Laws

The Juris Doctor (JD) program at The Chinese University of Hong Kong offers a comprehensive and rigorous legal education designed to prepare students for diverse careers in the legal profession and related fields. As one of the leading law schools in Hong Kong and Asia, the programme emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical skills, enabling graduates to excel in various legal contexts. The curriculum encompasses core areas such as constitutional law, contract law, criminal law, property law, tort law, and administrative law, as well as specialized subjects including commercial law, intellectual property law, environmental law, human rights law, and international law.

Students benefit from a multidisciplinary approach that integrates legal theory with real-world application, facilitated by experienced faculty members and practitioners actively engaged in legal research and practice. The program emphasizes experiential learning through moot courts, legal clinics, internships, and negotiations, providing students with valuable hands-on experience. The university's strong connections with law firms, government agencies, and international organizations allow for various internship opportunities that enhance practical skills and professional development.

The programme also fosters critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and effective communication skills, essential qualities for successful legal professionals. Special attention is given to the unique legal system of Hong Kong, including the principles of common law and the Basic Law, preparing students to navigate the complexities of local and international legal environments. The curriculum is regularly updated to reflect current legal issues, emerging areas of law, and global trends, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped for the dynamic legal landscape.

In addition to classroom learning, students have access to a wide range of resources, including a modern law library, legal research tools, and academic seminars. The university encourages interdisciplinary studies and offers joint programmes with other faculties, broadening graduates' perspectives and career options. Upon completion of the programme, graduates receive a Juris Doctor degree recognized for admission to the Hong Kong Bar and Customs of other jurisdictions, depending on additional requirements.

This programme is ideal for individuals seeking a challenging and rewarding legal education with a global outlook, aiming to contribute meaningfully to the legal field and society at large. Whether aspiring to become lawyers, policymakers, legal consultants, or academics, students will find a supportive academic environment that nurtures their professional aspirations and personal development.

Year 1

• Legal Analysis & Argumentation
• Hong Kong Legal System
• Legal System of the PRC
• Contract I*
• Contract II*
• Hong Kong Constitutional Law*
• University Language Courses
• General Education Courses
• Physical Education Courses
• IT Course

Year 2

• Administrative Law
• Criminal Law I
• Criminal Law II
• Tort I
• Tort II
• Jurisprudence & Ethics
• Equity & Trusts I
• Equity & Trusts II
• University Language Courses
• Elective Non-Law Courses
• General Education Courses

Year 3 & 4

Elective Law Courses:

• Companies and the Law I & II
• Civil Procedure
• Criminal Procedure
• Evidence
• Land Law I & II
• Commercial Law
• Conveyancing

Other Elective Law Courses

• Human Rights Law,
• Competition Law,
• Family Law,
• Intellectual Property Law,
• Environmental Law,
• Crime and Criminal Justice,
• The Law of the Sea,
• International Commercial Dispute Resolution
• International Trade and Financial Law,
• Public International Law,
• Jessup International Law Moot,
• Mooting,
• International Legal Advocacy,
• Tax Law,
• Labour Law,
• Internet Law

Requirements

• High school reports / transcripts and graduation certificate / diploma
• Diploma / sub-degree transcripts and graduation certificate
• University transcripts / degree certificate
• Result slip(s) of public examination(s) (e.g. HKCEE / HKALE / IB / SAT / AP / GCE / GCSE / IGCSE / GAO KAO / others). The University Code for College Board (for submission of SAT/AP results) is 5690.
• English / Chinese language test results (e.g.TOEFL / IELTS / others). The University Code for submission of TOEFL results is 0812.
• Certificates in support of professional / academic achievements
• 3 referee's information
• IELTS 6.0, TOEFL iBT 80

Scholarships

• University Financial Aid
• HSBC Overseas Scholarship Scheme

The Master of Laws (LL.M.) programme at The Chinese University of Hong Kong is designed for legal professionals and graduates seeking advanced legal education in a diverse and dynamic environment. The programme aims to deepen students' understanding of legal principles, enhance their analytical and research skills, and prepare them for a wide range of legal careers in Hong Kong, China, and internationally. It offers a comprehensive curriculum that integrates theoretical knowledge with practical application, providing students with a solid foundation in various areas of law.

Students enrolled in the LL.M. programme have the opportunity to choose from a variety of specializations, including Commercial and Corporate Law, Chinese Business Law, Human Rights Law, Environmental Law, and Dispute Resolution. These specializations are tailored to meet the evolving demands of the legal profession and reflect the university's commitment to regional relevance and global perspectives. The programme typically includes coursework, research projects, and seminars led by experienced faculty members who are experts in their fields.

The educational experience at The Chinese University of Hong Kong emphasizes individual academic development as well as engagement with the broader legal community. Students benefit from close interaction with faculty, participation in moot courts, workshops, and legal clinics, and opportunities to collaborate with practitioners through internships and external attachments. The university also fosters an international environment with diverse student backgrounds, facilitating cross-cultural exchange and networking.

Graduates of the LL.M. programme are well-equipped to pursue careers in law firms, corporate legal departments, government agencies, academia, and international organizations. Many alumni have gone on to hold prominent positions in the legal and business sectors, contributing to the development of legal practices and policy-making locally and abroad. The programme also serves as a stepping stone for those planning to continue their academic journey in higher research degrees, such as a Ph.D. in Law.

Admissions criteria typically include a good undergraduate law degree or a related qualification, relevant experience, and proficiency in English. The programme duration is generally one year for full-time students, with part-time options available to accommodate working professionals. The university maintains high academic standards and a rigorous curriculum to ensure graduates are competitive and knowledgeable in their field.

In summary, the LL.M. programme at The Chinese University of Hong Kong offers a comprehensive, regionally relevant, and academically rigorous legal education that prepares students for successful careers in various legal sectors, fostering a new generation of legal leaders with a global outlook and strong regional ties.