Bachelor programmes

The University of Groningen (RUG) offers two bachelor’s programmes in law: the Dutch-taught Bachelor’s programme in Law and the English-taught Bachelor’s programme International and European Law.

Bachelor Rechtsgeleerdheid

The Dutch-taught bachelor’s programme in law gives you a broad foundation in law. You start with a general first year and choose a specialization for your second and third years.

During your first year, you learn the foundations of law. You take courses in areas such as legal studies, legal history and different fields of Dutch law:

• Constitutional law
• Civil law
• Criminal law
• Administrative law

You also develop your legal research skills. At the end of your first year, you choose a specialisation for the remainder of your bachelor’s programme.

The Bachelor’s programme in Law meets the requirements for civiel effect (a Dutch legal qualification requirement). This means you can continue towards legal master’s programmes that prepare you for professional legal careers, such as becoming a lawyer or judge.

Bachelor International and European Law

The English-taught bachelor’s programme International and European Law focuses on international and European law. You compare different legal systems and do not specialise in Dutch law during this programme.

This bachelor’s programme does not meet the requirements for civiel effect. As a result, you cannot directly continue towards professions such as lawyer or judge in the Netherlands. If you want to work as a lawyer in an international setting, the Bachelor’s programme in Law is the better choice.

International and European Law provides a strong foundation for an international career as a legal adviser. The programme is fully taught in English and attracts students from many different countries.

During this bachelor’s programme, you are required to study abroad for one semester. This gives you international experience and helps you develop a broader understanding of law across borders.