Overview
International Business Law – Climate Change and Corporations is a comprehensive Master’s programme that explores the intersection of climate change, business law, and corporate responsibility. This course delves into how governments, corporations, and financial markets operate within international and European legal frameworks to address climate-related issues.
- Level: Master’s programme
- Focus: International business law with a specialization in climate change and corporate responsibility
- Delivery: On-campus at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
- Duration: Typically 12 months
- Language of instruction: English
- Application basis: Relevant degree alongside merit and motivation
- English tests accepted: IELTS (minimum 6.5) or TOEFL iBT (minimum 92)
- Tuition fees: Vary by student category; please verify details on the official VU Amsterdam fee page
What you'll study
The programme is structured to integrate essential business law knowledge with the legal challenges posed by climate change. The curriculum typically includes a mix of lectures, seminars, and case-based studies.
- International Law on Climate Change and Sustainability
- Multidisciplinary Perspectives on Climate Change
- Anatomy of Corporate Law
- Problems of Market Regulation
- Climate Change and Financial Regulation
- Climate Change Liability
- The Energy Transition in Legal Practice
- Corporate Social Responsibility
Assessment: Evaluation methods generally include written assignments, examinations, and seminar participation. A final thesis or capstone project may also be required.
Entry requirements
- Academic background: A previous education equivalent to at least a Dutch academic Bachelor’s degree from a research university (typically 3 years).
- Degree type: Eligible applicants should possess an academic Bachelor’s degree in Law (LLB) or its equivalent.
- Applied sciences degrees: Candidates with a degree from a University of Applied Sciences must have completed a relevant pre-master’s programme (note: the faculty does not offer a pre-master’s for this Master’s).
- Merit and motivation: Admission is contingent upon a relevant degree along with demonstrated merit and motivation.
- Minimum GPA: A minimum GPA of 7.0 according to the Dutch grading system is required.
- Evidence of merit: Evaluation may consider overall grade average, thesis (if applicable), academic English proficiency, and research methods expertise, along with recommendations.
- English language requirements:
- IELTS: minimum 6.5 (overall)
- TOEFL iBT: minimum 92 (total)
- Documents typically required: Application form, transcripts/degree certificate, CV, motivation letter, and proof of English proficiency, along with any additional documents requested by the faculty.
Career prospects
Graduates of this programme will be well-positioned for careers in various sectors, including legal practice, corporate compliance, environmental consulting, and international organizations. The unique focus on climate change and corporate responsibility equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the evolving landscape of international business law.