MA European Legal Studies

MA European Legal Studies – University of Maribor

The MA European Legal Studies programme at the University of Maribor is a two-year, second-cycle Master’s degree offered by the Faculty of Law (PF) in Maribor, Slovenia. The programme comprises four semesters and carries 120 ECTS credits. It provides advanced academic and professional knowledge of European Union law, European integration, international legal relations and the legal frameworks governing the political, economic and institutional activities of the European Union.

The programme explores the complex relationships between EU Member States and European institutions, including legal, political, economic, security, defence, energy and environmental considerations. It prepares students for demanding legal, administrative, policy-related and research-oriented responsibilities in European and international environments.

Programme Overview and Learning Outcomes

The programme develops specialised knowledge of European integration law, EU external relations, European judicial protection and the legal principles governing the EU internal market. Students examine European legal systems, institutional decision-making processes and the implementation of European policies.

The curriculum covers constitutional and administrative law of the European Union, European economic law, international economic relations, EU foreign and security policy, European migration and asylum policy, and the legal mechanisms protecting fundamental rights.

Students also develop the ability to analyse legal problems, interpret European legislation, conduct independent legal research and communicate complex legal arguments effectively.

European Integration and International Relations

The programme places particular emphasis on European integration and the external relations of the European Union. Students study the legal foundations of EU foreign, security and defence policies, international economic cooperation and relationships between the European Union and countries outside its borders.

Additional areas include European neighbourhood policies, cross-border cooperation, diplomatic and consular relations, international agreements, energy security, environmental protection and the legal dimensions of European economic development.

Research Opportunities and Professional Skills

Students develop advanced competencies in legal research, academic writing, critical legal analysis and professional communication. Learning activities include seminars, research projects, written assignments, legal document preparation and oral presentations.

The Faculty of Law provides access to academic libraries, legal databases, research facilities and educational technologies. The programme also offers opportunities for international academic exchange through Erasmus and other university cooperation networks.

The curriculum includes 18 ECTS credits of elective courses, allowing students to develop specialised expertise in selected aspects of European legal studies.

Career Opportunities and Academic Progression

The programme prepares graduates for professional opportunities involving European Union law, international relations, public administration, legal analysis and international institutional cooperation.

Potential employment environments identified in the source include EU institutions, diplomatic and consular services, government departments, international organisations, multinational corporations, legal and policy research organisations, and public-sector institutions.

Graduates may also pursue doctoral studies, subject to the admission requirements of the relevant third-cycle programme.

Accreditation and Academic Recognition

The programme received accreditation from the Slovenian Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (SQAA) through Decision No. 6033-116/2011/12, adopted on 19 January 2012.

Graduates who successfully complete all programme requirements and defend their Master’s thesis receive the academic qualification Master of Arts (M.A.).