Is it better to have JD or LLM?
Asked by: Stewart Considine | Last update: June 13, 2025Score: 4.3/5 (18 votes)
While a JD program provides the foundational knowledge you need to practice law, an LLM allows you to specialize in your specific area of interest and distinguish yourself in the legal market. Since an LLM allows you to dig deeper into specialized subject matter, it can also open up more job opportunities.
Is LLM better than JD?
The purpose of a JD is to prepare someone to practice law, while the mission of an LLM is to provide advanced training. An LLM program focuses on more theoretical concerns than a JD program. An LLM can help attorneys attract clients in fields where the credential is highly valued.
Do you need a JD before getting an LLM?
If you're an American or Canadian student, to pursue an LLM, you'll need to already have a JD degree. International students who want to pursue an LLM are required to have earned a first professional degree in law, such as a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) or an equivalent credential that permits entry into legal practice.
Is juris Master the same as LLM?
A J.M. is solely for students approaching the study of law for the first time, whereas an LL. M. program may accept both law and non-law graduates. A J.M. program begins with an introduction to law, but students are often given a range of electives where they may attend classes with students from other law programs.
Is an LLM degree worth it?
If your interest in LLMs aligns with industry trends and your existing skills, it's likely a worthwhile investment. If you're seeking immediate, proven business outcomes, other areas might offer more concrete returns in the short term. It's all about balancing your personal interest with business relevance.
What Is the Difference Between a JD Degree, LLM Degree, and Master of Legal Studies?
Does having an LLM make you a lawyer?
An LLM will provide you with advanced training in law, but it doesn't qualify you as a licensed lawyer. A JD prepares you for legal practice by teaching you everything you need to pass the bar exam and be an effective lawyer. An LLM is more theoretical than a J.D.
Which LLM is most in demand?
- Master of laws in Administrative Law Studies.
- Master of laws in National Law Studies.
- Master of laws in Economic Law Studies.
- Master of laws in Jurisprudence.
- Master of laws in Human Rights Law Studies.
- Master of laws in Dispute Resolution Studies.
Can you be a lawyer with a juris master?
While the degree won't allow someone to practice law, it will expand their legal knowledge and an expertise in their chosen field. As a relatively new offering in the market, you probably have questions about the degree—what it is, who it's for, and how you can apply it in your career.
Is LLM a terminal degree?
An LL. M. is known as a terminal degree, which means that it is the highest level or most advanced degree in the study of law.
Does a JD make you a doctor of law?
A Juris Doctor degree is technically a professional doctorate. But unlike other Ph. D. holders, lawyers don't hold the title of "Doctor." Instead, they can choose to use the title "esquire," which is shortened to "Esq." and is fashioned after the lawyer's name.
How much does an LLM cost in the US?
On average, the LLM fees in the USA range between 66,924 USD and 75,572 USD yearly. The cost of living can go up to 30,000 USD per month. You must also consider the pre-arrival expenses, which include the application fee, visa fee, SEVIS fee, etc.
Do I need LSAT for LLM?
LLM applicants are lucky not to have to take this test as it is a challenging exam that requires great preparation. Many students take the LSAT twice or even three times in an attempt to improve their score. Most LLM applicants will have to take the TOEFL test, which tests reading, writing, and comprehension.
Can you be a lawyer without a JD?
In four states, you can still take this non-law-school route to becoming a lawyer. Vermont, Washington, California, and Virginia all allow people to become lawyers by “reading the law,” which, simply put, means studying and apprenticing in the office of a practicing attorney or judge.
Can I get an LLM without a JD?
Technically, you can pursue an LLM degree without ever earning your JD. That's only possible, however, if you're an international student who studied law outside of the U.S. “You have to have what we call a first law degree. In the U.S., your basic first law degree is the JD, so you do need it to get your LLM.
How hard is LLM?
LLM programmes may sometimes seem tough due to their study environment. Strong time management skills are required for LLM completion. The course emphasises legal analysis and problem-solving, which requires sophisticated legal terminology.
What is higher than a juris doctor?
Doctor of Juridical Science (SJD)
A Doctor of Juridical Science degree is considered the highest level of a law degree and is designed for professionals who are looking to gain an advanced legal education after earning their JD and LLM.
Are LLM degrees useful?
The LLM can help you get your foot in the door at a law firm, corporate legal department or government agency. If you have decided to shift your professional focus, this degree may lay the groundwork for new opportunities by helping you expand your knowledge into a different area of law.
What is an LLM equivalent to?
LLM (often written as LL. M.) stands for Legum Magister, which is Latin for Master of Laws. An LLM is a one year degree program which you can pursue after receiving a JD (or international equivalent).
How long does an LLM last?
The Master of Laws (LL. M.) degree is an advanced, one-year graduate program in which students have the flexibility to enroll in one of several distinct specializations or customize their studies in pursuit of their unique professional goals. Designed for those who already hold a J.D. or equivalent law degree, the LL.
What is a juris master degree salary?
The average salary is $119,188 a year $106,000 - $119,499. 14% of jobs. $119,500 - $132,499. 14% of jobs. $139,000 is the 75th percentile.
Can you get an LLM after a JD?
For those who obtain a JD in the United States or an equivalent law degree in another country, a Master of Laws (LLM) provides a path to career advancement and possible specialization in a particular field of law.
What is the difference between LLM and JD?
A JD course focuses on teaching what the law is and how to apply it, whereas an LLM program usually concentrates heavily on legal theory.An LLM program requires you to not only demonstrate an understanding of the U.S. legal system but also to show that you know how the U.S. legal system could change.
Is an LLM prestigious?
Holding an LLM from a top university could significantly lift your earning potential as well as your chances of getting that fabulous promotion or job offer from a top firm once you are more settled.
What is the highest salary in LLM?
Employees who know Llm earn an average of ₹37.4lakhs, mostly ranging from ₹22.6lakhs per year to ₹218.4lakhs per year based on 42 profiles. The top 10% of employees earn more than ₹49.0lakhs per year.