One of the first truly international programs, the LL.M. program in International Legal Studies is ranked among the top ten international law LL.M. programs in the United States and was the first program in the United States to offer a dual LLM/MBA degree.
A program 35 years old and growing, the ILSP was established in 1982 by Professors Claudio Grossman and Robert Goldman in response to a growing demand for lawyers trained in international law. With more than 150 students, fellows, and visiting scholars from more than 60 countries, the International Legal Studies Program at the American University Washington College of Law is one of the most intellectually and culturally diverse programs in the nation. The program incorporates a rich array of international law courses and seminars, experiential learning, and special events which allow our students to interact and network with faculty, international attorneys, diplomats, business leaders, and policy makers.
The program's curriculum is designed to be flexible. Each student structures a program of study to meet his or her own needs; students may choose any of the approximately forty-five courses offered each semester. ILSP students may choose an area of focus in our eight specializations. In addition, students are encouraged to write a publishable thesis and to gain practical experience through externships and optional practical training.