The LLM in Banking and Financial Law at Boston University School of Law is designed for legal professionals seeking advanced knowledge in the complex field of financial services law. With a curriculum developed specifically for graduate study and a dedicated faculty of industry experts, this program has been preparing lawyers for over 40 years to handle the regulatory, transactional, and compliance challenges within the financial sector. Graduates are well-positioned for careers in banks, government agencies, law firms, corporations, and international financial organizations. The program offers flexibility with both full-time and part-time study options, available in-person in Boston or fully online.
The program requires 12 courses (24 credits), typically completed over two semesters for full-time students. The curriculum focuses on regulatory and transactional aspects of banking, securities, investment management, and financial services law. Students can choose electives to specialize in areas like The Business of Banking, Compliance Management, Financial Services Transactions, Lending and Credit Transactions, and Securities Transactions. A foundational course in Banking Structure and Regulation is mandatory. Optional preparatory courses like 'Financial Services Fundamentals' are available for students needing to strengthen their understanding of American law and financial topics.
Graduates of the LLM in Banking and Financial Law program are prepared for diverse roles within the legal and financial sectors. The program emphasizes practical skills and industry knowledge, equipping students to address the evolving needs of financial institutions and regulatory bodies.
Applicants should demonstrate a strong interest in financial services, often evidenced by their academic background, internships, or work experience. Some students are sponsored by their employers. A two-year LLM program option is available for internationally-trained lawyers who wish to improve their English fluency and academic skills before commencing specialized coursework.
Scholarships are available as partial-tuition waivers. Full tuition waivers and living expense support are not offered. International students are advised to review the 'Resources for International Students' page for external funding options.
Applicants must hold a first degree in law or its equivalent. Internationally-trained applicants must demonstrate English proficiency and may need to hold the national bar of their home country. A strong interest in financial services, evidenced by academic background or work experience, is also considered.
The program requires 12 courses (24 credits). Full-time students typically complete this over two semesters. A two-year LLM program option is available for internationally-trained lawyers who wish to enhance their English fluency and academic skills.
Partial-tuition waivers are available through the merit-based LLM Scholars Program, for which admitted candidates are automatically considered. Full tuition waivers and living expense support are not offered, and international students should explore external funding options.
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis for fall and spring admissions. You need to complete the online application form, submit official transcripts, provide TOEFL or IELTS scores, and include a personal statement outlining your career goals.
Graduates are prepared for roles such as lawyers in banks, government agencies, law firms, corporations, financial institutions, multilateral organizations, and non-governmental organizations.
The language of instruction for the LLM in Banking and Financial Law program is English. International applicants must submit TOEFL or IELTS scores that meet the program's minimum requirements.