Guide to Master of Laws (LL.M.) programs

As you progress through your legal career, you may come to a point where you want to further specialize. A Master of Laws (LL.M.) degree can equip you with the skills and relevant experience you need to apply your legal knowledge and work efficiently in your chosen subfield.

The program cards/tables featured on this page were last updated in February 2026. For the most current program information, please refer to the official website of the respective school.

What is an LL.M.?

A Master of Laws (LL.M.) degree can equip legal professionals with the expertise to specialize in a particular field of law. Some specializations include international law, human rights law, environmental law, cybersecurity and data privacy law, and criminal law and justice. Unlike a Juris Doctor (J.D.) or equivalent law degrees, an LL.M. is not required to practice law. However, it can serve as a bridge between your existing skills and your personal passions.

Types of LL.M.

A master of law program will fall into one of two categories: the general LL.M. or the specialized LL.M. In a general LL.M. program — also called an individualized study LL.M. — students can create a completely custom course schedule that aligns with their professional goals and interests. Students who enroll in a specialized LL.M. program will follow a predetermined class schedule that covers skills relevant to a particular law concentration.

Typical curriculum

Because of their specialized nature, LL.M. programs don’t have a typical curriculum. However, there are some core courses that can enhance all students’ understanding of major legal terminology and best practices, regardless of their focus. These may include:

• Legal research, writing, and analysis
• Constitutional law
• Criminal law
• Legal ethics
• Legal theory

The electives available will depend on the program and school. Here are some LL.M. electives you may be able to choose from:

• Tax audits, appeals, and litigation
• Estate planning
• Election law
• Energy law
• Corporate finance
• Trade secrets
• Counseling and legal strategy in the digital age

Some programs may also require you to complete an externship with a legal organization, government agency, nonprofit, or corporation where a lawyer serves as a direct supervisor. Through these multi-week immersive experiences, students have the opportunity to put the knowledge and skills they acquire in the classroom into practice.

Program length

While the exact timeline will depend on the program and institution, a full-time LL.M. program takes about 1 year to complete. Students who prefer more flexibility may find part-time or online options that better fit their schedules; however, not all schools offer these options.

LL.M. requirements

As with most program specifics, the requirements for LL.M. program applicants will vary by program and institution. That being said, all LL.M. students must hold an undergraduate law degree, such as a J.D., to qualify for admission. Some programs may allow students with significant legal practice experience to bypass degree requirements.

International applicants with a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) or international equivalent to the J.D. who meet all other requirements may also be eligible for admission into LL.M. programs.

Online LL.M. programs

Online LL.M. programs give students the opportunity to receive the same education as in a traditional in-person program while attending virtual classes. Not all universities offer this option and require students to participate in on-site lectures and group work. Research the university and program you’re interested in to determine whether they meet your needs and circumstances.

This list of online LL.M. programs was last retrieved in November 2021.

Is an LL.M. worth it?

If you want to gain knowledge and experience that can set you apart from other legal professionals, an LL.M. can be worth the time and effort. With your LL.M. degree, you can pursue advanced career opportunities and competitive salary increases. Your LL.M. may also open doors outside of traditional legal settings, such as academia, private consulting, journalism, and more.

Curious about the expected pay for lawyers at the top of the field? Curious about the expected pay for lawyers at the top of the field? According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ 2024 OEWS data, the national median annual wage for lawyers was $152,800 in 2024, while the median for judges, magistrate judges, and magistrates was $159,060, and those at the very top commonly earn well into the high six figures (90th-percentile wages are reported at $239,200 or higher).

Information last updated: February 2026