An introduction to two main legal systems (civil law vs. common law) with a primary focus on Austria, Germany, England and the US

Legal systems and business communication with a primary focus on contracts and negotiations

Law departments as gatekeepers: Differences and shared similarities in relation to Marketing & Communications departments

Communicating ethical and sustainability considerations in contracts

Case studies

This course aims to highlight that, in business, contracts often don’t merely exist within one country – they transcend borders in a way that requires not only legal knowledge but also business communication skills, and with all that, a global mindset.

Having successfully completed these classes, students will understand and appreciate the impact that different legal systems (civil law vs. common law) have on contracts from a language and communication perspective.

Students will also become familiarized with common causes of friction between Marketing & Communications departments on the one side and Legal departments on the other, and how to effectively overcome such eventualities.

In line with the applicable WU regulations, a maximum of 20% of class time can be missed. 

Please note that the definition of presence goes beyond merely being physically present in class. It requires active participation and, most critically, a willingness to refrain from constantly using computers, phones, etc. for purposes other than the course itself whilst in the classroom.

Each session will comprise, among other elements, an interactive lecture on a specific theme followed by a group exercise to re-enact and discuss the legal issues raised and the Business Communication related approach that can potentially be applied to.

No previous legal knowledge is required; just an open and (global) mindset.

Assessment will be comprised of the following elements:

- Two presentations (50%)

- Class contributions (30%)

- Individual creation of a personalised ‘Top 5 checklist’ for Communications practitioners when dealing with Law departments (20%)

Throughout the course, students will be encouraged to both fully participate and to involve their fellow participants, where appropriate. They will also be expected to speak as freely as possible when presenting, with only limited usage of notes and no use of PowerPoint slides.

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