Graduate Programs

LLM Programs

The University of Missouri School of Law offers LLM degree programs in Dispute Resolution and American Law. Residential students typically complete the 24-credit-hour program in one academic year. Students in the online LLM in Dispute Resolution program typically take two courses per semester and complete the program in two academic years. A part-time residential option also is available for domestic students in the LLM in Dispute Resolution program.

The highly-selective nature of the programs allows students to individualize their plan of study in light of their specific needs and interests. Applicants come from a variety of practice areas and a wide array of countries.

LLM in Dispute Resolution On-Campus

Established in 1999 as the first of its kind in the United States, the Mizzou LLM in Dispute Resolution is designed to assist lawyers and other dispute resolution professionals develop a deeper and broader understanding of the role that conflict plays in society, and of better ways to manage conflict through the design and implementation of appropriate, effective and fair dispute resolution processes.

Students have the opportunity to work closely with our extensive resident faculty which is comprised of some of the most prolific dispute resolution teachers and scholars in the country.

Over the years we have been fortunate to have a very diverse student body. Our graduates include practicing lawyers, dispute resolution professionals, judges, and professors in a variety of disciplines.

Required Core Courses (9 credit hours):

  • Dispute System Design (3 credit hours):
    • Analysis of system design principles and basic research evaluation methodologies. An underlying theme is program quality.
  • A non-binding method course (3 credit hours):
    • Mediation
    • Negotiation
  • An arbitration course (3 credit hours):
    • Arbitration
    • International Commercial Arbitration

Optional Academic Track:

  • Development and presentation of substantial research paper on a current topic in dispute resolution.
  • Independent research project supervised by a faculty member for a minimum of 3 credit hours.

Law Electives (15 credit hours)

Each student will be able to choose electives according to his/her interests and statement of purpose for enrolling in the LLM in Dispute Resolution program. NOTE: Some courses may not be offered in some years.

LLM in Dispute Resolution Online

As with our residential program, you will develop core skills in negotiation, mediation, arbitration and conflict resolution with our leading dispute resolution scholars and practitioners, but with the flexibility and freedom to attend classes whenever and wherever you are, in a way that is convenient for you. Visit Mizzou Online for more information and to apply.

LLM in American Law

The Mizzou LLM in American Law provides an introduction to the American legal system and U.S. legal practice for students who earned their first degree in law outside the United States.

Beyond the 6 credit hours of required courses – introduction to U.S. law, professional responsibility, and legal research and writing – students can customize their study in fields such as intellectual property, commercial law, criminal law, family law, dispute resolution, and employment law.

For a partial list of LLM course options, arranged by subject matter, see Course Options for LLM-American Law Students. Note, course availability varies from year to year.