A compliance policy is useful only when an organisation can put it into practice. Who monitors the risks? What evidence should be recorded? When should a concern reach the board?
These questions sit at the centre of the MSc in Corporate Governance and Compliance at École supérieure de droit et de justice de Paris, a member school of ESPAST. The two-year, English-language programme examines the relationship between board accountability, regulatory obligations and internal controls.
For applicants choosing the confirmed online spring intake, teaching begins on 2 January 2027. Applications must be submitted by 20 December 2026. The first academic year continues through December 2027; Paris campus dates and teaching arrangements are confirmed separately.
MSc in Corporate Governance and Compliance: From Risk Assessment to Compliance Reporting
The programme begins with legal research, source evaluation, comparative legal systems and analytical writing. Contract law, the corporate legal environment and professional ethics provide a basis for assessing organisational decisions.
Specialist study then addresses governance and board responsibilities, compliance programme design, risk assessment and internal controls. Students also examine financial crime and anti-money-laundering frameworks, whistleblowing, internal investigations and compliance reporting.
The emphasis is on explaining priorities and justifying decisions. In a documented organisational case, students evaluate governance arrangements, identify the evidence needed to monitor controls and consider appropriate escalation or remedial action.
For the applied graduation project, students develop a compliance portfolio for a simulated organisation. It brings together:
- A risk register identifying and prioritising concerns.
- A policy framework assigning responsibilities.
- Internal controls linked to the identified risks.
- A monitoring report explaining findings and proposed responses.
Written assignments and case analysis contribute to assessment alongside the final project report and oral defence. Students must explain their research sources, individual contribution and the limitations of their conclusions.
MSc in Corporate Governance and Compliance: Entry, Tuition and the 2027 Application
The programme considers applicants with a relevant Bachelor qualification or equivalent prior learning submitted for individual review. Law, business, management and public-policy backgrounds may provide relevant foundations. Additional bridging study may be requested.
Applicants should be ready to work with legal sources and produce analytical writing in English. The motivation statement should connect previous study or experience with the governance and compliance questions the applicant wants to investigate.
| Study option | Per academic year | Two-year tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Online | €4,900 | €9,800 |
| Paris campus | €7,900 | €15,800 |
A complete application includes a CV, education history, motivation statement and supporting academic records. Select the preferred study format in the form and retain the reference issued after successful submission.
The qualification awarded following successful completion is the school’s MSc in Corporate Governance and Compliance, a diplôme d’établissement. It recognises completion of the institutional programme rather than a French national degree or professional authorisation.