Erasmus University Rotterdam (Erasmus School of Law)

Erasmus School of Law (ESL) is a leading faculty within Erasmus University Rotterdam, known for its interdisciplinary approach that blends law with economic and social perspectives. Rooted in the vision of Piet Sanders, ESL emphasizes contextual legal education rather than treating law as an isolated field. Its programs attract a diverse international cohort and benefit from EUR’s strong research culture and global reputation.

Located in the Piet Sanders Building on the Woudestein campus, ESL offers high-quality bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD programs in law, tax, and criminology. Its mission centers on critical thinking, societal relevance, and academic excellence, supported by strong partnerships across industries, government, and international institutions.

ESL equips graduates with strong employability through extensive industry connections and a robust alumni community. Students benefit from partnerships with law firms, government agencies, NGOs, and organizations engaged in arbitration, EU regulation, and international trade. Internship opportunities are deeply integrated into several programs, offering practical experience that often leads to long-term roles.

Graduates secure positions in corporate law, tax advisory, policymaking, and academia, supported by EUR’s dedicated career services and mentorship networks. ESL’s Rotterdam roots foster a spirit of pragmatic problem-solving, and its alumni remain active through global events and networking platforms, ensuring lifelong professional engagement.

Students choose ESL for its distinctive blend of legal education with economic and social insight, reflecting Rotterdam’s pragmatic spirit. The faculty’s interdisciplinary model builds analytical agility, preparing graduates for complex regulatory environments. Its four departments ensure comprehensive training across law, tax, and criminology with a strong applied orientation.

Located on a modern, well-connected campus, ESL offers access to cutting-edge facilities, sustainability initiatives, and a global academic environment. With strong industry ties and a focus on research-driven innovation, ESL enables students to engage with real-world challenges and build meaningful professional trajectories.

ESL drives impact by advancing interdisciplinary research that shapes policy and market transition. Initiatives like ToSLAM address sustainability, trade, and energy challenges through a multidisciplinary legal lens. The EDLE program further strengthens the school’s global footprint by producing scholars in law and economics who contribute to evolving international frameworks.

Innovation flourishes through EUR’s entrepreneurship ecosystem, digital education labs, and industry partnerships. Sustainability remains a guiding value, embedded in both research and campus design. ESL’s ongoing collaborations with business and government reinforce its role as a catalyst for societal transformation in law and regulation.

What makes ESL’s teaching style unique? ESL integrates economics and sociology into legal training, using case studies and small-group tutorials to build applied understanding.

How international is the student community? The school attracts students from across the world, supported by English-taught programs, cross-cultural activities, and Rotterdam’s global environment.

What wellbeing support is available? Students access mental health services, the Living Room relaxation space, sports facilities, and comprehensive support through campus resources.

Admission requirements vary by program, with bachelor’s applicants needing a VWO diploma or equivalent and master’s candidates requiring a related bachelor’s degree and proof of English proficiency. Selective procedures and motivation components apply, with key deadlines in January, April, May, and August depending on applicant category.

Tuition differs for EU/EEA and non-EU students, with scholarships such as the Holland Scholarship available after admission. Campus housing ranges from €400–700 per month, and non-EU students must show financial proof for visas. The Woudestein campus is bike-friendly and well connected to Rotterdam’s transport network.