LLM in International Legal Studies

The LLM in International Law program offers in-depth coverage of specialized areas of international and comparative law. The program explores the interaction among the legal, cultural, sociological, and business activities of the various regions of the world.

Program Highlights

Golden Gate University School of Law (GGU Law) offers a wide array of courses in public and private international law, comparative legal systems, international economic law, international investment law, international organizations, international human rights law, and dispute resolution.

The LLM in International Legal Studies program is both academic and practical. At its core, the LLM program provides students with knowledge of the fundamental principles of international law and the current rules that govern their application. The curriculum reaches beyond rules, however, to examine the effects of various cultural practices and national policies on international trade, human rights, and the environment. In addition, courses trace the development of international and regional organizations and treaties that govern multinational issues. Students are exposed to practical applications of negotiating skills and to different methods of international dispute settlement.

Every April, GGU Law hosts the Annual Fulbright Symposium on Current International Legal Issues concurrently with the Regional Meeting of the American Society of International Law.

Application Requirements

All applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible during the admission cycle. To receive consideration by the Admissions Committee, applicants must submit their applications by the posted deadline. Applications may be accepted after the posted deadline and are reviewed on a space-available basis.

A complete LLM program application consists of the following:

• Completed and signed Application Form;
• Personal Statement;
• Resume or Curriculum Vitae (C.V.);
• Character and Fitness Addendum (if applicable);
• Letters of Recommendation;
• Law School Transcripts (translated if not in English);
• Interview (if applicable); and
• Non-US applicants must submit additional documents, including English proficiency demonstrated with either the TOEFL, IELTS, interview with Program Director, or waived for the exceptions.

Innovation is Our Tradition

Located in the heart of San Francisco, GGU Law offers a cutting-edge and personalized learning experience for the lawyers of tomorrow. For over a century, GGU Law has offered a diverse, inclusive, and supportive environment that is committed to giving students the individualized attention and real-world knowledge that they need to succeed!

Who We Are

Golden Gate University School of Law is an award-winning, ABA-accredited law school with a prime location in the heart of San Francisco. GGU Law offers an innovative and personalized learning experience that produces a diverse group of graduates with the skill, judgment, and knowledge to become exceptional lawyers for today’s truly global market. Our location in downtown San Francisco puts students steps away from the global hub of the legal, business, and technology industries. With direct access to courts, law firms, advocacy organizations, government agencies, and rapidly expanding tech companies, GGU Law puts our students in the center of the action with career opportunities at every turn.

Now is a great time to become a lawyer. There is an increased need for innovative leaders to help us through the challenging times in our country and the fast-paced changes in technology and our economy. There is no better place to prepare students to be a lawyer and leader in their community, country, and the world than GGU Law.

Diversity

GGU Law has a legacy of inclusion, expanding access, and breaking barriers. Recognized as one of the most diverse law schools in the nation, GGU Law knows that diversity is our strength. We believe that training future lawyers and leaders of diverse backgrounds and experiences creates a stronger, more inclusive justice system. GGU Law is proud to be a leader in expanding access to legal education, helping to promote equity within the profession, and diversifying the legal community.

The City is Your Campus

San Francisco has long been the heart of the culture of innovation and social justice. The city’s incredible diversity and rich blend of cultures from around the world prepare students for today’s truly global market. Our campus is also surrounded by easy access to public transportation, giving students easy access to commute or even just explore this exciting city and its beautiful surrounding region.

Located near thousands of potential employers, GGU Law students are afforded unique opportunities to engage in pro bono work, internships, externships, and other hands-on legal work under the supervision of practicing lawyers and the guidance of experienced professors. The biggest tech companies in the industry – Google, Facebook, LinkedIn, Salesforce, and many more – surround our campus, giving our students unparalleled access to the ever-expanding tech industry and an unbeatable edge as they begin their legal career. San Francisco has always been at the forefront of change, and GGU Law has been there every step of the way!

Interim Dean's Welcome

As a first-generation college and law school graduate, I was drawn to GGU Law because of its dedication to expanding access to and diversifying the legal profession, something we have been doing for more than a century. We do this by providing a warm, diverse, and engaging community where students are driven to make changes in our community, country, and world.

As Dean, I am committed to helping each student succeed in law school and as lawyers. In fact, I meet individually with each new student to learn about their reasons for going to law school and how I can support them. You will also find this personal touch with every GGU faculty and staff member you meet. I am confident that you won’t find this same personalized and supportive environment at many other places.

I hope you will join me and the entire GGU Law family in San Francisco where we are always committed to the success of our students in law school, on the bar exam, and in the legal profession.

Sincerely,

Eric Christiansen Interim Dean & Professor of Law

History & Philosophy

Golden Gate University School of Law believes lawyering is an honorable profession, worthy of public trust. Toward that end, we provide students with a solid foundation in legal theory and the skills necessary to be a successful practitioner.

Professional Skills Development

JD students develop professional skills through a variety of programs including clinics, certificates of specialization, the Honors Lawyering Program, joint degrees, and more.

Faculty

GGU students are taught by an accomplished and diverse faculty, who practiced law before teaching and are experts in a wide range of legal areas.

Public Interest Law

GGU Law has a special commitment to public interest law, offering a strong public interest law curriculum, financial assistance to students who pursue careers in the field.

Accreditation

Golden Gate University School of Law is fully accredited by the Council of the Section of Legal Education and Admissions to the Bar of the American Bar Association (ABA), the Committee of Bar Examiners of the State of California, and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). GGU Law is also a member in good standing of the Association of American Law Schools (AALS). GGU Graduates qualify to take the bar exam in all 50 states and in the District of Columbia.