3 Reasons to Study GOMIL
Choosing a Master’s program is about more than just a degree; it is about the environment, the expertise, and the professional edge you gain. GOMIL offers the unique trifecta of academic excellence, practical application, and an unbeatable quality of life.
1. Göttingen: Excellence in an International University City
Göttingen is not just a city with a university – it is a "University City" where history and modern international research meet. Since its foundation in 1737, the University has been a beacon of excellence, associated with over 40 Nobel Prize winners.
The Faculty of Law is a center for internationality, hosting students from all over the world and collaborating with dedicated bodies such as the Sino-German Institute of Legal Studies. It is also home to the Göttingen Journal of International Law (GoJIL) – a student-led journal focusing on international law. Founded in December 2007, it was the first German student-run law journal published entirely in English language.
On campus, students have access to the Göttingen State and University Library, one of the largest libraries in Germany, along with a wide variety of specialized legal institutes that allow the study of subjects from multiple perspectives.
Known as the "Bicycle City", Göttingen offers a student life that is both vibrant and convenient. The historic town center is rich in culture, and because the city is designed around Student Life , everything you need is just a short walk or bike ride away.
2. Academic Excellence
At GOMIL, education transcends the textbook. The curriculum is designed to bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world application, offering a broad overview combined with deep specialization.
Inclusive entry point: GOMIL is uniquely accessible. While no prior knowledge of international law is required to begin, the curriculum is equally crafted to allow experienced legal scholars to deepen and refine their expertise through advanced research. The first semester provides a comprehensive introduction to the three pillars of the global legal order: Public International Law, International Economic Law, and International Criminal Law. This ensures a robust theoretical framework for all students.
Specialization and practical insights: In the second semester, students choose a specialization aligned with their professional ambitions. Our students do not just study the law. They learn directly from the architects shaping the international legal landscape. Core modules are led by distinguished professors from the University of Göttingen who are recognized global experts in Public International Law, International Criminal Law, and International Economic Law. Beyond the core curriculum, our electives are uniquely designed for the GOMIL program by a prestigious network of academics and practitioners. This immersive approach bridges the gap between high-level research and real-world application, offering students direct access to the expertise of former international court judges, specialized lawyers from top-tier firms, and leading scholars.
Research and thesis: The program culminates in the summer with the Master's thesis. Students benefit from close individual supervision during the research phase, receiving personalized academic guidance. This rigorous structure forms an ideal foundation for doctoral studies. Exceptional students may pursue their PhD directly at the University of Göttingen.
More information on program structure
3. Beyond the Classroom: Extracurricular Opportunities
One of the standout advantages of the GOMIL programme is the unparalleled academic flexibility it offers. As a student, you have the unique opportunity to attend any class offered at the University of Göttingen — completely free of extra charges.
Dive into German Jurisprudence
You are invited to join any lecture available to German law students. This allows you to immerse yourself in the local legal culture and academic environment. Most of these core lectures are conducted in German, offering an excellent chance for language immersion alongside your legal studies.
Featured Courses at the Faculty of Law
The Göttingen Law Faculty offers a diverse range of specialized subjects. Depending on your interests, you might find the following courses particularly valuable:
- Legal History & Theory: Deutsche Rechtsgeschichte (German Legal History), Allgemeine Staatslehre (General Theory of the State).
- International & Comparative Law: Internationales Privatrecht (Private International Law), Internationales Kaufrecht (International Sales Law), Vergleichendes Verfassungsrecht (Comparative Constitutional Law).
- European Law: Europarecht, Europäisches Verwaltungsrecht (European Administrative Law), and specialized modules in Criminal, Agricultural, Labor, and Social Law.
- Commercial Law: Kartellrecht (Antitrust Law).
Courses Taught in English
For those looking for curriculum options in English, the faculty regularly provides specialized modules such as:
- Introduction to English Commercial Law
- Introduction to European ICT and Media Law
- Public International Law II
Please note that the courses listed above are examples intended to showcase the breadth of our curriculum. Specific course availability may vary and is subject to change each academic year.
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