Graduate studies at the Faculty of Law offer advanced academic programs for students who wish to specialize in certain areas of law. Through master’s studies, students can deepen their knowledge in areas such as criminal law, public administration, democratic institutions and human rights, international and European law, business law and civil law. Upon the completion of these studies, students acquire the title of Master in the relevant field, which opens up opportunities for their career advancement and further development.
Criminal Law (60 ECTS)
The Criminal Law second cycle postgraduate study program enables students to acquire knowledge in the areas of criminal law, criminal procedure, criminal policy and international criminal law. The program offers students the opportunity to acquire the knowledge necessary for a thorough analysis of legal frameworks, legislative reforms and practice in criminal law, as well as for understanding the mechanisms of justice implementation.
The importance of the program lies in the fact that, after its completion, it offers the opportunity for the student to specialize in the field of criminal law, while applying the acquired knowledge and skills related to the investigation of crimes, criminal justice and processing of cases before courts. The acquired knowledge and skills offer the opportunity to include students in the labor market in various areas such as judiciary, state prosecutors’ offices, law offices, as well as in law enforcement institutions, where they will implement the skills acquired.
This study program lasts for 1 year, i.e., two semesters and carries 60 ECTS credits according to the European Credit Transfer System.
Upon the completion of one-year academic studies of the second cycle of this program, students acquire the title:
Master of Laws in Criminal Law.
Enrollment requirement: a degree obtained with at least 240 ECTS of the first cycle of (undergraduate) studies with the duration of 4 years.
The structure of the study program Criminal Law (Graduate studies, 60 ECTS) includes core compulsory subjects, elective subjects and the preparation of a master’s thesis.
Compulsory subjects:
- Methodology and Organization of Scientific Research Work
- Criminal Law
- Penology
- Criminology
- Criminal Procedural Law
- Juvenile Delinquency and Justice for Children
- International Criminal Law
Elective subjects:
- Bar Law
- Medical Criminal Law
- Criminal Law –Applied Program
- Business Criminal Law
- EU Justice and Home Affairs
- Criminalistics
- Tax Law
- Tort Law
- Alternative dispute resolution
- Foreign, security and defense policy of the European Union
- Cybercrime
You can view the entire structure of the study program Criminal Law (60 ECTS) at the following link
During studying the Criminal Law program of the second cycle graduate studies (60 ECTS), students acquire the following applicable knowledge and skills:
Research Methodology: Developing skills for conducting scientific research, analysis of legal and penal systems and critical evaluation of theoretical and practical aspects of criminal law.
Criminal Law: Deepening the understanding of the criminal legislation, types of crimes and sanctions, as well as the processes related to their application.
Penology: Acquiring knowledge about the treatment of perpetrators of crimes, criminal sanctions and their impact on the resocialization of convicted persons.
Criminology: The study of causes of crime, social and economic factors influencing criminal behavior, and models of crime prevention.
Criminal procedure: Getting familiar with legal processes related to investigation, trial and punishment of perpetrators, as well as protection of the rights of the accused and the victims.
International Criminal Law: Understanding of international standards for Criminal Law, cooperation between countries and the role of international organizations and courts.
Legal and investigative techniques: Skills applicable in analyzing evidence, legal argumentation and using legislation and judicial practice.
Ethics and Justice: Understanding ethical dilemmas in legal practice and maintaining professional standards in dealing with criminal cases.
After completing the second cycle of graduate studies in Criminal Law (60 ECTS), students have a wide range of career opportunities in different sectors. Some of the main possibilities include:
- Judicial institutions
Criminal Judge: Acting as a judge in criminal courts, deciding criminal cases, and passing sentences.
Public Prosecutor: Taking on the role of public prosecutor, conducting investigations and representing the prosecution in court proceedings.
Criminal attorney: Representation and protection of the interests of the accused in criminal proceedings.
- Police and internal security authorities
Forensics: Working in investigating criminal cases, collecting and analyzing evidence, and conducting investigations.
Security officer: Work in internal security agencies, investigations related to organized crime, terrorism and cybercrime.
- Public administration and state institutions
Penal Policy Advisor: Work in government institutions for creating and implementing penal policies and reforms.
Legal advisor: Advising state authorities and ministries on legal issues related to criminal legislation.
- International organizations and institutions
Working in international courts: Representation in cases before the International Criminal Court (ICC) or other international judicial bodies.
Expert for international criminal law: Work in international organizations (UN, European Union) on topics such as international justice and fight against terrorism.
- Non-Governmental Organizations and Advocacy
А Human rights activist: Work in non-governmental organizations that deal with the protection of the rights of the accused and victims of criminal offences.
Legal advisor in an NGO: Advising and representing victims of crimes, especially in cases related to human rights.
- Business sector
Expert in corporate criminology: Advising companies regarding legal risks related to criminal law, cybercrime and business criminal law.
Cybercrime Legal Consultant: Specialized position in companies for cyber security, prevention of cybercrime and protection of digital data.
Public Administration (60 ECTS)
The structure of the study program in Public Administration for the students of the second cycle of studies enables them to acquire in-depth and advanced knowledge of the functioning of public administration, legal and political systems, as well as of public policies and management in the public sector.
Students of this cycle of studies acquire expanded knowledge in the area of human resources management, public management, political parties, democratic institutions, as well as sustainable development and the legal order of the European Union.
This study program lasts for 1 year, i.e., two semesters and carries 60 ECTS credits according to the European Credit Transfer System.
Upon the completion of one-year academic studies of the second cycle of this program, students acquire the title: Master of Public Administration.
Enrollment requirement: a degree obtained with at least 240 ECTS of the first cycle of (undergraduate) studies with the duration of 4 years.
The structure of the study program Public Administration (Graduate studies, 60 ECTS) includes core compulsory subjects, Elective subjects and preparation of a master’s thesis
Compulsory subjects:
- Methodology of scientific research work
- Contemporary Public Administration
- Applied Politics
- Citizens’ Associations and Foundations
- Decision-making models
Elective subjects:
- Management of human resources in public administration
- Clerk system
- Public Services
- Political parties
- Democratic institutions in a multicultural society
- Public Management
- Institutional and legal system of the European Union
- Sustainable Development Policies
You can view the entire structure of the study program at the following link
During studying the program in Public Administration, students acquire the following applicable knowledge and skills:
- In-depth understanding of legal, institutional and organizational structures in public administration.
- Knowledge of modern management and decision-making models in the public sector.
- Specialized knowledge of human resource management, of civil service system and public services.
- Understanding political processes, especially the role of political parties and democracy in multicultural societies.
- Knowledge of the institutional and legal order of the European Union, as well as policies for sustainable development.
- Ability to analyze and create public policies and make decisions in the public sector.
- Critical thinking and ability to solve problems related to the management and organizational changes in public administration.
- Planning and management of human resources in public institutions, with focus on professionalization and efficiency.
- Ability to effectively communicate and coordinate in multicultural and political contexts.
Applicable skills for managing public organizations and their adaptation to modern challenges.
After completing the second cycle of Public Administration studies (Graduate studies, 60 ECTS), students have a wide range of career opportunities in various sectors, such as public, private and non-governmental sectors. Some of the major career opportunities include:
- State administration and public institutions
- Civil servant: Working in ministries, agencies and other state institutions, in roles of advisers, coordinators or heads of departments.
- Public Manager: Managing public institutions or public projects, planning and implementing public policies.
- Public Policy Advisor: Creating and analyzing public policies, implementing reforms and monitoring the effects of those policies.
- Local self-government
- Head of Department of Public Administration: Management of municipal services, planning and realization of local public services.
- Local Policy Advisor: Implementation and advising on local public projects and development programs.
- Non-governmental organizations and international institutions
- Project Manager: Managing projects in non-governmental organizations (NGOs) related to democracy, human rights, good governance and public policies.
- International cooperation expert: Work in international organizations (UN, EU) or projects to strengthen public institutions and democracy.
- Private sector
- Public management consultant: Consulting work on optimizing public services, administration efficiency and public resource management.
- Legal advisor: Advising companies that cooperate with public institutions or work on public projects, especially in relation to normative issues and public tenders.
- Political consulting
- Political Analyst: Conducting political analysis and providing advice for political parties, government bodies or private companies.
- Election campaign consultant: Working with political parties or candidates to plan and implement successful election campaigns.
- International and regional institutions
- Public administration expert: Work in regional or international institutions (EU, Council of Europe), advising on reforms in public administration and improving public services.
Democratic Institutions nad Human Rights (60 ECTS)
The study program Democratic Institutions and Human Rights offers the study of democracy and the protection of human rights, combining theoretical and practical training. The program covers important aspects of the functioning of democratic systems and legal mechanisms for the protection of citizens’ rights. Students will gain a solid foundation for a career in the judiciary, public administration, and non-governmental organizations.
This study program lasts for 1 year, i.e., two semesters and carries 60 ECTS credits according to the European Credit Transfer System.
Upon the completion of one-year academic studies of the second cycle of this program, students acquire the title:
Master of Political Sciences (MSc).
Enrollment requirement: a degree obtained with at least 240 ECTS of the first cycle of (undergraduate) studies with the duration of 4 years.
The structure of the study program Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (Graduate studies, 60 ECTS) includes core compulsory subjects, elective subjects and the preparation of a master’s thesis
Compulsory subjects:
- Methodology of scientific research work
- Contemporary public administration
- Concepts of human freedoms and rights
- Nations and nationalism
- Elections and election campaign
Elective subjects:
- Democratic institutions in a multicultural society
- Analysis of public policies
- Protection of personal data and access to public data
- European system for the protection of human rights
- Institutional and legal order of the European Union
- Media and democracy
- Policies for sustainable development
- European Court of Human Rights
You can view the entire structure of the study program at the following link
During studying the program Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (Graduate studies, 60 ECTS), students will acquire the following applicable knowledge and skills:
Understanding of democratic principles and structures: Students will get familiar with the basics of democratic institutions, their organization and functioning, as well as with the role of the legal system in ensuring citizens’ rights.
Analysis and application of legal and political concepts: Students will learn how to analyze and apply legal and political concepts such as human rights, nationalism and electoral processes in various contexts and situations.
Research and analytical skills: The program develops skills for conducting scientific research, analyzing public policies and critically considering legal and political problems.
Procedures and strategies for the protection of rights: Students will get familiar with the legal mechanisms and strategies for the protection of human rights, including the application of national and international standards.
Work in multicultural and international contexts: The program prepares students to work in multicultural and international environments, with a focus on European and global aspects of the protection of rights and democracy.
After completing the program Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (Graduate studies, 60 ECTS), students have various career opportunities, including:
- Legislators
- High government officials
- Elected and appointed persons in the units of the local self-government
- General and executive directors
- Executive civil servants of the Assembly, the Government and the bodies of state administration
- Officials who manage other organs of the state administration and administrative organizations
- Diplomats and diplomatic officers
- Policy and Planning Directors
- Business Services and Administration Directors not classified elsewhere
- Experts for university and higher education in social sciences
Business Law (60 ECTS)
The Business Law study program (postgraduate studies, 60 ECTS) aims to prepare students for an advanced career in the area of business law and corporate management. Students will gain in-depth knowledge in various aspects of business law, such as legal aspect s of contracts, corporate law, competition law, intellectual property and financial acts. The program also includes case studies and analysis of real-world problems, which helps students develop the ability to solve legal problems in the business world.
This study program lasts for 1 year, i.e., two semesters and carries 60 ECTS credits according to the European Credit Transfer System.
Upon the completion of one-year academic studies of the second cycle of this program, students acquire the title:
Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Business Law.
Enrollment requirement: a degree obtained with at least 240 ECTS of the first cycle of (undergraduate) studies with the duration of 4 years.
The structure of the study program Business Law (Graduate studies, 60 ECTS) includes core compulsory subjects, elective subjects and the preparation of a master’s thesis.
Compulsory subjects:
- Methodology and organization of scientific research work
- Company Law of
- International trade law
- Bankruptcy law
- Labor and social law
Elective subjects:
- Regulation of financial markets and institutions
- Banking law
- Business criminal law
- Industrial property right
- Corporate management
- Environmental law
- International labor law
- Tax law
- Competition law
You can view the entire structure of the study program at the following link
During studying the program Business Law (Graduate studies, 60 ECTS), students acquire the following applicable knowledge and skills:
- Fundamentals of Business Law: Understanding the basic principles and concepts of business law, including contract law, corporate law, competition law, and intellectual property law.
- Financial and Legal Regulations: Knowledge of the legal and financial regulations that guide commercial activities and investments, including tax law, trade laws, and corporate governance rules.
- International Business Law: Understanding international legal standards and treaties impacting transnational business activities and the global economy.
- Legal aspects of intellectual property: Knowledge of legal acts and their norms relating to patents, copyrights, trademarks and trade secrets.
- Competition Law: Understanding laws and rules that regulate market competition and protection from anti-competitive practices.
- Legal Research and Analysis: Ability to conduct in-depth legal research, analyze legal problems, and develop legal strategies.
- Legal Writing and Documentation: Skills for the preparation of legal documents including contracts, reports, and legal opinions, with an emphasis on clarity and accuracy.
- Pragmatic approach: Ability to apply legal principles to practical business situations and problems.
- Negotiation and conflict resolution: Skills for negotiating business contracts and resolving legal conflicts and disputes.
Ethics and professionalism: Understanding the ethical standards and professional obligations of lawyers, especially in the context of business law.
Completing the program in Business Law (graduate studies, 60 ECTS) opens up a wide range of career and work opportunities in different positions and in different institutions, such as:
- High government and public officials:
- Members of legislative and executive bodies, state officials
- General and executive directors
- Managerial civil servants
- Diplomats and diplomatic officers
- Administration and business management:
- Directors of business services and administration
- Company directors for sales, marketing and development
- Directors of production companies and specialized services institutions
- Directors of catering, trade and other service companies
- Education and training:
- Experts for university and higher education in social sciences
- Business and finance:
- Financial and investment advisors
- Legal administration experts
- HR specialists
- Experts for staff training and development
- Marketing and advertising experts
- Public relations experts
- Law and Judiciary:
- Lawyer
- Attorney
- Judicial advisor
- Notary public
International and European Law (60 ECTS)
The study program in International and European Law (postgraduate studies, 60 ECTS) offers advanced knowledge in international and European legal systems and regulations. The program explores the structure and function of international organizations, rights and obligations of states, as well as European legal institutions and the law of the European Union. Students develop skills for legal analysis, research and application of legal standards in the global and European context.
Upon the completion of one-year academic studies of the second cycle of the program International and European Law (postgraduate studies, 60 ECTS), students acquire the title: MSc in International and European Law.
Enrollment requirement: a degree obtained with at least 240 ECTS of the first cycle of (undergraduate) studies with the duration of 4 years.
The structure of the study program International and European Law (Graduate studies, 60 ECTS) includes core compulsory subjects, elective subjects and the preparation of a master’s thesis.
Compulsory subjects:
- International legal order
- Institutional and legal order of the EU
- International relations and geopolitics
- International criminal law
- Internal market of the EU
Elective subjects:
- European Union in international relations
- Spatial freedom, justice and security in the European Union
- Fundamentals of diplomacy
- Transnational organized crime and corruption
- International environmental law
- Alternative dispute resolution
- Intellectual property right
- Policies of sustainable development
- International systems of human rights protection
You can view the entire structure of the study program International and European Law(Graduate studies, 60 ECTS)at the following link
During studying the program International and European Law (Graduate studies, 60 ECTS), students acquire the following applicable knowledge and skills:
- Understanding international legal systems: Knowledge of the structure and function of international organizations, rights and obligations of states, and the application of international legal norms.
- Understanding of European law: In-depth understanding of the European Union law, including European institutions, legislation and judicial practice.
- Legal analysis and research: Developing skills for legal analysis, researching complex legal problems and applying legal standards in an international and European context.
- International and European legal communication: Skills for effective communication and negotiation within international and European legal environments
After completing the program International and European Law (Graduate studies, 60 ECTS), students have various career opportunities, including:
- Associate in institutions of higher education,
- Judicial authorities (court, prosecution, advocacy, notary),
- Executive power (justice, internal affairs, foreign affairs, diplomatic and consular missions, public administration and information society, police, advisor, state secretary, etc.),
- As in many other national, regional and international associations and organizations and other institutions.
Civil Law (60 ECTS)
The study program in Civil Law for the second cycle of postgraduate studies (60 ECTS) offers an in-depth study of civil law, including contract law, property law, inheritance law and obligation law. The program develops the ability to analyze and solve complex legal problems in a civil context, applying current legal theories and practical techniques. Students prepare for professional roles as lawyers, attorneys or judges, with emphasis on legal practice and judicial interpretation of civil law.
Upon the completion of one-year academic studies of the second cycle of the program Civil Law (postgraduate studies, 60 ECTS), students acquire the title: Master of Laws in Civil Law (LL.M in Civil Law).
Enrollment requirement: a degree obtained with at least 240 ECTS of the first cycle of (undergraduate) studies with the duration of 4 years
The structure of the study program Civil Law (Graduate studies, 60 ECTS) includes core compulsory subjects, elective subjects and the preparation of a master’s thesis.
Compulsory Subjects:
- Methodology and organization of scientific research work
- General part of civil and Property Law
- Obligation Law
- Intellectual property law
- Litigation law
- Judicial and Bar Law
- Tort law
Elective Subjects:
- Insurance Law
- Family law
- European contract law
- Arbitration Law
- Medical criminal law
- Institutional and legal order of the European Union
- Internet law and e-commerce law
- Company law
You can view the entire structure of the study program at the following link
During studying the program Civil Law (Graduate studies, 60 ECTS), students acquire the following applicable knowledge and skills:
- In-depth knowledge of civil law: Understanding complex areas of civil law, including contract law, property law, inheritance law and obligation law, with an emphasis on theoretical and practical aspects.
- Legal analysis and application: Developing skills for analyzing legal problems, drafting legal documents and applying civil law in solving specific legal cases.
- Legal-research ability: Ability to conduct in-depth legal research, analysis of case law and legal texts and research of new legal theories and changes in legislation
- Resolving legal disputes: Skills for identifying and resolving legal disputes and conflicts in the civil sphere, using various methods of dispute resolution, such as arbitration and mediation.
- Legal Strategizing: Ability to develop and implement legal strategies in complex civil cases, with an emphasis on maximizing legal protection and achieving the best results for clients.
- Judicial and legal literacy: Skills for preparing court filings, legal opinions and other legal documents, with an emphasis on precision, clarity, and legal accuracy.
- Legal policy analysis: Understanding the impact of legal policy and legal changes on civil law, as well as the ability to analyze the legal implications of new norms and legal initiatives.
Completing the program in Civil Law (Graduate studies, 60 ECTS) opens up a wide range of career and work opportunities in various positions and in different institutions.
Masters of legal sciences in the field of Civil Law can work at faculties, scientific institutes, legal clinics, judicial and executive bodies and other institutions. The offered program is designed to correspond to the needs of the labor market in the area of law, and the competences acquired by students are undoubtedly significant for dealing with practical challenges.
Previous accreditations
For more information contact the referents for second cycle of studies:
Katerina Hadzi-Vasileva
Phone: +389 32 550 076
E-mail: katerina.hadzivasileva@ugd.edu.mk
Address: Krste Misirkov. Fax.201,
Stip, 2000, R. Macedonia