Erudera's Complete Guide to Studying Law in Spain
Spain, as one of the most popular destinations for international students, offers numerous programs to national and international students. Among these programs, the country has some of the strongest courses in the field of law. Studying law in Spain will have you studying not only the legal systems of Spain itself but also the legal systems in the US and the European Union. Obtaining a law degree in Spain will have you receiving the best approach to legal education.
Reasons to Study Law in Spain
Receive Training in English and Spanish
One of the most advantageous traits of studying law in Spain is the fact that you will have the opportunity to study both in English and Spanish. As you may know, these are two of the most spoken languages in the world, so being fluent in both will definitely have you at the top of your future employer’s list. If you are not fluent in Spanish yet, you can still use some time to practice it or you can use your time while in the country to perfect the language.
Practice Law Internationally
Another reason for choosing Spain as your destination to study law is the fact that after graduation you will be able to practice law internationally. Considering that Spanish universities will provide you with a solid foundation in how the law is practiced globally. So, whether you see a future career in a global technology company, or a top law firm, having qualifications that are recognized in almost every country of the world will enable you to practice your profession wherever you desire.
Develop Vital Skills
By studying law in Spain you will develop a set of skills that will allow you to find employment in both legal and non-legal industries. The skills you will acquire during your studies include the ability to negotiate, interpret complex information, communicate with confidence, write concisely, form sound arguments, etc. All these acquired skills will not only help you to become an excellent lawyer but will also prepare you to make a positive contribution to society.
Requirements
Requirements that you must meet in order to enter a law program in Spain include:
- Having your qualifications evaluated by the Spanish Embassy or consulate with jurisdiction over your home country
- Have a high school diploma if you are applying for an undergraduate degree
- Have a bachelor’s degree in law if you are applying for a postgraduate degree
- Be fluent in English or Spanish, depending on the medium of instruction in your chosen university (Note that you must submit proof of language proficiency)
- Submit letters of recommendation
- Have work experience if you are applying for a postgraduate degree
- Obtain a Visa if you are not an EU/EEA or Swiss citizen
Application Process
The application process for a law degree in Spain follows more or less the same procedure students complete for other fields. The steps you need to take include the following:
- Choose the university in which you plan to study
- Check if you meet the eligibility requirements of this university
- Check the supporting documents you need to submit
- Make sure you are financially able to cover your degree expenses
- Prepare all the supporting documents
- Choose the city in which you wish to live
- Check when the deadline is and make sure you apply before the application portal closes.
Degree Duration: How Long Does It Take to Study Law in Spain?
Law programs in Spain are quite lengthy. In Spain, completing a law program includes five years of studying. What you need to do before entering law school is have undergraduate training in law first. After you complete your training you can then apply to your chosen law school. Once you graduate you will have to undertake an additional two-year training period. Once this training period is over you will have to take an exam in order to be eligible to practice law in Spain.
The module of your law degree includes Criminal Law; The Law of Contract; Equity and Trusts; EU Law; Constitutional and Administrative Law; Public Law; Tart Law, etc. Note that not all modules are the same for each university. Different universities may incorporate different modules.
Tuition Fees: How Much Does It Cost to Study Law in Spain?
In Spain, the cost of your tuition for a law degree is quite low. Tuition fees may vary from one institution to another but they still remain quite affordable. In public universities for example you will pay a “matricula” and then the state will cover the rest of your tuition. In the private universities of Spain, you can expect to pay higher fees for law programs. These fees again vary from one university to the other because private universities set their own fees. So in order to be sure, you are advised to check with the university of your choice about their tuition fees.
These fees range from EUR 3000 ($3,541) to EUR 31,700 ($37,421).
Law Career Prospects in Spain
A law degree is a gateway to many job opportunities including:
- Legal assistant
- Administrative positions
- Translator
- Teacher
- Lawyer
- Diplomat
- Tax advisor
- Policy specialist
- Legal officer
- Civil servant
- International Lawyer
- Corporate Lawyer
The salary of a law major in Spain varies depending on the profession he or she chooses. The lowest average salary of a law major in Spain is around EUR 1,100 ($1,298) per month. While the highest average salary is around EUR 7,700 ($9,089) per month. Note that these are only averages and that the actual minimum and maximum salaries vary, they may be lower or higher.
