What this programme is about
An LLM gives law graduates and, in some programmes, related professionals the chance to study a legal field in much greater depth.
Rather than repeating the breadth of an undergraduate law degree, you may specialise in commercial law, international law, human rights, technology, taxation or another area.
Seminars tend to involve close reading of cases, legislation and scholarship, with more independence expected than at undergraduate level.
The degree can be particularly valuable when your career needs specialist legal knowledge or when you want to move toward research.
Specialisation matters. An LLM in one field can look very different from an LLM in another, even at the same university.
Before applying, compare the actual modules, faculty expertise and professional relevance to the jurisdiction or sector where you intend to work.
Inside the curriculum
Skills you'll build
Where this can take you
What studying this programme is like
Advanced doctrinal study examines legal rules and how courts or regulators interpret them within a specialist field.
Comparative modules may ask how different jurisdictions solve similar legal problems.
Research-methods training helps you work with cases, legislation, policy documents and legal scholarship at a higher level.
Some programmes include clinics, mooting, negotiation or professional projects, while others are almost entirely research-based.
A dissertation allows you to investigate a narrow legal question in depth. Remember that an LLM is an academic postgraduate degree. It does not automatically replace local professional licensing requirements.
Is this likely to suit you?
Good fit if you...
- You already have legal training or relevant preparation.
- You want to specialise in a legal field.
- You enjoy advanced research and writing.
- You may be considering policy, specialist practice or academia.
- You want deeper knowledge of a particular legal area.
Think twice if you...
- You expect an LLM alone to qualify you as a lawyer everywhere.
- You are unsure which legal specialism you want.
- You dislike intensive reading and research.
- You want a general business degree rather than specialist legal study.