The LLM is an advanced research degree, which provides students with an opportunity to study a particular area of law in much greater depth than is possible in the LLB program. Although the LLM does not qualify a student to practice law in Canada, there are a variety of reasons why students enter the LLM program. Some of our students are practicing lawyers who wish to specialize in a particular area of law, while others are preparing for careers as academic lawyers at universities throughout the world.

All candidates for the degree of Master of Laws must complete at least one academic year, i.e. from September to May in full-time residence at the University.  Most of an LLM student's time is spent researching and writing a master's thesis under the supervision of a member of the faculty. The relationship between student and supervisor and the independent work of the student form the core of her or his education. Each student must present and defend his or her thesis at an oral examination.

In addition, each student must successfully complete a minimum of eight course credits accomplished through participation in the graduate seminar on legal theory and academic writing and two or three additional courses, selected from the LLB curriculum or in other faculties.

The LLM program is designed to last 12 months, but students may take more time writing the thesis. It is not uncommon for students to spend up to a year and a half in the program.