USF offers two Master of Law (LLM) programs that make it possible for students who have already earned a law degree to expand their professional expertise and qualifications.
Students in the LLM in International Transactions and Comparative Law program, offered exclusively to foreign lawyers, may choose to focus on international commercial and business transactions law or on an in-depth study of a particular area of U.S. law. The LLM in Intellectual Property and Technology Law, which is open to foreign and U.S. candidates with law degrees, focuses on American and international law in the intellectual property field.
Combined enrollment for both programs is limited to approximately 30 students each year to ensure a high degree of individual attention. In the LLM Mentor Program, all international students benefit from individual counseling with a faculty member and one-on-one mentor relationships with USF alumni who are practicing attorneys or judges. Students attend hearings, depositions, and other legal proceedings with mentors, as well as social events.
Both LLM degree programs require completion of 25 units (with a maximum of 30 units) and can be completed in two full-time semesters (August through May). A part-time option is available with approval from the program director. With only one exception, LLM students and JD students enroll in the same courses. The exception is the American Legal System courses, which are offered exclusively to foreign LLM students.
Graduates of the LLM programs may be eligible to take the bar examination in California and other states. Requirements vary by state and include factors such as membership in another bar and courses taken.