Program Overview

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Program Overview

The University of Hamburg's Faculty of Law offers a Master's program in German Law (LL.M.) specifically designed for international graduates in law. This two-semester program provides an in-depth study of German law and its methods, with the opportunity for individual specialization and comparative law elements.

Program Structure

The program consists of three study sections:

• The first study section includes mandatory introductory modules (10 LP).
• The second study section offers five specializations (Wahlbereiche) from which students must choose one as an elective area (35 LP).
• The third study section requires the completion of a Master's thesis (15 LP).

Admission Requirements

To be eligible for the program, applicants must:

• Hold a first-degree qualification from a foreign university in the field of law, worth 240 ECTS.
• Demonstrate fluent command of the German language to participate in courses and pass necessary exams.
• Meet academic prerequisites that indicate a successful completion of the program.

Application Documents

Applicants must submit:

• A copy of their university degree and transcript of records.
• A translation of these documents into German or English.
• Proof of German language proficiency, which can be demonstrated through various certificates (e.g., TestDaF, DSH-2, Goethe-Zertifikat C1 or C2, telc C1 Hochschule, telc C1 or C2) or a school-leaving certificate equivalent to a German university entrance qualification.
• A tabular curriculum vitae.
• Specification of their area of interest.
• A letter of motivation.

Important Information

• The application period is from May 1st to June 15th of each year.
• Applications are submitted exclusively online through the Campus Center.
• The program starts in the winter semester, and the standard study period is two semesters.
• A total of 60 ECTS must be achieved.
• The program includes a Master's thesis.

FAQs

1. What title is awarded upon completion of the program?

The academic degree "Master of Laws (LL.M.)" is awarded by the Faculty of Law at the University of Hamburg.

2. How long does the program last?

The program lasts two semesters, including all exams and the Master's thesis.

3. Does the program provide an overview of German law?

The program aims for an in-depth study in a selected area of German law rather than a comprehensive overview of the entire legal system.

4. How is the study program structured?

The program begins with two introductory modules, followed by the choice of one of five specializations, and concludes with a Master's thesis.

5. What is the application deadline?

The application deadline is June 15th of each year.

6. How do I apply?

Applications are submitted exclusively online through the Campus Center.

7. Can I apply through uni-assist?

No, applications are only accepted through the Campus Center.

8. Can missing documents, such as language certificates, be submitted later?

No, all documents must be submitted by the application deadline.

9. Must certified copies of degrees be submitted?

No, simple copies and translations of degrees are acceptable.

10. Can I translate my degree certificates myself?

No, translations must be done by an officially sworn translator.

11. Must application documents be submitted in person?

No, applications are submitted online.

12. What language certificates are accepted?

Accepted language certificates include TestDaF, DSH-2, Goethe-Zertifikat C1 or C2, telc C1 Hochschule, telc C1 or C2, and others, provided they are not older than three years.

13. Does the university offer language courses for the required certificates?

No, language courses are only available to enrolled students.

14. Is a provisional admission possible with a B2 language certificate?

No.

15. Do I need to find a supervisor before applying?

No, a professor from the faculty will be assigned according to the chosen specialization.

16. Is the program a full-time study?

Yes.

17. Does the faculty offer scholarships for this program?

No, but students can apply for scholarships through other organizations, such as the DAAD.

18. Must I be enrolled at the University of Hamburg during the study?

Yes.

19. What is the semester fee?

The current semester fee is 384, which includes a ticket for public transportation in Hamburg.

20. Can I start the program in the summer semester?

No, the program starts exclusively in the winter semester.

21. How many ECTS can be achieved?

60 ECTS must be achieved.

22. Are preparatory courses offered as part of the program?

Yes, two introductory modules are offered before the start of the study program.

23. Must a Master's thesis be written?

Yes.

24. Can I pursue a Ph.D. at the Faculty of Law after completing the LL.M.?

The program provides the opportunity to fulfill the prerequisites for a juristic Ph.D.

25. Does the degree improve job prospects in Germany?

The LL.M. can improve access to the German job market and provide specialized knowledge relevant to future employment.

26. Is part-time study possible?

Yes, part-time study is possible. For more information, contact the faculty.

Downloads

• Program information (PDF, German)
• Program information (PDF, English)
• Study program diagram (PDF, German)
• Examination regulations for the Master's program in German Law (LL.M.) (PDF)
• University regulations

Examination Dates

Examination dates for 2025/2026 (PDF)

Contact

For questions regarding the program, please contact:

• Claudia Zavala
• Christiane Andresen deutschesrecht.jura@uni-hamburg.de