Dear All,

I am a law graduate from Greece, Europe, and I recently received an offer to pursue an LLM in International Business Law at Queen Mary University of London. I selected this program due to its diverse range of subjects, allowing me to explore multiple areas of interest rather than a narrowly focused specialization like Energy and Climate Change Law even though ultimately I would focus on banking and energy law. Also, many of the courses offered in the latter are also included in the International Business Law curriculum.

However, during a recent conversation with a well-established and successful lawyer I know, I was advised against this choice. He argued that the LLM in International Business Law is too broad and lacks specialization. He highlighted the potential issue of law firms seeking candidates with a specific area of expertise, which might not be adequately addressed by such a wide-ranging program.

I would appreciate your insights on this matter. Is pursuing a more specialized LLM, such as the one offered by King's College, a better option for career prospects in the legal field?

Best regards

In my view, yes. I agree with your lawyer friend. Having modules scattered in various areas is less compelling than specialising in one more deeply.

Tax groups, for example, will find someone who has a deeper understanding of BEPS, transfer pricing, VAT, etc. not only as more immediately useful, but also as more interested and committed to what they’re doing. I think the same is true for finance/securities, EU law, and others aspects of international business. At least in my field, which can be fairly technical, you’d be better off being master of one trade rather than jack of all.

[Edited by balloonlaw on Jul 02, 2024]