Law - LLM

The LLM (Master of Laws) is a programme offered by DCU's School of Law and Government. It takes one year if you study full-time and two years if you study part-time. We welcome applicants from Ireland, the EU, and other parts of the world who want to learn more about law in its broader social, political, and global contexts.



The LLM programme goes beyond traditional legal studies and uses a socio-legal approach with a focus on Europe and the world.



With the General LLM, you can choose from a variety of courses in different areas of law. You can see more details about the programme structure and course options in the section below.



Programme Structure

The LLM (Master of Laws) programme at DCU can be completed in one year if you study full-time or two years if you study part-time. For the most part, you will be on campus for scheduled classes two or three days a week during each semester. This amounts to 12 weeks before and 12 weeks after the Christmas break.



During the week, many students spend time on campus working on assignments and participating in research seminars in the School. To finish the programme, you will need to write a research dissertation, which is done during the summer.



You'll have regular meetings with a supervisor to help you with your dissertation, and there are also some group initiatives. Some students may choose to work off-campus during the summer.

For admission to the LLM programme, successful applicants will have:



• Normally have achieved a Second Class Honours Grade One (H2.1) in a primary degree (level 8) in law or an interdisciplinary degree which includes law as a significant component.



• Applicants who have not achieved a H2.1 may apply but applications will be assessed on a competitive basis.



• If an applicant has not yet completed their degree, then a conditional offer may be made on the basis of most recent grades and pending the achievement of no less than a H2.1 degree. The applicants eventually achieve H2.2 or below will be considered on a competitive basis.



• Applicants with appropriate combinations of professional qualifications and experience may also be considered. This includes discipline-specific knowledge and know-how; transferable skills; basic research competency; personal effectiveness.



• Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) applicants are required to submit a cover letter along with their application under the Transcripts section of the portal, affirming their intent to apply for RPL. For more information on RPL see here.



• International candidates who are non-native speakers of English must satisfy the University of their competency in the English language.

DC662: 1 year full-time

DC661: 2 years part-time

Careers

Our alumni have successfully built careers in various fields, including the legal profession, academia, and research. Many have pursued funded PhD programs and secured research positions. Additionally, our graduates have found opportunities in NGOs, advocacy, civil service, and public administration.



The LLM programme's strong international focus is ideal for individuals looking to enter or advance in careers within international and European institutions.



The programme is tailored to equip graduates with exceptional problem-solving skills and the confidence to advocate effectively. As a result, it prepares them for roles as in-house lawyers within companies and organisations, as well as higher-level positions within the civil service.