• Follow Us On :
LLM Full Form

LLM stands for Master of Laws, also known as Latin Legum Magister. It is a postgraduate law degree that offers advanced and in-depth training in various legal topics. LLM programs are designed for students who have completed an undergraduate law degree (LLB or equivalent) and wish to deepen their expertise in specific areas of law.

The program typically includes coursework, research, and may require writing a thesis or dissertation. LLM programs allow legal professionals to specialize in areas such as international law, human rights law, environmental law, commercial law, and more.

To be eligible for the LLM program, individuals must have completed an LLB, BA LLB, or BBA LLB degree from a recognized and accredited university. The duration of the program is usually a minimum of one year.

What is the full form of LLM?

LLM stands for “Master of Laws,” which is derived from the Latin term “Legum Magister.” It is a postgraduate academic degree in law. The LLM degree is typically pursued by individuals who already hold a basic law degree (such as an LLB or JD) and wish to specialize further in a specific area of law or enhance their expertise in a particular legal subject. Many colleges and law schools around the world offer LLM programs, which generally include coursework and, in some cases, research or thesis work.

Why Choose LLM?

An LLM is ideal for those who want to specialize in a specific area of law. While a typical law degree covers over 30 different law subjects over three to five years, an LLM allows you to focus deeply on one area, making you stand out in that field. Popular specializations include Civil Law, Criminal Law, Intellectual Property Law, Corporate Law, Company Law, Cyber Law, and Environmental Law.

An LLM is also essential for those pursuing academic careers or research. To become an Assistant Professor, you typically need an LLM, followed by passing the UGC NET exam and completing a PhD, according to new UGC guidelines. Additionally, law firms often seek professionals with expertise in specific legal areas that match their practice.

With an LLM, you’ll:

  • Develop strong research skills for long-term studies.
  • Get deep knowledge about a specific area of law.
  • Improve your legal reasoning and understand law theories

Course Objectives of LLM

Completing an LLM opens up a wide range of opportunities due to its specialized and subject-oriented curriculum. LLM graduates can find roles in various organizations, including media and publishing houses, courthouses, NGOs, FMCG companies, real estate firms, consultancies, the finance sector, corporate sector, and international organizations like the UN and UNICEF. Additionally, LLM graduates may also choose to enter freelance legal practice.

Students  holding an LLM degree can pursue various  career paths such as

  •  Magistrate
  •  Criminal Lawyer
  •  Legal Officer
  •  Corporate Lawyer
  •  Bank Advisor

Program Outcomes of LLM 

There are various advantages of completing online LLM other than jobs such as- you

The program outcomes of an LLM (Master of Laws) degree can vary depending on the program and the student’s goals. However, the following are some common program outcomes or objectives of a law LLM program:

  1. The goal of an LLM program is to deepen a student’s understanding of the law, including its principles, theories, and concepts in a specific area of law. LLM programs allow students to specialize in a specific area of law, such as international law, human rights, tax law, environmental law, corporate law, or any other legal field of interest.
  2. Students are expected to develop strong research skills, such as conducting legal research, analyzing complex legal issues, and writing scholarly papers.
  3. LLM programs promote critical thinking and the ability to analyze legal issues, cases, and arguments critically.
  4. Students must improve their legal writing skills, which are required for drafting legal documents, briefs, and academic papers.
  5. Some LLM programs may emphasize oral advocacy in order to prepare students for legal practice in courts, arbitration, or negotiation.

Program Outcomes of LLM

Mode of Education of LLM 

You can choose from four modes-

  • Online Education
  • Distance Education
  • Regular Education
  • Part Time

Duration and eligibility are the same in all four modes, but the difference is that you don’t get enough convenience in regular  mode and if you opt for online many advantages come along with that such as-

Area Regular Mode Online/ Distance/Part-Time Mode
Flexibility Timings of the classes are fixed. You can learn at your own time, no fixed classes.
Self-discipline Many distractions are there in the classroom Whereas in an online mode you can totally focus on video lectures.
Affordability Cost of it is high due to physical infrastructure It cost less due to absence of physical  infrastructure

Specializations in LLM

Specialization in an LLM (Master of Laws) program is an advanced academic course that allows individuals with a basic law degree (such as an LLB or JD) to focus their studies on a specific area of law. This specialization aims to provide deep knowledge, expertise, and proficiency in a particular legal field. LLM specializations include areas such as international law, human rights, environmental law, corporate law, and more niche subjects like space law, intellectual property, and maritime law. The primary goal of specialization is to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of the nuances, principles, and evolving trends within their chosen field.

Corporate and Financial Law Online Alternative Dispute Resolution
Intellectual Property Rights and Tec Law International Business and Finance Law
Constitutional Law Environmental Law
Criminal Law Taxation Law
Insurance Law International Trade and Business Law
Human Rights Corporate Law and Governance

Program highlights of LLM

  •  The LLM course duration can extend up to three years but the minimum duration is one year.
  • It’s important that LLM Distance Education Colleges have UGC approval for the degree to hold trustworthy qualification status.
  • Typically, online applications are accepted during the May and last date of the registration depends upon the colleges.
  • It is much more convenient for working persons, because they can earn a degree while working.
  •  The average LLM fees are notably lower compared to regular programs, often under INR 50,000. Document submission usually follows, typically scheduled between June and August 2024.

Course Curriculum/Subjects of LLM

The LLM course curriculum covers a wide range of topics for enhancing legal knowledge and expertise. It includes areas of expertise such as international law, constitutional law, corporate law, human rights law, environmental law, and more. The program has theoretical and practical aspects, providing in-depth exploration of legal principles, case studies, and emerging trends.

In the table below I have mentioned some core subjects of the LLM

Legal research and writing Intellectual property law
International law Contracts and commercial law
Corporate law Constitutional law
Administration law Environmental law
Criminal law and procedure Comparative legal system

Eligibility criteria of LLM

Candidates for an LLM (Master of Laws) program typically need a basic law degree, such as an LLB (Bachelor of Laws) or its equivalent, from a recognized institution. Most LLM programs accept students from various academic backgrounds, including both domestic and international law graduates. Some programs may have GPA requirements, while others might consider relevant work experience, research, or a statement of purpose as part of the admissions process. Prospective students should carefully review the specific eligibility requirements for each program, as these can vary and may include language proficiency tests for non-native English speakers or additional exams.

The duration of an online LLM course can vary based on the course demand and the student’s pace of learning, but it generally lasts around three years.

Some Top Law Colleges

Various colleges and universities provide LLM programs with different specializations. Mostly, the National Law Universities (NLUs) offer LLM courses through the Common Law Admission Test. Additionally, various public and private institutions also offer LLM programs. Some of them I’ve mentioned below-

Name of Law School Ranking NIRF Points
National Law School of India University,Bengaluru 1 80.52
National Law University, Delhi 2 73.91
NALSAR University of Law,Hyderabad 3 73.76
The West Bengal National University of Juridical Sciences,Kolkata 4 69.34
Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi 5 68.3
Symbiosis Law School, Pune 6 66.67
Gujarat National Law University 7 65.69
Siksha `O` Anusandhan,Bhubaneswar 8 64.04
Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur 9 62.2
Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University,Lucknow 10 61.05

Entrance Exams for LLM

For LLM Admission in 2024, most top colleges use entrance exams. They consider scores from national or university-level entrance exams that candidates take.

Here’s a list of entrance exams for LLM Admission 2024. Most law colleges use these exams for admission. You can take national, state, or university-level exams to apply for LLM Admission in 2024

CLAT AP PGLCET
AP LAWCET AILET
LSAT DU LLM Entrance Exam

Entrance Exams Syllabus

Since LLM entrance exams are at the graduate level, the syllabus tends to be quite similar. The questions are typically drawn from common subjects studied during LLB programs. Below are some of the topics commonly covered in the LLM entrance exam syllabus.

  • Family law
  • Company law
  • Law of Torts
  • Criminal Law
  • Tax law
  • Property law
  • International Law

Preparation for entrance exam

To qualify in LLM entrance exams, one should study both graduate-level law books and stay updated with legal current affairs. Here are key tips for LLM entrance exam preparation:

  • Understand the exam pattern and syllabus beforehand.
  • Gather necessary study resources – LLB graduation books and standard entrance exam guides.
  • Stick to a study schedule, dedicating 4-5 hours daily.
  • Stay informed by reading a newspaper daily and revising notes.
  • Solve previous year’s LLM entrance exam papers.
  • Take mock tests to boost your knowledge.

Some common books of online LLM

Dr. B.R. Ambedkar

  • Thoughts on Linguistic States
  • Annihilation of Caste
  • The Problem of the Rupee: Its Origin and Its Solution

M.P. Jain

  • Indian Constitutional Law
  • Principles of Administrative Law
  • Outlines of Indian Legal and Constitutional History

H.M. Seervai

  • Constitutional Law of India: A Critical Commentary
  • Constitutional Remedies for Writs and Other Constitutional Rights

N.R. Madhava Menon

  • The Indian Legal System: An Enquiry
  • Towards a Better Globalization: The Survival Paradigm

Upendra Baxi

  • Voices of Suffering and the Future of Human Rights
  • The Crisis of the Indian Legal System. Alternatives in Development

Career prospects after completing LLM

Completing an LLM program opens up diverse career opportunities in law and related fields. Graduates can work as legal specialists, consultants, or advisors in areas such as international law, corporate law, human rights, and environmental law. In law firms and corporations, LLM holders often command higher salaries and advanced roles quickly. Additionally, LLM graduates can pursue academic careers, including teaching and legal research. Governments, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and international organizations also seek advanced legal experts to tackle complex issues. Overall, an LLM broadens career prospects, enhances leadership opportunities, and enables meaningful contributions to the field.

Career Prospects after LLM

How to Find a Job after completing LLM

While pursuing your LLM, it’s beneficial to gain practical experience through internships and training at top companies. This hands-on experience helps you develop crucial skills like legal research, writing documents, negotiating, and advising clients. If you lack experience, consider doing internships during breaks to build these skills.

If you aim to teach, focus on writing research papers, attending seminars and conferences, and consider passing the UGC NET/JRF exams to qualify for a Ph.D.

For those seeking professional roles, it’s essential to have a thorough understanding of your specialization and knowledge of both national and international regulations. Ensuring you have the right qualifications to practice law is also important.

In summary, engaging in internships, acquiring practical skills, and mastering your specialization will enhance your job prospects after completing your LLM.

UG & PG Programs Details Guide 2024

What salary one can expect after completion of course?

LLM graduates have a wide range of job options in India. They can apply for various roles that match their specialization. The average salary for LLM graduates is around INR 8 -15 lakhs per year, depending on their job and industry.

LLM graduates can also work as freelance lawyers, partner with companies.

Why should you opt for online LLM? 

Pursuing an online LLM offers numerous advantages, including specialized expertise, global recognition, and promising career prospects. The program enhances networking opportunities, sharpens critical analysis skills, and prepares graduates for various legal roles. It fosters interdisciplinary skills and personal growth, contributing to lifelong learning and impactful contributions to legal reform and social issues.

Another benefit of an online LLM is the potential to increase your pay scale, as it provides in-depth knowledge in your field. Additionally, an online LLM offers a global perspective, being internationally recognized and opening doors to career opportunities in different countries and legal systems. This global perspective is especially valuable in today’s interconnected world.

Degree Bachelors
Full Form Master of LAWS.
Duration Minimum – 1 Year, maximum – 2 years
Course Eligibility Applicant must have passed from a recognized university
Average Fees Fees depend upon the university you choose, but the starting fee is Rs. 19000 – Rs. 40000.
Job Roles Magistrate, Criminal Lawyer,

Legal Officer,  Corporate Lawyer
Mode of learning Online and distance/ part time and regular.
Average salary For experienced  professionals, the salary range typically starts  from INR 6 LPA to 12 LPA.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *