hey..

I'm keen on pursuing my LLm in arbitration/alternative dispute resolution in USA. I do know that Columbia offers a course in the same. Are there any other law schools that offer the same?

Hey Vera,

I am applying for the same course. ...and the Univs providing for LLM in arb are Pepperdine (Malibu), Case Western (Ohio)..

These are the top three law programs in arbitration:

1. Pepperdine University
2. University of MissouriColumbia
3. Harvard University

Both Pepperdine and Missouri have specific ADR LL.M. programs.

Thanks for the reply :) However, I do have a futher query.

I have never heard of Pepperdine University before. I did check up on its usnews.com University ratings and it ranks rather low (77). Considering the heavy investment that I would need to make for an llm abroad, I am sceptical about applying to a college which isn't good/recognised.

I am not stuck up on an llm in arbitration. I wouldn't mind a general llm either. My marks/ toefl score/ etc are strong enough to take a shot at the top schools.That said, could you please advice me on the feasibility of doing an llm in arbitration from a not so great Univ and a general llm in an Ivy League.

The ranking which you refer to is the ranking of the school's JD program. It has nothing to do with the LL.M. program.

If you don't mind a general LL.M. go for the top "ivy" schools. Although in your initial post you mentioned that you are interested in arbitration/dispute resolution for which Pepperdine is very well known. It has one of the oldest and strongest dispute resolution law programs in the country, and that is quite well known. Incidentally, the same U.S. News you rely on for the overall ranking also ranks Pepperdine in the top 3 for dispute resolution. For dispute resolution Pepperdine is not only a great university it is an "ivy".

If you can get in Harvard you will have the best of both, an "ivy" with an outstanding dispute resolution program. I don't, however, think that just because you have not heard of a school in your part of the world, means that you should be dismissive of it. A lot more things should be considered when picking a school then simply the name. One should look at the strength of the program in the particular area you are interested, the courses, faculty, environment, etc.

Thanks for the rather dismissive but informative post.

Hi Vera,
Its not such a bad idea to do an LLM from a top tier law school, and choose courses in Arbitration/ ADR. Since its a huge investment, the school that u attend is going to be a big factor in the decision making! If i were u I would do that. I am a current LLM student, so if u have any questions about applications etc, I'd be happy to answer them for u!
Cheers and Good luck

Thanks Maurine. I do intend on taking you up on that offer. Will get in touch with you when I have any queries.

Hello guys!
even im interested in pursuing my masters in arbitration frm states .
Ive no idea or clue as to how nd wht to do
anyone who can plz help me