find your perfect LLM program
Search our Database of over 2500 Courses

Studying for an LLM (Master of Laws) in Washington State

If you like being close to nature and scenic beauty while wanting to study in the state that boasts some of the busiest cities in the USA, you might wish to consider studying in Washington. The state of Washington – not to be confused with Washington DC on the east coast of America – is named after the American President. It is bordered by Canada to the north, the Pacific Ocean to the west, Oregon to the south, and Idaho to the east. It has been nicknamed "the Evergreen State" because of its lush forests and evergreen trees. From the rainforests of the west to the apple-producing orchards of the east, Washington is a real treat to the eye with its natural beauty. Washington's landscape also includes snow-capped mountain ranges such as the Cascade Range as well as rivers such as the powerful Columbia River. The makes Washington’s fishing industry one of the greatest in the country. The Grand Coulee Dam, built at the Columbia River also provides 30% of the nation's hydroelectric power. Washington's location also makes it important for land, sea, and air transportation to various countries in Alaska and Asia.

Washington is also important for technology and manufacturing, not least of all because it is the state in which Bill Gates located his Microsoft Corporation. It is also famous as being the nation's leading producer of jet aircrafts as Boeing Company, a giant producer of airplanes and spacecraft has its headquarters in Seattle and has plants in Renton, Auburn, Kent, Spokane, and near Everett.

Search our database of LLM programs in the USA

Where & what to study in Washington

Some universities offering the LL.M program in Washington are University of Washington, Seattle, Gongaza University School of Law and University of Washington School of Law. 

These law schools offer a range of specialisations to choose from including global business law, health law, Asian law, taxation law, intellectual property law and policy, sustainable international development law and a general LLM.

Applications & admissions

For admissions purposes, all foreign candidates must hold a first degree in law from a university recognised by the American Bar Association or its foreign equivalent and must demonstrate proof of their English language proficiency b submitting TOEFL scores (usually required score of 580). In addition some universities also required students to have prior work experience before embarking on the LLM course ranging from 1-2 years. In terms of the application procedure your admission application should include an application form, application fee, curriculum vitae, personal statement, sample of written work (for some universities), letters of recommendation, official transcripts and TOEFL score report.

Tuition fees & living costs

The tuition fee for the LLM in Washington ranges from $30,000 to $45,000 depending on the institution of your choice. Living expenses also vary according to the lifestyle but a student may wish to set aside an annual budget of $35,000-$40,000 for accommodation, food, books and other personal expenses. There is some possibility of obtaining financial aid or scholarships which are offered by individual institutions but these are highly competitive. Students can also fund their studies by seeking loans from their country of residence or private organisations. Generally however, students are expected to have sufficient funds to finance their course and to satisfy the visa clearance officer regarding proof of funding. Seeking part time work may also be a potential option but you must comply with all terms and conditions of your entry visa which only permits students to work for 20 hours a week. You may also bear in mind that the rigours of a masters course may not leave sufficient time for working

What to do when you aren’t studying

Washington state is also home to some of the most dynamic cities in the USA such as Seattle which has been nicknamed as “the rainy city”. However, generally this appears to be more of a myth much to the relief of those who are not particularly fond of rainy weather, Seattle averages just 35-38 inches of precipitation a year, (which averages to less than that in Miami or New York). There are countless opportunities in Seattle for an enriching educational experience as well as personal and professional growth. The city is bustling with coffee shops, bar, cafes, an exciting night life as well as a rich arts and culture scene. One of the biggest cultural events at Seattle, the Bumbershoot is held at every Labor Day weekend and includes a whole lot to see from fire dancing to live concerts by some of the most famous bands. In the spring season Seattle has a showing of its own film festival.Anyone in Seattle must make time to view the city from the Space Needle, a 605-foot-tall observation tower. Other than that there are exciting opportunities due to the state’s scenic beauty to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, snow sports, skiing or going up the mountains in a chair lift. Olympia, the state's capital, is the gateway to Olympic National Park as well as a trip to Mount Saint Helens, a volcano that had a massive and devastating eruption in 1980 is worthwhile! In short students with an adventurous soul will automatically feel themselves drawn to study in Washington. 

What other US states can you study in?

There are plenty of LLM opportunities for those interested in the living and studying in the United States and we have essential LLM study guides to over 20 US states, including:

 

Find your PERFECT LLM PROGRAM

Related articles

LLMs (Master of Laws) In The USA

LLM Guide: Top 10 Reasons To Study An LLM Program

Global LLM Study Bursaries