Pursuing legal education in Bosnia and Herzegovina provides an exceptional opportunity for international students to obtain an all-encompassing knowledge of the Bosnian and global legal system, thus making them proficient in the field. Understanding the law empowers international students to navigate legal processes and protect the rights of innocent people. Law, as a dynamic and intellectually stimulating discipline, demands perpetual learning, remaining abreast of legal advancements, and grappling with intricate legal issues.

In Bosnia and Herzegovina, a country with a rich historical, cultural, and legal heritage, legal education is deeply ingrained in the fabric of the nation. To understand the current landscape of legal education in Bosnia and Herzegovina, it is imperative to trace its historical origins. The legal system in this region has been shaped by a complex history of Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and Yugoslav rule. Each of these periods left an indelible mark on the legal framework, and this historical diversity continues to influence legal education in the country today.

Bosnia and Herzegovina operates within a complex constitutional framework defined by the Dayton Agreement, which ended the Bosnian War (1992-1995). The legal system includes a Constitutional Court, a State Court, entity-level courts, and cantonal courts within the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Students of the Law degree courses at Alfred Education Group partner universities in Bosnia and Herzegovina have the opportunity to discover the legal system of the country and get hands-on experience during internships in the state and private bodies.

The most popular law degrees offered by Alfred Education Group’s partner universities in Bosnia and Herzegovina are the Bachelor of Law (LLB) and Master of Law (LLM). The LLB lasts for 4-5 years, while the LLM takes 1-2 years to complete. The University of Mostar offers specialized law degrees at the postgraduate level, such as Environmental Law, International Law, Business Law, and Human Rights Law. The Ph.D. in Law is a postgraduate degree focusing on legal research and academic writing. The duration of the Ph.D. program varies depending on the individual’s research progress and dedication, but it takes several years to complete. 

Legal education in Bosnia and Herzegovina has evolved to meet the challenges of the modern legal landscape. Here are some key features of contemporary legal education in the country:

• Multilingual Education. Law degree courses at Alfred Education Group’s partner universities in Bosnia and Herzegovina are offered in multiple languages, including Bosnian, Croatian, Serbian, and English. Such linguistic diversity caters to a broad range of students, including international ones.
• European Integration. Bosnia and Herzegovina’s aspiration to join the European Union has influenced legal education. Law degree courses at Alfred Education Group partner universities in Bosnia and Herzegovina are aligned with EU legal standards, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to engage with European legal frameworks.
• Clinical Legal Education. Practical experience is an integral part of legal education. Law degree courses at Alfred Education Group partner universities in Bosnia and Herzegovina offer clinical legal education, where students work on real cases under the supervision of experienced lawyers.
• International Collaboration. Law degree courses at Alfred Education Group partner universities in Bosnia and Herzegovina actively engage in international collaborations and exchange programs with universities and institutions worldwide. It provides students with exposure to diverse legal systems and perspectives.
• Moot Courts and Competitions. To foster advocacy and legal skills, Law degree courses at Alfred Education Group partner universities in Bosnia and Herzegovina organize moot court competitions and legal debates. Such events allow students to hone their courtroom skills and legal argumentation.

TOP Bosnian universities provide international students with opportunities to obtain a high-quality law education in Legal Methods, Family Law, Law of Evidence, Corporate Law, Civil Procedure Code, Labour Law, and Human Rights Law. Students can choose the best study options for them, including mode of study, educational programs in Law, specialty, and elective subjects, and get high-quality education in accredited Bosnian law educational institutions such as the University of Mostar with student exchange programs, joint research projects, and shared resources such as university libraries, study labs, tutoring centers, writing centers, study rooms, and many others. 

Career Perspectives

Law is a very popular career choice in any country and certainly one of the most respected professions with a wide range of career possibilities. Many international law graduates from Alfred Education Group partner universities in Bosnia and Herzegovina choose to pursue a career as practicing lawyers. It involves working in law firms, corporate legal departments, or as solo practitioners. International law graduates can specialize in various areas of law such as Corporate Law, Criminal Law, Intellectual Property Law, Family Law, and International Law. 

Legal practice offers the opportunity to provide legal advice, represent clients in court, negotiate contracts, and handle various legal matters. International students of Bosnian law universities such can start their careers both in Bosnia and Herzegovina and beyond its borders. If students want to become a specialist in a particular area of law or legal systems, all Alfred Education Group partner universities in Bosnia and Herzegovina provide students with the opportunity to take elective courses or choose a specialization to get specific knowledge and skills. 

Available career perspectives of legal graduates in Bosnia and Herzegovina:

The career path depends on individual interests, skills, and additional certifications or specializations pursued after completing the Law courses in Bosnian educational institutions. 

TOP University Courses

Alfred Education Group provides international students with the opportunity to gain high-quality Law education in prominent Bosnian Law universities. Studying at Bosnian Law universities provides international students with a comprehensive education in legal principles, theories, and practical skills. Students of Alfred Education Group’s partner universities in Bosnia and Herzegovina engage in activities like legal research, case analysis, legal writing, oral advocacy, negotiation, and client interviewing. Here is an example of Alfred Education Group’s partner universities providing a European level of legal education.

University of Mostar 

The University of Mostar is the largest public university located in Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina. The university has 10 faculties and Academy of Fine Arts, with 140 study programs, 46 specializations, and 70 study groups. It makes the University of Mostar one of the most diverse universities in the country. The University of Mostar has around 16,000 students, which makes it the third-largest university in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Through the years, the University of Mostar saw rapid growth in the number of students and became one of the most popular study destinations in the country. 

The University of Mostar has more than 35,000 Library units to serve the needs of academic, university, and scientific-research communities, bring information closer to all students, and provide each user with the highest quality library service to meet students’ information and communication needs. The University of Mostar fulfills the criteria for accreditation prescribed by the Agency for Development of Higher Education and Quality Assurance of BiH (2015) and successfully passed re-accreditation by the Agency of Higher Education in the Republic of Croatia (2017). 

Faculty of Law

The Faculty of Law of the University of Mostar as a department of the Faculty of Law in Sarajevo began its work in 1971. As an independent higher education institution, the Faculty operated from November 15, 1976, to September 3, 2018, when it became an organizational unit of the University of Mostar. The fundamental task of the Faculty of Law is to provide high-quality and innovative legal education that is internationally recognized and primarily and continuously focused on the needs of students. 

Faculty has its collection of works entitled “Actualities of Civil and Commercial Legislation and Legal Practice” and Journal of Proceedings.  The collection of works entitled “Actualities of Civil and Commercial Legislation and Legal Practice” is a scientific journal of the Faculty of Law of the University of Mostar, which since 2003 has been publishing scientific and professional works in the field of theory and practice of Civil and Commercial Law, on the occasion of the international consultation of the same name. It is a traditional consultation that brings together eminent legal theorists and practitioners from the field of civil and commercial legislation and legal practice. 

The Journal of Proceedings of the Faculty of Law of the University of Mostar publishes works primarily in the field of legal sciences, as well as works from interdisciplinary or other fields related to legal sciences. Within the magazine, book reviews, reviews of scientific and professional meetings, workshops, and similar meetings of interest to the professional legal public are also published.

Why Study Legal Method in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

About the Legal Method Course

Legal education is a cornerstone of any functioning legal system, and Bosnia and Herzegovina is no exception. Understanding the legal education system in Bosnia and Herzegovina necessitates a brief exploration of its historical context. At the heart of legal education lies the Legal Method Course – a fundamental pillar that introduces aspiring legal professionals to the art and science of legal reasoning, research, and analysis. The Legal Method Course at the Alfred Educational Group partner universities in Bosnia and Herzegovina encompasses several key components that provide students with a strong foundation in legal reasoning and analysis:

• Legal Research. Legal Method Course at the Alfred Educational Group partner universities in Bosnia and Herzegovina equips students with the skills to conduct comprehensive legal research. It involves identifying, accessing, and evaluating various legal sources, such as statutes, case law, regulations, legal literature, and online databases.
• Legal Writing. Effective legal communication is paramount. Students learn to draft precise legal documents, including contracts, legal opinions, pleadings, briefs, and legal memoranda. Clear and concise legal writing is essential for conveying complex legal arguments.
• Critical Thinking. Legal method fosters critical thinking skills. Students of the Legal Method Course at the Alfred Educational Group partner universities in Bosnia and Herzegovina develop the ability to analyze legal issues, identify relevant legal precedents, and construct well-reasoned arguments. Critical thinking is essential for legal problem-solving.
• Legal Analysis. Legal analysis involves breaking down complex legal problems into manageable components. Students learn to apply legal principles to real-world scenarios, synthesize information, and arrive at reasoned conclusions.
• Ethical Considerations. Ethical awareness is integral to the Legal Method Course at the Alfred Educational Group’s partner universities in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Students explore legal ethics, including topics such as attorney-client privilege, conflicts of interest, and professional conduct. Understanding and upholding ethical standards are essential for ethical legal practice.

As technology continues to shape the legal landscape, the Legal Method Course at the Alfred Educational Group partner universities in Bosnia and Herzegovina also introduces students to cutting-edge tools and software used in the legal profession. Ultimately, the practical application of the Legal Method Course content prepares students for the multifaceted challenges of the legal profession. It transforms them from passive learners into active participants in the legal process, ready to navigate the complexities of law, uphold ethical standards, think critically, and advocate for justice. 

Compulsory Subject

The compulsory subjects of a Legal Method course vary depending on the specific university and program. There are common core subjects that can be included in the curriculum of Alfred Education Group’s partner universities in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Compulsory subjects provide foundational knowledge and skills necessary for performing future professional duties in different fields of Law. Here are some examples:

Please note, that it is a sample list, and the actual list of compulsory subjects differs from one university to another. Bosnian Universities offer flexibility in choosing elective subjects within the program to cater to student’s specific interests and career goals. It’s advisable to refer to the curriculum of the particular educational institution to get accurate and detailed information about the compulsory subjects offered in Legal Method degree courses.

Why Study Criminal Law in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

About Criminal Law Courses

Criminal Law courses at Alfred Education Group partner universities in Bosnia and Herzegovina provide a thorough and dynamic exploration of the legal field. It offers students an in-depth comprehension of the principles, procedures, and complexities inherent in the criminal justice system within the country. Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Criminal Law courses offer a robust educational journey, equipping students with the skills necessary for a wide spectrum of legal careers, ranging from defense attorneys and prosecutors to law enforcement professionals and legal advisors. 

Law schools in Bosnia and Herzegovina provide a structured curriculum that covers various aspects of criminal law and procedure. The educational curriculum at Alfred Education Group partner universities in Bosnia and Herzegovina such as the University of Mostar includes foundational courses like Criminal Law, Criminal Procedure, and Evidence, as well as specialized courses in areas like White-Collar Crime, Juvenile Justice, and Criminal Justice Reform. Experiential learning is a key component of Criminal Law education in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Hands-On Experiences

Internships, externships, clinical programs, and other hands-on experiences are integral components of Criminal Law courses at Alfred Education Group partner universities in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Such practical opportunities provide students with real-world exposure to the criminal justice system, allowing them to apply legal theories and concepts learned in the classroom to actual cases and legal scenarios.

• Internships.

Internships in Criminal Law courses at Alfred Education Group partner universities in Bosnia and Herzegovina offer students the chance to work closely with legal professionals in a variety of settings, such as law firms, government agencies, or nonprofit organizations. Criminal law firms take on interns to assist with casework and legal research. Interns are involved in various aspects of criminal defense or prosecution, including interviewing clients, drafting legal documents, and accompanying attorneys to court proceedings.

• Externships.

Externships are similar to internships but involve placements within specific government agencies, court systems, or other legal entities. Students of the Criminal Law courses at Alfred Education Group partner universities in Bosnia and Herzegovina work under the supervision of experienced attorneys, judges, or legal professionals, gaining practical experience within the criminal justice system. They engage in client interviews, legal research, case preparation, and court appearances. 

• Clinical Programs.

Clinical programs in Criminal Law courses at Alfred Education Group partner universities in Bosnia and Herzegovina are immersive experiences that allow students to provide legal services to actual clients under the supervision of licensed attorneys. They engage in client interviews, case investigations, legal research, plea negotiations, and court appearances, gaining hands-on experience in all stages of the criminal justice process. 

• Moot Court and Mock Trial Teams.

Moot Court and Mock Trial teams are extracurricular activities that offer students of Criminal Law courses at Alfred Education Group partner universities in Bosnia and Herzegovina the opportunity to simulate courtroom proceedings. Such teams compete in regional and national competitions, providing students with practical trial experience and honing their oral advocacy skills. Members of moot court and mock trial teams prepare for competitions by researching case law, developing legal arguments, and practicing courtroom procedures. 

Compulsory Subject

The compulsory subjects of a Criminal Law course vary depending on the specific university and program. There are common core subjects that can be included in the curriculum of Alfred Education Group’s partner universities in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Compulsory subjects provide foundational knowledge and skills necessary for performing future professional duties in Criminal Law. Here are some examples:

Please note, that it is a sample list, and the actual list of compulsory subjects differs from one university to another. Bosnia and Herzegovinan Universities offer flexibility in choosing elective subjects within the program to cater to student’s specific interests and career goals. It’s advisable to refer to the curriculum of the particular educational institution to get accurate and detailed information about the compulsory subjects offered in Criminal Law degree courses.

Networking Opportunities

Networking is the art of building and nurturing professional relationships, and it plays a pivotal role in the legal profession. It goes beyond merely collecting business cards or making connections on social media platforms. Networking opportunities are a vital aspect of any educational journey, including those pursuing Criminal Law courses at Alfred Education Group partner universities in Bosnia and Herzegovina. It provides students with a chance to connect with legal professionals, peers, and organizations, fostering valuable relationships that can significantly impact their careers and personal growth. 

Networking Platforms and Events

Legal professionals in Bosnia and Herzegovina have access to various networking platforms and events that facilitate connections within the legal community. Such platforms and events play a crucial role in expanding professional networks and fostering collaboration. 

• Bar Associations. Bar associations, such as the Bar Association of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Bar Association of Republika Srpska, serve as central networking hubs for lawyers. They organize seminars, conferences, and social events where legal professionals can meet and collaborate. 
• Legal Conferences and Seminars. Bosnia and Herzegovina hosts numerous legal conferences and seminars covering various legal topics, including criminal law. Such events attract legal experts from across the country and abroad, providing excellent networking opportunities for students and academic staff of the Alfred Education Group partner universities in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
• Legal Clinics and Pro Bono Work. Engaging in pro bono work and volunteering at legal clinics not only allows legal professionals to give back to the community but also exposes them to networking opportunities. Collaborating with other lawyers on pro bono cases can lead to lasting professional relationships.
• Social Media and Online Forums. In the digital age, social media platforms like LinkedIn and legal forums can be powerful networking tools. Legal professionals can join online legal communities, participate in discussions, and connect with peers from around the world.
• Legal Networking Organizations. Various legal networking organizations, both domestic and international, have chapters or representatives in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Such organizations offer networking events, mentorship programs, and access to a global legal network for all students and members of the academic staff of Alfred Education Group partner universities in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
• International Legal Organizations. Bosnia and Herzegovina is a member of international legal organizations like the United Nations, the Council of Europe, and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE). Legal professionals involved in international law can network with peers from other countries through such organizations.
• Legal Workshops and Continuing Legal Education (CLE). Participating in CLE programs and legal workshops is an excellent way to meet professionals who share similar interests and are committed to expanding their legal knowledge.

Why Study Human Rights Law in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

About Human Rights Law Courses 

Studying Human Rights law degree courses in Alfred Education Group partner universities in Bosnia and Herzegovina makes a significant impact on the level of student’s professional skills, plays a significant role in shaping the country’s legal framework, and protecting the fundamental rights and freedoms of society. Human Rights Law in Bosnia and Herzegovina is a complex and evolving field, shaped by the country’s unique history and political structure. The country’s complex political system is outlined in the Dayton Agreement, which ended the Bosnian War in 1995 and established the current constitutional framework. 

Human Rights Law degree course is a crucial aspect of legal education in Alfred Education Group partner universities in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The country is committed to upholding human rights principles and is a signatory to numerous international human rights treaties and conventions. Bosnia and Herzegovina is a party to various international human rights treaties and conventions, including the European Convention on Human Rights, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, and the Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman, or Degrading Treatment or Punishment. 

The Human Rights Law degree courses in Alfred Education Group partner universities in Bosnia and Herzegovina offer a vibrant and dynamic educational environment for international students seeking to specialize in this critical field. The country’s Human Rights Law degree courses are staffed with experienced professors preparing rigorous and comprehensive curricula covering various aspects of Human Rights Law, including international legal frameworks, regional systems, and practical applications. 

In addition to primary and secondary education, Bosnia and Herzegovina offers university-level education in the field of Human Rights Law and related disciplines. The University of Mostar provides degree courses and programs that allow students to specialize in Human Rights. At the Undergraduate level, students can pursue degrees in fields such as Law, Political Science, International Relations, and Sociology, with a strong emphasis on human rights. The educational programs include courses on Human Rights Law, International Humanitarian Law, and related subjects. 

Compulsory Subjects

In a Human Rights Law course at Alfred Education Group’s partner universities in Bosnia and Herzegovina as the University of Mostar international students study a wide range of subjects and topics that are essential to understanding the principles, legal frameworks, and practical aspects of human rights. Alfred Education Group’s partner universities in Bosnia and Herzegovina offer specialized programs or tracks focusing specifically on human rights law. Compulsory subjects provide foundational knowledge and skills necessary for performing future professional duties in Human Rights Law. Here are some examples:

• Introduction to Human Rights Law;
• International Human Rights Instruments;
• Human Rights Principles and Philosophies;
• Human Rights Advocacy and Activism;
• Comparative Human Rights Law;
• Human Rights Institutions and Mechanisms;
• Human Rights and Constitutional Law;
• International Humanitarian Law;
• Gender and Human Rights;
• Children’s Rights;
• Rights of Indigenous Peoples;
• Human Rights and Corporate Social Responsibility;
• Human Rights and Indigenous Cultural Heritage;
• Non-Discrimination and Equality Law;
• Freedom of Expression and Media Rights;
• Human Rights and Criminal Justice;
• Right to Privacy and Data Protection;
• Right to Life and Abolition of the Death Penalty;
• Rights of Persons with Disabilities;
• Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights;
• Environmental Law and Human Rights;
• Human Rights and Armed Conflicts;
• Transitional Justice and Post-Conflict Human Rights;
• Business and Human Rights;
• Human Rights and Counter-Terrorism;
• Human Rights and Health Law.

Please note, that it is a sample list, and the actual list of compulsory subjects differs from one university to another. Alfred Education Group’s partner universities in Bosnia and Herzegovina offer flexibility in choosing some elective subjects within the program to cater to student’s specific interests and career goals. It’s advisable to refer to the curriculum of the particular educational institution to get accurate and detailed information about the compulsory subjects offered in Human Rights Law courses.

International Support

Engagement with international organizations is a crucial aspect of Human Rights Law degree courses at Alfred Education Group’s partner universities in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Human Rights Law degree courses in Bosnia and Herzegovina emphasize the role of international organizations in shaping global human rights norms, monitoring compliance, and providing redress for human rights violations. International organizations have established mechanisms to monitor and report on human rights violations in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Prominent organizations engaged in Human Rights monitoring include:

• Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR). OHCHR has a presence in Bosnia and Herzegovina and works closely with national institutions, civil society, and other stakeholders to strengthen human rights protection and promote accountability.
• Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE). OSCE has a mission in Bosnia and Herzegovina that focuses on various aspects of human rights, including freedom of expression, access to justice, and minority rights.
• Council of Europe. The Council of Europe oversees the implementation of the European Convention on Human Rights in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The European Court of Human Rights is a key institution for individuals seeking redress for human rights violations.

Understanding the mechanisms for treaty implementation and state compliance is a significant aspect of Human Rights Law degree courses. Students delve into the work of specialized human rights agencies within international organizations, such as the International Labour Organization (ILO), the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), and the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). They learn about the role of mentioned agencies in promoting specific human rights issues.

Students have an opportunity to work on projects, contribute to advocacy campaigns, and support the work of Human Rights Organizations in Bosnia and Herzegovina. It allows students to apply their theoretical knowledge in a real-world context and develop practical skills. Some of the prominent human rights organizations in Bosnia and Herzegovina include:

• Human Rights Watch (HRW). HRW is a well-known international human rights organization with a presence in Bosnia and Herzegovina. They monitor and report on human rights issues in the country and advocate for positive change.
• Amnesty International Bosnia and Herzegovina. Amnesty International has a local branch in Bosnia and Herzegovina, which focuses on various human rights issues, including freedom of expression, discrimination, and justice.
• The Helsinki Committee for Human Rights in Bosnia and Herzegovina. It works to promote and protect human rights and civil liberties in the country. They are active in monitoring and advocating for improvements in areas such as judicial reform, minority rights, and freedom of the media.
• Center for Investigative Journalism (CIN). CIN is an independent investigative journalism organization that often works on stories related to human rights abuses, corruption, and social justice issues in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
• Youth Initiative for Human Rights (YIHR). YIHR is a youth-oriented organization that focuses on raising awareness of human rights issues among young people in Bosnia and Herzegovina. They work on issues like transitional justice, reconciliation, and human rights education.
• Foundation CURE. This organization primarily focuses on advocating for the rights of marginalized and vulnerable groups, such as people with disabilities, Roma communities, and women.