Double degree, double benefits

Professor Heinz Mayer, dean of the faculty of law at the University of Vienna, says the university in the Austrian capital is forever keen to expand its global presence. Founded in 1365, it is one of the oldest educational institutions in Europe.

'It is unthinkable to work internationally without looking at China. We are pleased to sign this first double-degree agreement with CityU, which has become acclaimed in Europe,' he says. 'The decision to provide a postgraduate degree on legal theories mirrors our common interest in helping students to learn to argue, and acquire the basics of legal methodology.'

The faculty of law at the University of Vienna specialises in legal theories, legal philosophy, comparative laws, private and international laws - all within the context of European law.

This double-degree programme is considered to be of utmost importance to students of both universities. 'We hope that our collaboration will extend from the exchange of students to include the faculties as well,' Mayer notes.

For the first batch of about 20 CityU students arriving on the Vienna campus in March 2012, the Austrian university aims to provide the basics of a diverse range of legal topics and applied legal theories, says Bea Verschraegen, professor of private international law and comparative law at the University of Vienna.

'[Students] do not just study the art of legal theories, they see the practical applications of these theories,' Verschraegen says. ' They can select from a diverse range of subjects, including international law, international business law, legal history and comparative private and public laws.'

University of Vienna students will arrive at CityU in September 2012. They will have the unique chance to learn about Chinese laws, and experience what has made China so special, Verschraegen notes.