Master of Laws
FernUniversität campus, Germany
Master of Laws (LL.M.)
FernUniversität in Hagen (University of Hagen)
Law
Program Overview: Master of Laws (LL.M.) at FernUniversität in Hagen
The Master of Laws (LL.M.) at FernUniversität in Hagen is a consecutive graduate law program designed to deepen your legal knowledge at an advanced academic level. As Germany's only state-funded distance university and the country's largest by enrollment with over 63,000 students, FernUniversität in Hagen offers a flexible study format that allows you to pursue your master's degree alongside professional commitments.
The curriculum covers specialized content in Civil Law, Public Law, and Criminal Law, all examined in the context of current case law and judicial developments. In addition, Legal History and Legal Philosophy form key pillars of the program, providing you with a well-rounded scholarly foundation in the legal sciences.
Through individually selectable specialization areas and elective modules, you can tailor the program to your personal interests, whether in a purely legal direction or incorporating interdisciplinary perspectives such as business law. The program culminates in a master's thesis with a mandatory defense, preparing you for advanced professional roles or further academic pursuits including doctoral studies.
Key Program Highlights
- Flexible distance learning format allowing you to study from anywhere while maintaining your career
- Comprehensive legal curriculum spanning Civil Law, Public Law, Criminal Law, Legal History, and Legal Philosophy
- Offered by Germany's only state-funded distance university, ensuring recognized academic quality and accreditation
- Pathway to doctoral studies (Dr. jur.) upon successful completion of the master's degree
Curriculum and Modules
The Master of Laws program is structured into a compulsory core area with six modules, an elective area with three modules, and a master's thesis with mandatory defense. Each module carries 10 ECTS credits, while the master's thesis accounts for 25 ECTS and the defense for 5 ECTS, totaling 120 ECTS across the full program.
Advanced Civil Law (Bürgerliches Recht)
10 ECTSThis module deepens your understanding of civil law principles, covering advanced topics in contract law, property law, and obligations within the German legal framework.
Advanced Public Law (Öffentliches Recht)
10 ECTSYou will explore complex areas of constitutional and administrative law, examining state structures, fundamental rights, and public governance at an advanced scholarly level.
Advanced Criminal Law (Strafrecht)
10 ECTSThis module covers advanced criminal law doctrines, examining substantive and procedural criminal law topics in the context of contemporary jurisprudence and legal theory.
Legal History (Rechtsgeschichte)
10 ECTSYou will study the historical development of legal systems and institutions, gaining insight into how historical contexts have shaped modern legal principles and frameworks.
Legal Philosophy (Rechtsphilosophie)
10 ECTSThis module explores fundamental questions of legal theory, justice, and the philosophical foundations of law, encouraging critical reflection on the nature and purpose of legal systems.
Master's Thesis and Defense
30 ECTSThe program concludes with an independent research thesis on a legal topic of your choice, followed by a mandatory oral defense conducted in person or online. This demonstrates your ability to conduct scholarly legal research.
Elective Modules
Admission Requirements
The Master of Laws at FernUniversität in Hagen is a consecutive program building on prior legal education. Applicants must hold a qualifying law degree and meet specific academic prerequisites. Contact Uni4Edu for guidance on your eligibility and to begin your application.
Academic Requirements
- Primary QualificationBachelor of Laws (LL.B.) from FernUniversität in Hagen, or equivalent qualifying law degree
- Alternative QualificationFirst State Examination in Law (Erste Juristische Prüfung) or equivalent international law degree
- Minimum ECTS for External DegreesAt least 180 ECTS from a law program, with a minimum of 90-120 ECTS in legal subjects
- Additional ECTS RequirementApplicants with fewer than 210 ECTS may need to complete supplementary coursework of up to 30 ECTS
- Academic StandingSuccessful completion of a recognized undergraduate law qualification at university level
Language Requirements
- Language of InstructionGerman — all coursework, study materials, and examinations are conducted in German
- German Proficiency (International Applicants)DSH-2 or TestDaF Level 4 in all sections, or equivalent proof of German proficiency
- Additional Language SkillsNo additional language requirements; some elective materials may be available in English
Required Documents
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
While FernUniversität in Hagen is a public university with comparatively low overall study costs, several funding opportunities are available to support your studies. Contact Uni4Edu for personalized guidance on scholarships and financial aid options suited to your profile.
DAAD Scholarships for International Students
The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers a range of scholarships for international students pursuing graduate studies at German universities, including monthly stipends and travel allowances.
Deutschlandstipendium (Germany Scholarship)
EUR 300 per monthThis merit-based national scholarship program supports high-achieving students at German universities. It is funded jointly by the federal government and private sponsors, and does not need to be repaid.
BAföG (Federal Student Aid)
Varies based on individual financial circumstancesGerman federal student financial aid is available to eligible students, including those enrolled in distance learning programs. Half of the funding is typically provided as a grant and half as an interest-free loan.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates of the Master of Laws program at FernUniversität in Hagen are well prepared for advanced legal positions across the private and public sectors. The LL.M. qualification enhances your professional profile and opens pathways to specialized legal practice, corporate legal departments, and academic careers.
Potential Career Roles
Typical Employer Sectors
Rankings and Recognition
FernUniversität in Hagen is Germany's only state-funded distance university and the largest German university by student enrollment. Established in 1974, it is recognized by the Ministry of Culture and Science of North Rhine-Westphalia and holds accreditation from major German and European quality assurance bodies.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Social Sciences | EduRank | #61 in Germany |
| Law (within Social Sciences) | EduRank | Top research topics include Law, Political Science, Philosophy |
| Psychology | QS World University Rankings | #401 |
| Distance Education Quality | European Association of Distance Teaching Universities | Member Institution |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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