LLM, or Master of Laws (Legum Magister in Latin), is an internationally accepted postgraduate law degree. It is specifically formulated for law graduates and professionals who need to specialize in certain areas of law like international law, business law, intellectual property law, or human rights law. Unlike the LLB (Bachelor of Laws) that is based on a generic study of law, an LLM offers specialized knowledge and specialization in a selected area of law, enabling lawyers to advance their careers in academia, judiciary, policymaking, or legal consultancy.
The LLM course usually takes one to two years, depending on the nation and institution. Some courses involve coursework, while others focus on research and thesis writing. Admission usually calls for an LLB or a similar legal qualification. An LLM can lead to high-profile law firms, government departments, and international institutions such as the United Nations or the World Trade Organization. It also serves to facilitate transition for legal experts into academia or the judiciary through enhanced legal proficiency and analytical skill.