Guide to Fully Funded 2-Year Law Degrees

Pursuing a law degree in the United States is a significant investment of time and resources. However, for students seeking to reduce financial burdens, there are avenues to obtain a fully funded two-year law degree, especially through Master of Laws (LL.M.) programs.

Sydney Blunt

• 2 min read
Guide to Fully Funded 2-Year Law Degrees
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🎓 Understanding the 2-Year Law Degree Structure

1. Master of Laws (LL.M.) – 2-Year Track

The LL.M. is a postgraduate academic degree in law. While many LL.M. programs are designed to be completed in one year, some institutions offer a two-year track. This extended duration allows for more in-depth study of legal topics and may include additional coursework or research opportunities.

2. Accelerated Juris Doctor (J.D.) – 2-Year Programs

Some U.S. law schools offer accelerated J.D. programs that can be completed in two years, typically through intensive coursework and a compressed academic calendar. These programs are designed for students who already possess a law degree and wish to qualify to practice law in the U.S.

💰 Fully Funded Scholarships for U.S. Students

Several U.S. law schools offer fully funded scholarships for students pursuing LL.M. programs. Here are some notable options:

1. Berkeley Law School

  • ADP Scholarship: A full-tuition award for LL.M. traditional track students with superior academic credentials.
  • Merit Scholarship: Awards up to $50,000 for students with outstanding academic records.
  • Robbins Scholarship: Full-tuition award for students from civil law countries.

Source: Berkeley Law Scholarships

2. Columbia Law School

  • Public Interest Fellowships: Provides funding for LL.M. candidates advancing social justice globally.
  • Dean’s LL.M. Scholarship: Partial award for students with superior merit.

Source: Columbia Law Scholarships

3. Harvard Law School

  • LL.M. Fellowships: Offers full scholarships covering tuition, fees, and living expenses.

Source: Harvard Law Scholarships

4. New York University (NYU) School of Law

  • Hauser Global Scholarship Program: Provides full-ride funding plus a stipend to a select group of LL.M. candidates each year.

Source: NYU Law Scholarships

5. Stanford Law School

  • Global Constitutionalism Scholarships: Offers competitive LL.M. scholarships that cover 100% of tuition and fees.

Source: Stanford Law Scholarships

📚 Sample LL.M. Syllabus and Timings

While specific syllabi vary by institution, a typical two-year LL.M. program may include:

Year 1: Foundational Courses

  • Semester 1:
    • Introduction to U.S. Legal System
    • Constitutional Law
    • Legal Research and Writing
  • Semester 2:
    • Contracts
    • Torts
    • Civil Procedure

Year 2: Specialization and Research

  • Semester 3:
    • Elective Courses (e.g., International Business Transactions, Intellectual Property)
    • Legal Clinics or Internships
  • Semester 4:
    • Capstone Project or Thesis
    • Advanced Electives

Note: The exact curriculum and schedule may vary by institution.

🌍 Application Tips

  • Standardized Tests: Some programs may require TOEFL or IELTS scores to demonstrate English proficiency.
  • Application Materials: Prepare a strong Statement of Purpose, Letters of Recommendation, and a well-structured CV.
  • Deadlines: Application deadlines vary; it's crucial to check each program's specific timeline.