Location:
European Law
& Governance School
Master in
Global Rule of Law
and Democracy
Postgraduate Program
The EPLO founded a specialized Master’s Degree in Global Rule of Law and Democracy under the auspices and guidance of the EPLO Global Rule of Law Commission (GRoLC). The GRoLC has been announced at the UN General Assembly and its purpose is to enhance the Rule of Law worldwide, and to provide know-how to states wishing to have its support in various aspects of public life.
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.
About the degree
- UNIQUE: one of the very few existing on this topic.
- PRESTIGIOUS: Initiated by the EPLO, an International Organization that comprises 14 member states and 76 universities, and holds observer status at the UN and other international institutions.
- ESTEEMED LEADERSHIP: Endorsed by the GRoL Commission, a collaboration of global leaders and experts in judiciary, diplomacy, and academia dedicated to promoting and advancing the Rule of Law worldwide, as announced at the UN General Assembly. The Commission is chaired by Professor G.Amato, Honorary President of the Italian Constitutional Court and former Prime Minister of Italy. (More details can be found here).
- RELEVANT CURRICULUM: Extensive insights into the rule of law from a transnational perspective, focusing on human rights, political transitions, and public governance reforms.
Participant profile
This degree is ideal for:
- Public and civil servants.
- NGO Officials.
- Policy and Governmental Experts.
- Legal professionals: Lawyers, particularly those specialized in human rights.
- Political analysts and Advisors.
- Journalists.
- Graduates and Scholars with a bachelor’s or master’s degree in legal sciences or governance.
Options
One year taught program in Cascais at the EPLO/ELGS premises followed by:
- one semester of independent research.
- three months internship at the EPLO (optional and subject to a selective application process)
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.
Fast Facts
- Duration/Language: One-year with a thesis requirement, English.
- Location: Portugal, EPLO/ELGS Cascais Campus
- Internship opportunity: Optional Internship at the EPLO, providing practical international experience, enhancing skills and employability for future career paths.
- Curriculum structure: 6 compulsory and 2 optional modules, followed by a 15,000 word thesis.
- Academic calendar: Classes commence in October and conclude in May.
- Credit system: 90 ECTS credits.
- Tuition Fees: 4900€
The EPLO announces that ELGS academic programs are conducted
ON PREMISE.
Online attendance is also allowed under specific conditions.
Premises
Campus at the Mosteiro de Santa Maria do Mar in Carcavelos
The Master’s in Global Rule of Law and Democracy offers a unique learning experience at the EPLO ELGS campus in Portugal, located in the historic Mosteiro de Santa Maria do Mar. Thanks to the generous support of the Municipality of Cascais, students benefit from modern classrooms and comfortable accommodation, creating the perfect environment for their studies and professional growth.
Mosteiro de Santa Maria do Mar
The Mosteiro de Santa Maria do Mar in Carcavelos, within the boundaries of the Municipality of Cascais, is a recently renovated and well-organized former monastery. It is situated in a quiet neighborhood known for its natural beauty, close to the coast, with easy access to the cultural attractions of Lisbon, Oeiras, Estoril and Cascais. The surrounding area offers plenty of opportunities for leisure and exploration, making it a perfect place for both study and living.
Classrooms
The classrooms at the refurbished Mosteiro de Santa Maria do Mar are designed to promote interactive and engaging learning. They are bright and spacious, fully equipped with modern amenities, including touch-screen TV, high-speed internet and laptops provided for student use, ensuring a professional and productive teaching environment. Professors also benefit from a dedicated office space to support lecture preparation, administrative tasks and student consultations. The serene atmosphere of the historic monastery, combined with its advanced facilities, provides an inspiring setting for academic lectures, group discussions and collaborative activities.
Accommodation
The postgraduate students’ accommodation is conveniently located within the same building as the classrooms at the Mosteiro de Santa Maria do Mar. This peaceful residence, surrounded by green spaces, vineyards and gardens, features security at the entrance and Wi-Fi throughout, ensuring a safe and comfortable environment that fosters concentration and focus on studies. Essential amenities such as supermarkets, pharmacies and local cafés are within walking distance. Additionally, the location is well-connected by public transport.
Program Modules
Students must successfully complete 6 compulsory modules and 2 optional modules, followed by a 15,000 word thesis.
All the courses
- Foundations of Rule of Law
- Rule of Law in transitional scenarios; building democratic institutions
- International Human Rights Law
- Government powers; boundaries and checks
- Open Government; Transparency and Anti-corruption
- Fair Justice; Standards of justice and judicial independence
- Quantitative and Qualitative methods; skills course
Admissions' Requirements
and Procedures
Academic Requirements
- Undergraduate degree in political sciences, law or a relevant field of studies.
- Alternatively, a Master’s degree in a relevant field is also acceptable.
- Strong Profile students from diverse academic backgrounds, including relevant experience and field dedication, are welcome to apply.
- Due to the international nature of the program, degree equivalencies will be determined by the Faculty Board.
Language requirements
- 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.
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.
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 an interview.