The Taught LLM Degrees
The taught LLM degree provides students with the opportunity to combine instruction and examination in specialist subjects with the completion of a short piece of research. Students may specialise in International Business Law or Information Technology Law. A distinctive feature of the LLM programme in Aberystwyth is that all modules are taught entirely through small group seminars. Seminars are held weekly for every module, and provide an opportunity for students to explore issues in depth and to discuss their own ideas.
We pride ourselves on the fact that staff take a personal interest in the progress of each student and are always happy to offer advice to individual students, and to talk about their particular queries.
Qualifications for Acceptance
The taught LLM is open to graduates in all disciplines, and also to those who can demonstrate relevant professional qualifications. A lower second class honours degree, or the equivalent is normally the minimum requirement but the subject matter of the degree is not critical. All applications must be supported by two confidential academic references.
Learning Support
Students whose first language is not English must demonstrate sufficient competence in the language; this would normally be by having obtained an appropriate English language qualification. English language courses are offered by the University through the Language and Learning Centre. For further details please see the Language & Learning Centre website.
What does the LLM course involve?
The course involves two parts:
Part 1 - study of six taught modules totalling 120 credits.
Part 2 - a dissertation (max 20,000 words) on a topic relating to the area of specialisation (60 credits).
Taught Modules
Details of modules available under the LLM schemes can be found on the outline page. All modules are taught through weekly small group seminars designed specifically for postgraduate students. Each module is assessed by a combination of coursework and an oral presentation. Students must pass Part 1 to proceed to the dissertation.
Dissertation
Students are required to write a dissertation of approximately 20,000 words on a topic of their choice, which relates to the area of specialisation. The dissertation is completed under the supervision of a member of staff. Students may choose to stay in Aberystwyth to do this, or may return home and research their dissertation there.
Period of Study
The normal period of full-time study is twelve months. The taught element, including written examinations, is completed between September and May, and the dissertation between June and December. Students who require greater flexibility or who cannot attend regularly at Aberystwyth might consider our LLM by Distance Learning
Do I need to be resident in Aberystwyth?
It is necessary to be resident in Aberystwyth full-time from late September to May, to attend coursework seminars and complete the assessments. However, it is possible to complete the dissertation either in Aberystwyth or elsewhere provided that contact between student and supervisor can be maintained.