What it is
The Master of Laws (LLM) is a one-year advanced law degree for those who already hold a law degree — to specialize (tax, IP, international law) or, for foreign-trained lawyers, to study US law.
The degrees & designations
How long it takes
Usually one to two years full-time (some run to three); part-time and online options are common for working professionals.
What you study
Specialized graduate law courses and often a thesis; builds on a first law degree rather than teaching law from scratch.
Getting in
Requires a bachelor's degree, transcripts, letters, and a statement of purpose; some programs require GRE/GMAT (often optional) or relevant experience.
Cost & funding
Costs vary; research master's may offer assistantships, while professional master's are more often self-funded with loans and employer support.
Where it leads
Leads to specialization and credentials in a legal field; for foreign lawyers, a route toward US bar eligibility in some states.
How it compares
Unlike the JD (the first professional law degree), the LLM is a post-JD specialization.
Is it right for you?
Fits lawyers specializing or foreign-trained lawyers studying US law.
Explore further
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Key facts
- WhatAn advanced, post-JD law degree
- Length~1 year
- ForSpecialization or foreign-trained lawyers
- EntryJD or foreign law degree
- NoteNot a first law degree
Where to learn more
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