LL.M.

An abbreviation for Master of Laws, which is an advanced degree that is awarded to an individual who already holds a J.D. upon the successful completion of a prescribed course of graduate study in law.

A candidate for an LL.M. degree must complete the program set forth by the graduate admissions department in the particular law school he or she attends. The program ordinarily entails a minimum number of credit hours, including some credits in seminar courses and courses in which the student must take an examination for grading purposes. Candidates generally must also comply with such requirements as the maintenance of a minimum grade average as well as attendance requirements.

Students enrolled in LL.M. programs may either opt for a general degree or a degree in a specialized area of law. An LL.M. is generally available in such specialized areas as International Law, labor relations, and taxation.