Do you know that Dutch law is considered one of the best in the world? With that, thousands of international students wish to pursue their L.L.M. degrees in the Netherlands. And the best part is that the country has multiple top law schools that not only offer top-tier education but also provide a rich academic environment. From the stellar international reputation of the Tilburg Law School to the Faculty of Law at Maastricht University known for its innovative problem-based learning approach, the Netherlands has a diverse range of law institutions that cater to students from around the globe.
So, let’s explore the top seven law universities in the Netherlands that stand out for their academic excellence.
Top Law Schools in the Netherlands
1. Leiden University
Leiden University, founded in 1575, stands as one of the oldest universities in the Netherlands and is celebrated for its rich historical legacy and academic eminence. It has gained a stellar reputation in comparative and international law subjects, making it a prime choice for students interested in these specialized fields.
Prospective students seeking admission to Leiden University’s School of Law must prepare themselves beforehand since the admissions are quite competitive. The university seeks students who demonstrate academic excellence, curiosity, and a commitment to making a positive impact on society.
2. University of Amsterdam
The University of Amsterdam‘s School of Law, founded in 1632, is a prestigious institution known for its academic excellence and innovative approach to legal education. With a strong focus on international law and a diverse student body from around the world, it is an attractive option for international students seeking a top-tier legal education in a cosmopolitan setting.
The university offers a range of study programs to choose from, out of which the most attractive ones are LL.M. and PPLE. The LL.M. program provides students with in-depth knowledge of international and European legal frameworks, preparing them for careers in global law and diplomacy. Whereas, the PPLE (Politics, Psychology, Law, and Economics) is an interdisciplinary bachelor’s program that allows students to explore the intersections between law and other social sciences.
3. Utrecht University
Utrecht University, established in 1636, is one of the oldest and most distinguished public research universities in the Netherlands, located in the vibrant city of Utrecht. Its School of Law, established concurrently with the university, has a long-standing reputation for conducting top-ranking research in various legal fields, including private law, criminal law, constitutional and administrative law, and international law. With a focus on interdisciplinary approaches and modern didactic principles, Utrecht University’s law programs aim to train highly qualified, internationally-oriented lawyers. The university attracts a significant number of international students across its diverse programs, fostering a globally-minded academic environment.
For those pursuing legal studies, Utrecht University’s commitment to cutting-edge fields, like the intersection of law and technology, provides a forward-looking education. Adriana Figueredo from Paraguay, who pursued a Master’s degree in Law and Technology in Europe at Utrecht University, highlighted her intentional choice of “a program taught entirely in English, in an emerging field at the intersection of law and technology.” This focus ensures that students are prepared for evolving legal landscapes and can engage deeply with complex, contemporary legal issues from a global perspective.
4. Tilburg University
Founded in 1927, Tilburg University Law School has consistently ranked among the best law faculties globally, reflecting its commitment to high-quality teaching, cutting-edge research, and a supportive learning environment. The university welcomes international students and offers affordable tuition fees compared to other European law schools. For example, the tuition fee for a Bachelor’s in Global Law is about 10,200 EUR per year, totaling 30,600 EUR for the entire program.
For aspiring legal professionals, Tilburg University offers specialized programs that align with evolving global demands. João Pedro Rocha Oliveira from Brazil, who completed an LL.M. in International Business Taxation, deliberately chose Tilburg because his prior exchange experience there was “overwhelmingly positive,” and the Master’s program “stood out as one of the best programs available in its field, backed by the expertise of the renowned Tilburg Fiscal Institute.” This highlights the university’s strong academic reputation and its ability to provide in-depth expertise in niche legal areas, delivered through English instruction.
5. Maastricht University
Maastricht University is popular among international students due to its location in the heart of Europe. It makes it an ideal base for exploring the region’s rich cultural heritage and economic opportunities. Additionally, Maastricht’s reputation as a hub for international law, politics, and diplomacy makes it an attractive destination for students wishing to pursue a degree in law.
One of the reasons why many international students are attracted is due to its high employability rates. More than 90% of the Maastricht graduates secure high-paying jobs within a few years of graduating. This reflects the university’s commitment to preparing students for successful careers.
6. Erasmus University Rotterdam
Erasmus School of Law, part of Erasmus University Rotterdam, was founded in 1913 and is renowned for its excellence in legal education. It comes under one of those universities that helps students to secure their future. With strong ties to various industries, the Erasmus School of Law provides students with valuable networking opportunities. The school collaborates with international law firms, governmental organizations, and NGOs, offering students real-world insights into the legal field.
To get into the university, students go through a competitive admission process and the admissions committee selects the best candidates for its programs. Prospective students are assessed based on academic achievements, motivation, and potential contribution to the diverse academic community.
FAQs: Law Studies in the Netherlands
Are there English-taught Law Programs in the Netherlands?
Yes, there are English-taught law programs in the Netherlands. The country offers a wide range of high-quality, internationally-oriented LL.M. programs in various legal fields, making it an attractive destination for students seeking legal education in English. These programs cater to diverse interests, including areas like European Law, Public International Law, Criminal Justice, Air and Space Law, and European and International Business Law, among others. Additionally, the Dutch government keeps fees lower for European Union students and maintains affordable tuition fees for students from other continents, making studying law in the Netherlands accessible to a broad international audience.
The Netherlands offers international students multiple English-taught LL.M. programs. From Leiden’s rich historical legacy to Groningen’s esteemed tradition since 1614, each law school offers distinctive strengths. With competitive admissions, these institutions prepare students for impactful careers. Whether pursuing an LL.B., LL.M., or Ph.D., studying law in the Netherlands promises an excellent academic journey, shaping future legal leaders and scholars worldwide.
Hopefully, this article will help you decide on which law school to attend. To learn about studying in Europe, you can check our Netherlands Page and Open Courses Page for more study options!
