LLM Viewbook - 2023-24

Welcome

Since 1897, the University of Illinois College of Law has provided students a rigorous and comprehensive legal education to help them achieve their individual goals. We have developed a reputation as one of the finest public law schools in the country because of the lawyers we mold and their involvement in the classroom, in the community, and in the field. Located on the campus of one of the nation’s top public research universities, this is a place where the spirit of innovation resides.

An education at Illinois allows you to find your passion and follow it.

International

A world-class university

The University of Illinois at UrbanaChampaign community of students, scholars, and alumni is changing the world.

With a land-grant heritage as a foundation, Illinois pioneers innovative research that tackles global problems and expands the human experience. Our transformative learning experiences, in and out of the classroom, are designed to produce alumni who desire to make a significant, societal impact.

#1

1867

Year

28

Pulitzer Prizes

Invented the first graphical web browser

Founded Students from all 48 states and 130+ countries

#22

48K+

Among public universities for international students enrolled University in the world (Center for World University Rankings)

Three LLM Tracks

General LLM

Students are free to choose over 150 courses and customize their curriculum to meet their academic needs. Our areas of strength include:

• Business and Law

• Criminal Law

• Family Law, Health Law, and Torts

• Government and Law

• Environmental Law

• Public Interest

• Technology and Intellectual Property (IP) Law

Bar Fundamentals

This Track is specially designed for internationally trained law students to gain fundamental knowledge of the key areas of U.S. law that are emphasized on most bar exams, such as Evidence, Business Associations, Criminal Procedure and Torts. In addition to the course options, these students will be provided with:

• Bar exam counseling and long-term preparation plan

• Registration guide

• Bar study support to complement a commercial bar prep program

• UBE study workshop

• MBE Simulation Exam

Flexible LLM Program

Start Date:

Most students begin the program in the fall semester (August).

Limited applications are accepted to begin in the spring semester (January).

2 or 3 Semester Option: Students may elect to complete the LLM program in 2 or 3 semesters. This allows students the flexibility to customize a program of study, enjoy greater internship opportunities, and benefit from more time to study for the bar exam.

Individuality

Analytical thinking, problemsolving, research, pre-trial and trial skills, negotiation, and interviewing are critical skills needed for real-world success. Students receive instruction and practice in critical lawyering skills, including client interviewing and oral advocacy.

Trial Advocacy for LLMs

Clinical Education

Concentrations

Students may apply to earn a Concentration to deepen their knowledge in a particular legal field. The following Concentrations are available:

• Corporate Law, Commercial Law and Trade

• Criminal Law

• Intellectual Property & Technology Law

• International and Comparative Law

• Justice, Democracy, and Legal Rights

• Regulation, Sustainability, and Compliance

Illinois is one of the few law schools that allow LLM students to participate in clinics. Working with real clients on real problems is one of the richest ways to learn about lawyering and the complexity and depth that clients bring to cases. With class sizes of eight students, you can be sure you’ll get a very hands-on experience. Furthermore, the College recently completed a major renovation of our clinic space, providing students a professional legal setting in which to grow their skills as a practitioner.

Law Competitions

There are ample opportunities for Illinois Law students to participate in competitions, with some of our most popular offerings being client counseling and negotiation competitions.

In the Trial Advocacy Program, students tackle real-world challenges through experiential learning to gain the skills they need to succeed in the practice of law. A dedicated faculty of seasoned trial practitioners supports the Program, giving students unparalleled opportunities to learn from a variety of experienced attorneys and judges. The Program also provides the opportunity to practice oral advocacy in English. More Experiential Learning

Jennifer Mokwenye

Externed at The Immigration Project

Impact

Our Faculty

The faculty at Illinois Law are acclaimed teachers community-minded innovators and interdisciplinary experts They are national leaders in many areas of law, and their highly cited research is shaping the modern legal landscape.

• Range of perspectives – 40% of the tenured faculty have advanced degrees in other fields in addition to their law degrees.

• Homegrown talent – of the 45 full-time faculty members, 6 received their law degrees at the University of Illinois.

• Powerhouse of legal scholarship – Ranked #31 in the Leiter Poll of top law faculties.

PRACTICUM

Conceived as a response to the protests that swept the United States in the wake of the killing of George Floyd, the Racial Justice Practicum is part of the College of Law’s commitment to make a lasting impact in the area of racial justice. The program includes a two-week classroom component, providing education in constitutional legal principles, labor and employment, health care legislation and its effects on Americans of color, as well as the ways in which the criminal justice system discriminates against people of color. The experience culminates in work experience with legal aid agencies or non-profit organizations that represent populations affected by racism in Illinois and elsewhere across the nation.

“I enrolled in the Racial Justice Practicum because I saw it as an opportunity to gain knowledge, skills, and experiences that will enable me to make a positive impact on issues of racial inequality. The classes provided me with a platform for reflection, self-awareness, and conversations around privilege, bias and strategies for promoting racial equity as a means to deepen my understanding of racial justice issues. Interning at The Immigration Project (TIP) has provided me an avenue to make a direct impact on the lives of individuals and families who are navigating complex immigration systems. The diversity of immigration issues handled at TIP exposed me to a wide range of tasks and responsibilities. It allowed me to develop a broad skill set and gain valuable experience in various immigration areas, thereby enhancing my professional growth and adaptability.”

Olumide Ajayi

Externed at John Howard Association

“I am passionate about public interest and the use of ‘law and policies’ as a tool for the attainment of social justice. The college of law, through my participation in the Racial Justice Practicum course, afforded me the rare privilege to experience firsthand practice of public interest. During my externship, I visited some prisons and reported on policies what would make better the dreadful conditions of prisons. This experience makes me feel ready to combine public interest engagements with my law career. I am glad I participated in the program, and I recommend the participation of other law students.”

This is an opportunity to help teach and mentor the next generation of lawyers about the various ways in which the law can be used as a tool for racial justice. The level of energy and institutional commitment to this initiative has been outstanding.”

Professor Margareth Etienne leads the coursework aspect of the Racial Justice Practicum.

variety of programming options are available for LLM students to participate in, offering ample opportunities to network with the College’s more than 4,000 Chicago-based alumni.

The Chicago Program

The Chicago Program offers semester-long Chicagobased courses and events for interested LLM students. Taught by leading practitioners and College faculty, courses are taught in the Illini Center in downtown Chicago, the Chicago Bar Association, and in the offices of several preeminent law firms, including Winston & Strawn, Foley & Lardner, Steptoe & Johnson, and Burke, Warren, MacKay & Serritella.

Events and lectures are open to all LLM students, offering fantastic opportunities to network with the College’s more than 4,000 Chicago-based alumni. Launched in 2012, the Chicago Program is designed to enrich the College’s curriculum, expand professional opportunities for students, and involve alumni and other practitioners more closely in the College’s educational mission.

Career Planning

and Professional Development

The Graduate and International Program

Office is staffed with attorneys who focus exclusively on the academic success and career development of our graduate students. Our law associates provide:

• One-on-on academic success counseling

• Bar information and advising

• Resume and cover letter reviews

• Mock interviews

• Individual career counseling

• Career and job fair alerts

Specialized Programming

International Student Interview Program (ISIP)

Illinois Law participates in ISIP. The annual consortium event sponsored by 33 law schools nationwide facilitates the hiring of highly qualified, foreign-trained lawyers enrolled in LLM programs at each school.

The program attracts more than 150 of the leading legal employers from around the world, who review student resumes based on their hiring needs and country of practice. Over 1,800 candidates representing 70+ countries will have an opportunity to be considered for internship and permanent positions in the United States and abroad.

Perspectives on Practice

Throughout the academic year, the Careers Office partners with various student organizations to bring in guest speakers to share perspectives on their legal practice.

Workshops

Law School 101 is a comprehensive program to introduce incoming students to the study of law and the legal profession. Beyond academic support, students receive career support through resume and cover letter workshops, mock interviews, and special bar preparation workshops.

Inspiration

ur Alumni

Illinois Law alumni include managing partners at leading international law firms; founders of cutting-edge boutiques; CEOs, CFOs, and in-house counsel at Fortune 500 companies; federal and state judges, prosecutors, and public defenders; and lawyers working in other public interest positions. Our alumni are not only accomplished, but incredibly loyal, helping to mentor, teach, hire, and support our students.

Meet

Lebogang, María, and Justice

lifelong friends. The opportunity to learn alongside such brilliant minds enriched my educational experience in immeasurable ways.

I must also highlight ChampaignUrbana, the town where the College of Law is located. Its vibrant college town atmosphere, away from the distractions of a big city, fosters a strong focus on sportsmanship. The town’s enthusiastic support for sports creates an infectious sense of camaraderie among its residents.

Lebogang Collins Munyai

Imagine a world wherein all your academic fantasies are a reality. Like if you ever wondered whether it could be done, the academic advisors will help you –[with] course counseling, courses and activities that satisfy your interests, making you realize it CAN be done. The College of Law has friendly faculty members that hold your hand through activities and a selection of programs that pair perfectly with any personality….The results are worthwhile and will boost your confidence and attitude towards life. One would be holding back if they did not speak about the multi-cultural centered approach to academia the College upholds. You will feel respected (culturally) and most importantly acknowledged. It’s a home I’m PROUD to call my ALMA MATER.

13,400+ Global Illinois Law Alumni

María de la Paz Otalvares

My interest in pursuing an LLM Degree at the College of Law began in 2018 after completing an LLM exchange semester. The academic and personal experience at the University exceeded my expectations [such] that I was committed to pursue an LLM after my graduation in my home country, Argentina. Following my experience, there is no doubt that UIUC College of Law offers a very thorough, complete, and comprehensive program, particularly in the area of Corporate, Trade and Commercial law which was my experience and particular concentration of my LLM. The College of Law also gives you the opportunity to attend various school-held events which immerse you in American law in a very direct, close, and day-to-day way. Likewise, the competitions that take place, such as the ABA Client Counseling Competition, make up a very rich and challenging experience, in addition to the overall academic aspect.

Justice Ukpabi

Looking back on my LLM journey at the UIUC College of Law, I am filled with gratitude for the exceptional academic experience and the remarkable individuals I had the privilege of encountering along the way.

The College of Law truly sets itself apart through its unparalleled academic rigor. The faculty, comprising distinguished professors, are not only experts in their respective fields but also deeply committed mentors. Their passion for teaching and dedication to nurturing intellectual curiosity has had a profound impact on my development as a legal scholar.

Yet, what truly distinguishes the College of Law is not solely its academic excellence. The sense of community and the wonderful people I had the pleasure of connecting with during my time there has left an indelible mark in my life. These individuals have become more than mere colleagues; they are

My time at the College of Law has shaped me into a well-rounded individual, prepared to make a positive impact in the legal profession. I am forever grateful for the exceptional academic experience, the incredible individuals I met, and the lively collegetown atmosphere that has contributed to my growth.

“Last night, I had the honor of attending the 30th Annual BLSA Banquet honoring James Seaberry Recepient Walter Jones Jr. (72). During the event, I learned the importance of goal setting and methods of achieving these goals. I also better understood how diversified the legal field can be.”

“It is easy to forget many other people have been underrepresented and desire Justice to be dispensed. It is a call for Lawyers to be more involved in Pro bono services to the community. The time is coming where faith in the Courts will be restored.”

The Student Experience Our Students

Illinois Law students are smart, driven, and passionate. Here, you can pursue your interests and create lasting relationships in our vibrant community. Complementing the breadth of courses and practical training is an array of opportunities for active engagement outside the classroom.

@uillinoislaw Follow us on Instagram for a sneak peek at student life!

30+ student organizations 100+ lectures and events per year

— Amarachi Oparah (LLM ’23)

— Jessica Uwamusi (LLM ’23) at Illinois Supreme Court Access to Justice Summit

Community

Life in Champaign-Urbana

A micro-urban community known for its big-city amenities yet smalltown affordability, accessibility, safety, and friendliness, ChampaignUrbana (C-U) is dynamic and vibrant, with a lively cultural scene, a variety of restaurants, and numerous recreational opportunities.

Things to Know

• Average monthly rent for a 2-bedroom apartment: $900

• Getting around town is fast and easy.

— Mass transit bus system – FREE for students

— Pedestrian and bike-friendly with dockless bike share available

— Uber, Lyft, and Zipcar are available

• Ranked the fastest-growing city in Illinois in 2017 (Business Insider), C-U boasts an assortment of restaurants, bars, coffee shops, and cultural venues.

• Recreation opportunities abound, with one of the premier campus recreation facilities in the country just steps away from the law school, and plenty of public and state parks in the region.

#1 Best Midwest Food Town (August 2017, Midwest Living)

#1 Best college town for young adults 2021 (Realtor.com)

Chicago St. Louis

Champaign Urbana

Indianapolis

Tuition & Aid

Estimated Cost of Attendance

(Expenses for Academic Year 2023-2024)

Tuition $49,500 USD

Fees $5,282 USD

Room and Board $13,554 USD

Books and Supplies $1,800 USD

Other Expenses $3,090 USD

TOTAL $73,226 USD

1) All admitted students are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships

2) More than 80% of admitted students receive at least a partial scholarship.

3) Cost of living is 9% lower than the U.S. average.

Admissions Timeline

Application deadline None. Applications are accepted year-long on a rolling basis.

Entry Term Fall Spring

Admissions and scholarship decisions begin

October June

Seat deposit and acceptance deadline April September

Start date August January

Application Requirements

Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree, LLB, or equivalent degree. The bachelor’s degree need not be in law. Application requirements include:

• Completed application

• Résumé

• Statement of purpose

• Certified transcripts and credentials

• At least one letter of reference

• TOEFL or IELTS score

Learn More and Apply: law.illinois.edu/apply-llm

TEmployment

650 8 5:1

Inclusion

Total Enrollment

$ $ $ Countries 31

of our student body receives a scholarship from the College of Law.

37 94 Matriculants

Exchange Programs Clinics, field placements, and other live client courses Student Faculty

he University of Illinois UrbanaChampaign is proud to have more than 51,000 students enrolled from 100+ countries. The mission of the University is to enhance the lives of citizens in Illinois, across the nation and around the world through our leadership in learning, discovery, engagement and economic development. For more than 150 years, Illinois has carried out this mission and helped shape the minds of Nobel laureates, Pulitzer prize winners, MacArthur Genius Grant recipients, and other outstanding individuals.

Employment Rate

Full-time, Long-term employment for which a JD was required or preferred. (Class of 2022)

90% Offered Courses 150 Over 80%

Campus Highlights

27% of those employed from the Class of 2021 accepted positions outside of Illinois in 16 states, D.C., and 2 countries. After Illinois, the largest employment states were California and Missouri.

21

LLM Class of 2023 Profile Work Experience 64% Bring

29 Median Age

men’s and women’s NCAA teams

First attempt bar passage rate

1,500 acres of outdoor recreation at the University-owned Allerton Park and Retreat Center (located 24 miles from campus)

Median LSAT 166

500,000+ living alumni

38+ Majors $120,000,000+ in National Science Foundation awards— more than any other university, six out of the last 7 years in a row

470,000

square feet of recreational space between two newly expanded campus recreation and wellness centers

% 26 States Represented

37 Illinois Residents

25th 162 75th 167

Median GPA 3.7 1

10,000+ works of art at Krannert Art Museum and Kinkead Pavilion’s permanent collection

25th 3.47 75th 3.86