I'm looking to apply for an Asian LLM in International Law. How do these two schools compare? Any other options to keep in mind? What about job prospects? Any info on this from someone who's done a program, is partaking, or is considering doing it, would be great to have.

All the best!

They are both very highly regarded programs, with NUS probably having a slight edge over Peking, the latter having a more local focus (ie China's role in international law). Regarding work, Singapore will offer more international prospects, but it all depends on your goals.

Following up on Mike33's comment, I would just add a clarification. Peking University actually has 2 different LLM programs. The program at the PKU main campus (https://en.law.pku.edu.cn/admission/programs/programinhineselaw/23570.htm) is the one that is more local (Chinese Law) focused. The second LLM program, at PKU's School of Transnational Law (https://stl.pku.edu.cn/admissions/llm/llm.html) is international and multi-jurisdictional focused.

[quote]I'm looking to apply for an Asian LLM in International Law. How do these two schools compare? Any other options to keep in mind? What about job prospects? Any info on this from someone who's done a program, is partaking, or is considering doing it, would be great to have.

All the best! [/quote]

Hi tdave!

I did my LLM at Harvard but didn't apply to Asian schools. That being said, for my PhD at the European University Institute I studied Singapore and China and wrote about Singapore (specifically, their efforts to build international commercial courts and attract cross-border disputes).

My impression is that Singapore is significantly more open, interesting, and attractive to people building a transnational career. They are actively engaging in international dialogue and are willing to learn from the best and incorporate their practices. Singapore is really committed to making up for its tiny size and absence of natural resources by leveraging the people and their talent. Legal industry is one of the areas they are betting on. There is just so much activity.

My impression of China (and based on the words of a good friend of mine who is a sinologist and wrote her PhD on China) is that the tendency there is the reverse - China is closing down and is not really a welcoming environment for internationals.

I know that the deadline for NUS LLM applications has already passed, but if you are looking to apply next year or for your other applications, I've created a library of resources for LLM applicants on all major aspects of the applications, available on my website (link in the bio).

Hope it helps and good luck! ;)

Thank you all for your thoughtful replies!

@daria, that makes sense given the cultural and economical tendencies and differences between those two nations. I'll take a look at the resources you've collected. Much appareciated!