I'd like to pursue an LL.M. in the US in the field of Energy, focusing also in Competition Law (starting in september 2010).
I wonder if someone could advise me on the best US Universities where I could apply. I am hesitating whether to focus on program or in the reputation of the Law Center. Particularly, University of Houston for its program in energy law Vs University of Chicago for its excellent reputation specially in competition law.
Otherwise, GWU could also be a well-balanced program for the above mentioned fields of law.
All opinions are welcome!

I am current student at the University of Houston Law Center in the Energy LLM.

I have to tell you that I had doubts such you are having now! The Law Center is a very good school! The course itself gives you an opportunity to focus not only in the energy industry but also environment and natural resources.
I am very excited as I only came here for the energy LLM. The location of the school is not in the best places of Houston but college life is great here. Houston is cheap and there is a lot to do! You would need a car though...which again very cheap here.
They are finishing up a graduate housing just across the road from the law school and that will without any doubt attract a lot of students.

Some of the leading experts teach here. Prof Weaver, Victor Flatt and Prof Burke are just some of the examples. To be honest I only came to Houston as I only wanted the energy degree from here, because if I was going for a general LLM, I would have gone like to UT Austin or Boston or some other school.

I think reputation wise if you come to Houston for the energy programme, I would not be concerned. It is a major hub for the industry and the Law Center is very well regarded in the area.

If you want to compare Chicago with the Law Center you shouldn't. UHLC is going up in the rankings and it is a very respected school but Chicago is a top 10 school.
The tuition here is ridiculously cheap (25,000) as it is a state school.

If you are very concerned with rankings go to Chicago. GWU is a good law school as well.!!!!

Thank you for your insight on the University of Houston!
It sounds like a good choice!
By the way, how does it work the Carreer development office over there? I have currently a good position and I am concerned about getting a good job after finishing the program... and guess that an active CDO is also a key issue in order to apply for one University or another....

I think the career service is ok!!! They do help a lot when it comes to going to NY job fair!

As regards to the opportunities in Houston, they should work on it....or maybe they are just not interested...!!! as we may know why...