How to choose the right online LLM program

Online LLM Choice Online LLM programs are growing in popularity.

Choosing the right online LLM program is a vital step in securing your success on the course, but there are few extra aspects to think about compared to choosing an on-campus LLM course. Let’s take a look at some of the chief considerations.

Where is the course based?

If you are seeking to improve your legal knowledge of your current profession or specialism, then this is less important, and you can focus on getting access to the best legal minds to teach you. However, if you are beginning your legal career or changing career direction, then you will ideally need to make contacts and network even with online study. Choosing a local law school – even for online LLM programs – will help your career when you graduate. This is an attraction for many students such as some of those at the University of Leeds.

How is the course content delivered & accessed?

Many online LLM courses have live lectures and discussions that take place during the day, with a recorded version available for those who cannot attend. Before you choose your LLM program you need to understand how the course is delivered and what will work best for you. Although watching recorded discussions will assist you, you will lose a valuable learning experience by not participating during the live discussion. However, if you are studying your LLM program with the support of your current employer, then you will hopefully be able to take the time out during the day to attend these live online sessions. Check the assessments too, as some law schools deliver these online, others require attendance with them or a partner institution. You will find much of this information if you attend an online virtual open day – such as the one at the University of Manchester. Attending an online open day like this will give you a chance to discuss the content of the course further.

What support is there for online students?

Check to see how long the online LLM program has been delivered in this format by the law school you are considering for your studies. If the law school and your potential professors have had experience in online LLM programs, then you will find that there will be plenty of support systems in place if you have difficulties. However, for new online LLM courses, you should carefully research how the law school is planning on supporting its online LLM students. Most law schools have social media accounts, so have a look at what their Students’ Union or Law Society – such as the University College London’s students law society – are doing in terms of support.

Do others think it’s the right choice?

As with other on-campus LLM courses, find out what other people think about your choice of online LLM program. Research law school rankings and speak to knowledgeable legal professionals or those who are working in a position you could see yourself working in, to find out what they think of the course. You could also connect to recent alumni of the LLM program through social media to find out if they think it was the correct choice for them too.