About this course
LJMU's part-time Master of Laws LLM provides a broad liberal arts education in the law for students wishing to undertake a wide range of legal study options.
- Develop knowledge of business, corporate and finance law, global crime and security and criminal justice
- Examine key legal and justice issues in both a domestic and global context
- Learn from tutors who have extensive experience with a variety of backgrounds and research interests
- Pursue new areas of interest in-depth or deepen already acquired undergraduate understanding in a given area
- Provides opportunities to critically analyse key themes in law and criminal justice and global crime
- Generous funding scholarships available for home and overseas students
- Full-Time Study Option
This flexible LLM is suitable for students from experienced practitioners, graduates, career changers and overseas students wishing to broaden their legal knowledge.
The School of Law and Justice Studies has decades of experience providing postgraduate legal education. The LLM programmes are consistently highly rated by students and practitioners alike.
The aim of this programme is to create a positive learning environment for students in which to practice advanced scholarship and research and gain academic and intellectual progression, together with the acquisition of specific knowledge and skills.
The programme will give you the opportunity to critically analyse key themes in law and criminal justice and global crime and will challenge your thinking and stimulate your academic aspirations in these fields.
The Rice-Jones Trust Scholarship
The Rice-Jones Charitable Trust was set by an individual who wanted to benefit postgraduate law students studying in the North West of England. The individual's late husband and father were both lawyers, and this inspired her to help students who show academic promise and a commitment to the legal profession, but who may not necessarily have the financial support to undertake their studies.
The Rice-Jones Charitable Trust is registered at the Charity Commission with registration number 1171890. Click here for full details.
The deadline for Rice-Jones applications is 31 March 2025. Apply using this form, any queries please contact the email address in the form.
The Rice-Jones Charitable Trust Scholarship is available to applicants who have accepted a place to study on a postgraduate law course, including but not limited to the Graduate Diploma in Law, the Legal Practice Course, the Solicitors Qualifying Examination, the Bar Professional Training Course or the Master’s in law.
The amount offered and purpose for which the Scholarship award is offered is at the absolute discretion of The Rice-Jones Charitable Trust and may vary per individual. A successful applicant may be in receipt of a grant of up to £20,000.
Course modules
Discover the building blocks of your programme
This course is currently undergoing its scheduled programme review, which may impact the advertised modules. Programme review is a standard part of the University’s approach to quality assurance and enhancement, enabling us to ensure that our courses remain up to date and maintain their high standard and relevancy.
Once the review is completed, this course website page will be updated to reflect any approved changes to the advertised course. These approved changes will also be communicated to those who apply for the course to ensure they wish to proceed with their application.
Your programme is made up of a number of core modules which are part of the course framework. Some programmes also have optional modules that can be selected to enhance your learning in certain areas and many feature a dissertation, extended report or research project to demonstrate your advanced learning.
Further guidance on modules
Modules are designated core or optional in accordance with professional body requirements, as applicable, and LJMU’s Academic Framework Regulations. Whilst you are required to study core modules, optional modules provide you with an element of choice. Their availability may vary and will be subject to meeting minimum student numbers.
Where changes to modules are necessary these will be communicated as appropriate.
Core modules
Dissertation
60 credits
60 credits
This module will enable you to undertake a detailed study of a clearly defined legal or criminal justice topic, issue or problem. It aims to:
- increase knowledge of a selected subject area and develop a greater critical awareness
- present findings in an appropriate form
Advanced Legal Research Methods
20 credits
20 credits
This module introduces research methodologies available for conducting research in law and criminal justice. It aims to:
- facilitate development of Masters-level technical legal and criminal justice research
- encourage a Masters-level degree of independence and responsibility
- introduce key research methodologies for researching law and criminal justice
- develop the technical research requirements of a Masters dissertation
Optional modules
International Criminal Law
20 credits
20 credits
This module will:
- introduce you to the basic concepts, institutions and processes of international criminal law
- introduce you to current debates regarding the application of international criminal law
- provide you with an appreciation of contemporary issues of global concern relating to the prosecution of international crimes
Conflict and Warfare in International Law
20 credits
20 credits
This module aims to:
- consider current controversies in international law pertaining to the use of force between states
- provide you with an understanding of legal limitations on methods and means of armed conflict
- explore modern and emerging challenges to the law of armed conflict
The United Nations, International Security and Global Justice
20 credits
20 credits
The module aims to:
- introduce you to the work of the United Nations in the maintenance and restoration of international peace and security
- develop your understanding of the legal framework which governs the work of the UN in this area
Terrorism and Organised Crime
20 credits
20 credits
The module aims to:
- introduce you to the basic concepts, institutions and processes of international law
- build knowledge in the themes of crime, justice and security within a global legal context
- provide you with an appreciation of selected contemporary issues of global concern in the context of conceptual themes of crime, justice and security
International Human Rights Law
20 credits
20 credits
Introduces students to the basic conceptual, institutional and substantive elements of international human rights law, current debates regarding the interpretation and application of international human rights law.
The module will provide students with critical appreciation of contemporary issues of global and regional concern relating to the interpretation and application of international human rights law.
Healthcare, artificial intelligence and the law
20 credits
20 credits
Artificial intelligence is creating new challenges and opportunities when it comes to medicine and healthcare. This module aims to introduce you to the basic concepts, institutions and processes of health law and ethics. You will build knowledge in the themes of AI regulation and healthcare within a global legal context, and you will have the opportunity to critically engage with the medico-legal issues arising from the use of AI in this field.
International Trade and Finance Law
20 credits
20 credits
This module allows you to critically analyse contemporary legal issues regarding international trade.
International Corporate Governance
20 credits
20 credits
This module seeks to introduce you to the intellectual and practical background of corporate governance in the UK and beyond. It aims to:
- provide an awareness and understanding of corporate governance through the critical examination of appropriate theoretical perspectives, models and practices
- examine critically the intellectual, practical and theoretical background to the concept of corporate governance in the UK and other international jurisdictions
- gain an understanding of the legal nature of corporations, their operations and global corporate governance failures and the reasons for such failures
- demonstrate legal and extra-legal solutions to perceived problems with past and present corporate governance regimes
- critically examine proposed future developments in and monitoring of corporate governance
International Financial Crime
20 credits
20 credits
The module allows you to undertake an analysis of the law as it relates to a range of contemporary issues in financial crime. It aims to provide knowledge and understanding:
- of the impact of a range of financial crimes
- plus analysis of attempts to curb financial crime and its impact
International Dispute Resolution
20 credits
20 credits
This module provides a detailed understanding and analysis of the various laws, regulations and systems applicable to the dispute resolution process. It aims to:
- provide a detailed understanding and analysis of the various laws, regulations and systems applicable to the dispute resolution process
- identify potential risk areas of conflict and develop effective processes, procedures and strategies to limit exposure to disputes arising notably within business, corporate or commercial situations
- increase the ability to create and implement action, highlight practices and manage disputes in both a national and international environment
Military AI and International Law
20 credits
20 credits
This module examines the legal and ethical implications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the military domain. It explores how military AI, including autonomous weapon systems, challenges and interacts with key areas of international law, such as jus ad bellum, the law of armed conflict, human rights law, state responsibility, and global governance efforts.
International Labour Law
20 credits
20 credits
This module aims to:
- review the global nature of international labour regimes and the regulatory mechanism
- investigate the link between international labour law; corporate governance and international trade
- describe each of the rights encompassed by the term international labour and to consider the main legal elements pertinent to each right
- review the operation of international labour regimes through specific industries
- place your study within the broader setting of economic policy and commercial application
- consider the importance of the law, policies and strategies regarding equality
International Maritime Law
20 credits
20 credits
This module aims to:
- introduce the basics of International Maritime Law
- develops a critical understanding of commercial maritime issues and adequacy of the published material in maritime law
- help students consider the adequacy of the current legal structure of the modern maritime contract
- facilitate critical assessment of contemporary issues surrounding the commercial vessel in law
International Corporate Finance Law
20 credits
20 credits
As a business vehicle, the limited company is widely used. One of the reasons for its popularity is its ability to successfully raise business finance and diversify financial risk. All companies need to raise money to function successfully. And it is these issues of money which are the gravamen of international corporate finance law. An understanding of the ways in which companies can raise money, and the manner in which their money-raising activities are regulated, is central to an understanding of how companies function. Students taking this module have the opportunity to participate in wide-ranging but analytically precise discussions of international corporate finance law.
International Investment Law
20 credits
20 credits
This module aims to introduce students to the core substantive, institutional and conceptual foundations of Foreign Investment Law, as well as the broader economic, political and social implications of international investment Law. It also aims to provide a critical appreciation of the competing interests within the sphere of Investment Law and an introduction to the contemporary issues and debates within Investment Law.
International Mergers and Acquisitions Law
20 credits
20 credits
The impact of mergers and acquisition activities affects every corporate constituent, namely shareholders of target and acquiring companies, employees, creditors, directors and managers. In addition, it has an impact on the community, suppliers and national economy.
This module exposes students to the role of acquisitions in promoting corporate value, and looks at how the interests of different stakeholders and national economic development can be affected by acquisitions. Importantly, students benefit from an understanding of how legal regulations can promote mergers and acquisitions activities without stifling market functions relative to the role of managers who pursue acquisitions as investment decisions in business entities.
Introduction to Artificial Intelligence and the Law
20 credits
20 credits
This module will introduce students to AI as a technology, and the legal and ethical implications that arise from its use in a variety of settings. This module will serve as a foundation for the other AI based law modules the students can study throughout their masters programme. This module will enable students to interact with a variety of AI technologies in class and in their own private study time. Students will for example learn how to properly prompt an AI in order to get it to produce a desirable outcome, and equally they will learn how to use AI responsibly and reasonably. Students will also train their own AI model, which will allow them to understand more clearly where biases in data sets might arise and become exacerbated by AI. These skills are becoming increasingly required by prospective employers, particularly in the legal profession, so this module will equip students with skills that will improve their employability. Students will also benefit from a diverse reading list on this module, which includes scholarship from around the globe, presenting the students with the opportunity to engage with diverse literature across the subject. Students will engage in discussion regarding the ethics of AI including the persisting issue of bias and discrimination, the diverse reading list is especially beneficial here.
Regulation of Financial Technology and Artificial Intelligence
20 credits
20 credits
The module will provide an overview of the FIntech Industry from a legal angle.
Public International Law
20 credits
20 credits
The module provides students with a sound knowledge and understanding of the basic principles and concepts of public international law. It begins by exploring the nature, purpose, and scope of international law and its distinction from domestic legal systems. Students will examine the sources of international law, such as treaties, custom, and general principles, as well as the legal status of key actors including states, international organizations, and individuals. The module then considers state jurisdiction over territory—covering land, oceans, outer space, and polar regions—and the extent of state control over people and actions. Key areas such as human rights, international criminal law, and international humanitarian law are introduced, allowing students to engage with legal responses to global challenges including conflict, repression, and core international crimes. Finally, the module addresses enforcement and remedies for violations of international law, concluding with a reflection and review to consolidate learning and critical engagement.
Your Learning Experience
An insight into teaching on your course
Study hours
Due to the wide range of option modules available, the timetable is flexible and so study hours will vary depending on the modules you decide to study. As with any Masters level programme, there is an expectation that you manage your own study time effectively to meet the demands of the curriculum.
Teaching methods
The programme's blended learning techniques include interactive, self-directed and independent learning, lecturer-produced course documents, collaboration and cohort learning through online forums or group working.
Teaching is usually delivered via seminars and workshops in the new Redmonds Building, and you will need to undertake some preliminary reading to prepare for and take part in group discussions. You will be able to access all University resources including LJMU's extensive print and online library resources.
Applied learning
This stand-alone qualification enables you to advance your career prospects through the acquisition of vocationally relevant knowledge and skills.
How learning is monitored on your programme
To cater for the wide-ranging content of our courses and the varied learning preferences of our students, we offer a range of assessment methods on each programme.
Technology plays a crucial role in assessment on the LLM course. Modules use online feedback alongside face-to-face assessments.
Where you will study
The School of Law and Justice Studies is based in Redmonds and John Foster Building, in the heart of the bustling Mount Pleasant Campus and Liverpool's growing Knowledge Quarter. Redmonds Building is shared by Liverpool School of Art and Creative Industries and Liverpool Business School making for a rich blend of student learning experiences. The building is home to high quality lecture theatres and seminar rooms, a mock courtroom, social spaces, and a café. It is only a short walk from LJMU's Mount Pleasant Campus Library, which contains all the resources you will require for your studies.
Postgraduate research opportunities
At LJMU, you can take the next step in your academic journey with a PhD or MPhil, available on a full-time or part-time basis. International students also have the option to study remotely.
- PhD duration: Up to 4 years full-time, or up to 7 years part-time
- Funding options: Choose between funded projects (with supervisors already in place) or self-funded study
Our Doctoral Academy is here to support you every step of the way—from your first enquiry through to successful completion—working closely with Schools, Faculties, and Professional Services.
For more details on postgraduate research and full details on how to apply, visit the Doctoral Academy website.
Career paths
Further your career prospects
LJMU has an excellent employability record with 94% (HESA 2022) of our postgraduates in work or further study fifteen months after graduation. Our applied learning techniques and strong industry connections ensure our students are fully prepared for the workplace on graduation and understand how to apply their knowledge in a real world context.
The LLM is designed for people with a more general interest in law and criminal justice who wish to develop their careers outside of the traditional boundaries of specialist law.
Tuition fees and funding
- Part-time per year:
- £4,385
Fees
The fees quoted above cover registration, tuition, supervision, assessment and examinations as well as library membership and student IT support with access to printed, multimedia and digital resources including programme-appropriate software and on campus wifi.
Financial Support
There are many ways to fund postgraduate study for home and international students. From loans to International Scholarships and subject-specific funding, you’ll find all of the information you need on our specialist postgraduate funding pages. The University offers a range of financial support for students. You'll find all the information you need on our specialist financial support pages including details of the Student Support Fund and other activities to support with the cost of living.
Additional Costs
In addition to fees, students should also keep in mind the cost of:
- Accommodation
- Travel costs and field trips unless paid for by LJMU
- Stationery, IT equipment, professional body membership and graduation gown hire
Entry requirements
You will need:
Qualification requirements
Undergraduate degree
- a minimum 2:2 in a subject such as Law, Criminal Justice, Politics, Finance, Banking or Accounting
or
- an equivalent professional qualification
Further information
-
Extra Requirements
- Although most applicants will not be interviewed, we reserve the right to interview an applicant in exceptional circumstances where necessary to obtain further information to evaluate an application
-
RPL
- RPL is accepted on this programme
International requirements
IELTS
- IELTS 6.0 (minimum 5.5 in each component)
Other international requirements
Please note: All international qualifications are subject to a qualification equivalency check via ECCTIS.
View country specific entry requirements
Contact LJMU's International Admissions Team for guidance on visa information. Further information is also available from our international web pages.
Further information
-
Extra Requirements
- Although most applicants will not be interviewed, we reserve the right to interview an applicant in exceptional circumstances where necessary to obtain further information to evaluate an application
-
RPL
- RPL is accepted on this programme
Please Note: All international qualifications are subject to a qualification equivalency check.
How to apply
Securing your place at LJMU
To apply for this programme, you are required to complete an LJMU online application form. You will need to provide details of previous qualifications and a personal statement outlining why you wish to study this programme.
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The University reserves the right to withdraw or make alterations to a course and facilities if necessary; this may be because such changes are deemed to be beneficial to students, are minor in nature and unlikely to impact negatively upon students or become necessary due to circumstances beyond the control of the University. Where this does happen, the University operates a policy of consultation, advice and support to all enrolled students affected by the proposed change to their course or module.
