JD/LLM in French and European Union Law

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Course of Study

Through a special exchange agreement between Vermont Law and Graduate School and the University of Cergy-Pontoise, students earn both a JD and an LLM by spending two years of study at Vermont Law and Graduate School and one year at Cergy-Pontoise.



Classes for the LLM in French and European Union Law are taught in English by academics and by practicing lawyers, thereby offering students both exposure to French legal academics and contacts among legal practitioners in Paris. Some seminars are taught by and within international firms based in Paris. Students may choose one of the following areas in which to specialize: Business and Taxation Law, or Law and Business Ethics.

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Curriculum

Fall Semester
Introduction to French and Civil Law
Introduction to European Union Law
Criminal Law and Procedure
Torts
Litigation
Intellectual property or Corporate governance (student’s choice)
French language

Spring semester:
Comparative Study of Legal Traditions
European Union Law
Civil rights and civil liberties in Europe
Dissertation or Internship Report
Company Law
Capital Marketing and Banking
Antitrust and Competition Law
Compliance or Taxation Law (student’s choice)
Legal French

French language classes are organized by level of proficiency, from beginner to advanced. A language assessment test is given before classes begin, so students are assured an appropriate level of language instruction.

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Schedule

The first semester starts in September, with final exams in December. The second semester starts in February, with final exams in May.


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Applications

This program is open only to Vermont Law students. Students generally apply in the spring semester of the first year, but applications may be accepted in the fall of the second year, depending on the availability of spaces.

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Financial and Other Considerations

During their study at the University of Cergy-Pontoise, VLGS students will pay all tuition and fees to their home institution, Vermont Law and Graduate School. Because dual degree programs are limited to a few students each year, accepted students will make a $250 non-refundable deposit to hold their place in the program. The deposit will be applied to the total cost of the program.
 

VLGS students will be eligible to receive financial aid from VLGS for their study at Cergy based on the application of the usual financial aid rules. Students will be responsible for all costs related to housing, transportation, books, medical insurance, and other expenses. Students will also be required to obtain health and medical insurance coverage for their study abroad.