Graduate Degree Programs for Foreign Lawyers (LLM, SJD)

LLM

The LLM program at Duke is designed to offer foreign law graduates an introduction to the legal system and the practice of law in the United States as well as the opportunity to take advanced training in specialized areas of law. The program of study is normally completed in one academic year, which begins for all new students in late August.

Most LLM students at Duke are professionals with two or more years of experience at well-known law firms. They also are judges, prosecutors, academics, and members of government ministries, corporations, and financial institutions. The LLM program usually includes a small number of talented, very recent law graduates as well.

Applicants must hold a first degree in law from an accredited institution outside the United States. The law degree should be the equivalent of the JD or LLB degree. Correspondence course degrees will not be considered for admission to the LLM program.

Admissions for international students to the LLM or SJD programs is separate from the JD admissions. Prospective candidates for these programs should contact the International Programs office or review the LLM and SJD application process online.

While it is not necessary, applicants are welcome to visit the Law School, meet staff and students, observe classes, and interview with a member of the International Studies staff. Applicants are encouraged to contact Duke Law alumni for more information about the LLM program.

SJD

A very small number of exceptional students who have already completed an LLM program with distinction from an American law school or from a common law program may gain entry to this program.

Applicants should submit samples of their written work and a description of their special research interest. The application file is reviewed by a faculty committee.

Students admitted to candidacy in the program are assigned a primary faculty advisor and a committee of two additional faculty members. The completion of the degree requires a minimum of two-to-three years and normally will involve at least one semester of courses in addition to those taken for the LLM degree. The student’s progress is monitored through oral and written examinations before the student may proceed to the thesis stage of the degree program.

Only outstanding students preparing for careers in academia should apply to the SJD program. The entire application will be reviewed by the Faculty Committee on Comparative and International Studies. Applicants are requested not to contact individual Duke Law School faculty members. If further information is necessary, the applicant will be notified. Admissions decisions will be made starting in late March.

» Learn more about Duke's International Programs