Lawyers with a Non-German Degree

The University of Bayreuth offers a comprehensive program designed for aspiring legal professionals who hold a non-German degree and wish to pursue their legal education and qualification within Germany. This program aims to provide students with an in-depth understanding of German law, legal procedures, and courtroom practices, enabling them to integrate seamlessly into the German legal system and pursue a successful career as a lawyer in Germany or internationally. The curriculum is meticulously structured to cover fundamental areas of law, including civil law, criminal law, public law, European Union law, and international legal frameworks, ensuring graduates are well-equipped with theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Students benefit from a combination of lectures, seminars, case studies, and practical training sessions, often collaborating with experienced legal practitioners and faculty members to gain real-world insights. The program also emphasizes the development of critical thinking, legal reasoning, and competencies in legal research and analysis, which are essential for effective advocacy and decision-making in complex legal scenarios. Graduates of this program will be prepared to take on roles such as legal advisors, in-house counsel, legal consultants, or to continue their education by pursuing postgraduate specializations or bar qualification examinations in Germany. The University of Bayreuth's approach ensures a supportive learning environment, with modern facilities, comprehensive academic resources, and access to a vibrant community of students and professionals from around the world. This program is ideal for international students seeking a robust legal education aligned with German standards, empowering them to succeed in competitive legal markets and contribute significantly to the global legal community.

Educational organisation

First semester: focus on basics in German law and some optional subjects
second semester: optional lectures and seminar
second or third semester: Master's thesis

Forms of assessment

Two oral tests in one mandatory and one optional lecture; one seminar paper; Master's thesis; ECTS points optional

Language requirements

German: TestDaF 4 or DSH 2 (or equivalent), minimum B2 (European reference framework)

Required DSH / TestDaF

Yes

Academic requirements

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent in a (four-year) legal programme, foreign professional qualification
• proficiency in German language at level DSH 2 (intermediate) or equivalent

Enrolment fees

Social fee: approx. 65 EUR per semester

Costs of living

Approx. 750 EUR per month to cover personal expenses

Job opportunities

Due to the intensive nature of the programme, students will have only limited time for part-time jobs.

Funding opportunities within the university

Students coming to Bayreuth from a partner university may have the opportunity to receive some financial support from the University of Bayreuth.
http://www.international-office.uni-bayreuth.de/en/05_Grants/index.html

Arrival support

The International Office with its Service for International Students (SIS) assists students before and upon arrival (mailing of information, pick-up service from the station). It offers assistance in all administrative matters including registration and enrolment.

Services and support for international students

The International Office with its Service for International Students (SIS) offers administrative, academic, and social support before and during the semester.

Accommodation

The International Office offers assistance in finding accommodation in a student residence (rent approx. 120 EUR to 200 EUR per month) or private accommodation (250 EUR to 400 EUR).
However, a search on the private market as a backup is advisable. You can find links to the private market on our website.