International and European Law: Track European Competition Law and Regulation

The Master’s program in International and European Law with a specialization in European Competition Law and Regulation at the University of Amsterdam offers students a comprehensive understanding of the legal frameworks that govern competition policy within the European Union and beyond. This program is designed for students who aspire to develop expertise in competition law, antitrust regulations, state aid, merger control, and regulatory aspects affecting business practices across European markets. Throughout the curriculum, students delve into the theoretical foundations of competition law, analyze landmark cases, and explore current issues faced by regulatory authorities and multinational corporations in maintaining fair competition and preventing market abuses. The program emphasizes both legal principles and economic analysis, providing students with the skills to critically assess competition policies and their implications for economic integration and market efficiency.

Students engage with a diverse range of subjects including the legal harmonization of competition rules, the functions and powers of the European Commission and National Competition Authorities, and the intersection of competition law with other areas such as intellectual property, consumer protection, and digital regulation. Practical exercises and case studies form an integral part of the learning experience, preparing students for real-world challenges in competition law enforcement and legal advisory roles. The program also features opportunities for internships and collaborations with industry stakeholders, governmental agencies, and international organizations, fostering professional development and networks within the European legal landscape. Graduates of this program are well-equipped to pursue careers as legal advisors, compliance officers, policy-makers, and consultants in law firms, public institutions, and private companies operating within the European Union or engaging with European competition law issues. The University of Amsterdam’s vibrant academic environment, combined with its distinguished faculty specializing in European law and competition policy, makes this program an excellent pathway for those committed to advancing their expertise in the dynamic field of European competition regulation.

The International and European Law: Track European Competition Law and Regulation program offered by the University of Amsterdam provides students with an in-depth understanding of the legal frameworks governing competition policies within the European Union and beyond. This specialized track is designed for students who aspire to develop expertise in European competition law, regulation, and policy analysis, preparing them for roles in legal practice, enforcement agencies, and policy advisory positions.

Throughout the program, students engage with core concepts such as antitrust laws, merger control, state aid regulations, and the enforcement mechanisms that ensure fair competition within the European single market. The curriculum emphasizes the interpretation and application of primary and secondary EU legislation, including the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU), European Commission regulations, and relevant case law. In addition to legal doctrines, students explore the economic principles underpinning competition policy, gaining insights into market dynamics, consumer welfare, and economic analysis used in competition assessments.

The program also covers the role of European institutions like the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Competition, national competition authorities, and courts in shaping and enforcing competition rules. Students will analyze landmark cases such as Microsoft, Google, and Amazon to understand how competition law is applied in real-world scenarios and how legal strategies can be used to address anti-competitive practices.

Moreover, the curriculum integrates practical skills such as legal research, policy analysis, and drafting of legal texts, enabling students to critically evaluate regulatory decisions and formulate effective legal arguments. Internships, seminars, and guest lectures from industry experts and legal practitioners complement academic coursework, providing students with valuable professional exposure.

Graduates of this program are well-equipped to work within legal firms, government agencies, international organizations, or academia focusing on European competition law and regulation. They gain a comprehensive understanding of the legal mechanisms that promote fair competition and economic efficiency across Europe, as well as the skills necessary to influence policy and uphold compliance within complex legal environments.

Program requirements for the Master’s in International and European Law: Track European Competition Law and Regulation at the University of Amsterdam typically include a completed bachelor's degree in law or an equivalent qualification from an accredited institution. Applicants are expected to demonstrate a strong academic record in legal studies, with particular emphasis on European law, competition law, and related areas. Proficiency in English is mandatory, usually evidenced by standardized tests such as IELTS or TOEFL, unless the applicant's previous education was conducted entirely in English. Some applicants may be required to submit a motivation letter explaining their interest in the program and how it aligns with their career objectives. Letters of recommendation from academic or professional references are often part of the application package, providing insight into the applicant's academic capabilities and potential for success in rigorous legal studies. Additionally, applicants might need to provide a curriculum vitae outlining relevant academic, professional, or extracurricular experiences that support their application. The program may also favor applicants who have experience or a demonstrated interest in European integration, competition policy, or regulatory affairs. Candidates are advised to review specific admission criteria on the official university website for detailed instructions and any possible prerequisites or additional requirements. Admission decisions are competitive and based on a holistic evaluation of academic merit, relevant experience, motivation, and language proficiency. International students should also ensure they meet visa requirements and health insurance coverage as stipulated by the Dutch authorities. The university emphasizes diversity and encourages applicants from various legal backgrounds and countries to apply, fostering an international learning environment. No specific prior coursework is mandated, but prior exposure to European legal frameworks and competition law is beneficial. The program aims to equip students with comprehensive knowledge of the legal aspects of European competition regulation, including case law analysis, regulatory procedures, and policy evaluation. These qualifications prepare graduates for careers in legal practice, consultancy, government agencies, or European institutions involved in competition law and economic regulation.

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

Funding for the International and European Law: Track European Competition Law and Regulation programme at the University of Amsterdam can be sourced through various channels. The university offers a range of scholarships and financial aid options tailored to both international and domestic students. The Amsterdams Universiteitsfonds provides scholarships based on merit and financial need, supporting students from diverse backgrounds. Additionally, the Holland Scholarship is available for non-EU/EEA students committed to studying in the Netherlands, offering a substantial contribution towards tuition fees. The Orange Tulip Scholarship Programme targets talented students from certain countries, providing financial assistance to facilitate international education at the university.

Students are also encouraged to explore external funding opportunities, including national and international grants, scholarships, and sponsorship programs relevant to legal studies. The Dutch government and various European organizations offer scholarships for graduate students engaging in European Law, Regulation, or Competition Law, which may support partial or full tuition costs as well as living expenses. Furthermore, the university provides information about student loans and part-time work opportunities that can help finance their studies. Many students choose to work part-time within the university or in related legal fields to gain practical experience while supporting their finances.

International students are advised to check specific visa requirements and whether they qualify for financial support or work permits during their stay in the Netherlands. The university’s financial aid office provides comprehensive guidance on available funding options, application procedures, and deadlines. Prospective students are encouraged to start early and carefully prepare application materials to increase their chances of obtaining scholarships or financial assistance. Overall, the programme’s financing opportunities aim to make legal education accessible to a diverse student body and ensure students can focus on their academic and professional development without undue financial burden.

The Master’s Degree Programme in International and European Law with a specialization in European Competition Law and Regulation at the University of Amsterdam is designed to prepare students for a career in the complex and evolving field of European competition policy and regulation. The program offers a comprehensive and in-depth study of European law as it pertains to competition policy, including the legal frameworks governing mergers and acquisitions, cartels, abuse of dominant positions, state aid, and other regulatory measures essential for maintaining fair competition within the European Union. Students will explore the institutional and legal mechanisms of the European Union’s competition enforcement, gaining knowledge about the European Commission’s role, competition rules, and recent developments in EU competition policy.

The curriculum is structured to include both theoretical foundations and practical applications of European Competition Law. Core modules typically cover topics such as the history and development of EU competition law, the legal basis and enforcement mechanisms, case law analysis, and the impact of competition policy on markets and consumers. Additional coursework often includes subjects like economic analysis in competition law, procedural aspects of enforcement, and comparative perspectives on competition regulation outside the EU.

Throughout the program, students are encouraged to develop critical thinking and analytical skills by engaging with real-world cases, participating in moot courts, and conducting original research. The program also emphasizes understanding how European competition law interacts with other areas of EU law, including state aid rules, internal market regulations, and the broader context of European integration.

The university’s location in Amsterdam offers students access to a vibrant legal and policy environment, and the option to participate in internships or collaborations with EU institutions, law firms, and regulatory authorities. This practice-oriented approach aims to prepare graduates for careers in law firms, consulting companies, regulatory agencies, or as legal advisors specializing in competition law and policy.

Graduates with this specialization are equipped with the legal expertise, policy understanding, and practical skills necessary to analyze, interpret, and apply European competition regulations effectively in various professional contexts. Whether pursuing a career within EU institutions, private practice, or academia, students benefit from the university’s strong connections with stakeholders involved in European law and policy. The program is suitable for individuals with a background in law, economics, or political science who aspire to become experts in one of the most dynamic areas of European law.