Joint JD/Master of Laws (LLM) in Taxation
The JD/Master of Laws (LLM) in Taxation at WashULaw offers a rigorous course of study in tax law that prepares students to work with law firms and other entities that provide sophisticated tax law advice. Courses are taught by outstanding full-time tax professors as well as extraordinary tax professionals, who currently work or have worked in sophisticated tax practices or high-level government positions. Combining a practical hands-on approach to teaching with small class sizes in advanced practical skills tax courses, the JD/Tax LLM allows for a personal and collaborative educational experience.
Who should consider a JD/Tax LLM?
A student who is interested in:
- Practicing transactional tax law, including in the areas of mergers and acquisitions and general corporate tax
- Tax litigation, including tax controversy work
- Employee benefits
- International taxation
- Tax credits and their policy implications
- Working in prominent government positions on local, state, and federal levels
- Tax advisory work with public or private institutions
- Sophisticated estate planning issues
- Working in the public accounting area
How long does it take to earn a JD/Tax LLM and when do I apply for the program?
Students earn both a JD and an LLM in Tax in either a six-semester program or a seven-semester program. The innovative and unique six-semester program allows students to earn both degrees without sacrificing summer employment opportunities, thereby giving students a competitive edge in employment. Under the seven-semester option, up to nine hours of tax credits (not including Federal Income Tax) are earned during the JD program, which can be applied towards the Tax LLM degree. Students can also consider the traditional one-year Tax LLM program. Students can apply to participate in the joint JD/Tax LLM during their 2nd or 3rd year of law school.
What are the requirements?
Students wishing to pursue a joint JD/Tax LLM need to complete 94 total credit hours, including 24 hours of tax credits. Any course found in the graduate tax curriculum will count towards your tax course requirement. In addition, participation in the Low Income Taxpayer Clinic will also count toward these hours. Any course not found in the directory will not count.
Why Washington University?
WashULaw has an outstanding tax law program with high placement rates and offers an extensive alumni network. The program has been in existence for over 40 years and is amongst the oldest in the country. Additionally, students in the JD/Tax LLM degree program have access to the incredible resources of the Career Center at the law school.
Who should I contact if I need additional information?
- Email the Admissions Office or call (314) 935-4525.
- For questions about academic advising, please email Professor Sarah Narkiewicz, Director – Tax LLM program or call (314) 935-8275.
- For questions related to tuition and financial aid, please email Carrie Burns, Assistant Director of Financial Aid and Student Services, or call (314) 935-4605.