students to contribute effectively to the legal and economic spheres within the European and global context.

Admission requirements

GPA of 2.75/4, 3.5/5, 7/10, 70/100

Other requirements

1. gemiddeld cijfer GPA of 2.75/4, 3.5/5, 7/10, 70/100
2. minimum kennis (ISPAC: overige vereisten) Basic knowledge in the field of European law plus elementary knowledge of public international law
3. taaltoets cijfer If you are not a native speaker of English, you will need to provide proof of English language proficiency: * TOEFL: 92 (all sections need to be at least 21; the writing section needs to be at least 23) * IELTS: 6.5 (all sections need to be at least 6.0; the writing section needs to be at least 6.5) * CAE or CPE *For more details about language requirements please check: http://www.rug.nl/rechten/education/international-programmes/llm/admission-requirements
4. vooropleiding (ISPAC: vereiste vooropleiding) LLB or equivalent
5. schriftelijk verzoek Applicants must send a motivation letter (max. 650 words). The letter should be written by the applicants themselves; it is not allowed to submit an (official) translation.

Funding for the European Economic Law Master's program at the University of Groningen can be obtained through various channels. International students are advised to explore scholarships offered by the university, such as the Holland Scholarship, which provides financial support to talented students from outside the European Union and the European Economic Area. Additionally, students may consider applying for Dutch government-funded grants, including the Orange Tulip Scholarship for certain nationalities, which aims to promote international education within the Netherlands. The university also offers various faculty-specific scholarships and grants that support master's students pursuing European Economic Law, often based on academic merit or financial need.

Students are encouraged to seek external funding opportunities, such as Erasmus+ grants, which facilitate mobility and exchange programs within Europe, potentially covering part of the tuition fees and travel costs. Many students fund their studies through personal savings or loans; financial institutions in the Netherlands and their home countries may provide education loans to international students. Part-time employment within the university or paid internships related to European law may also assist students in financing their studies, though students should verify work restrictions and visa requirements.

The university provides detailed guidance on scholarship applications and financial planning, and career services can aid students in finding suitable funding options. As tuition fees for non-EU/EEA students are higher than those for EU/EEA students, prospective applicants are advised to ensure their financial planning accounts for these differences. Overall, while direct financial aid for the European Economic Law program is available, students should proactively explore multiple sources of funding to support their studies effectively.

The Master's program in European Economic Law at the University of Groningen offers students an in-depth understanding of the legal frameworks governing the economic relations within the European Union. Designed for individuals interested in the complex intersection of economics and law, this program provides comprehensive knowledge of EU competition law, state aid regulation, free movement of goods and services, and the legal mechanisms that underpin the functioning of the European Single Market. Throughout the program, students gain critical insights into the legal procedures, enforcement mechanisms, and policy considerations that influence European economic integration.

The curriculum combines theoretical foundations with practical legal skills, enabling students to analyze legal issues related to economic activities and policy implementation. Courses are structured to cover core topics such as the regulation of markets, state interventions, and the legal aspects of economic crises, enabling graduates to advise governments, international organizations, or private entities on compliance and strategy within the EU legal context. The program also emphasizes comparative law analysis and the role of legal institutions in shaping economic policies.

Students have access to a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, case studies, and internships, fostering a dynamic learning environment that encourages active participation and critical thinking. The faculty comprises experienced legal scholars and practitioners, providing students with valuable expertise and mentorship. The program also offers opportunities for international exchanges and joint degrees, enhancing students' global perspectives on European economic law.

Graduates of this program are well-equipped for careers in law firms, governmental agencies, EU institutions, international organizations, or academia. They possess the legal expertise necessary to analyze and interpret EU economic legislation, assist in legal drafting, and participate in policy debates related to economic regulation. The program's robust statutory and practical focus ensures that alumni are prepared to navigate the evolving landscape of European economic law, contributing to fair and effective economic governance within the EU.

Overall, the Master's in European Economic Law at the University of Groningen combines rigorous legal training with a practical orientation, making it an ideal choice for students aiming to specialize in EU economic legal affairs and seek impactful careers in the legal and economic sectors of Europe.