Gavin Howe
If you're considering a Master's in Law but don't have an undergraduate law degree, you may be wondering about your options. While it is possible to enrol in an MA in Law without a previous law degree, an LLM (Master of Laws) typically requires a law degree or extensive relevant experience. However, some providers may offer LLMs to non-law students with outstanding academic achievements and a strong commitment to the field. Before applying, it's essential to research the specific entry requirements, as they vary across institutions.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| MA in Law | Requires at least a 2:1 in an undergraduate degree in any discipline |
| LLM | Typically requires a law degree or vast levels of relevant experience; some providers accept non-law students |
| LLM in the USA | Generally requires a Juris Doctor (JD) degree or similar foreign qualifications in the field of law; rarely, admission may be granted to holders of a bachelor's degree or its foreign equivalent who have demonstrated an outstanding commitment to human rights and human dignity |
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What You'll Learn
MA in Law
An MA in Law is a postgraduate degree that can be pursued by individuals from both law and non-law backgrounds. The course is designed to provide an understanding of the legal system and its intricacies, including negotiations, contracts, and the social, political, and economic impacts of the law. It is an attractive option for those who are interested in how the legal system works but do not intend to become practising lawyers.
The MA in Law is a flexible degree that can often be completed in nine months of full-time study or over 12 months to two years of part-time study. It is an intensive course that covers complex ideas and requires students to grasp a vast knowledge base in a short time. The course typically involves a combination of preparation assignments, workshops, online tasks, and follow-up consolidation activities.
The entry requirements for the MA in Law vary, but most institutions require a minimum of a 2:1 undergraduate degree in any discipline. Some universities may also have specific requirements for international students, such as submitting qualifications to the admissions team or providing proof of English language proficiency.
The MA in Law can enhance employability and is recognised internationally. It equips graduates with transferable skills such as critical evaluation, research, and presentation abilities, making it a valuable asset for careers in both legal and non-legal industries. The degree can be particularly beneficial for professionals seeking to excel in their fields or earn promotions without requiring a Juris Doctor degree.
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LLM course requirements
While it is possible to enrol in an MA in Law without a law degree, the same cannot be said for an LLM. An LLM, or Legum Magister (Latin for Master of Laws), is more commonly undertaken by students with a law degree (LLB), a law conversion like the Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL), or those with relevant legal work experience.
That said, it is still possible for non-law students to complete an LLM at some providers. Entry requirements for LLMs differ from place to place, and some institutions do not have any additional requirements beyond an undergraduate degree with a 2:1 minimum. However, some LLMs state that students without a law background must show a high level of professional and academic experience to be considered. This is because students without such experience or knowledge would struggle to keep up with the degree, which is very challenging in terms of the skills required.
To earn an LLM degree, students must complete a minimum number of credits in the fall and spring and meet the specific requirements of their specialisation. For example, at NYU School of Law, students must complete at least 24 credits in fall and spring, and at Yale Law School, students must complete at least 18 units (of the 24 units required) in regular courses and seminars.
Full-time LLM students who register for more than a certain number of credits in fall and spring (e.g., 30 credits at NYU) will incur additional charges on top of the flat rate charged each semester. It is also important to note that an LLM is not a qualifying law degree. While it will provide valuable insights into the legal profession, a standard LLM will not provide the skills necessary to pass the SQE exams.
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LLM career outcomes
An LLM, or Master of Laws, is a postgraduate degree that allows students to gain deeper insights into specific areas of law. While it is possible for non-law students to complete an LLM, some providers require a law degree or vast levels of relevant experience. It is worth noting that an LLM is not a qualifying law degree, and those seeking to practice law may need to take a law conversion course or pass the SQE exams.
The LLM is a versatile degree that can lead to various career paths, both within and outside the legal industry. Here are some common career outcomes for LLM graduates:
Legal Industry
The most common career path for LLM graduates is the legal industry. The LLM allows individuals to specialise in a particular area of law, such as environmental law, banking and finance law, or intellectual property law. This specialisation can make them more attractive candidates for training contracts and qualifying work experience. LLM graduates can pursue careers as solicitors, barristers, or attorneys, especially in their chosen specialisation.
Consulting
Many LLM graduates choose to enter the consulting industry, where they can leverage their legal knowledge and skills, such as research and communication abilities, to advise clients in various sectors, including law. Consulting firms often value the transferable skills that LLM graduates possess, such as critical thinking, analysis, and problem-solving.
Academia and Research
With an LLM, individuals may pursue further academic research by enrolling in a PhD program. This path can lead to a career in academia, where they can teach and conduct research in their specialised area of law. This option is particularly suitable for those passionate about their field of study and interested in contributing to legal scholarship.
Public Sector
LLM graduates can also find opportunities in the public sector, especially in departments that require legal expertise, such as the Civil Service or the Ministry of Justice. These roles often involve policy development, legal advisory, or administrative positions within government agencies and ministries.
Financial Sector and Banking
An LLM in commercial law or tax law can be a strong asset for individuals seeking careers in the financial sector and banking. The legal knowledge and skills gained during the LLM can be directly applied to understanding complex financial regulations, drafting contracts, and navigating mergers and acquisitions.
In conclusion, while the LLM may not be a qualifying law degree, it certainly enhances one's career prospects by providing specialised knowledge, transferable skills, and networking opportunities. LLM graduates can explore a range of career paths, both within and beyond the traditional legal industry, depending on their interests and specialisations.
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Online law courses
There are several online law courses available for those without a law degree. These include Master of Legal Studies programs, Juris Master programs, and Master of Laws (LLM) programs.
Master of Legal Studies
The Master of Legal Studies (MLS) is a degree program designed for non-lawyers who want to gain legal knowledge and skills relevant to their careers. It is often tailored to working professionals who need flexibility in their studies. The program typically covers various areas of law, including business law, conflict resolution, contract management, and intellectual property law.
One example of an online MLS program is offered by Pepperdine Caruso School of Law, which can be completed in as few as 16 months. Another example is the online Juris Master program offered by Liberty University, which includes courses in legal writing and constitutional law.
Juris Master
The Juris Master (JM) is a master's degree in legal studies that can be completed fully online. It is designed for graduates and professionals working in highly regulated industries whose careers intersect with the law but who do not intend to become attorneys. The program focuses on providing a comprehensive understanding of the legal and regulatory frameworks governing various industries. Students learn to identify and manage legal and regulatory risks and determine when to seek legal counsel.
Florida State University (FSU) offers a highly ranked online Juris Master program that allows students to customize their curriculum within their chosen concentration. Liberty University also offers a 100% online Juris Master program with a focus on international legal studies.
Master of Laws (LLM)
The Master of Laws, or LLM, is a postgraduate law degree that allows students to gain specialized knowledge in specific areas of law. While most LLM programs require a law degree or significant legal work experience, some providers offer LLM programs that can be completed by non-law students.
For example, Liberty University offers an LLM in International Law that requires a Juris Doctor or higher for admission. However, other universities may have different entry requirements, so it is important to research the specific program of interest.
In summary, there are several online law courses available for those without a law degree. These programs offer flexibility and specialized knowledge in various legal areas, catering to a range of career goals and interests.
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Face-to-face law courses
While it is possible to enrol in an MA in Law without a law degree, the course is intensive, and students are expected to grasp complex ideas and retain a vast knowledge base in a short time. The MA in Law requires at least a 2:1 in an undergraduate degree in any discipline or its overseas equivalent. International students aspiring to become solicitors must send their qualifications to ULaw's admissions team, while aspiring barristers must apply to the Bar Standards Board (BSB) for a Certificate of Academic Standing. Additionally, proof of English language proficiency is required for applicants whose first language is not English.
The MA in Law can be completed in nine months through face-to-face classes at campuses in Birmingham, Bristol, Chester, Guildford, Leeds, Liverpool, London Bloomsbury and Moorgate, Manchester, Newcastle, and Nottingham. The course offers flexible workshop and lecture schedules, and students can choose between full-time and part-time study.
On the other hand, an LLM, or Master of Laws, is a postgraduate law degree that allows students to gain deeper insights into specific areas of law. While some providers accept non-law students, others require a law degree or extensive relevant experience. The LLM is not a qualifying law degree, and it does not provide the skills necessary to pass the SQE exams. However, providers like the University of Law offer an LLM Legal Practice (SQE1&2) with exam preparation incorporated into the course.
For international students, an LLM offers exposure to the US or Canadian law systems, common law legal reasoning, and comparative law studies. It can also lead to eligibility to take the bar exam in some US states. While an LLM is challenging and requires strong research and writing skills, it is a prestigious qualification that enhances employability in the legal field.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is possible to enrol in an MA in Law without having a law degree. The MA in Law requires at least a 2:1 in an undergraduate degree in any discipline. However, it is an intensive course that covers complex ideas and a vast knowledge base in a short time.
The MA in Law is an internationally recognised credential that can be attractive to recruiters in both legal and non-legal industries. The course also incorporates a pre-course module on legal methods to facilitate a smooth transition for those from non-law backgrounds.
It is possible to complete an LLM without a law degree at some providers. However, many LLM courses are designed for those with a law degree or vast levels of relevant experience. An LLM is a challenging course that requires strong research and writing skills, and it will not provide the skills needed to practice law.
Entry requirements for LLMs differ between providers. Some LLMs require an undergraduate degree with a 2:1 minimum, while others may accept a bachelor's degree with outstanding commitment to a specific cause, such as human rights. Non-law students may need to demonstrate high levels of professional and academic experience to be considered.
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