If you’re exploring a career in law, you’ve probably heard of LLB and LLM. At first glance, they might sound similar — both are law degrees — but they serve different purposes and are meant for different stages in your legal journey.
This article will explain the meaning, structure, differences, and career opportunities of both LLB and LLM in a clear and simple way so you can decide which one is right for you.
What is LLB?
LLB stands for Bachelor of Laws. It’s the first step toward becoming a legal professional. Whether you want to be a lawyer, judge, or legal advisor — this is the degree that starts it all.
What You Learn in LLB:
- Basic principles of law
- Indian Constitution
- Criminal Law
- Family Law
- Contract and Property Law
You also get practical experience through:
- Moot Courts (mock court trials)
- Internships
- Legal writing and research
Duration:
- 3 Years (if you already have a graduation degree)
- 5 Years (integrated program after 12th, like BA LLB or BBA LLB)
Eligibility:
- For 5-year program: Pass in 12th grade (any stream)
- For 3-year program: Graduation in any field
Admission:
Entrance exams like CLAT, LSAT, or university-based merit systems.
What is LLM?
LLM stands for Master of Laws (Latin: Legum Magister). It is a postgraduate degree you can pursue after completing your LLB.
LLM is not about learning the basics — it’s about specializing in a particular area of law. So, if you’re already a law graduate and want to deepen your knowledge in a niche field like International Law or Corporate Law, this is the degree for you.
What You Learn in LLM:
- Advanced legal theories
- Specialized subjects like Environmental Law, Intellectual Property, Cyber Law, etc.
- Research methodologies
- Thesis or dissertation writing
Duration:
- 1 to 2 years, depending on the university and country
Eligibility:
- You must already have an LLB or equivalent law degree
Admission:
Entrance exams like CLAT-PG or admission based on merit.
Key Differences Between LLB and LLM
| Category | LLB (Bachelor of Laws) | LLM (Master of Laws) |
|---|---|---|
| Level | Undergraduate | Postgraduate |
| Focus | Broad legal knowledge | Specialized legal expertise |
| Purpose | Entry into legal profession | Deepen knowledge in a specific field |
| Duration | 3–5 years | 1–2 years |
| Eligibility | 12th pass or graduate | Must hold LLB or equivalent law degree |
| Career Start | Legal practice, judiciary prep | Senior roles, academia, research |
| Syllabus | Basic legal subjects | Advanced, niche legal topics |
Career Scope After LLB
Once you complete your LLB, you’re eligible to begin practicing law — after clearing the Bar Council of India’s All India Bar Exam (AIBE). Here’s what you can pursue:
Job Options:
- Advocate: Appear in courts after Bar Council enrollment.
- Judicial Services: Prepare for exams to become a magistrate or judge.
- Corporate Legal Advisor: Join companies to handle contracts, compliance, and legal risks.
- Government Jobs: Work in PSUs, law commissions, or advisory roles.
- Legal Journalism, NGOs, Legal Research: Other specialized legal fields.
- Further Studies: Go for an LLM if you want to specialize.
Career Scope After LLM
LLM gives you an edge in the legal field, especially if you aim for senior roles, international opportunities, or academic paths.
Job Options:
- Law Professor: Teach in universities or law schools.
- Legal Researcher: Work in research-based institutions or think tanks.
- Corporate Law Firms: Get into high-paying roles in niche domains like M&A or IP law.
- Policy Advisor: Work with government or NGOs on legal reforms and public policy.
- International Law: Apply for roles in organizations like the UN, WTO, or international firms.
- Ph.D. in Law: Pursue doctoral research and go deeper into academic work.
Which One Should You Choose: LLB or LLM?
Here’s how to decide:
Choose LLB if:
- You are starting out in law after 12th or graduation
- You want to become a lawyer, judge, or legal officer
- You need a foundation in all aspects of law
Choose LLM if:
- You already hold an LLB degree
- You want to specialize in a particular area of law
- You aim to teach, research, or work in high-level legal positions
Tip: LLB is the launchpad; LLM is the booster rocket for your legal career.
Final Thoughts
Both LLB and LLM are valuable in the world of law — but they serve different stages in your journey.
- LLB is the starting point, where you learn the basic laws, courtroom behavior, and legal rights.
- LLM is the next step, where you become an expert in one area and open doors to bigger roles.
So, whether you’re taking your first step or looking to sharpen your skills, choose the degree that matches your career goals.
FAQs
Q1. What is the basic difference between LLB and LLM?
A: LLB is an undergraduate law degree that gives you foundational legal knowledge and allows you to begin your legal career. LLM is a postgraduate degree that helps you specialize in a specific area of law after completing LLB.
Q2. Can I do LLM without doing LLB first?
A: No. In India, you must have an LLB or an equivalent law degree to be eligible for admission into an LLM program.
Q3. Is LLB enough to become a lawyer in India?
A: Yes. After completing your LLB and passing the All India Bar Examination (AIBE), you can register with the Bar Council and start practicing as a lawyer.
Q4. What are the eligibility criteria for LLB and LLM?
A:
- LLB (3-year): A bachelor’s degree in any stream.
- LLB (5-year): Completion of 12th grade from any stream.
- LLM: Must have an LLB degree or its equivalent.
Q5. Which one has better career scope – LLB or LLM?
A: LLB is necessary to enter the legal profession, while LLM boosts your career by offering specialized knowledge, helping you secure higher roles in academics, firms, or international organizations.
Q6. Is it compulsory to do LLM after LLB?
A: No, LLM is optional. Many professionals practice law, join firms, or take judiciary exams after LLB without pursuing LLM.
Q7. Can I practice in court with only an LLM degree?
A: No. You must first have an LLB and be registered with the Bar Council to practice in court. LLM only adds specialization but does not replace the need for LLB.
Q8. How long does it take to complete LLB and LLM together?
- LLB: 3 years (after graduation) or 5 years (after 12th)
- LLM: 1 to 2 years
So, the total time can be between 4 to 7 years depending on your route.
Q9. Which one is harder – LLB or LLM?
A: LLB covers a broad range of legal topics and is more practical. LLM focuses on in-depth research and specialization, so it requires more academic focus and analytical skills.
Q10. What can I do after LLM?
A: After LLM, you can:
- Teach law in universities
- Work in research or policy think tanks
- Join international legal organizations
- Take up high-level roles in law firms or government