Bachelor's degree in law

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Basel

Program Overview

The Bachelor’s Degree in Law (BLaw) at the University of Basel offers a strong and structured introduction to the legal world, designed for students who want to understand how law shapes society, business, and public life. Over three years, you will build a solid foundation in key areas of law while developing the analytical and problem-solving skills that are essential for future legal careers or advanced study.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1:
Your first year focuses on building the essential foundations of legal thinking. You’ll explore core subjects such as Private Law, Public Law, and Criminal Law, while also learning the basics of legal methodology and legal research. This stage helps you understand how legal systems operate and teaches you how to approach legal questions with clarity and precision.

Year 2:
As you progress into the second year, your studies deepen and become more analytical. You will expand your understanding of civil law, constitutional law, and criminal law, while learning to interpret statutes and apply legal principles to real-world cases. Courses such as administrative law and legal analysis further strengthen your ability to evaluate complex legal situations and build well-reasoned arguments.

Year 3:
In your final year, you bring everything together through advanced coursework and independent study. Subjects such as commercial law, advanced private law, and public law topics help you connect legal theory with practical applications. You’ll also complete written academic work that allows you to demonstrate your ability to research, analyze, and present legal issues in a professional and structured way.

Focus Areas

Private law, public law, criminal law, legal methodology, and legal analysis.

Learning Outcomes

Students develop strong legal reasoning, analytical thinking, and research skills, along with the ability to interpret laws and apply legal principles to complex real-world situations.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The program follows the Bologna education model, awarding 180 ECTS credits, and serves as the essential first step toward a Master of Law, which is typically required for professional legal careers in Switzerland.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

The University of Basel is one of Switzerland’s oldest and most respected universities, known for its strong academic tradition and internationally recognized legal education, preparing graduates for successful careers in law, government, and business.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the Bachelor’s Degree in Law (BLaw) at the University of Basel, students develop practical legal skills alongside their academic studies. From the beginning of the program, you learn how to approach legal problems through structured analysis, written arguments, and case discussions. The program encourages active participation through seminars, tutorials, and independent assignments, helping you build the skills needed to think like a legal professional and communicate complex ideas clearly.

Throughout your studies, you will engage with real legal questions, collaborate with peers, and strengthen your research abilities using the university’s academic resources. The learning experience is supported by modern study facilities, specialized legal resources, and a vibrant academic environment that encourages discussion and critical thinking. These elements come together to create a hands-on learning experience that prepares you for advanced legal studies and professional practice:

Seminars and tutorials: Small-group learning environments where students analyse legal cases, debate legal arguments, and apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios.
Academic research projects: Written seminar papers allow students to explore legal topics in depth and develop strong legal writing and research skills.
Collaborative group work: Students regularly work together on assignments and discussions that encourage teamwork and critical legal reasoning.
Legal research resources: Access to the University of Basel’s extensive legal library collections and digital databases supports in-depth academic research throughout the program.
Specialized legal institutes: The Faculty of Law hosts several research institutes that focus on different areas of law, creating opportunities for students to engage with contemporary legal research and academic discussions.
Interactive lectures and case analysis: Courses often include practical exercises and legal problem-solving sessions that mirror how legal professionals analyse cases in real life.

These practical learning opportunities help ensure that by the time you graduate, you not only understand legal theory but also have the confidence and skills to apply it effectively in real-world situations.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Bachelor’s Degree in Law (BLaw) at the University of Basel leave the program with a strong legal foundation and the analytical skills needed to thrive in many professional environments. Many begin their careers as legal assistants, compliance officers, policy advisors, or corporate legal analysts, working in law firms, public institutions, international organizations, or private companies. With its balanced focus on legal theory and practical reasoning, the program prepares students for a variety of career paths in both the legal and business worlds:

Career Services support: The University of Basel offers dedicated career guidance through workshops, networking events, and career counseling sessions that help students prepare for internships and future employment.
Access to research institutes: The Faculty of Law hosts several specialized research institutes where students can connect with academic experts and stay engaged with current legal developments.
Industry connections: The university maintains strong relationships with legal professionals, public authorities, and international organizations, creating valuable networking opportunities for students during and after their studies.
Internationally recognized qualification: The degree follows the Bologna education framework and awards 180 ECTS credits, ensuring that the qualification is widely recognized across Europe and internationally.
Versatile career outcomes: Graduates move into roles within law firms, government agencies, corporate legal departments, consulting firms, and international organizations, reflecting the flexibility of the degree.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the Bachelor of Law, many students continue their studies with the Master of Law (MLaw) at the University of Basel. This advanced degree allows students to specialize in areas such as business law, international law, or public law and is typically required for those planning to qualify for the legal profession in Switzerland. A master’s degree can also open doors to careers in international institutions, corporate law, public policy, and academic research.