Master of Laws (LLM) in U.S. Law Curriculum
The online Master of Laws (LLM) in U.S. Law curriculum is designed for international lawyers looking to build a foundation in U.S. law and learn to communicate and research like a U.S. lawyer. Classes are taught using the discussion-based Socratic method, which is the most common and preferred method of instruction in U.S. law schools.
Program Requirements
The LLM is a 24-credit program and can be completed in as little as 18 months. All LLM students will complete two required courses and then tailor their curriculum to their academic and career goals by selecting from a variety of elective courses.
Required Courses
Students are required to complete Introduction to U.S. Law & Methods, Legal Research and Writing, and one of three options for their second course: Contracts, Property, or Torts.
Introduction to U.S. Law & Methods (4.5 credits)
This foundational course explores how law is created, enacted, and changed in the United States. The objective is to learn to solve legal challenges and understand legal concepts with U.S. legal sources, methods, and institutions.
Legal Research & Writing (4.5 credits)
This course introduces the skills of legal research and writing. Students will explore different tools and research methods used in legal writing and the ways attorneys use legal writing as a form of advocacy.
Contracts (3 credits)
This course is designed to introduce students to U.S. contracts. In addition to learning principles behind U.S. theories of contractual obligation, the course is intended to provide instruction on “how to succeed” in a U.S. law school class.
Property (3 credits)
This course examines real and personal property and some of the problems of landlord and tenant law.
Torts (1 credit)*
This course will be an explanation of the law of torts. Students will critically examine the theories of intentional torts, negligence, strict liability, vicarious liability, and other doctrines, studying the rules and principles that govern these areas of law.
Elective Courses (12 credits)
Elective courses allow students to focus their studies on areas that directly relate to their career goals. Electives are available in areas such as contracts, civil procedure, legal writing, corporate compliance, and intellectual property.
Students have the option of pursuing a concentration in a specialized area based on their interests and career goals. Concentrations are available in the following areas: Business Law, Conflict Resolution, Regulatory Compliance, Employment Law, and Litigation. Click here to learn more about the LL.M. concentration options.
* Please note that Torts is only 1 credit. If you select Torts as your common law course, you will still be required to fulfill 24 credits to graduate.