Laws

The Bachelor's degree program in Laws at the University of Hamburg offers students a comprehensive and rigorous education in the fundamental principles of legal systems, preparing them for a wide range of professional careers in law, public administration, and related fields. The program is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in legal doctrine, critical thinking, and analytical skills, enabling them to understand complex legal issues and apply legal reasoning to diverse contexts.

Throughout the course of study, students will engage with core areas of law such as constitutional law, criminal law, civil law, and administrative law, gaining a thorough understanding of both national and European legal frameworks. The curriculum emphasizes the development of practical skills, including legal research, case analysis, and effective legal writing, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for internships, clerkships, or further academic specialization.

The program also offers opportunities for interdisciplinary learning and international exposure through exchange programs and seminars. Students may participate in internships with law firms, governmental agencies, or NGOs, which provide real-world experience and enhance career prospects. Additionally, courses on legal ethics, law and society, and comparative law broaden students’ perspectives and deepen their understanding of the societal role of law.

Faculty members at the University of Hamburg are experts in their respective fields, bringing a wealth of research, practical experience, and innovative teaching methods to the classroom. The degree prepares graduates for the legal profession, including becoming qualified lawyers, legal advisors, or pursuing advanced studies such as a Master’s or doctoral degree. The program emphasizes academic excellence, critical inquiry, and societal engagement, fostering responsible and informed legal professionals ready to meet the challenges of contemporary legal environments.

With its strong academic curriculum, experienced faculty, and vibrant university community, the Law program at Hamburg University provides an ideal foundation for students aspiring to make meaningful contributions to law, justice, and society at large. Graduates will leave equipped with the legal knowledge, analytical capabilities, and practical skills necessary for a successful career in law-related fields or further academic pursuits.

Program Content

The Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Laws at the University of Hamburg offers an extensive and comprehensive education designed to deepen students' understanding of both national and international legal systems. The program aims to prepare graduates for diverse career paths in law, academia, public service, and the private sector by providing advanced knowledge, analytical skills, and practical training in key areas of law. Throughout the program, students engage with complex legal issues, develop critical thinking abilities, and enhance their research and advocacy skills.

The curriculum covers a broad spectrum of legal disciplines, including public law, private law, international law, European law, and specialized fields such as human rights law, environmental law, and business law. Students have the opportunity to tailor their studies according to their interests through elective courses and seminars, allowing for a personalized academic experience. The program emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical applications, with opportunities to participate in moot courts, internships, and research projects.

Expert-led classes foster an engaging learning environment, encouraging debate and discussion on contemporary legal challenges. The program also emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, integrating insights from economics, political science, and other social sciences to enrich legal analysis. Students benefit from the university's strong connections with legal practitioners, institutions, and international organizations, providing valuable networking opportunities and real-world exposure.

Research is a core component of the LL.M. program, culminating in a substantial thesis that demonstrates the student's ability to conduct independent legal scholarship. Faculty members are renowned scholars and experienced practitioners committed to mentoring students throughout their studies. Graduates of the program are well-equipped to pursue careers in legal practice, academia, policymaking, or further academic research, both within Germany and internationally.

Overall, the University of Hamburg's LL.M. in Laws provides a rigorous, dynamic, and internationally oriented legal education that prepares students to meet the demands of a globalized legal environment.

Language requirements

Applicants must provide proof of their German skills: TestDaF 4 or DSH-2.

Required DSH / TestDaF

Yes

Academic requirements

Successful completion of law studies at a foreign university equivalent in kind and length to German studies of law (first state law exam), e.g. first bar examination

Enrolment fees

There is a semester fee of 310 EUR per semester. This fee includes a semester ticket covering public transport in the Hamburg metropolitan area.

Costs of living

We recommend that single students budget at least 800 EUR per month to meet personal expenses (accommodation, living, health insurance, books).

Job opportunities

Students who enrol in a full-time programme will generally have only limited time for part-time jobs.
As a rule, students who hold an international student visa may work for up to 120 full days or 240 half days per year. Further information on work regulations for international students at Universität Hamburg can be found here: http://www.uni-hamburg.de/piasta/beratung_e.html

Funding opportunities within the university

International full-time students may apply for merit scholarships or exam grants of Universität Hamburg. For more information, please use the provided link. We also recommend contacting our colleagues in the Department of International Affairs for further guidance.
http://www.uni-hamburg.de/internationales/studieren-an-der-uhh/finanzierung-des-studiums_e.html

Arrival support

Students and researchers can find information on how to get started in Hamburg on the website of the PIASTA programme at the Universität Hamburg Department of International Affairs (http://www.uni-hamburg.de/piasta_e.html) and on the website of the Hamburg Welcome Center (http://english.welcome.hamburg.de).
During the International Welcome Week organised by PIASTA, you will be able to get in touch with all the important institutions and contacts which are particularly useful for international students: http://www.uni-hamburg.de/piasta/veranstaltungen/international-welcome-week_e.html

Services and support for international students

The Universität Hamburg CampusCenter is the first port of call for all current and prospective students and offers information, services, and counselling. The PIASTA programme at the Universität Hamburg Department of International Affairs offers support and advice for German and international students, as well as cultural events and workshops.
For more information, refer to: http://www.uni-hamburg.de/piasta and https://www.uni-hamburg.de/en/campuscenter.html
The welcome service of the Universität Hamburg Department of International Affairs is the first contact address for international visiting researchers and others: http://www.uni-hamburg.de/internationales/wissenschaft/service-international_e.html

Accommodation

Accommodation is available through the "Studierendenwerk" (students' services) or on the private market. The "Studierendenwerk" provides rooms in halls of residence, most of which are single rooms with shared kitchens and showers/WCs. We strongly advise students and researchers to arrange accommodation prior to arriving in Hamburg, as demand for affordable accommodation is sometimes larger than supply.
For more information on how to find accommodation and how to plan your first steps in Hamburg, please refer to: https://www.uni-hamburg.de/piasta/beratung/doc/willkommen.pdf