International Dispute Resolution Laws

Program Title: International Dispute Resolution Laws

Description: The International Dispute Resolution Laws program at Humboldt University of Berlin offers an in-depth exploration of the legal frameworks, procedures, and strategies used to resolve cross-border disputes. Designed for students interested in international law, conflict resolution, and arbitration, this program provides comprehensive knowledge of the mechanisms by which disputes between states, corporations, and individuals are managed and settled across jurisdictions. Throughout the program, students will examine various dispute resolution methods, including international arbitration, mediation, negotiation, and judicial proceedings in international courts. The curriculum emphasizes the practical application of legal principles through case studies, simulated arbitral proceedings, and analyses of landmark rulings in the field. Participants will also gain insight into relevant international treaties, conventions, and legal instruments such as the New York Convention, ICSID Convention, and UNCITRAL Rules, which underpin the enforcement of international dispute resolution decisions. The program fosters critical thinking and analytical skills necessary for advising clients in complex international disputes and preparing legal strategies aligned with international standards. Students will engage with leading experts in international dispute resolution through seminars, workshops, and guest lectures, broadening their understanding of the legal and diplomatic nuances involved. Graduates of this program will be well-equipped for careers in international law firms, arbitration institutions, diplomatic services, multinational corporations, and governmental agencies dedicated to resolving international conflicts effectively and ethically. The interdisciplinary approach integrates legal theory with practical insights, preparing students to navigate the evolving landscape of international dispute resolution efficiently. Offering a unique combination of academic rigor and practical relevance, the program at Humboldt University aims to cultivate the next generation of international dispute resolution practitioners committed to promoting justice and stability in global legal interactions.

Educational organisation

First semester:

• arbitration (4h/week)
• IDR and international litigation (2h/week)
• choice of law (2h/week)
• specific areas of arbitration (4h/week)
• introduction to academic writing (2h/week)

Second semester:

• ADR methods (3h/week) (mandatory)

Facultative subjects in the second semester (choice of two out of four):

• writing skills for counsel and arbitrator (2h/week)
• oral skills for counsel and arbitrator (2h/week)
• internship I
• internship II

Master's thesis

Internships

Two internships can be completed. Programme advisers will assist students with finding an appropriate internship.

Forms of assessment

First/second semester:

• four written exams in total

Second semester:

• Master's thesis

Language requirements

Applicants must provide proof of their English skills at a C2 level:

• UNIcert III-Certificate with a minimum of 1.3
• UNIcert IV-Certificate with a minimum of 3.0
• IELTS with a minimum of 8.0
• CPE: A-C
• CAE: A
• TOEFL internet based with a minimum of 110
• TOEFL paper based with a minimum of 627
• DAAD language certificate with a minimum grade of "A"

Language certification is not required, if
a) the applicant has studied at a university or college in a country in which English is an official language and the classes at this college or university were taught in English.
b) the applicant only studied in part at such a university or college and obtained a minimum of 20 ECTS credits while studying at those institutions.
c) the applicant attended a school that qualifies its students to enrol at a college or university where the classes were taught in English.
d) the applicant's native language is English. The certificates named above may be substituted by providing a self-assessment of their English language capacity.

Academic requirements

Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin welcomes candidates from around the world who have obtained their first law degree with honours. In other words, they have completed the academic, university-based legal education required to take the bar examination in their home countries. Applicants must have obtained professional experience for at least six months, preferably (but not necessarily) in the area of international dispute resolution and must have sufficient command of the English language.

Enrolment fees

297 EUR per semester. Fee includes a semester ticket covering public transport in Berlin (subway (U-Bahn), suburban trains (S-Bahn), street trams, and buses in areas A, B and C).

Costs of living

Approx. 600 to 800 EUR (including accommodation)

Job opportunities

Side jobs for students are common e.g. in law firms, restaurants, or retail

Arrival support

Any questions regarding arrival and getting things set up can be sent via e-mail.

Services and support for international students

International Office Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and the Faculty of Law International Programmes Office

Accommodation

Accommodation is available through the Student Services Office or on the private market. Rent for a single room in a student residence is approx. 220 EUR. Private housing can be found on the Internet at: http://www.studenten-wg.de, http://www.WG-gesucht.de, http://www.immobilienscout24.de, http://www.immowelt.de, http://www.immonet.de.