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World legal systems: Comparative Law & Culture

Program description

Join our two-week summer program designed for current law students or recent graduates who are eager to explore the comparative dimensions of law. This unique program provides an in-depth exploration of the world’s major legal systems, including common law, civil law, Islamic law, and Indigenous legal orders. Through interactive lectures and workshops, participants will examine the historical and philosophical foundations of comparative law, focusing on the classification of legal systems and the comparative method.

If you are a law student or recent graduate, join our two-week intensive course from July 7 to July 18, 2025.

What to expect

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Set in Ottawa, Canada’s national capital, this two-week program combines rigorous academic learning with enriching cultural experiences. You will live on-campus, close to class, and mere steps away from Ottawa’s historic Rideau Canal. Meals will be provided through the University of Ottawa’s award-winning Dining Hall.*

Experience small class sizes (maximum 25), studying alongside students and lawyers from across the world while learning from internationally-respected experts. Outside of the classroom, you will learn about Canada’s legislative and judicial systems with guided tours of Parliament and the Supreme Court of Canada, while exploring the natural beauty of Canada’s national capital region with visits to Gatineau Park.

Excursions include:**

  • Guided tours of Canada’s Parliament and The Supreme Court of Canada
  • Visit the Canadian Museum of History
  • Go ziplining and experience the national beauty of the National Capital Region with visits to Gatineau Park
  • Paddle a canoe or kayak on the Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Upon completion of the course, students will receive an official Certificate of Completion from the University of Ottawa Faculty of Law.

Apply now

Who should apply?

This course is designed for current law students, recent graduates and early-career lawyers. It is open to both domestic and international students.

The course is taught in English, and students should be proficient in their speech and comprehension to study at an undergraduate level, at levels outlined here: https://www.uottawa.ca/study/undergraduate-studies/language-requirements

For more information about admission to the program, please contact PDLaw@uottawa.ca.

What is included in the cost?

The program fee covers your tuition, accommodations, meals, excursions, health insurance, and transportation to and from the airport, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience.

The price does not include flights or other travel costs to get to Ottawa.

Reduced fees are available for students who do not require meals and accommodation. Contact PDLaw@uottawa.ca for more information.

Visa Information: International students registering for this program are required to obtain an SX-1 coded Temporary Resident Visas (generally known as a Visitor Visa). Students who register are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.

Learn more here: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada/visitor-visa.html

If you have any questions about obtaining a visa, please contact PDLaw@uottawa.ca.

Download the program brochure:

Meet the professors

Jabeur Fathally

Jabeur Fathally

Associate Professor at the Faculty of Law (Civil Law Section). He specializes in comparative law and is the co-founder of JuriGlobe World Legal Systems.

View bio of Jabeur Fathally

* Dining Hall will be opened based on number of students enrolled in the program. If the Dining Hall is not able to open, a variety of freshly-made meals will be delivered to students at their on-campus residence. 
** Excursions subject to availability. If an advertised activity is not available, an alternative activity of comparable value will be offered.