An LLM (Master of Laws) degree is an advanced law degree pursued after obtaining a Juris Doctor (JD) or its equivalent. It’s designed for legal professionals seeking specialized knowledge in a specific area of law. This article explores the LLM degree, its purpose, benefits, requirements, and how it differs from a JD.
LLM vs. JD: Key Distinctions
A U.S. News & World Report article highlights the fundamental difference between the JD and the LLM: the JD prepares individuals for general law practice, while the LLM builds upon that foundation with specialized knowledge. The LLM can also enhance career prospects in consulting and policy-related roles.
Here’s a breakdown of the key distinctions:
- Purpose: A JD prepares students to practice law, whereas an LLM offers advanced legal training in a specific area.
- Focus: LLM programs delve into more theoretical aspects of law compared to the practical focus of JD programs.
- Career Advancement: An LLM can attract clients in specialized fields where the credential is highly valued.
- Job Requirement: An LLM is generally not a mandatory requirement for specific legal positions, but it can provide a competitive edge.
- Course Rigor: LLM programs may offer the opportunity to take more challenging and in-depth courses.
- Thesis Requirement: LLM programs often require a thesis, while JD programs typically do not.
- Academic Enhancement: An LLM can potentially mitigate the impact of a lower GPA or attendance at a less prestigious law school.
- Specialization: LLM programs allow attorneys to focus exclusively on one legal discipline.
LawyerEDU defines the JD as the primary law degree required to take the bar exam and practice law in the US. Conversely, the LLM is a postgraduate degree for lawyers holding a JD (or equivalent) who seek specialized expertise in a specific legal area. JD applicants typically need a bachelor’s degree and LSAT or GRE scores, while LLM applicants usually require a JD (or an equivalent law degree for foreign-educated lawyers).
Earning a JD is the first step toward becoming a lawyer and gaining admission to a state bar. An LLM allows lawyers to deepen their knowledge and gain “advanced knowledge in a specific area of law for career advancement, upward mobility, and/or expanded practice opportunities.” The core difference in the curriculum is that a JD program covers general law concepts; the LLM focuses on a specific area of expertise.
Salary Expectations: LLM vs. JD
According to Ziprecruiter, a JD holder in the US earns an average annual salary of $99,949. In comparison, an LLM graduate commands a higher average salary of $142,663 per year.
Admission Requirements: Pepperdine Caruso School of Law
Here’s a look at the admission requirements for both JD and LLM programs at Pepperdine Caruso School of Law:
Juris Doctor (JD)
- Online application via LSAC
- Official test scores:
- LSAT score: 164 (median)
- OR
- GRE score: 80th percentile scores
- GPA: 3.85 (Undergraduate median)
- Graduate coursework is considered
- Official transcripts required
- Personal statement
- Optional statement
- Letters of recommendation:
- 2 letters required, with an option to submit 4 letters of recommendation
Master of Laws (LLM)
- Online application via LSAC
- Personal statement
- Current resumé or CV
- Official transcript(s) required
- Two narrative letters of recommendation
Conclusion
An LLM degree offers lawyers the opportunity to specialize, enhance their career prospects, and potentially increase their earning potential. While a JD provides a broad foundation in law, an LLM offers in-depth knowledge in a specific legal area, making it a valuable investment for legal professionals seeking to advance their careers. Consider your career goals and interests when deciding whether to pursue an LLM degree.
