The demand for people with LL.M.s in Business Law are on the rise: Global companies are navigating geopolitical and financial tumult, so the demand for lawyers who understand business law is on the up. But with ever more savvy clients demanding more service for their money, competition for work is also heating up.
A formal qualification—be it an LL.M. or another type of degree—in business law can help you stand apart from the pack. ‘Business law’ includes a broad range of topics, including but not limited to contracts, securities, finance, intellectual property and employment law.
A number of top law schools around the world – mostly in the US but in Europe and Asia Pacific too – offer such programs, either as entire LL.M.s or as certificate programs within their generalist LL.M. courses.
Here are the top 10 law schools for business law.
The prestigious NYU School of Law does not have a specific LL.M. in Business Law, but its reputation in this area is exceptionally strong. Renowned for its comprehensive range of business offerings in legal education, NYU boasts robust programs in corporate law and specialized courses tailored for aspiring business leaders. Situated in the heart of the world's financial center, the school benefits from its proximity to Wall Street and the vibrant business community of New York City. NYU's stellar reputation is further underscored by its high ranking in the US News ranking for best business law programs, solidifying its position as a top choice for individuals seeking to advance their careers in the intersection of law and business.
View School ProfileOffered in corporation with the globally-ranked WHU - Otto Beisheim School of Management, Bucerius’ Master of Law and Business focuses entirely on the creation and development of a business. This means that students see the legal and business implications involved in an enterprise, from the ground up. Students can choose one of two degrees: an LL.M. or a Master of Law and Business (MLB).
View School ProfileLSE’s London location means that students can see, first-hand, the intersection between business and law. Taking advantage of this prime location, the school offers an LL.M. in International Business Law, which explores topics in competition law, corporate governance, international tax systems, and other areas. The program leverages insights from LSE’s many research centers, like the Centre for Risk and Regulation, the European Institute and the Suntory and Toyota International Centre for Economics and Related Disciplines.
View School ProfileColumbia Law School, consistently ranked near the top of the US News best business law ranking, also benefits from being based in the Big Apple, close to Wall Street and the myriad technology, media, and fashion companies in the city. Columbia strives to prepare LL.M. students for business leadership roles in academia, the judiciary, business and corporate practice, public service, and human rights advocacy. The curriculum can be customized to facilitate a wide range of business law studies, allowing students to tailor their educational experience to align with their career aspirations. Renowned faculty members bring a wealth of expertise and practical insights to the classroom, enriching the academic experience. With its strategic location and commitment to academic excellence, Columbia Law School offers a unique opportunity for LL.M. students to immerse themselves in the vibrant legal and business landscape of New York City while pursuing their professional goals.
View School ProfileGeorgetown Law, ranked near the top of the US News ranking, also has a strong reputation for business law. Situated in the heart of Washington, D.C., students at Georgetown Law's LL.M. program benefit from proximity to government agencies, international organizations, and a diverse array of industries. The program offers courses designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of how law shapes trade, finance, and markets, preparing them for diverse career paths in business law. Additionally, students have the opportunity to earn certificates in international arbitration and dispute resolution, as well as world trade organizations studies, further enhancing their expertise in specialized areas of business law. With its strategic location, renowned faculty, and commitment to academic excellence, Georgetown Law offers a dynamic and enriching environment for LL.M. students seeking to excel in the field of business law.
View School ProfileLL.M. students at Berkeley Law have the opportunity to earn a business law certificate, providing them with a specialized credential that sets them apart in the legal profession. This certificate equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue careers in professional practice, serving as legal advisors to businesses, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and government entities. Moreover, Berkeley Law offers a comprehensive LL.M. syllabus that includes additional units categorized as business law. These courses cover a wide range of topics relevant to the intersection of law and business, providing students with a well-rounded understanding of key principles and practices in the field. With its innovative approach to legal education and commitment to addressing real-world challenges, Berkeley Law offers a dynamic and enriching environment for LL.M. students seeking to make a meaningful impact in the realm of business law.
The school is ranked in the US News Business Law ranking and is home to the Berkeley Center for Law and Business, which leverages the power of business to help solve society's biggest challenges.
View School ProfileUCLA School of Law offers a specialized LL.M. program in Business Law, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of key areas such as Taxation, Real Estate Finance, Securities Regulation, Antitrust Law, and more. As a testament to its excellence, UCLA Law generally ranks in the top 15 of the US News best business law programs. The school is also home to the Lowell Milken Institute for Business Law and Policy, a renowned center of excellence that organizes events and covers topics in entrepreneurship, negotiation, executive communications, and transactional law. Through the institute's initiatives, students have the opportunity to engage with leading scholars, practitioners, and industry experts, gaining valuable insights and networking opportunities in the field of business law.
View School ProfileCanada’s University of Toronto Faculty of Law runs a highly rated LL.M. with a concentration in business law. Students learn about how law and regulation impacts business in Canada and globally. The University is home to the Capital Markets Institute, where a large faculty body gives students good access to tutelage. Additionally, the University of Toronto Faculty of Law offers a part-time LL.M. program in International Business Law, catering to the needs of working professionals seeking to enhance their expertise in this specialized field.
View School ProfileStanford Law School offers an LL.M. program in International Economic Law, Business & Policy, tailored for foreign international business lawyers, government policymakers, and academics. The program covers a broad spectrum of topics including international trade, dispute resolution, business transactions, investment law, environmental regulations, and intellectual property rights. Stanford Law School consistently ranks at the top of the US News ranking for best business law programs, reflecting its commitment to academic rigor and innovation. Located in Silicon Valley, students benefit from proximity to a vibrant economic and technological ecosystem. The program provides a unique opportunity for participants to deepen their expertise and network with peers and professionals from around the world.
View School ProfileNational University Singapore (NUS) Faculty of Law offers an LL.M. in International Business Law taught jointly with East China University of Political Science and Law. The course is taught in English in Singapore and in Shanghai.
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