LLM Subjects List and Syllabus 2025: A Complete Guide
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Updated on Sep 10, 2025 | 14 min read | 18.78K+ views
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| Did You Know? The Indian Legal Services Market is currently valued at USD 2.49 billion in 2025 and is predicted to grow at a CAGR of 6.28% during 2025-2030! In a growing demand for legal services, an LLM solidifies your career growth with advanced knowledge. |
A Master of Legislative Law, which is commonly known as LLM, is a postgraduate degree program. LLM is a highly valued qualification that is pursued by law graduates to specialize their careers in a particular law subject.
This is a 2-year postgraduate degree that allows legal professionals to advance further in their careers with advanced specializations and qualifications while also paving the way for lucrative legal careers. But what do these specializations entail, and what are the focus LLM subjects and syllabus in this degree?
In this blog, we will be addressing these queries surrounding LLM subjects list. Read along as we engage in a detailed discussion on the LLM syllabus, LLM subject list and specializations.
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LLM Subjects List for Core Subjects in India
If you are planning to pursue an LLM in India, you will start with a few essential subjects that form the base of this PG course. These core papers help you understand the fundamentals before moving to advanced specializations. Let’s further explore the LLM subjects list to get a better idea of the syllabus.
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Core subjects in LLM in India
The Master of Laws (LLM) program encompasses a range of core subjects that are designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of advanced legal principles.
Here’s a table representing the LLM core subjects list:
Core LLM Subject |
What does it focus on? |
| Constitutional Law | Covers the structure of the Constitution, rights, duties, and powers of the state |
| Jurisprudence | Focuses on the philosophy and principles of law |
| Administrative Law | Deals with the functioning and control of government bodies |
| Law of Contracts | Explains rules for forming and enforcing contracts |
| Law of Torts | Covers civil wrongs like negligence and remedies |
| Criminal Law | Focuses on crimes, punishments, and justice processes |
| Public International Law | Deals with legal relations between countries and treaties |
Also Read: LLM Degree Duration in 2025: Course Structure, Admission & Careers
Semester-wise LLM subjects list
The 2025 syllabus for LLM programs is designed to provide a balanced mix of core and elective subjects, with a focus on both foundational knowledge and specialized areas of law. Below is a semester-wise breakdown of the typical LLM course structure, incorporating both mandatory and elective components.
Take a look at this table, which highlights semester-wise LLM subjects list:
| Semester | LLM Course Subjects List | Practical Learning Offered |
| Semester 1 | Core: Jurisprudence, Constitutional Law, Legal Research and Methodology, Law of Contracts Electives: Intellectual Property Rights, Cyber Law) |
Legal Research Project, Moot Court Practice |
| Semester 2 | Core: Law of Torts, Administrative Law, International Law, Property Law Electives: Environmental Law, Banking and Finance Law |
Internship Program, Case Study Analysis |
| Semester 3 | Core: Criminal Law, Family Law, Comparative Constitutional Law Electives: Corporate Law, Advanced Criminal Law |
Dissertation Preparation, Moot Court |
| Semester 4 | Core: Advanced Research Methods, Dissertation Submission Electives: Final Specialized Course |
Dissertation Defense, Final Research Paper Submission |
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Specializations and Subjects in LLM
When going for an LLM degree, you can choose from a range of specializations depending on which area of law interests you the most and where you would like to advance your career in
Top Specializations available in LLM
Every student must choose a specific law stream to specialize in that field. Let’s see what top LLM specializations are available out there.
Here is a quick look at the main LLM specialization subjects:
LLM Business Law |
LLM Human Rights |
LLM Constitutional Law |
LLM International Trade Law |
LLM Criminal Law |
LLM Corporate Law |
LLM Family Law |
LLM Labour Law |
LLM Intellectual Property Rights |
LLM Taxation Law |
LLM Environmental Law |
LLM Maritime Law |
Now, let’s further examine the LLM course subjects list and syllabus within each of these specializations:
1. LLM Business Law
This law specialization includes the following subjects:
Law and Social Transformation in India
Judicial Process
Law of Industrial and Intellectual Property
Insurance Law
Legal Regulation of Economic Enterprises, Law Relating to Regulatory Authorities
Law Relating to Regulatory Authorities
Commercial Arbitration
Alternate Dispute Resolution & Securities Law
2. LLM Constitutional Law
This law specialization includes the following subjects:
Law and Social Transformation in India
Constitutionalism: Pluralism & Federalism
Indian Constitutional Law - The New Challenges
National Security, Public Order and Rule of Law
Judicial Process
Administrative Law
Administrative Process and Judicial Control
3. LLM Criminal Law
This law covers the following subjects in its syllabus:
Theories of Law
Research Methodology
Banking Law
Corporate Jurisprudence
Legal Concepts
Legislative Process
Corporate Law
Life and Fire Insurance
Consumer Law
4. LLM Family Law
This law focuses on these subjects:
Family Law I – System Scope Sources and Schools
Family Law II – Marriage and Matrimonial Remedies
Comparative Public Law
Law and Justice in Globalizing World
Legal English and Research Methodology
Foreign Business Language
5. LLM Intellectual Property Rights
This law specialization includes the following subjects:
Overview of Intellectual Property
Traditional Knowledge and Biodiversity
Commercialization of IP & Licensing
Plant Breeder’s Rights
Copyright and Design Law
Advanced IP Issues
International & Comparative IP Law
Research Project
6. LLM Environmental Law
This law comprises of the following subjects:
Nature and Scope of Environmental Law
Protection of the Environment under the Indian Constitution
Protection of Water, Air, and Environment in India
International Law and Environmental Protection
Environmental Protection and General Civil and Criminal Laws
Emerging Issues in Environmental Law
7. LLM Human Rights
This law covers these subjects:
Concept & Classification of Rights
Concept of Human Rights
Concept of Human Duties
Dialectics of Human Rights
Emerging Concept of Human Rights
Human Duties, Responsibilities & Effectuation
International Obligation
Human Rights & Criminal Justice
Jurisprudence & Human Rights: Lego Philosophical perspectives
Constitutional Governance of Human Rights in India
Refugee Law
8. LLM International Trade Law
When studying international trade law, the following subjects are covered:
Introduction to International Trade Law
Law and Practice in International Banking and Commercial Payments
World Trade Law
Marine Insurance
9. LLM Corporate Law
These are the subjects taught in LLM corporate law:
Financial Models and Derivatives in a Legal Context
Corporate Social Responsibilities and the Law
European Procurement Law
Banking and Finance Law
10. LLM Labour Law
The following list of subjects are included in this law specialization:
Law Relating to Industrial Relations
Law Relating to Social Security & Safety Measures.
Comparative Public Law
Law relating to Trade Unions, Labor Welfare
11. LLM Taxation Law
This law specialization covers these subjects in its syllabus:
General Principles of Taxation
Indirect Tax laws
International Taxation
Direct Tax Laws
12. LLM Maritime Law
An LLM Maritime Law specialization includes the following subjects:
Maritime Laws and Practices
Maritime safety and security
Maritime Insurance policies and practices
Maritime Jurisdiction
LLM specializations in Intellectual Property or Cyber Law?
Yes, many universities currently offer LLM programs with a focus on cyber law and intellectual property law. These topics include trademarks, copyrights, patents, and online data security. These specializations are becoming some of the most popular choices for law graduates as a result of businesses going digital and technological advancements.
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Do LLM Subjects Differ by University or Course Duration in India?
Not all LLM programs in India follow the same structure. The subjects you study can change depending on the university and whether you choose a one-year or two-year course.
How is the LLM (1-Year) Subject List Different from the LLM (2-Year) Program?
When talking about the difference in the LLM subjects list of the 1-year and 2-year programs, we can cover certain aspects to highlight these differences
Here’s a brief table to see how the LLM (1-Year) subject list is different from the LLM (2-Year) program:
| Differentiating factor | 1-Year LLM Program | 2-Year LLM Program |
| Program Approach | Fast-paced and research-heavy | Steady pace, gives more time to learn |
| Subjects Covered | Focuses more on core subjects and fewer electives | Covers core subjects and offers a variety of electives |
| Research Work | Dissertation is a major part of the curriculum | Includes dissertation, but with more time for depth |
| Study Depth | Covers essentials quickly | Allows in-depth learning and broader understanding |
| Elective Choices | Limited due to tight schedule | Plenty of elective and specialization options available |
Do LLM course subjects differ between NLUs and other universities?
Yes, NLUs offer LLM subjects which include relevant and modern elective options such as:
Aspect |
NLUs (National Law Universities) |
Private Universities |
| Subject Focus | Modern electives (IPR, Cyber Law, etc.) | Fundamental law subjects |
| Curriculum Approach | Trend-driven and field-aligned | Traditional and theoretical |
| Relevance | Matches ongoing legal & industry trends | Strong foundation in basics |
Does Specializations Affect the LLM Subject List?
Law specializations can strongly impact the LLM subjects list as the focus shifts with a specialization in place. An LLM specialization, like in the name, focuses on one legal area such as criminal law or corporate law rather than providing a general overview of the law.
In a specialization LLM degree, law students can develop deep expertise through a target curriculum, which eventually helps them gain an edge in these specialized legal fields. Going for a specialization is the right choice for people interested in making a career in a particular area of law.
Which LLM Subjects Are Best for Career Growth?
Different LLM subjects can translate into different forms of career growth. This is highly dependent on your eventual career goals. Let’s see how various LLM subjects can be beneficial in career growth.
Which LLM course subjects are best for UPSC aspirants?
The following are the LLM course subjects best suited for an UPSC Aspirant:
1. Constitutional Law
2. International Law
3. Administrative Law
These subjects are beneficial for an UPSC Aspirant because:
- It directly overlaps with the UPSC syllabus
- Provide advanced legal knowledge useful for exams
- Strengthen conceptual clarity in governance and law-related topics
Do certain LLM subjects lead to higher-paying jobs?
Yes, there are certain LLM subjects that can lead to higher-paying jobs in law. These are often in in-demand specializations like Intellectual Property Rights and Corporate Law. With expertise in these areas, you become eligible to find high-paying positions in corporate advisory and MNCs.
What Are the Latest and Emerging Subjects in LLM?
To keep up with new technological advancements and ongoing global issues, several emerging and new LLM subjects can be seen.
The following are some of them:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Climate Law
- Sustainability
- Biotechnology Law
- Cyber Law
These areas address contemporary issues and allow law students to be future-ready in their careers.
Are there LLM subjects related to Cyber Law or AI?
Yes, the list of LLM subjects of many universities includes electives on Cyber Law and AI. These subjects focus on data protection, cybersecurity, privacy laws, and the legal implications of artificial intelligence. They prepare graduates for roles in tech-driven industries where digital compliance and ethics are critical.
What are the emerging LLM subjects in 2025 and beyond?
Some of the top emerging LLM subjects in 2025 are
- Technology Law
- Data Privacy
- Space Law
- International Environmental Law
These are becoming important in 2025, and gaining expertise in these fields may lead to specialized, in-demand legal professions.
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Wrap Up
Now that you have a deeper knowledge of what the LLM subjects list looks like, you must have developed a better idea of the LLM syllabus in terms of core curriculum as well as specialization. The LLM course subjects offer vast knowledge and great experience to students to build their careers in the legal field.
But guess what? To prosper in the law field, you do not have to just rely on university courses. You can also take a step ahead and explore more learning options. Here is a mix of full-time and short-duration courses offered via upGrad that you can check out
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References:
https://www.lloydlawcollege.edu.in/blog/llm-specialization.html
https://www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/india-legal-services-market
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is LLM 1 year or 2 years?
In India, LLM programs are of both, 1 year and 2 years duration. But if you want to develop a career in teaching law, you need to pursue a 2-year LLM degree. Internationally, LLM course duration varies widely, ranging from nine months to two years, depending on the institution, location, and curriculum design offered.
2. Which exam is best for LLM?
In India, popular entrance exams include CLAT PG and AILET PG for admission to leading law schools. For international programs, universities may require tests like LSAT or GRE, though requirements vary depending on the country, institution, and specific program you apply for.
3. How many subjects are there in LLM?
Most LLM programs include six to ten subjects, divided into mandatory core papers and electives that allow specialization. The exact number varies by university, but this flexible structure ensures students can explore both foundational legal concepts and advanced topics in law.
4. How to learn LLM?
Focus on understanding concepts rather than memorizing. Read case laws, engage in discussions, and write research papers to build strong analytical skills. Staying updated on legal developments and actively participating in seminars can make your LLM learning experience more enriching and practical overall.
5. Is LLM a diploma?
No, LLM is a postgraduate degree in law that provides in-depth knowledge of specific legal areas. Unlike short-term diplomas, it involves advanced coursework, research components, and often a dissertation, making it a more comprehensive and academically rigorous qualification for law graduates.
6. Who is eligible for LLM in law?
To apply for LLM, you need an LLB or equivalent law degree from a recognized institution. Most universities require a minimum qualifying percentage in your undergraduate program, and some also conduct entrance exams or interviews as part of their admission process.
7. Can I do a job with LLM?
Yes, LLM graduates can work in diverse roles, such as corporate lawyers, legal advisors, or policy consultants. Many join multinational companies, research organizations, or law firms, while others prefer academia or positions with NGOs focusing on advocacy and public interest law.
8. What is the age limit for LLM?
There is usually no upper age limit for pursuing an LLM. Most universities prioritize academic qualifications and entrance exam performance. This flexibility allows professionals with years of experience to return to academia and enhance their legal expertise at any stage of life.
9. Which subject is best for LLM?
There is no universal answer because it depends on your career goals. Corporate Law and Intellectual Property are great for corporate roles, while Human Rights or Criminal Law are ideal for those who want to work in advocacy, public policy, or research.
10. What is the salary after LLM?
Salaries vary widely depending on specialization, employer, and location. Corporate lawyers and those in multinational firms often earn higher wages, sometimes reaching several lakhs annually. Academic or research roles may start lower but can offer growth and stability over time.
11. What is the difference between core and elective subjects in LLM?
Core subjects are mandatory for every student and cover essential legal foundations such as Jurisprudence and Constitutional Law. Electives are optional and help you specialize in areas like Cyber Law, Intellectual Property, or International Trade, depending on your career preferences.
12. Which LLM specialization is best for future careers?
Corporate Law, Intellectual Property Rights, and International Business Law usually offer strong career opportunities in law firms and corporate sectors. However, specializations like Human Rights or Environmental Law are excellent for those passionate about advocacy, NGOs, and policy work at a global level.
13. Which branch of LLM is best?
Every branch has unique benefits. Corporate and Commercial Law often lead to lucrative private sector roles, while Human Rights, Criminal Law, and Environmental Law may suit careers in public service, policy, or academia. The right choice depends on your career aspirations and interests.
14. Are there any recent updates or changes in the LLM syllabus by UGC?
Yes, the UGC introduced a one-year LLM program with mandatory papers like Comparative Public Law and Legal Research. However, universities still provide flexibility through electives, allowing students to customize their studies based on individual career goals and specialized interests.
15. Can students choose their LLM subjects, or is the subject list fixed?
Most LLM programs include both. You will have some compulsory papers that all students must complete, along with elective options that allow you to focus on areas like Corporate Law, Human Rights, or International Trade, based on your career interests.
16. What are the main LLM subjects in India?
Common subjects include Jurisprudence, Comparative Public Law, and Legal Research. Beyond these core papers, electives may include Corporate Governance, Criminal Justice, Intellectual Property Rights, or Environmental Law, depending on the specialization offered by the university and your chosen academic path.
17. Which university is best for LLM in India?
Leading institutions include National Law School of India University (NLSIU), NALSAR, and Faculty of Law, Delhi University. These colleges are highly regarded for experienced faculty, diverse specializations, and strong placement opportunities for students aiming to build careers in law and research.
18. Which field is better for LLM?
It depends on your career goals. Corporate Law and Intellectual Property Rights are excellent for corporate roles, while International Law is better for global opportunities. Criminal Law, Human Rights, and Environmental Law are perfect for those interested in public service, NGOs, or academic careers.
19. What are some challenges with LLM degrees?
A common challenge students face is the heavy research and dissertation requirements, which demand strong analytical and writing skills. Additionally, some programs offer limited practical exposure, which can make it harder for graduates to immediately transition into industry roles after completing the degree.
20. What are the job options after LLM?
Many graduates work as legal consultants, corporate lawyers, or join academia as professors or researchers. Others explore careers in judicial services, NGOs, think tanks, or multinational corporations. Your exact path often depends on your chosen specialization and practical experience gained during studies.
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