European Law and Global Affairs

The Master's programme in European Law and Global Affairs at Radboud University offers students a comprehensive understanding of the legal frameworks and international relations shaping today’s interconnected world. This multidisciplinary programme is designed for students who aspire to develop in-depth knowledge of European law, international law, and global governance, preparing them for careers in international organizations, law firms, governmental agencies, and NGOs. The curriculum combines rigorous legal training with a broad perspective on global issues, including human rights, international trade, environmental law, and security policies. Throughout the programme, students will engage with case studies, practical simulations, and research projects that encourage critical thinking and analytical skills. The programme emphasizes the importance of understanding the European Union's legal system, its decision-making processes, and its role within global affairs. Additionally, students will explore the impact of globalization on legal norms and policy-making, gaining insights into transnational legal cooperation and international negotiations. The faculty comprises experienced academics and practitioners who provide students with mentorship and real-world perspectives. The programme also offers opportunities for internships and exchanges with partner institutions worldwide, enriching students' intercultural competence and professional networks. Graduates of this programme will be equipped with the knowledge and skills required to operate effectively in complex legal and political environments, advocating for justice, sustainable development, and international cooperation. With its strong focus on both European and global perspectives, the programme prepares students for legal and policy challenges in a rapidly changing world.

The Master’s specialisation in European Law and Global Affairs is an LL.M programme taught at the Faculty of Law at Radboud University. It has a course load of 60 EC* (one-year). All the courses are 7 EC and the Master’s thesis is 18 EC. You’ll be attending 6 courses in total.

• Advanced Notions of International and European Law
  This is a course aimed to rapidly give all students, whatever their prior knowledge is at the start of the programme, an intricate understanding of European and international law.
• EU External Relations Law
  This course focuses on the external dimension of EU law: the rules that govern the Union’s international relations as well as the so-called Common Foreign and Security Policy.
• Public International Law Advanced
  This advanced course deals with the approach of the international judiciary to the preventive obligations of States, also as part of their obligation to provide a substantive remedy. The underlying theme is humanization of state responsibility.
• Cooperation and Conflict in the 21st Century
  This political science course offers an overview of characteristic patterns, mechanisms and normative assessments of both post-Cold War conflicts as well as cooperation.
• Comparative Constitutional Law
  This course focuses on judicial review, (international) courts and individual rights, judicial independence,  federalism, government accountability, war powers and international relations, comparing constitutions in several countries.
• Changes in World Politics: The Rise of the BRIC Countries
  This political science course focuses on the so-called BRICs (Brazil, Russia, India, China), comparing the policies of the different countries, trying to find explanations for their rise, and discussing what their ascent means for the future of global politics.

A completed Bachelor's or Master's degree* , or equivalent diploma in (European) Law.

Students with a degree in Politics, Governance, International Relations, Liberal Arts or equivalent, with a substantial number of courses in Law, are also eligible for admission to this specialisation. These students should provide proof of their knowledge of the basic concepts of Law.

A proficiency in English

In order to take part in this programme, you need to have an adequate knowledge of English. Non-native speakers of English** need to proof their proficiency by one of the following tests:

• A TOEFL score with a minimum score of 90 overall (internet-based, with a minimum of 23 for writing), or 575 (paper-based). The institutional TOEFL code for Radboud University is 3387; or
• An IELTS score with a minimum of 6.5 overall (with a minimum score of 6.0 minimum for the components listening, reading and speaking and a 6.5 minimum for writing); or
• A Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE) with a grade of C or Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE) with a grade of C.

Motivation letter in English

Please explain in your motivation letter why you would like to enrol in the Master’s specialisation of your choice within the European Law programme. Also attach your resume with a photo and your grade list to this letter.

Please note: The selection committee strives for an internationally diverse student population within this specialisation. Therefore the number of places available to Dutch students is limited.

If you are a Chinese student and want to register as a student on an English-taught programme at a Dutch higher education institution you need to apply for a Nuffic Certificate. More information can be found on the Study in Holland website.

* Students who obtained their degree in Indonesia e.g., are required to have obtained a Master's degree in Law (Sarjana Hukum II).

** Applicants are considered to be a native speaker of English if they are a citizen of Australia, Canada (with exception of Quebec), Ireland, New Zealand, Singapore, UK, USA or South Africa, or if they have obtained an LL.B Bachelor's programme in Law in one of the countries mentioned above. Students from the European Law School Bachelor at Radboud University, are also exempted from a language test.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

There are various scholarships available for studying at Radboud University. Some of the opportunities are described below. A full list, including detailed information, can be found on our scholarships and grants page at our website. 

Radboud Scholarship Programme

Open to a select number of excellent international students. Instead of the institutional tuition fees, non-EEA students pay the legal tuition fees (€2,083 in 2019/2020). Visa and residence permit costs, liability insurance and health insurance are also covered.

Orange Tulip Scholarship

Open to students from Brazil, Mexico, Russia, Indonesia, South-Korea, Vietnam, Thailand, and China. Instead of the institutional tuition fees, non-EEA students pay the legal tuition fees (€2,083 in 2019/2020). Visa and residence permit costs, liability insurance and health insurance are also covered.

Fulbright-Radboud Scholarships

Open to excellent American students. The grant will be paid in 12 monthly instalments of 1,050 euros. International travel and the cost of the residence permit will be covered, and an extra allowance of €1150 will be paid on arrival.

Sino-Dutch Bilateral Exchange Scholarship

Open to excellent students from China. Consists of a contribution of € 16,113 towards the total costs of one year of study or research in the Netherlands.

DIKTI-Neso Scholarships

Aimed at lecturers at higher education institutions in Indonesia who wish to pursue a PhD or Master's at a university in the Netherlands. A DIKTI scholarship includes allowances for living expenses, insurance, travel costs, tuition fees and more.

Indonesian Education Scholarship (LPDP)

Open to excellent Indonesian students under the age of 35. Involves a full scholarship.

Holland Scholarship Programme

Open to excellent students from Canada, America, India and Turkey. Scholarship consists of 5,000 euros payed at the start of study.

Dutch Student Finance

EU/EEA students and Swiss students under 30 years of age are eligible if they are working at least 56 hours per month in the Netherlands, or have been living in the Netherlands for five years or more. Dutch student finance consists of four components: a basic grant, a supplementary grant (depending on the parental income), a student travel product, and a loan.

The Master's programme in European Law and Global Affairs at Radboud University offers students an in-depth understanding of the legal frameworks and international relations that shape contemporary Europe and the wider global context. This programme is designed to prepare students for careers in international organizations, NGOs, government agencies, and legal practices that operate across borders. The curriculum combines rigorous legal training with a comprehensive exploration of global political and economic issues, emphasizing the interconnectedness of law and global affairs.

Students will study key areas such as European Union law, international public law, human rights law, and global governance. The programme places a strong emphasis on critical thinking, analytical skills, and practical experience, encouraging students to engage with real-world issues through case studies, international simulations, and internships. Courses are taught by experienced academics and practitioners who are experts in their respective fields, providing learners with valuable insights and professional networks.

In addition, the programme offers opportunities for students to specialize in particular aspects of European or global law, tailoring their studies to their career interests. The programme also includes seminars, workshops, and conferences that facilitate interaction with policymakers, legal professionals, and scholars from around the world. Graduates will be equipped with the legal knowledge, research skills, and intercultural competencies necessary to excel in increasingly complex international environments.

The international environment of Radboud University fosters multicultural dialogue and collaboration, providing students with a global perspective. The campus locations in Nijmegen are well-connected, offering a vibrant campus life with diverse student communities. Students are encouraged to develop a nuanced understanding of international legal and political issues, preparing them to contribute meaningfully to the development of international law, policy, and diplomacy.

The programme duration is typically one year for the full-time track, with possibilities for part-time study. Entrance requirements include a relevant bachelor’s degree, proficiency in English, and often a motivation letter or interview. Upon completion, graduates receive a Master of Laws (LL.M.) degree, which qualifies them for advanced legal or policy roles domestically or internationally. Radboud University’s Master’s in European Law and Global Affairs combines academic excellence with practical training, aiming to develop future leaders in international legal and political arenas.