Master of Laws (LLM)
Degree Programs

Yes. "LLM" is the standard abbreviation for the Master of Laws degree. It is derived from the name of the qualification in Latin, “Legum Magister”, with “legum” as the plural of "lex," meaning law.

While a JD degree is a first law degree in the U.S., an undergraduate LLB degree is a first law degree in many other countries. Typically, the Master of Laws (LLM) is for international students who have obtained an LLB or equivalent and are looking to develop a deeper, master’s degree-level understanding of the U.S. legal system.

Yes, USC Gould School of Law offers the option to earn a Master of Laws (LLM) online or Master of Laws in Media and Entertainment Law (LLM in MEL) in a 100% digital format that combines self-paced (asynchronous) and real-time (synchronous) components. For students interested in studying in Los Angeles, California, learn more about our Master of Laws on-campus programs.

Depending on specifications and certificate tracks, the Online Master of Laws (LLM) can be completed in as few as 16 months. For those interested in pursuing a Two-Year Extended LLM, USC Gould offers an on-campus master program. Law graduates in the 2-year program will earn a certificate along with a general or specialized LLM.

Applicants to USC Gould's Master of Laws (LLM) must have earned their first degree in law (e.g. Bachelor of Laws (LLB) or License in Law) from outside of the United States. If you earned your JD from a law school in the U.S., then please consider our on-campus, specialized LLM programs: Alternative Dispute Resolution, International Business and Economic Law, or Privacy Law and Cybersecurity.

The Master of Laws (LLM) is designated for those with a first professional degree in law outside of the United States, such as Bachelor of Laws (LLB) or License in Law. The Master of Studies in Law (MSL) is for non-lawyer professionals hoping to gain a greater understanding of law. If you have additional questions regarding masters of law programs, contact us at gipadmissions@law.usc.edu.

The Master of Laws (LLM) is a valuable degree for professionals seeking leadership roles in the global market.

Through the LLM you will develop:

• Practical knowledge in the theories, history and use of American law
• A strong understanding of the U.S. legal system, government, historical context and foundational values
• Insights into how the American legal system differs from other legal systems around the world
• Fluency with advanced legal terminology through exposure to substantive texts, cases, statutes and memoranda
• The ability to perform legal research and analysis necessary for work in a variety of legal settings
• An understanding of legal professionalism and ethics, and the responsibilities required of representatives of clients and officers of the court
• Improved English language and legal writing skills

Read more about degree outcomes and career opportunities for LLM graduates.

Upon completion of the program on the California Bar Track, international attorneys may be eligible to sit for the California Bar Exam. USC Gould School of Law cannot determine your eligibility to sit for the California Bar exam since each applicant is reviewed on a case-by-case basis by the State Bar. We recommend verifying your eligibility prior to enrolling in one of our Master of Laws (LLM) programs.