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