LLM degrees (Master of Laws)
While not a direct pathway to qualification as a solicitor or barrister, an LLM is perfect for those who want to delve deeper into a particular aspect of law. Learn more about the Master of Laws…
What is an LLM?
An LLM degree is a Masters level qualification, which allows you to study your chosen area of law in more detail than at undergraduate level.
The part-time, two-year option is usually chosen by solicitors returning to work, while recent graduates tend to opt for a full-time course over one year.
The term LLM is an abbreviation of the Latin 'legum magister', which translates to 'Master of Laws'.
What type of LLM can I study?
There are general LLMs, which are often called LLM Law, LLM (General) or LLM and cover a broader subject area. It's possible to focus your studies on a specific area of law and study subjects including:
- criminal litigation
- employment law
- environmental law
- international business
- Islamic finance
- maritime law.
You can also combine preparation for the Solicitors Qualifying Examinations (SQE) with an LLM. Course providers such as BPP, The University of Law and De Montfort University offer programmes such as:
- LLM SQE 1&2
- LLM Legal Practice (SQE1&2)
- LLM SQE.
Check to see what's on offer at your chosen institution.
The majority of LLM degrees are taught courses, although some may have a research element.
Where can I study for an Master of Laws?
A huge number of universities across the UK provide these postgraduate law courses, so you’ll have to do your research to find out which programme and institution is right for you.
To see what's on offer, search for LLM courses.
What does an LLM involve?
Students spend around 40 hours a week analysing and solving complex legal issues or advising clients how to structure their businesses.
Some LLMs focus on the theoretical aspects of a certain subject, such as constitutional law or administrative law.
In addition to a standard set of modules, students choose a number of electives in subjects ranging from financial crime to international financial transactions. Generally, students also do a dissertation on a chosen subject area.
For example, on the LLM Law at The University of Manchester you'll get to choose optional modules such as:
- Copyright Law
- Global Economic and World Trade Law
- Intellectual Property Law
- International Courts and Human Rights
- Policy and International Investment Law.
Will I qualify as a solicitor or barrister with a law Masters?
The LLM is not a direct route to qualification. You will still need to complete the SQE and a two-year period of qualifying legal work experience in order to become ²¹Ìýsolicitor.
It’s also important to note that LLMs also don't automatically strengthen applications for training contracts. Further study is likely to be the most fruitful where its subject is a specialism that you wish to pursue as a solicitor.
The same goes for qualifying as ²¹Ìýbarrister. In order to achieve this you'll need to complete ²¹ÌýBar courseÌý²¹²Ô»åÌýpupillage to practice at the Bar - a Masters qualification alone isn't enough.
What are the entry requirements for a Masters of Laws?
Most courses require a 2:1 undergraduate degree in law (LLB) or a related discipline. They may consider a high 2:2 if it's supported by strong academic references and/or work experience, and your degree transcript shows the ability to achieve a 2:1.
For example, The University of Manchester LLM requires a 2:1 undergraduate degree for admission, while at the University of Cambridge you'll need a first class degree in law for entry onto its LLM.
Can I do an LLM without a law degree?
This depends on the institution. While some may require you to have studied law at undergraduate level, others may accept non-law graduates. However, non-law graduates will likely need significant work experience in a legal setting to gain a place on an LLM.
Non-law graduates need to be aware that an LLM is not a qualifying law degree, nor is it a law conversion course.
How do I apply for an LLM?
Applications are made directly to your chosen institution either online or via a paper form. Each will have its own process and guidelines, but you’ll need to provide:
- an application form
- ²¹Ìýpersonal statement detailing why you want to study the LLM at that particular institution and where you plan to go in your career
- an academic reference or a professional one if you've been out of education for more than two years
- degree transcripts
- writing samples from previous studies to prove that you can cope with the academic demands of the LLM.
Learn more about applying for a Masters.
How much do LLMs cost?
Fees vary between institution, course and subject, so you should check with the individual university before applying.
For example, in 2025/26 UK students will pay:
- £14,435 for the Master of Laws (LLM Law) at Brunel University when studied full time.
- £19,800 to study the LLM Human Rights Law at Queen Mary University of London.
- £16,000 to undertake the full-time LLM Law at The University of Manchester.
- £18,500 (in London) and £14,700 (outside London) to study the LLM Legal Practice (SQE1&2) at The University of Law.
Can I get funding for a law Masters?
It's possible to get a government-backed Masters loan worth up to £12,858 in the 2025/26 academic year.
Many institutions offer scholarships to help cover the costs of doing an LLM. For example, the University of Birmingham Law School offer scholarships for LLM students including the:
- College of Arts and Law Masters Scholarship, which offers awards of up to £10,000 for postgraduate courses in the College of Arts and Law
- Harding International Legal Scholarship offers £5,000 to international/EU students taking an LLM programme.
You should contact the individual institution to find out about the scholarships they provide. If you're ineligible for awards discover other ways to fund postgraduate study.
Find out more
- Gain an insight into the law sector.
- Read all about how to become a lawyer.
- Explore the different law careers on offer.
- Learn more about Masters degrees.