Hey, I will graduate (prediction here) from a higher tier two state law school with about a 3.2, which places me in the top 35% of my class. Unfortunately, we do not have a strong international course selection. I'd like to work in NY or DC (London, etc.) but I've been told by some profs that I should consider an LLM to bolster my education with some more International courses. I've looked at Columbia and they like work experience; I've looked at Georgetown and they seem to be the most honed for my needs; but I don't really know much about any of the International Law LLM programs. I would appreciate any and all insight into the application process, selectivity, my credentials compared to their LLM acceptance, and whatever else you think might be helpful.

Thanks!

hi Halikaa
I'm not sure if i understand ur Q correctly, but i am guessing u r looking 4 schools with for programs of LLM in international law?
My pick for a specialization in international law would be Fletcher school @ Tufts university.
If u r interested in Columbia, then their program is also v. interesting. Although not specifically in international law, u can choose what courses to take etc.. so check out their website. But if u r planning to apply for the 2008-9 academic year, i think the deadline for those schools have passed.

good luck!

psaq,

I am looking at schools right now. I will graduate with my JD may of 2009. However, I have to look at schools with med schools in close proximity for my spouse. I haven't thought of Tufts. What makes you suggest Tufts?

I've been told that Georgetown and Columbia are the best. Like all smart people, I'm married to someone a lot smarter than me so wherever has to be close to a good med school. And yes, I know there;s no guarantee that I'll work where I go to school, but NY (columbia) and DC (Georgetown) raise the probability of not having to pack up again.

Hi Halikaa,
The reason why I suggested Tufts was b/c u had mentioned ur interest in international law, and it is my belief that it has the best international law program in the states.
If u want suggestions with regard to LLMs in general, then CLS is an excellent choice. Not only is the program great but the admissions pple r really helpful as well. Can't comment on Georgetown cause I did not apply there.
good luck!

psag,

So I asked the folks at my school to research Fletcher for me; they do not have a JD program at all and the LLM program is new for 2008. Is this correct? My understanding from their website is that the first LLM class won't start until Sept. 2008. I am not sure how they are ranked number 1 if they haven't had a class yet. Are you sure you are right?

Halikaa

Hi Halikaa,
I did not mean to say that it was the best according to any rank/listing I came accross. As i stated in my previous post: "it is my belief". And yes, fletcher is not a law school so it does not have any JD programs and the LLM program is new and it starts in 2008. But it had Masters in law and diplomacy programs which have been really popular from looking at the site. and the program in international law there are taught by top notch professors. From the field of international law, i am interested in PIL and from all the programs in the US that I looked into theirs was the best in my opinion.

But like i said i suggested Fletcher b/c u said u were interested in an LLM in interantional law. But if u want to do LLM then I think that CLS is the best choice, professors of international law like Professor Jose Alvarez teach there, so i definately suggest that.
Hope that helps!