The legal landscape today is undergoing a dramatic transformation. Businesses worldwide are demanding lawyers who possess a deep understanding of international legal frameworks and regulations, especially in emerging areas of law. A Master of Law Degree from a leading law school can make all the difference, equipping you with the competitive edge needed to succeed in this evolving environment.
Enter Wake Forest University School of Law, home to one such programme. The school is ranked #25 among the best law schools (US News & World Report) and is reputable for its outstanding teaching, scholarship, and service. Its history spans 130 years, producing graduates who go on to create positive impact at local, state, national, and international levels. International students will find it an excellent place to prepare for the next phase of their career – the school has partnerships with institutions in China, Vietnam, and Ecuador welcoming foreign lawyers to experience all that Wake Forest Law has to offer.
“We are actively working to extend our global footprint by expanding agreements with other law schools,” says Sarah Morath, law professor and Associate Dean for International Affairs at the school. “Two recent examples include a new exchange opportunity for JD students in Germany and a new agreement with a law school in Ecuador (Universidad de Las Américas for potential LLM students).”
Its Master of Laws (LLM) degree programme promises an authentic, experiential education, complete with a robust and dynamic curriculum. The programme is designed for foreign-trained lawyers keen on developing their professional expertise and advancing their careers, with specialisations spanning business law, criminal law, international law, technology law, environmental law, and more. Interested in a niche area? The programme is flexible; you can even create your own specialisation.
LLM graduate Adnan Kamberi describes studying for the LLM as “one of the best experiences” of his life. While the campus had everything for learning, relaxing, and having fun, it was the people who had the greatest impact on him. “The academic and administrative staff is exceptional and very professional,” he says. “The lecture environment is extremely suitable, inclusive, and respectful. Everyone took part in discussions, sharing ideas and different points of view while maintaining the respect and the high level of education offered by Wake Forest Law.”
Small by design, with a big impact
International students who pursue the LLM programme benefit from an intimate learning environment, coupled with an engaged faculty of expert teacher-scholars. Classes are kept small, with a 7:1 student-to-faculty ratio. This ensures personal collaboration and unique learning opportunities, the kind that prepare you for real-world challenges.
The school’s size further ensures that international students get to know their professors and classmates well, developing relationships that continue even after graduation.
“Studying the LLM at Wake Forest Law is a great experience: amazing teachers where every student is treated with respect and dignity, and every student is engaged in class activity,” says LLM graduate Labinot Zeka.
The programme stands out even more with its experiential learning components. Students join legal clinics, internships, field placements, and simulation courses, all of which ensure real-life interaction with established lawyers and judges throughout the country. The programmes Pro Bono Project is a great way for students to serve those in need by advancing equitable access to justice for marginalised or low-income communities and individuals, with a focus on North Carolina.
Another key component of the programme is mentorship. Each LLM student is paired with a senior JD student, who will guide them both in and out of the classroom on topics such as navigating law school, legal practices, and even American customs and culture. Further advice can be sought from expert faculty advisors, chosen based on your personal interests and goals; explore courses, research projects, and even potential career paths after graduation.
“One of the most significant achievements of my life so far has been pursuing a Master of Laws degree with a specialisation in criminal law at Wake Forest University School of Law. Not only did I receive excellent support from the academic staff, but I was also encouraged to aim high and work hard towards my goals,” says LLM graduate Elena Sejdiu. “This has helped me give my best in every way possible, grow academically, and gain a new perspective in life. I will always take pride in being a Wake Forest alumna and cherish the memories I created here.”
Compelling career outcomes
Even if your time at law school may come to an end, you can stay connected via the school’s burgeoning alumni network. Connect with fellow graduates from 28 countries, explore job opportunities, and get involved with new students and recent graduates. All aspects point towards a flourishing career.
The results are in the books. LLM graduates have become leading figures in the legal profession, holding prominent positions in several practice areas. Common career pathways include becoming high court judges, criminal prosecutors, and practising attorneys in employment law, financial markets, intellectual property, human rights, and other fields. An education here has international impact – graduates are employed in countries like China, Japan, Switzerland, the UK, and more.
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