As globalization and technological advancements reshape the legal landscape, there is a growing demand for legal professionals who possess expertise in these intersecting areas.
Dual-degree LL.M. programs, which combine a Master of Laws with another academic discipline, are designed to equip lawyers with the multidisciplinary knowledge and skills needed to navigate this complex environment.
This list highlights the top 10 law schools that offer dual-degree LL.M. programs, based on various factors. Choosing the right dual-degree program is crucial, and our editorial list provides a holistic view of the best schools to help you make an informed decision.
These programs offer an innovative approach to legal education, allowing students to delve deeper into specific fields of interest while gaining a comprehensive understanding of the law.
The scope of dual-degree LL.M. programs is vast and varied. For instance, a dual LL.M. and M.B.A. program merges the worlds of law and business, equipping graduates with the acumen to tackle corporate legal challenges and lead business ventures.
Similarly, an LL.M. paired with Environmental Studies readies lawyers to confront pressing environmental challenges through legal frameworks and policies.
In terms of career prospects, graduates of dual-degree LL.M. programs are highly sought after in various sectors. They find roles in international organizations, multinational corporations, government agencies, non-profits, academia, and beyond.
Their ability to navigate complex legal issues within broader social, economic, and technological contexts makes them valuable assets in any professional setting. Furthermore, their multidisciplinary training positions them as leaders capable of driving innovation and change.
We evaluated law schools based on their global reputation from sources like QS World University Rankings, Times Higher Education, and U.S. News & World Report, and their range of dual-degree LL.M. programs integrating law with business, technology, international relations, and public health.
Faculty expertise, alumni success in interdisciplinary fields, international partnerships, curriculum innovation, and research opportunities were also key factors. These schools offer excellent opportunities for aspiring dual-degree students. We encourage you to further explore each program to uncover its unique strengths.
Harvard offers a joint JD/LL.M. program in collaboration with the University of Cambridge, enabling students to gain deep insights into both U.S. and U.K. legal systems. The program is supported by Harvard’s top-ranked faculty, extensive alumni network and strong academic resources. Students benefit from access to leading legal practitioners, scholars and numerous research centers as well.
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NYU School of Law offers dual-degree programs with leading universities worldwide, including the National University of Singapore and the University of Melbourne. Those include the JD/LL.M. in International Law and the JD/LL.M. in Taxation. The school places a strong emphasis on international law and provides a vibrant urban campus experience in New York City. Students benefit from a diverse student body and extensive networking opportunities in one of the world’s top legal hubs.
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The Commercial Law Dual LL.M. offered by these two leading universities is a 16-month program focused on international and comparative commercial law. Students will study in both London and Singapore, taking a mix of compulsory and elective modules and completing a dissertation. The program offers networking opportunities and career advice, preparing graduates for roles in international law firms.
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Georgetown offers dual degree programs in partnership with top universities worldwide. These programs allow students to split their studies between an LL.M. at Georgetown and a different academic discipline at another institution, earning two degrees. Notable programs include an LL.M. in International Arbitration and Dispute Resolution with Tsinghua Law School in China, an MBA from HEC Paris, a Masters in International Affairs from Sciences Po, and a Masters of Public Health from Johns Hopkins.
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The European Legal Practice LL.M. Joint Degree at Leibniz University is a two-year, full-time postgraduate program leading to a joint degree with universities in Hannover, Lisbon and Rouen. It focuses on European and international law, including a mandatory semester abroad at a partner university. The program includes compulsory and optional modules and requires proficiency in two European languages. It prepares graduates for careers in European institutions, international advocacy and consultancy.
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Miami Law offers joint and triple degree programs in taxation, allowing students to earn a J.D., an LL.M. in Tax, and possibly an M.B.A. The joint J.D./LL.M. program is designed for students interested in tax law, with requirements including specific GPA (grade point average) and course performance. The triple degree program, exclusive to business majors, includes a J.D., M.B.A., and LL.M. in Tax, ideal for careers in corporate law or finance.
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GW Law offers joint degree programs for both J.D. and LL.M. students. J.D. candidates can pursue joint degrees with schools such as the School of Business, Elliott School of International Affairs, and Milken Institute of Public Health. LL.M. candidates have options like the LL.M./M.P.H. with the Milken Institute and a dual degree in Energy and Environmental Law with the University of Groningen. Each program requires separate admissions to both schools and simultaneous completion of degree requirements.
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Northwestern Pritzker offers a four-year J.D.-LL.M. in International Human Rights program, combining a J.D. with an LL.M. focused on international human rights law and international criminal law. The program includes core courses, a 12-credit externship with international tribunals or human rights organizations, and additional elective courses. Students also participate in a human rights colloquium and may engage in journal service too.
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BU Law offers 17 dual degree programs in collaboration with other graduate schools at Boston University and international universities. These programs allow students to earn two degrees in a shorter time than pursuing them separately. Options include combinations such as J.D./LL.M. in Banking & Financial Law, J.D./M.B.A. in Law & Management, J.D./M.P.H. in Law & Public Health, and J.D./M.A. in International Relations.
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Vermont Law offers several joint degree programs, combining a J.D. with various master’s or LL.M. degrees. These include the J.D./Master of Energy Regulation and Law, J.D./Master of Food and Agricultural Law and Policy, J.D./Master of Arts in Restorative Justice, J.D./Master of Animal Protection Policy, and J.D./LL.M. degrees in Energy Law, Environmental Law, Food and Agricultural Law, and Animal Law. Students can apply for these programs alongside their LL.M./J.D. application or within their first year.
