LLM Curriculum
Our curriculum at Thomas Jefferson School of Law provides the foundation you need for a successful legal career. For students pursuing an American Legal Studies degree and seeking to become licensed in California, it includes required classes in each subject tested on the California Bar Exam and classes specifically focused on the skills needed to excel on two of the bar exam’s critical components. For students pursuing an American Legal Studies degree to enhance a law practice in their home country, it provides classes in a variety of specialized areas. For students pursuing the Practice Skills degree, it includes simulation skills classes and live client representation opportunities.
LLM students have full access to every course available to students in the JD program. They are also invited to participate in a week-long orientation, and students in the American Legal Studies LLM Program receive an individualized class introducing the American Legal System that is taught over Zoom prior to the beginning of their regular classes.
Academic Specialties & Fellowships
The law school offers a wide array of electives geared towards popular practice areas including criminal law, sports and entertainment law, and intellectual property law. For students interested in focusing on these areas, the law school offers exciting, enriching fellowship programs in which LLM students are encouraged to participate.
Excellent Faculty & Academic Program
Recognized for its distinguished faculty, virtually all of Thomas Jefferson School of Law professors have extensive practice experience in private firms or public entities including the White House, the State and Justice Departments, United States Attorney’s Offices, and Public Defenders.
Students study in innovative and personalized learning environments utilizing first-rate technology. The learning environment is enriched by a collaborative community known for its diverse student population.
Experiential Learning Opportunities
In addition to coursework, students can learn the skills needed to succeed in law practice, including clinics focused on litigation, business formation, and patent & trademark acquisition.
Like the best law schools in California, TJSL has a student run law review, and the school’s externship program enables students to earn credit toward graduation by clerking for judges or working with an array of legal employers including the district attorney, public defender, city attorney, and numerous private firms.
All of these opportunities are available to students in the American Legal Students and Practice Skills LLM Programs.
Thomas Jefferson Law School’s downtown campus is just blocks from both the federal and state courthouses, closer than any other San Diego law school.
Strong Alumni Network
The law school has more than 7,000 graduates from its 50+ years of educating lawyers and leaders. The law school’s graduates are leaders in local, state, and federal government—including judges, prosecutors, and criminal defense lawyers, general counsel to nationwide companies, and passionate advocates for the most vulnerable in our community.
Your LLM Degree Starts Here
An advanced degree in law from Thomas Jefferson School of Law is just the beginning. Join our more than 7,000 alumni and pursue your LLM degree at one of the best law schools in California.