LLM Course
An LLM (Master of Laws) is a postgraduate legal degree that allows law graduates to specialize in various areas of law, such as Constitutional Law, Criminal Law, Corporate Law, and International Law. This course enhances legal knowledge, research skills, and career prospects in both private and public sectors, preparing students for advanced roles in the legal field and beyond.
LLM Course Overview
An LLM (Master of Laws) is a postgraduate law degree that offers advanced knowledge and specialization in various branches of law. It is ideal for law graduates who want to deepen their understanding of the law and gain expertise in specific areas like criminal law, corporate law, constitutional law, international law, and more. The LLM course is available at many top universities in India, but IGNOU (Indira Gandhi National Open University) does not currently offer this program.
The LLM program is designed to provide students with in-depth legal knowledge and practical skills, preparing them for higher positions in law firms, government agencies, and multinational corporations. It’s a great option for those interested in pursuing careers in law teaching, policy-making, or legal consultancy.
Eligibility for LLM Courses in India
To apply for LLM course in India, you need to meet the following eligibility criteria:
- A Bachelor’s degree in Law (LLB) from a recognized university is required for eligibility.
- A minimum of 50-55% marks in your LLB degree (this may vary depending on the university).
- Some universities may require you to pass an entrance exam to gain admission to their program. In some cases, the admission process may be based on merit.
- If you have practical experience in the legal field, it can be an added advantage for some universities.
The LLM program is open to both fresh law graduates and professionals with some work experience in law.
Is an Entrance Test Required for LLM Course?
Yes, in many cases, you will need to take an entrance test to get into an LLM course in India, especially at top universities and law schools. These exams help universities choose students based on their knowledge and skills in law.
Some popular entrance exams for this course in India include:
- CLAT-PG (Common Law Admission Test for Postgraduate): Accepted by National Law Universities (NLUs).
- AILET (All India Law Entrance Test): Conducted by NLU Delhi for its LLM program.
- DU CUET PG: For admission to the University of Delhi.
- LSAT India: Accepted by several private law colleges.
However, not all universities require an entrance exam. Some private universities and online learning institutions may offer direct admission based on your LLB marks.
So, it’s important to check the admission process of each university before applying. If there is an entrance test, it’s a good idea to start preparing early to increase your chances of getting in.
UGC Entitled
Recognized by the University Grants Commission
Grade NAAC A++ Accredited
Accredited by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council
AICTE Approved
Approved by the All India Council for Technical Education
MHRD Approved
Ministry of Human Resource Development
WES Accredited
World Education System
AIU Approved
Recognized by the Association of Indian Universities
| Specialization | Description |
|---|---|
| Constitutional Law | Focuses on the Indian Constitution, fundamental rights, and government structures. |
| International Law | Governs relations between countries, organizations, and individuals in areas like treaties and diplomacy. |
| Criminal Law | Covers criminal offenses, defense strategies, and the legal processes for prosecution and punishment. |
| Corporate Law | Deals with business practices, mergers, acquisitions, governance, and corporate taxation. |
| Human Rights Law | Protects individual freedoms through international conventions and national laws. |
| Taxation Law | Addresses income, corporate, and international tax regulations. |
| Environmental Law | Regulates environmental protection, sustainability, and climate change laws. |
| Family Law | Covers legal issues related to marriage, divorce, custody, and adoption. |
| Intellectual Property Law | Protects patents, trademarks, copyrights, and other forms of intellectual property. |
Learning Methodology-IGNOU
E-books Study
Material
Live Interactive Sessions
Project &
Assignment
Learning
Managment
Top Studies
Center
Worldwide
Reach
Fees for LLM Courses in India
The fees for LLM courses in India vary from university to university. Generally, the fees range between INR 10,000 to INR 4,00,000 per year. Public universities usually offer more affordable fees than private colleges or institutions. The fees may also vary depending on the specialization you choose.
It’s important to check with the respective universities for the exact fee structure, as it can change from year to year.
Jobs and Career Options After LLM in India
| Career Options | Description |
|---|---|
| Legal Advisor | Provide expert legal counsel to businesses, individuals, or organizations, and assist in resolving legal disputes. |
| Corporate Lawyer | Specialize in corporate law, handling matters such as mergers, acquisitions, compliance, and business contracts. |
| Judicial Officer | Appear for the judiciary exam to become a judge in courts, overseeing legal proceedings and judgments. |
| Legal Academic / Professor | Teach law at universities or law schools, and contribute to academic research and publications. |
| Litigation Lawyer | Represent clients in court, advocating on their behalf in civil or criminal cases. |
| Legal Researcher | Conduct legal research, draft papers, and assist in the development of policies or legal practices. |
| Public Prosecutor | Represent the state in criminal cases, ensuring justice is served on behalf of the government. |
| NGO / Human Rights Lawyer | Work for non-governmental organizations, focusing on social justice, human rights, and public policy. |
| Arbitrator / Mediator | Resolve legal disputes outside of court, using mediation or arbitration methods. |
| Policy Analyst | Advise government bodies, research organizations, or think tanks on legal policy and legislative matters. |
Higher Study Options After LLM
| Study Option | Description |
|---|---|
| PhD in Law | Pursue advanced academic research in a specialized legal field, preparing for a career in academia or as a legal researcher. |
| Postdoctoral Research | Engage in high-level research after completing a PhD, often in academic or professional law-related fields. |
| Diploma/Certificate Courses | Enroll in specialized short-term courses in areas such as Cyber Law, Intellectual Property Law, or Taxation Law to enhance expertise. |
Top Universities Offering LLM Courses in India
| University | B.Ed Course Total Fees | Location |
|---|---|---|
| OP Jindal Global Law School (JGLS) | ₹3,00,000/- to ₹4,00,000/- per year | Sonipat, Haryana |
| Delhi University (DU) | ₹20,000 to ₹40,000 per year | New Delhi, Delhi |
| Banaras Hindu University (BHU) | ₹10,000 to ₹50,000 per year | Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh |
| National Law School of India University (NLSIU) | ₹4,00,000 to ₹5,00,000 per year | Bangalore, Karnataka |
| Symbiosis Law School | ₹1,50,000 to ₹3,50,000 per year | Pune, Maharashtra |
Conclusion
While IGNOU does not offer an LLM course, there are many top universities in India where you can pursue your LLM degree. It is important to carefully check the eligibility, course structure, and fees of the programs offered by different universities to find the best fit for your career goals. Whether you’re interested in corporate law, international law, or human rights law, an LLM degree can help you advance your career in the legal field.
Frequently Asked Question
An LLM course in India takes 1 to 2 years to complete, depending on the college and type of study (regular or online).
You can apply if you have a Bachelor’s degree in Law (LLB) from a recognized university. Some colleges may ask for a minimum score or entrance exam.
LLM course fees can be different for each college. Government colleges charge around ₹20,000 to ₹1,00,000, while private colleges may charge ₹1.5 lakh to ₹8 lakh or more.
Yes, LLM through distance or online learning is available in India, but it’s limited.
Some of the top colleges for LLM in India are NLSIU Bangalore, Delhi University, BHU, Symbiosis Law School, and Jindal Global Law School.