Hey, I am looking for advice on what to do. I studied in the Temple University LLM program free of tuition for one semester and have the option of going back this fall to finish the degree. However, I would have to pay 75% tuition this time, which compared to other programs is still pretty cheap but also not something I have lying around. My ultimate career goal is to work in academia, so I am planning on applying to a higher rated LLM programs and also other MAs / PhDs for fall 25. Do you guys think it would help or hurt me for those applications to have the Temple degree?



I know its not a prestigious school so I'm scared it would not only be a waste of money but also be embarrassing to have a degree from there as well as hurt me in potential scholarship applications (already having a degree might slim my chances of getting a second one funded?)

On the other hand, it might be more impressive to apply for a PhD with an LLM instead of just an LLB.

[Edited by paulakp on Apr 08, 2024]

A LLM from a lower tier school will not make any difference to your PhD application, I think

In any case, I believe you will have to provide the transcripts anyway throughout the process…
I cant tell you if makes sense to finish your degree at Temple or not. For me it sounds pretty much worthless for academia but only you know why you decided to attend there in first place