What is the difference between LLM and MSc in law?

LLM and an MSc in law – what are the differences and similarities?

An LLM is a Master of Laws and it is usually taken by students who have already completed an LLB and would like to find out more about a particular area of Law. In fact, some institutions explicitly state that having an undergraduate law degree is a prerequisite for enrolment.

During your studies you will build upon the basic skills that you have obtained on your LLB and refine them further.

An LLM is more academically focused, with the curriculum placing emphasis on teaching theories that concern the areas of law covered on the course. At the time of writing, 112 universities offer LLM courses in the UK, with each programme taking around a year to complete.

On the other hand, an MSc in Law is not a Master of Laws, but a Master of Science. An MSc in Law is more practical than an LLM. As it looks at the more practical sides of the area of law that the degree focuses on, students have the opportunity to get involved with quantitative analysis and a variety of technical methods. Thus, an MSc in law is ideal for students who also have an interest in the sciences and engineering.

Due to the practical nature of the programme, an MSc in law is much more research-based than an LLM, which is an important factor to consider when you are trying to decide which course is the right one for you.

The two types of postgraduate qualifications also approach law from different angles. Whilst an LLM hones in on a particular subject field, an MSc in law provides a more holistic view of the legal system.

To put it simply, the MSc course will primarily aim to examine the legal system from a business perspective rather than a legal one. This will play a key role in helping you pick from the two options as it will be determined by how you would want to shape your career after obtaining your degree.

In order to qualify as a solicitor via the Legal Practice Course (LPC), you need to have a qualifying law degree. Neither the LLM nor the MSc in law are qualifying law degrees, meaning it is still recommended to complete a law conversion course such as Postgraduate Diploma in Law (PGDL) if you haven’t already obtained an LLB or equivalent.

Which one is the right one for me?

As we have hinted at earlier, whether you choose to do an LLM or an MSc in law will really depend on what you want to do after your studies.

Both degrees are useful in helping you establish your career in law. However, an LLM will streamline you more towards a career as a solicitor. You will become a specialist in a particular legal area, allowing you to stand out from the crowd when you are applying for training contracts or qualifying work experience.

As an LLM is more theory-based, it may also be better to take if you are seriously considering the possibility of doing a PhD and having a career in academia.

As an MSc in Law discusses topics from the business perspective and provides you an overarching view of the legal system, it puts you in a good position to apply for roles in corporate and commercial firms after gaining your qualification, as they also need people who have studied law but did not necessarily qualify as a solicitor.

Whilst both postgraduate courses have their merits, the one you pick will be determined on where you see yourself in the legal industry after finishing your education.