Which LL.M. Program Is Right for You?
LL.M. Program (full academic year)
Degree: Master of Laws degree
Credits: 24
Timeline: 10 months on campus: Complete the entire program in residence on campus, August through May. Students are enrolled full time over two semesters, with a fall-term start and August to May academic calendar and schedule.
Executive LL.M. in Global Business Law
Degree: Master of Laws
Credits: 24
Timeline and Coursework: Six months (three months online, three months on campus): Take one or two online course in March and April, followed by a 12-week on-campus summer residency (May through August). Complete your study with two additional online courses in August through September.
Online Courses: A blend of live lectures and self-directed work.
Summer Residency: Two six-week modules.
LL.M.
You can take a wide range of courses in both the private and public spheres, with the option to focus on a particular area of law.
Introduction to American Law (2 credits)
Legal Research and Writing (2 credits)
You also must complete one LL.M. Writing Project (a substantial research paper). For details, see the LL.M. Degree Requirements and Rules.
E.LL.M.:
The program’s courses, programming, and training all reflect a focus on global business law.
Introduction to American Law (3 credits) or Law Elective Course (3 credits)
Colloquium (4 credits)
LL.M.
You will take 20 electives credits:
Choose from hundreds of courses, from corporate to human rights and public interest law, as well as many experiential offerings, including externships, clinics, workshops, and simulation labs. You can also take classes in other undergraduate and graduate divisions of the university.
E.LL.M.:
You will take 17 elective credits:
Choose from a limited number of elective courses, such as Corporate Finance and Valuation, Negotiations, and Mergers and Acquisitions. The curriculum and structure do not allow for courses to be taken outside of the Law School.
LL.M.
Regular access to career counselors and programs through the Office of Career Services, Social Justice Initiatives, and Careers in Law Teaching Program
Participation in LL.M. Interview Program
Access to Columbia Law School job database
E.LL.M.
Dedicated career management team
Access to Columbia Law School job database
Residency events that connect you to CLS alumni
LL.M.
Graduates of the LL.M. Program may be eligible to take the New York State Bar Exam, as well as other state bar exams.
E.LL.M.
The Executive LL.M. does not qualify graduates to sit for the New York State Bar Exam, but they may be eligible to take bar exams in other states.
LL.M.
Take classes with LL.M. and J.D. students. Participate in journals and student organizations, clinics, externships, supervised research, pro bono projects, and other experiential learning opportunities. You can also serve as research assistants to faculty and take advantage of programs, speakers, and other events on campus throughout the academic year.
On-campus housing is available for LL.M. students in apartment shares, studios, one-bedroom apartments, and dormitory-style housing. Housing, meals, and most course materials are not included in the tuition and fees.
E.LL.M.
Take classes only with your cohort. Participate in social events, receptions, and workshops tailored specifically for the Executive LL.M. cohort during the summer residency period.
Course materials and breakfast and lunch during summer residency classes are provided. There are a number of housing options for students during the summer residency, including campus housing sublets, off-campus sublets, and short-term corporate rentals.
LL.M.
You may not maintain full-time employment during the program but may work part-time on campus.
E.LL.M.
You may maintain full-time employment during the online portions of the program. The summer residency requires full-time attendance.
For both programs:
- First degree in law
- Valid TOEFL or IELTS scores for all applicants, except those who are automatically waived and those who receive a waiver. The minimum score required on the TOEFL (iBT or Home Edition) is 105, and the minimum score required on the IELTS is 8.0.
LL.M.
Designed for students with at least one year of professional experience after earning their first law degree.
E.LL.M.
Designed for mid-career lawyers with at least five years of professional experience.
LL.M.
Tuition: $78,444
Living Costs: $30,842
Financial assistance is available in the form of scholarships and institutional loans. For details, see Fellowships and Scholarships.
E.LL.M.
Tuition: $80,792
Living Costs: $10,300
Financial assistance is available in the form of scholarships and institutional loans from Columbia Law School and there may be external sources of funding available. For more information, see Tuition and Fees.