The EPLO announces that ELGS academic programs are conducted ON PREMISE. Online attendance is also allowed under specific conditions.
Under the auspices and guidance of the EPLO GLOBAL RULE OF LAW COMMISSION
This one year taught degree program offers students an in-depth look at key issues of Rule of Law.
The Rule of Law is a significant key role principle that has emerged from the bosom of society. Under its umbrella, the protection of fundamental human rights and the respect of human dignity are established; the state arbitrariness is prohibited; the fair trial conditions, the legal certainty and the compliance with the principle of proportionality are ensured.
Τhe main focus of this master’s program is to learn how Rule of Law is protected, applied and spread internationally. It is inspired by the UN System Framework while it is fully supported and guided by the EPLO Global Rule of Law Commission.
The Global Rule of Law and Democracy Master offers specialized courses that sharpen the comparative target, being initiated from a national – constitutional perspective and leading to the international level. The objective of the program is to provide students with a theoretical knowledge of the challenges which the Rule of Law is facing in contemporary legal and political systems but also with skills and attributes that can be applied in their professional careers.
Upon successful completion of the Master’s programme, students will be able to:
- master the essential knowledge and skills related to the theory and practice of the Rule of Law;
- identify specific conditions which accompany the existence and implementation of this principle as a fundamental feature of democracy and its core values.
- have a rule of law point of view on different key contemporary issues, including technology, the planet, human rights, and access to justice.
The achievement of this goal will be possible by combining theoretical knowledge, practical methodology and investigative criteria.
To whom it is addressed
It is ideal:
- for students and scholars who have bachelor or master level degree in legal sciences or in the field of governance.
- for Government, International Organizations and NGO officials who work in the field of democracy, human rights protection, and other related fields. (for this category, the online attendance is permitted)
The Global Rule of Law and Democracy Master is a wide- open program as it is a key topic in law, political, democratic and governmental fields and covers aspects of democratic consolidated countries, of those who are on the path to consolidate democracy and most crucial those who practically haven’t. It provides the necessary knowledge and skills of professional advancement in every aspect of the application of Rule of Law.
Options
- One year taught program in Cascais at the EPLO/ELGS premises followed by one semester of independent research.
- One year taught program in Cascais at the EPLO/ELGS premises followed by three months internship at the EPLO (optional) and one semester of independent research.
This master’s program can be a student’s first step towards a research degree (MPhil or PhD) in Rule of Law.
Program Benefits
The Master in Global Rule of Law and Democracy is fully supported by the EPLO GLOBAL RULE OF LAW COMMISSION. Moreover, courses will be offered by the expansive ELGS International Faculty network of over 100 legal and governance scholars and practitioners worldwide, the ELGS’ Partner Universities across Europe and the world, and the EPLO. Importantly, students of the program will be granted access to attend EPLO events on key themes in Rule of Law and governance and to interact with renown leaders and decision-makers. Students graduate with a clear understanding and awareness of the most up-to-date scholarly research and best industry practices, as well as a solid professional network to support them in their career after the ELGS.
The Master in Global Rule of Law and Democracy is a one year taught degree program with a thesis requirement, earning a total of 90 ECTS credits. An internship at the EPLO is optional and can be offered upon a selection process. Courses are led by key theorists and practitioners in their fields, and delivered through classic lectures and interactive tutorials. Some courses will also integrate other teaching methodologies where appropriate, such as moot courts, site visits to various public and private offices, as well as group presentations. Students must successfully complete 6 compulsory modules and 2 optional modules, followed by a 15,000 word thesis.
The list of available courses is as follows:
Courses
Foundations of Rule of Law
The course aims at giving students the notions and tools for analyzing the Rule of Law providing an overview of its historical evolution in different national contexts and its internationalization. The students will learn about the History of the Foundations of the Rule of Law around the world, how colonialism influenced certain parts of the world when it comes to the implementation of the Rule of Law and how morals and culture influence governance, legal theory and transitions to democracy. They will also learn about the requirements of the rule of law and the internationalization and globalization of the Rule of Law and its challenges regarding the sovereignty of States.
Rule of Law in transitional scenarios; building democratic institutions
The course aims at providing students with the fundamental notions and instruments for analyzing security implementation, conflict transformation, peace theory and transitional justice. These notions can have a crucial importance when it comes to the promotion of the Rule of Law and preparing institutions for a peaceful evolution to democracy in countries, after periods of conflict and severe human rights violations.
International Human Rights Law
The course aims at providing students with an in-depth understanding of the notion of human rights alongside with an overview of the evolution of human rights, explaining how they have gained in time international relevance. Furthermore, students will become familiar with the fundamentals of International Human Rights Law, namely its sources, the obligations on the States and the mechanisms that enable the enforcement of human rights. Finally, participants will be introduced to the main debates surrounding Human Rights and the global Rule of Law and the current challenges faced.
Government powers; boundaries and checks
The course aims at providing students with the necessary knowledge about the powers that the executive has and how the checks can ensure that the executive acts in accordance with the law; is responsible to Parliament for their actions and controlled by the Judiciary. The topic will be addressed from a political science and comparative perspective, focusing on case studies from different geographic areas
Open Government; Transparency and Anti-corruption
The aim of this course is to provide the students with the necessary knowledge and instruments for the analysis of what constitutes an open and transparent government, especially as it relates to the issue of corruption in modern societies. The topic will be addressed from a political science, sociological, and comparative perspective, focusing on case studies from different geographic areas
Fair Justice; Standards of justice and judicial independence
The course aims at providing students with a thorough understanding of the concepts of fair justice, access to justice and judicial independence and the fundamental role they play in defining the Rule of Law. Students will be introduced to the importance of fairness in the justice system, analyzing the existing barriers to access justice, and the principles and guarantees to judicial independence. Finally, some contemporary issues of particular interest such as gender and environmental justice, and the use of data in the context of justice will be presented.
Quantitative and Qualitative methods; skills course
The course aims at providing students with the necessary skills to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses in the use quantitative research methods and apply the appropriate ones according to the research demands. This will allow students to critically apply diverse research methods and interpret quantitative data, while using statistical software packages. The second part of the course aims at preparing students for the conduction of a qualitative research by familiarizing them with different methods such as in-depth interviews, focus groups, and participant-observation, as well as with research design, ethical issues, data analysis, and preparation of findings for publication.
Admissions Requirements and Procedures
Academic Requirements
Students from all over the world are admitted following a rigorous application process. Prospective students for the Masters in Global Rule of Law and Democracy
should have a first or second class undergraduate degree in political sciences, law or a relevant field of studies, or another Master’s degree in a relevant field. High caliber students with a background in a different field of studies or a particularly competitive profile with evidence of relevant professional experience and long-term dedication to the field will also be considered. Due to the international nature of the program, degree equivalencies will be determined by the Faculty Board.
Language Requirements
All courses of the program will be taught in the English language. As a result, students originating from non-English speaking countries must evidence their level of English language skills in accordance with the following:
- TOEFL Internet, Score of 90 or above
- IELTS, 5.5
- Duolingo, 95
- Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency, Grade B or above
- Any other internationally recognized test with equivalent marks
Students intending to study at a partner institution for their second semester must clearly demonstrate their ability to attend courses in the relevant language of instruction at the host university they are interested in attending.
Application
To apply for a program, students must first review the application form and its requirements to ensure the collection of appropriate material.
By the time they have gathered all documentation they should proceed with payment of the onetime application fee either at the relevant online portal or at via a bank transfer.
Students should always add their surname, initial letter of their first name and Degree title in the deposit description. They can then proceed with their application which can only be conducted online and submit it along with the supporting documentation, listed below.
All support documents must be in electronic format and uploaded to be sent with the application, except for the 2 reference letters, which should be emailed directly from Referees to admissions at rol@elgs.eu.
Students may be invited to be interviewed.
Applications for Session 2024/2025 are open for submission. Classes start on November 2024
Applications for Session 2025/2026 are open for submission until the end of May 2025.
Tuition and Aid
Tuition for both EU and International students for the MASTER IN GLOBAL RULE OF LAW AND DEMOCRACY program is 4,900€.
Please be advised that there are other direct and indirect costs related to attendance, in addition to tuition fees, such as books, supplies, accommodation and living expenses which must be taken into consideration by students when applying.
Scholarships are available for a select number of students and take into consideration merit. If you are interested in receiving a scholarship, the appropriate box should be selected on the application form and a 400-600 word personal statement must be submitted, outlining the ways in which you satisfy the criteria.
Master’s Program in Global Rule of Law and Democracy – Classrooms and Accommodation
The Master’s in Global Rule of Law and Democracy offers students a unique learning experience combining modern classrooms at the Estoril Conference Centre and comfortable accommodation in Carcavelos. Both the classrooms and accommodation are made possible thanks to the generous support of the Municipality of Cascais, ensuring that students have the best environment to focus on their studies and professional growth.
Classrooms at Estoril Conference Centre
The classrooms are located at the Estoril Conference Centre, very close to Cascais. This modern facility is designed to support learning in a comfortable and professional setting. They are bright and spacious, equipped with high-speed internet and audio-visual technology. The seating will be arranged to encourage interaction and discussions among Professors and students.
The Estoril Conference Centre is situated in an area known for its natural beauty, close to the coast, with easy access to the cultural attractions of Cascais and the beach as well. The surrounding area offers plenty of opportunities for leisure and exploration, making it an ideal location for study.
Students’ accommodation in Carcavelos
The accommodation for the Master’s students is located in a former monastery in Carcavelos, a well-organized residence, recently renovated, with security at the entrance and Wi-Fi throughout.
The residence offers private rooms for the Master’s students, each equipped with essential furnishings such as a bed, desk, chair, washbasin and closet. The guesthouse also includes:
• An auditorium (formerly a chapel)
• A large communal kitchen and dining area
• Two rooms for studying
• Laundry facilities
• Several common spaces
• A spacious outdoor terrace with a beautiful view
The residence is located in a quiet neighborhood surrounded by green spaces, vineyards and gardens. Nearby, students will find a wine museum, a scout center and a playground. Essential amenities such as supermarkets, pharmacy and local cafés are also within walking distance. The location is well-connected by public transport, with just a short bus or train ride from the Estoril Conference Centre and Cascais.