Institutions Of Roman Law Certification
 

Institutiones Iuris Romani
What you'll learn
Law students seeking a strong foundation in Roman law and its influence on modern civil law systems
Legal professionals curious about the historical roots of contemporary legal doctrines
Students of history or classics interested in ancient legal institutions and intellectual traditions
Anyone preparing for advanced legal studies in civil law jurisdictions
Lifelong learners with an interest in ancient Rome, legal history, or comparative law
Requirements
No prior knowledge of Roman law is required
Basic understanding of legal concepts is helpful but not necessary
An interest in legal history, ancient Rome, or civil law systems
Willingness to engage with primary sources in translation
No knowledge of Latin is required (key terms will be explained throughout the course)
Description
This course introduces the fundamental institutions of Roman law as developed from the early Republic through the classical and Justinianic periods. Using the Institutiones of Gaius and Justinian as a structural guide, students will study Roman legal concepts concerning persons, property, obligations, and actions, and understand their enduring influence on modern civil law systems.
In addition to doctrinal foundations, the course emphasizes how Roman jurists approached legal reasoning, interpretation, and dispute resolution. Students will engage with translated primary sources, practical examples, and guided case analyses to build a deeper understanding of how legal principles were applied in real contexts. The course also highlights the historical evolution of legal institutions and their transformation into contemporary frameworks, making it ideal for law students, historians, and anyone interested in the roots of modern legal thought. The course also fosters critical thinking by encouraging comparisons between ancient doctrines and present-day legal systems across different jurisdictions.
Learning Objectives
By the end of the course, students will be able to
Explain the structure and sources of Roman law
Identify key legal institutions governing persons, property, and obligations
Analyze Roman legal rules using case-based reasoning
Understand the reception of Roman law in modern legal systems
Use basic Latin legal terminology correctly
Intended Learners
• Law students seeking a strong foundation in Roman law and its influence on modern civil law systems
• Students of history or classics interested in ancient legal institutions and intellectual traditions
• Legal professionals curious about the historical roots of contemporary legal doctrines
• Anyone preparing for advanced legal studies in civil law jurisdictions
• Lifelong learners with an interest in ancient Rome, legal history, or comparative law
Requirements / Prerequisites
• No prior knowledge of Roman law is required
• Basic understanding of legal concepts is helpful but not necessary
• An interest in legal history, ancient Rome, or civil law systems
• Willingness to engage with primary sources in translation
• No knowledge of Latin is required (key terms will be explained throughout the course)
Who this course is for
Students and beginners who want a clear introduction to Roman law
Law students interested in the historical foundations of modern legal systems
Anyone studying civil law or comparative law
History or classics enthusiasts curious about ancient Roman institutions
Professionals seeking to deepen their understanding of legal principles and their origins