University of Adelaide Master of Comparative Law (Adelaide/Mannheim)/(Mannheim/Adelaide): A Case Study

University of Adelaide Law School established in 1883 Currently around 1400 students in undergraduate and postgraduate programs

Master of Comparative Law (MCL) BACKGROUND Originated through existing academic connections between the Law schools at each institution exchange agreements, staff links Commenced October 1998

Master of Comparative Law (MCL) AIMS To promote the study of: different codes of law throughout the world, especially common and civil law the political, economic, social and cultural background of different law systems the economic impact of law the diverse standards in national and international law systems

Master of Comparative Law (MCL) STRUCTURE Degree takes 1.25 years (15 months) Students spend one semester in Mannheim (Oct) and one semester in Adelaide (Feb) Return to home institution to write thesis ( pages) Taught entirely in English

Master of Comparative Law (MCL) ISSUES Entry requirements Number of places Fees Enrolment/status at host institution Name of qualification on degree certificate Quality Ongoing management of program

Master of Comparative Law (MCL) Benefits for Institutions Numbers are small, but creates close ties between the Law schools Can have a “follow-on” effect, with development of cooperation in other disciplines Academic cooperation is enhanced – academic staff visits for teaching and research Exchange at doctoral level being discussed – further possibilities can be created

Master of Comparative Law (MCL) Benefits for students Good mix of students, and interesting for students from third countries Over 100 graduates of program German graduates have gained work in international law firms in Germany Australian graduates work for international organisations/government organisations e.g. EU in Brussels, AusAID