Hi,

I'm thinking of applying for an LLM for September 2008 entry. I currently have a 2:2 in Law from Cardiff University.

A few questions:
- What impact does the quality of the university have on how highly regarded the LLM is? My main choice at the moment would be Hull or Surrey (ranked #24 and #33 in the Times Law School rankings) because my 2:2 precludes me from applying to the top universities. I saw a post on another thread which described LLMs from other universities as "a waste of time and money" and I certainly wouldn't want to apply if this was the case.

- is it better to do a general LLM or a specialised LLM (e.g. in Corporate Law or Intellectual Property Law)? I personally favour a general LLM as I'm not sure I can prove a demonstrable interest in a particular area of Law.

- would an LLM go some way to "curing" my 2:2 degree and convincing employers that I am an able student, or am I just being naive here?

- after graduation I might like to study for a PhD. What other job prospects are enhanced by an LLM?

Thanks for looking
Steve

Steve, a very good friend of mine was accepted at UCL with a 2:2 as was a friend who went to Queen Mary. I wouldn't rule them out mate if they offer courses that interest you. Queen Mary is brilliant for IP if that is something that interests you.

I think it can go some way to curing - the 2:2 isn't the end of the world if you have got good A levels which firms are more obsessed with.

Best of luck!

Thanks, I got e-mails back from Exeter, Newcastle and Nottingham (all require a 2:1) and they actively encouraged me to apply. I suppose one of their main concerns is filling all the places on the course. I have 3 As at A-level which I hope could swing it as well.

I know a 2:2 isn't the end of the world, but I thought with a little (a lot?) more application I could have got a 2:1, and could have applied for an LLM to the top universities, but hey, no point moaning about that now...

Just need to choose which LLM to do now - I'm favouring International Law related programmes at the moment.