Study Law in Russia

What Is a Law Degree in Russia?

Russia has several law degrees, and training is based on the European undergraduate tradition. Some universities offer a Bachelor in Law as an entry-level law degree. The Specialist in Law is the most commonly awarded degree in Russian law.

Law Higher Education in Russia

Russia is a relatively new player in the international student marketplace, and one of the benefits of studying in Russia is the affordability. Fees vary based on the program but are quite reasonable compared to similar programs in other parts of Europe. The cultural heritage of the country is another benefit of studying in Russia. Students spend four or five years studying law in Russia, depending on whether they choose a Bachelor or Specialist program. Students who already hold an undergraduate degree in another field can add a law degree in just three years of study.

After receiving a Bachelor or Specialist Degree in Law, students may choose to pursue further education. A Master of Laws degree program adds an additional two years of full-time study. A "PhD in Law", which is a research degree, requires an additional three years of full-time study. Pursuing further training opens the door to greater employment options.

Russia's Ministry of Education lists around 350 accredited legal institutions in the country. Law schools in Russia are divided into four categories. The first are the law schools located in the old state universities. State law academies are freestanding schools that award only legal degrees. Specialized government research institutes may also offer legal education. Finally, students may choose to study Russian law at a private law school. Most international law students choose to pursue their training in one of Russia's major cities.

Anyone who has a Russian law degree can practice law in Russia, but only those who have demonstrated qualifications and are admitted as an advocate can appear in criminal cases. Because of the vast size of the country, the degree program opens many opportunities within Russia for those who study here. Because Russia's law degree program is still relatively new, opportunities to pursue legal training or legal careers in other countries are still unknown.

About Russia

The largest country in the world, Russia has been a formidable presence throughout modern history. Spanning both Asia and Europe, Russia brings a rich history and cultural heritage to those who choose to pursue their studies in this country. With extensive mineral and energy resources, Russia has some of the world's largest supplies of oil and natural gas in the world.

Russia is known for its many contributions to science, literature and music. Tchaikovsky, one of the world's most famous composers, was a Russian, as was the author Dostoevsky. Russia also took the first object and the first manned craft into space. It is through Russia's impact on culture and its contributions to science that the country has made its mark on the world.

What Is the Law System Like in Russia?

Russia has several courts in its legal system. These include the Constitutional Court, which is in charge of enforcing international law and the constitution. It also has the "Arbitrazh" courts, which settle property and commercial disputes, and the civil courts, which handle criminal cases and appealed cases that do not fall in the jurisdiction of other courts. Russia's legal system is unique in its structure, but it most closely resembles the civil law structure.