Digitalisation & Law Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg

Digitalisation has created many new legal questions that go far beyond the regular curriculum. The “Digitalisation & Law” Master's programme at JMU aims at addressing these legal problems in a specialised programme.

It is designed for professionals seeking a specialisation in the field of digitalisation and IT law. A previous IT background is not required; the necessary technical knowledge will be imparted in the courses.

All courses are taught in English and will be held by renowned professors and specialised lawyers in the historic city of Würzburg.

The first semester consists of six compulsory courses: Introduction to Informatics, Introduction to German IT Law, Machine Ethics, Fundamental Rights and Data Protection, Cybercrime I, and Procedure Law.

In the second semester, the students can choose six of the following courses: Company Law and Digitalisation, Legal Tech, Competition Law in the Digital Age, IP Law, Cybercrime II, Robot Law / AI Law, E-commerce / Consumer Protection, Public Law in the Digital Age and Labour Law and Digitalisation.

The third semester is reserved for the Master's thesis and the oral examination.

After a successful completion of the programme, the University of Würzburg awards graduates with the academic degree of "Master of Laws" (LLM). For practising lawyers in Germany, the University of Würzburg can award graduates with a certificate for the theoretical part of the specialist lawyer in IT Law (Fachanwalt IT-Recht, § 14k FAO).

The LLM is structured as a 90-ECTS Master’s programme. The first two semesters each count for 30 ECTS, and the Master’s semester also counts for 30 ECTS, with 25 ECTS awarded for the Master’s thesis and 5 ECTS for the oral examination.

Although the LLM is described as a full-time programme, it can be studied alongside a job. Lectures are held on weekday evenings and as block courses on Friday evenings and Saturdays.

• Qualified practical work experience of at least one year

and

• Bachelor’s degree in liberal arts or science with at least 210 ECTS credits at the University of Würzburg, a First State Examination in Law or a degree in a comparable course of study at another domestic or foreign higher education institution (e.g. university, university of applied sciences or university of cooperative education) or an equal domestic or foreign qualification

or

• Bachelor’s degree in liberal arts or science with at least 180 ECTS credits at the University of Würzburg or at another domestic or foreign higher education institution or an equal domestic or foreign qualification and practical work of at least 30 ECTS credits, proven by qualified practical work experience of at least one year and accepted by the Audit Committee of the programme
• If the degree is not a law degree, proof of competences in one or several of the following areas with at least 15 ECTS credits is required:   

1. basic knowledge in the field of civil law
2. basic knowledge in the field of criminal law
3. basic knowledge in the field of public law

There are generally no tuition fees at the University of Würzburg. However, each semester, students are required to pay a contribution for enrolment or registration. This fee, approximately 180 EUR, not only supports various student services but also includes a semester ticket that grants you unlimited access to public transportation throughout the city of Würzburg.

Living in Würzburg is quite affordable compared to other German cities, making it an attractive option. While individual lifestyles vary, here is an estimate of typical costs:

• Food: 300 EUR
• Rent: 350 to 500 EUR
• Student health insurance: 150 EUR

Würzburg offers a vibrant student life with plenty of affordable options for dining, entertainment, and leisure activities. The University of Würzburg, its student representation and wider network of local partners help you manage your budget effectively, also by offering student discounts.

Finding part-time employment in Würzburg is a great way to gain experience, make new connections, and supplement your finances while studying. Students from EU and EEA countries enjoy equal terms in the labour market and can work freely during their studies. Students from other countries can work up to 140 full days or 280 half days per year, including voluntary internships. If you wish to work more, you'll need permission from the employment agency ("Agentur für Arbeit") or the immigration office.

It's important to ensure that your studies remain your top priority, so choose a side job that complements your academic schedule. The University of Würzburg offers resources to help you find part-time work, such as the student job portal.

The University of Würzburg is dedicated to helping international students and future professionals thrive. The Career Centre is your gateway to job entry, offering courses to develop transdisciplinary skills and personalised counselling at every stage of your academic journey. The Transfer Team fosters innovation and entrepreneurship, providing guidance on intellectual property, business formation, and industry connections. The Centre for Teaching and Learning is a treasure trove of resources, including the Writing Centre, which offers workshops, one-on-one consultations, and collaborative writing groups to enhance your academic writing skills. The Alumni Service keeps the Würzburg spirit alive with mentoring programmes and networking events.

Finding the perfect place to live is an important part of your student experience at the University of Würzburg. Unlike some other countries, students in Germany need to find their own accommodation, as universities do not automatically provide it. At the University of Würzburg, you have two main options: "Studierendenwerk" housing or private rooms/student halls.

The Student Housing Service ("Studierendenwerk") manages 12 student residences in Würzburg, offering a total of 2,887 rooms. These dormitories provide a variety of amenities:

• Single and double rooms or apartments shared by two to four students, with communal kitchens and bathrooms

• Furnished rooms and apartments are available, though you'll need to bring your own dishes, cooking items, bedding, and towels.

To apply for housing, note the deadlines: 15 June for the winter semester and 15 January for the summer semester. For more information about private rooms and student halls, visit the Central Student Advisory Service.

In addition to Studierendenwerk housing, there are many private accommodation options available:

• Shared apartments ("Wohngemeinschaften" or "WGs"): These are popular among students and offer a great way to meet new people and share living costs.

• Private student halls: These are often run by private companies and offer similar amenities to Studierendenwerk dormitories. They can be a bit more expensive but may offer more modern facilities.

• Short-term accommodation: If you need a place to stay while you search for permanent housing, consider options like hostels, guest houses, or short-term rentals.

Remember to start your housing search early and stay positive! With a bit of patience and diligence, you'll find a cosy place to call home.