Course guide · Courses & Degrees

LLM (Master of Laws)

An LLM lets lawyers specialise — in corporate, constitutional, criminal, intellectual property or international law — and is often required for teaching law.

3 min read · Last reviewed 26 September 2026

Duration
1 year in India (2-year programmes also exist)
Eligibility
LLB degree
Admission
CLAT PG, AILET PG, university tests
Uses
Teaching, research, specialised practice

Course overview

LLM programmes include advanced coursework and a dissertation in a chosen specialisation.

Who this course may suit

  • Law graduates seeking specialisation or academic careers

Eligibility

  • LLB with minimum marks

Entrance exams and admission

ExamUsed forNotes
CLATLLM at NLUs (CLAT PG)
AILETLLM at NLU Delhi

Exam names, patterns, eligibility and participating institutions change. Check the official notification for the current year.

What you will study

Typical structure — varies by university
ComponentContent
CoreResearch methods, comparative public law, law and justice in a globalised world
SpecialisationCorporate, IP, criminal, constitutional or international law
DissertationResearch project

Skills you will develop

  • Advanced legal research
  • Specialised legal knowledge

Where the course is offered

NLUs, university law departments; LLM abroad at many universities.

Want help applying this to your own situation? Guidance for College Students on the Career Captain website.

Indicative fees

Varies widely; LLM abroad is expensive.

Fees differ widely between government, aided, private and deemed institutions, and change every year. Any figures here are broad indications only — check each institution's official fee notice, and ask about scholarships and fee waivers.

Career options after the course

Lawyer

Specialised practice.

Teacher

Law teaching with NET/PhD.

Higher-study options

  • PhD in law
  • UGC-NET for teaching

Advantages of this course

  • Specialisation and teaching eligibility

Challenges to consider

  • Practice experience often matters more than an LLM in litigation

Is this course a good fit for you?

It may suit you if…

  • You enjoy research and a specific area of law

It may be harder if…

  • You want to build litigation practice quickly

Similar courses to compare

Frequently asked questions

Is an LLM necessary?

Not for practice, but useful for teaching, research and some specialised roles.

Published by Career Captain Global Solutions. This page is general guidance; see the disclaimer below. Spotted something out of date? Let us know.