The Master of Laws (LLM) program at Cornell University provides an academically rigorous and globally oriented environment for students seeking to deepen their understanding of legal systems, comparative law, and advanced legal reasoning. The curriculum integrates international law, constitutional principles, regulatory policy, legal theory, and specialized elective areas, giving learners the opportunity to shape an academic pathway that aligns with their professional goals. With a strong emphasis on legal analysis, the program helps students refine critical thinking abilities, evaluate complex legal issues, and understand how domestic and international legal frameworks interact. This structure provides a solid foundation for navigating the diverse challenges of modern legal practice.
Throughout the one year program, students work closely with faculty who are leaders in fields such as international law, corporate governance, human rights, commercial law, and legal philosophy. Through seminars, case based discussion, research projects, and scholarly writing, learners strengthen their skills in jurisprudential evaluation, legal interpretation, and analytical reasoning. The academic environment encourages intellectual engagement and cross cultural collaboration, as students from different legal traditions exchange perspectives on global legal challenges. This combination of theoretical depth and applied study prepares graduates to contribute meaningfully to legal practice, policy efforts, and scholarly work in an increasingly interconnected world.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Law
- Degree Type: Master of Laws
- Duration: 1 year
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 15 December 2025
- Location: Cornell University, United States
- Field of Study: Master of Laws (LLM)
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1
• Foundations of Advanced Legal Studies
• International and Comparative Law
• Research Methods and Legal Writing
• Elective in Corporate Law, Human Rights, or Regulatory Policy
Semester 2
• Advanced Topics in Legal Theory or Global Law
• Applied Legal Research Project
• Elective in Commercial Law, Arbitration, or Constitutional Systems
• Elective in Technology Law, Governance, or Public Policy
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program pursue influential roles across legal practice, policy development, international organizations, and academia, frequently joining law firms, government agencies, international institutions, and corporate legal departments. Their preparation in advanced legal reasoning, comparative analysis, and specialized research enables them to contribute to legal advocacy, cross border advisory work, regulatory interpretation, negotiation, and scholarly inquiry. With interdisciplinary and globally aware legal skills, they support organizations working within complex regulatory landscapes and contribute to legal frameworks that address contemporary societal challenges.
Why Choose This Program
This program is an excellent choice for students seeking to refine their legal expertise within a globally engaged academic environment, offering opportunities to develop advanced legal insight and strong analytical capability supported by Cornell’s distinguished law faculty. Through research driven coursework, comparative study, and interactive learning, students gain the tools to interpret complex legal issues, navigate diverse legal systems, and contribute to high level legal practice and policy development. Its focused one year structure ensures rigorous academic formation and prepares graduates for impactful roles in international law, legal scholarship, and advanced legal practice.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 607 255 2000
Email: admissions@cornell.edu
Address: Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14850, United States
