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Top German law faculties demand new Bachelor's degree in unified push

A bold move by three elite law schools could reshape legal education in Germany. Will the state answer their call for faster, fairer degrees?

The image shows the logo for Hochschule für Kirchenmusik Heidelberg, which consists of black text...
The image shows the logo for Hochschule für Kirchenmusik Heidelberg, which consists of black text on a white background.

Top German law faculties demand new Bachelor's degree in unified push

Three leading law faculties in Baden-Württemberg have united to push for a new university degree. The faculties at Heidelberg, Tübingen, and Freiburg universities are calling on the state government to introduce the 'integrated Bachelor (LL.B.)' by law. Their demand follows a unanimous decision by the faculty councils and has gained backing from university leaders. On August 11, Tübingen University released a statement highlighting the joint initiative. Prof. Dr. Andreas Piekenbrock, Dean of Heidelberg’s Law Faculty, stressed the urgency of the matter. He insisted that the state must swiftly create the legal framework for the integrated Bachelor.

The proposed model would allow students to earn their degree immediately after completing all required coursework and passing university exams. Unlike the existing system, this change could apply retroactively, benefiting both current students and those who have already met the criteria. Support for the measure extends beyond the faculties. Student groups, including the Baden-Württemberg Association of Legal Studies, have also backed the introduction of the integrated LL.B. However, the three universities have rejected involvement in the 'Konstanz model', a pilot project under the Bologna system. They cite concerns over increased student workload and the heavy administrative burden it would place on staff. The faculties argue that Baden-Württemberg should follow the lead of other states. North Rhine-Westphalia, Hesse, Rhineland-Palatinate, and Saxony have already implemented similar university Bachelor’s degrees. University managements in Tübingen, Heidelberg, and Freiburg have all endorsed the faculties’ position.

The push for the integrated LL.B. now rests with the state government. If adopted, the new degree structure could streamline legal education and reduce delays for students. The faculties’ unified stance increases pressure for a swift decision.

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