Course description

• Choose a broad-based LLM programme or specialise in Commercial Law; Corporate and Financial Law; Intellectual Property and Information Technology Law, and International Protection of Human Rights and Personal Freedom
• Study at a time and pace to suit you and your circumstances
• Benefit from our modern approach to teaching law in a global context: you can tailor your coursework and assignments to different jurisdictions, so you can gain a truly international flavour of law
• Learn from our team of expert practitioners
• Postgraduate loan available, plus if you’re a Derby graduate you’ll receive an alumni discount

The LLM course combines academic and theoretical knowledge. You will develop your understanding of the interaction between law and policy at an international level, enabling you to contribute to organisations and commercial enterprises operating across the global policy arena.

Specialist pathways

You can choose to study a broad-based general LLM or follow a specific pathway towards a specialist LLM award:

• LLM (Commercial Law) – a chance to study commercial law in a practical, international and contemporary context. Ideal for both lawyers and professionals engaged in broader commercial practice, this pathway features negotiation and practice-driven modules, equipping you for senior roles in global enterprises
• LLM (Corporate and Financial Law) – giving you a thorough understanding of how law assists in mediating corporate and financial risk. Covering one of the most challenging and critical areas of law, this pathway focuses on the structures and constitution of corporate entities in light of the external factors which govern their liquidity and capitalisation
• LLM (International Protection of Human Rights and Personal Freedom) – building your awareness of the human rights regime at international, regional and national levels. Taking a practical approach to the investigation of human rights violations, this pathway prepares you for a rewarding career with organisations working in the human rights field, from law firms to governments and non-governmental organisations
• LLM (Intellectual Property and Information Technology Law) - preparing you for a career in intellectual property law & practice and information technology law. You will a acquire theoretical and practical knowledge in copyright, trademarks, patents, law of confidence and trade secrets, IT contract and licensing, computer law & policy, and internet law & policy

Dedicated to your success

We are committed to providing a rich, rewarding learning experience. You'll be taught by our professional, experienced and knowledgeable teaching team, with real passion for their subjects.

We deliver dedicated academic and pastoral support to every student, and also offer a range of extra-curricular activities, networking opportunities and a vibrant Student Law Society.

An edge in your career

As a Derby LLM graduate, you will be highly sought after by employers because you can demonstrate a unique specialisation in the areas of law and criminal justice, evidenced by your final dissertation. It gives you a genuine advantage when applying for positions within and beyond the legal sector.

For non-lawyers, a postgraduate qualification in law can also sharpen your commercial awareness so that you can contribute more effectively to operational and strategic management.

The specialist LLM pathways we offer will open doors to exciting careers. You could progress to legal roles in the corporate and financial business sectors; enter legal practice or a research role with a focus on intellectual property or IT law; work in the field of human rights; or take up a post with a criminal justice agency, government body or NGO overseas.

If you are already in employment, the particular benefit of our LLM is that you can combine modules to create a programme of study which reflects your specific vocation and future employment and career aspirations. In a turbulent world where professional roles and career pathways are constantly evolving, the Derby LLM offers you the flexibility and skill set to adapt to meet employers’ requirements and your own professional development needs.

Research for the real world

High quality research is at the heart of the LLM. We undertake influential research activities which lead to greater understanding of justice systems and inform legal and professional practice, both nationally and internationally. We have an active Law in Society research group and our staff contribute to growing numbers of publications, conference presentations and journals.

First-rate facilities

Law students are based on the Derby Campus at One Friar Gate Square. It includes a mock court room, replica custody suite and social learning hubs where you can develop your skills and share knowledge with your peers.

How you will learn

You'll learn with your peers, giving you the chance to collaborate with other talented people who share your passion for the same kinds of legal issues.

Your lectures will provide a solid foundation in the areas of study. Seminar discussion groups will guide you in your study as well as stimulating your interest to explore specific topics further.

The LLM course will enhance your independent research and writing skills, enabling you to develop strong legal arguments that you can draw on for your assessments and assignment submissions.

How you'll be assessed

Types of assessment include assignments, portfolio preparation, reports, presentations and online preparation of material. In several modules you can relate your assessment to different jurisdictions, so that your national law can be the focus of your award.

Assessment is integrated into the learning and teaching of modules. The scheduling of work is consistent, balanced and inclusive in line with your progressive development.

The final Masters stage is assessed through the submission of your Independent Study or Masters thesis on a specialist topic of your own choosing. Our tutors will support you in preparing this.

Who you will meet

The LLM is taught by a team of experienced lecturers who actively engage in research and have published in their subject areas. The programme also draws on the expertise of guest speakers who are invited to present on topics of general interest as well as specialist themes.

The team includes:

• Professor Gerhard Kemp
• Professor Hakeem Yusuf
• Professor Flora Huang
• Dr Eghosa Ekhator
• Dr Taiwo Oriola
• Dr Muin Boase
• Larry Mead
• Joel Klaff 
• Michala Meiselles
• George Ellison