Purpose of the MSc

The widespread use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) is transforming the social, economic, technological, political, and cultural landscape globally by enabling the rapid creation, transfer, processing, and storage of vast amounts of data. This transformation creates new opportunities for citizens and the business community to harness data for economic, social, technological, cultural, and scientific advancement. Similarly, it benefits public administration, which leverages digital technology to improve services for citizens and businesses, addressing long-standing administrative inefficiencies. However, as human activities are getting more and more digitized they become increasingly vulnerable to cyberattacks. Such attacks threaten societal functionality, security, and, in the case of critical infrastructures, human lives.

In this context, creating a secure environment for the Internet, digital infrastructure, and digital services is essential to inspire trust among citizens and businesses. This trust encourages the broader adoption and development of innovative digital products and services with high added value.

Special attention is given to the legal and regulatory framework governing e-Commerce, e-Business, e-Government, and related technological activities, as well as combating cybercrime and addressing the challenges posed by modern telecommunications. These challenges include risks to user privacy, personal data protection, and security.

A Secure Environment and Data Protection

Ensuring a secure digital environment and safeguarding personal data and citizens’ rights in the digital world are considered fundamental prerequisites for fostering economic growth, prosperity, and national security. Therefore, it is crucial to develop a regulatory framework characterized by clarity and precision for the operation of online services and platforms. This framework must prioritize user protection (e.g., privacy and personal data) and business interests by preventing and deterring cybercrime.

The legal significance of digital system security and privacy protection is also highlighted by the European Union’s legislative initiatives, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) 2016/679. This regulation mandates service providers managing personal data to adopt all necessary measures to protect users’ data from malicious or unforeseen processing. Additionally, the Network and Information Systems (NIS) Directive 2016/1148 requires member states to establish the necessary legislative, regulatory, and administrative provisions to ensure compliance.

Toward a Holistic Security Environment

Effective compliance with the EU’s legal and regulatory obligations requires the development of digital strategies, policies, services, and mechanisms. This also includes user education and training, along with the evaluation of the overall initiative before, during, and after its implementation. The ultimate goal is to create a comprehensive environment of security and trust. Such an environment inherently demands professionals with interdisciplinary knowledge spanning law, technology, management, and economics. These professionals must possess the flexibility to understand, organize, and solve complex interrelated problems.

The Interdisciplinary Program

The interdisciplinary MSc in “Law and Information and Communication Technologies” addresses the above by focusing on:

1. Specialization: Training young professionals in law, technology, management, and economics to understand the legal dimensions of ICT, cybercrime, digital forensics, electronic communications, privacy, and personal data protection. This includes the legal framework for e-Commerce and e-Business, intellectual property rights in the digital age, competition regulation in ICT, and anti-corruption measures.
2. Education and Training: Offering specialized education to both new graduates and professionals in private and public sector organizations, as well as self-employed individuals.
3. Application and Research: Preparing participants to apply their knowledge in modern environments facing related challenges and to conduct research in relevant scientific fields.

Program Objectives

The MSc aims to cultivate and advance scientific knowledge in the legal and regulatory frameworks governing ICT. It also seeks to explore the role of ICT in promoting legal research and practice, aligning with the country’s need to harmonize with and incorporate relevant EU directives. Furthermore, the program aims to prevent and adapt to global changes brought about by the Fourth Industrial Revolution and foster scientific advancements and ICT applications in the evolving Information Society.

Graduate Prospects

Graduates of this program will acquire interdisciplinary expertise in law and ICT. They will be well-equipped to join public and private sector organizations, work independently, or pursue academic and research careers.