Comparative Law (Private and Constitutional Law)

Course goals

After this course:

• Students gained a comprehensive understanding of comparative law and the comparative analysis of legal systems, concepts, and doctrines across different jurisdictions;

• Students have gained knowledge on a fundamental or current theme in the fields of private and constitutional law;

• Students have developed independent research skills, critical thinking abilities, the ability to present well-reasoned positions, both in written and oral form;

• Students have developed their English language proficiency by means of studying English academic literature and effective communication in English.

Content

Ever wondered how legal systems in different parts of the world approach or solve legal problems? Ever considered whether one can usefully compare English and Dutch law? Ever wondered whether solutions abroad could be of use in your own jurisdiction? If these questions pique your interest, then this Comparative Law course is tailor-made for you!

Research skills. The first goal is to explore the primary tasks, objectives, current issues, and methodological approaches of comparative law. By using practical examples from specific legal domains and real-world insights from international and governmental organizations, students gain the expertise to craft successful comparative research.
Substantive law skills. The second goal is to gain (comparative) knowledge in two specific prominent fields of law: private law and constitutional law. The comparative study of law broadens the students’ understanding of law as simultaneously a local and a global phenomenon in its societal and political context.
The course is divided into a methodological foundation (first and last week) and two in-depth seminars,  on (comparative) private and constitutional law, each spanning two weeks. These seminars are taught by experts in these fields of law.


Not possible in combination with RGBOA0110 Comparative Law Methodology or RGMUPRV022 Comparative Law Methodology[CJ1]

Place of the course within the curriculum:
Optional legal course