Karl-Franzens-Universität Graz · University of Graz

The University

The University of Graz is one of the oldest universities in Austria. Today, more than 22,000 students are enrolled at the University of Graz, of which approximately 4,000 study law. The Universitas Carolo Franciscea was founded in 1585 by Archduke Charles II of Inner Austria and represents one of Austria’s most renowned academic institutions.

The University of Graz has 3,000 staff members, 5 faculties, 72 institutes, provides 50 different branches of study and offers 9,000 different courses a year. The beautiful main building was built in the Neo Renaissance style and contrasts with the new and mordern buildings, reflecting both the University’s historical pride and its propct for a successful future.

The Program

Since the winter term of 2004/05 the Faculty of Law at the University of Graz has been offering a Master programme in South East European Law and European Integration (LL.M.). The course provides a profound postgraduate education with a focus on South East Europe and the upcoming enlargement. This unique additional qualification will enable graduates to outstand their international competitors by far.

Over a period of 3 semesters, the students gain in-depth knowledge in 5 modules and are able to show their abilities in the Master Thesis. Courses offered include: European Fundamental Rights and Freedoms and their Enforcement, Deepening and Widening of the EU, External Action of the EU with special reference to SEE, Legal Harmonisation and Approximation in the EU, International Administration in SEE, International Economic Institutions, Competition Law in SEE, International Trade, Transnational Litigation and Arbitration in SEE and European Labour and Social Security Law.

Location

Graz, the second-largest city in Austria, is a center of science, industry, commerce and culture, and an important gateway to South-Eastern Europe because of its geographical situation. This position has brought Graz many synergies that have influenced the development of the city and it has contributed to its international reputation. In 2003, Graz was Cultural Capital of Europe. And recent research (based on education, average income, percentage of university graduates, etc.) found out that Graz has the highest quality of life in the whole of Austria!

The campus of the University of Graz is famous for its unique location. The University district is full of little cafés, restaurants, clubs and bars. Right next to it is the famous Stadtpark – a great place to relax, study or enjoy a little walk amidst trees, flowers and water fountains.
Just across the Stadtpark lies the city center – with its Renaissance buildings and Baroque churches, inviting squares, narrow streets and alleys, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Student Life

Graz is known to be a “student town”. With about 37,000 students and four universities, it lives up to its reputation.

The university district sets the scene for scientific symposia and discussions about socio-political issues. Being part of the university community, however, also includes celebrations and balls, such as the Multicultural Ball displaying fascinating diversity, the students’ parties or the famous summer party – Europe’s biggest event of its kind – at the University Sports Center.

Our students appreciate the highly developed student infrastructure, many good bookshops, nice little pubs, affordable prices in canteens and for flats and the friendly atmosphere of a city that offers a great number of green spaces and a large network of bicycle tracks.

The University Sports Center offers well over a hundred different courses (from aerobics to yoga) at a very low price. These courses are very popular and great for meeting new people with similar interests!