The education of legal professionals nationwide is based on the guiding principle of the "fully qualified lawyer," who possesses the qualification for judicial office. This qualification is obtained by completing a law course at a university with the First State Examination (State Examination) AND a subsequent preparatory service (referendariat) with the Second State Examination (Assessorexamen).
Graduates of the law program who enter the job market directly after earning their university degree (First State Examination) are considered equivalent to graduates with a bachelor's or master's degree. Potential career paths include working with NGOs (non-governmental organizations) or pursuing advanced degree programs with an international focus (so-called master’s programs). Career opportunities also exist after completing additional training in areas such as the Foreign Office, library and archival services, criminal and police enforcement services, and more.
Traditional professions such as attorney, prosecutor, judge, or notary require the completion of the two-stage legal education program. Fully qualified lawyers often hold civil service positions in higher-level public administration, such as municipal administrations, state institutions, or ministries at the state and federal levels.
For a comprehensive overview of potential career paths and fields, as well as interviews with alumni of Goethe University, visit the Career Service page "What’s Next?"
Continuing Education
- European and International Business Law (LL.M.)
- Law and Finance (LL.M.)
- Legal Theory (LL.M.)
- LL.M. for Foreign-Trained Lawyers
- Diplôme Universitaire de Droit Français (DUDF)
- Continuing Education Program in German & International Arbitration