Post on 23-Dec-2015
University of Adelaide
Master of Comparative Law
(Adelaide/Mannheim)/(Mannheim/Adelaide):
A Case Study
University of Adelaide
• Law School established in 1883• Currently around 1400 students in
undergraduate and postgraduate programs
Master of Comparative Law (MCL)
BACKGROUND• Originated through existing academic
connections between the Law schools at each institution
exchange agreements, staff links• Commenced October 1998
Master of Comparative Law (MCL)
AIMSTo promote the study of:• different codes of law throughout the world,
especially common and civil law• the political, economic, social and cultural
background of different law systems• the economic impact of law • the diverse standards in national and international
law systems
Master of Comparative Law (MCL)
STRUCTURE• Degree takes 1.25 years (15 months)• Students spend one semester in Mannheim
(Oct) and one semester in Adelaide (Feb)• Return to home institution to write thesis (50-
80 pages)• Taught entirely in English
Master of Comparative Law (MCL)
ISSUES• Entry requirements• Number of places• Fees• Enrolment/status at host institution• Name of qualification on degree certificate• Quality• Ongoing management of program
Master of Comparative Law (MCL)
Benefits for Institutions• Numbers are small, but creates close ties between
the Law schools• Can have a “follow-on” effect, with development of
cooperation in other disciplines• Academic cooperation is enhanced – academic staff
visits for teaching and research• Exchange at doctoral level being discussed –
further possibilities can be created
Master of Comparative Law (MCL)
Benefits for students• Good mix of students, and interesting for students
from third countries • Over 100 graduates of program• German graduates have gained work in
international law firms in Germany• Australian graduates work for international
organisations/government organisations e.g. EU in Brussels, AusAID