The LL.M. in Law and Government is founded on the law of government, emphasizing the legal regulation of both the private and public realms of U.S. society. To that end, almost all of the approved courses for the Program are domestic in nature. In limited situations and reflecting the increasing interdependence of world society, some courses that cover international and global issues are approved.
Students build a curriculum from the 100+ approved courses in consultation with the Director of the Program on Law and Government, specifically taking individual academic and career goals into account. Courses that are not on the approved courses list will not count toward the LL.M. degree and may not be taken. In particular, first-year JD courses, clinics, journals, and most international courses will not count toward the degree. View Approved course list here.
Concentrations and Specializations
Students who are interested in a specific field of law may specialize in one of the eleven areas of study listed below by doing an in-depth study of a particular area of law. To earn a specialization, students must complete at least 12 credits approved for the area of specialization. Students who complete a specialization will receive a certificate from the Program on Law and Government; the specialization does not appear on transcripts.
Administrative Law & Regulatory Practice
- Energy Law & Policy
- Environmental Law & Policy
- Health Law & Policy
- Immigration Law & Policy
- Labor and Employment Law & Policy
- National Security Law & Policy
Civil & Constitutional Rights
- Criminal Law
- Disability Rights
- Gender & the Law
- Law, Politics and Legislation
Business & Financial Regulation
- Securities Law & Policy
Bar Preparation
The LL.M. in Law and Government is not specifically designed as a U.S. bar exam preparation course; however, after graduating from the program, many of our students sit for the New York or DC bar exams. For more information regarding the Bar Exam and additional resources, consult the New York Bar Exam Track page.