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American Legal Studies, LLM

Gain the ability to sit for bar exams in many U.S. states by pursuing an LLM Degree in American Legal Studies.

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About this Program

Flexible Program for Foreign-Trained Lawyers to Sit for Washington, California Bar Exam

The Master of Laws (LLM) in American Legal Studies is designed as a general overview of the legal system in the United States.

The program is intended for foreign-trained lawyers to become eligible to sit for the bar exam in several states including Washington and California.

With part-time options and evening classes, you can choose the schedule that is best for you:

  • 24 credits
  • Fall semester start
  • Full-time (9-12 months) or part-time (18-24 months)
  • Evening classes for working professionals

In-Person Classes, Online Options

Classes are mostly taught in-person with some online options.

Several state bar associations will not allow an applicant to qualify to sit for the bar exam if the applicant took online classes. Our staff can help you review requirements for the exam you plan to take.

Prepare for the Bar Exam

Seattle University School of Law is committed to providing LLM students with individualized counseling and support in preparation for the Uniform Bar Exam. Our Bar Studies program provides the foundation you need to approach the bar exam with confidence.

Our staff will work with you to determine bar eligibility and design a customized course of study for the bar exam.

The law school also offers a free, two-month Supplemental Bar Exam course twice each year to LLM students and recent graduates to assist you in your bar exam preparation.

American Legal Studies, LLM, at a Glance

Learn how a LLM degree will contribute to your career goals. Then, explore course requirements and see how impactful a Seattle University law degree can be.

The degree program requires a minimum of 24 credits. Students may choose to make more than 24 credits in order to be eligible to sit for a bar examination in a particular state.

The LLM in American Legal Studies can qualify you to take the bar examination in several U.S. states, including New York, California and Washington.

All LLM students in this program will be required to take:

  • Introduction to the American Legal System
  • Legal Research & Writing
  • Bar Exam Strategies and Skills
  • Constitutional Law
  • Civil Procedure
  • Professional Responsibility

Students may choose the remaining credits from the first-year curriculum and other electives courses in consultation with the Director of International and Graduate Studies.

Explore courses available by area of specialization.

Students who graduate complete the LLM degree:

  • Develop a robust understanding of the American legal system,
  • Seek eligibility for a bar examination to practice law in the United States, and
  • Gain valuable, legal work experience in relevant areas of law.

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Prepared for Success

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Top-Notch Clinical Training Program

We offer an unparalleled experiential training program. From your first day, you'll learn to apply your classroom learning in situations helping real clients with real legal problems.

Professor Paula Enguidanos working with a law student

Renowned Legal Writing Program

Our top-ranked Legal Writing Program will give you the tools to become a highly effective legal writer who can get results for your future clients.

Legal Writing Program
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Global and Welcoming Community

Earn your degree at one of the nation's most diverse law schools, marked by an inclusive and international community that is welcoming to all.

Student Life

OPT and Work Experience

Students interested in obtaining work experience during their LLM program may apply to do so with the appropriate approvals as required by the Externship office, the International Student Center (if applicable) and/or the Center for Professional Development.

International students on an F-1 visa can make appointments with the Center for Professional Development and the International Student Center to discuss post-graduate employment opportunities and Optional Practical Training (OPT).

Featured Faculty

  • Sital Kalantry
    Sital Kalantry

    Associate Dean
    Executive Director
    RoundGlass India Center

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Get in Touch

We’re here to help. For information about Master of Laws (LLM) degrees at Seattle University, contact:

Seattle University School of Law

901 12th Avenue, Sullivan Hall 457