July 9, 2024 —
The University of Manitoba has unveiled significant updates to its Master of Laws (LLM) program, set to take effect in September 2025. These changes will allow future applicants to choose between thesis-based and course-based LLMs. Additionally, the program now welcomes applicants with non-law degrees relevant to their proposed research areas, broadening access to the program.
“The enhancements to our LLM program are substantial, benefiting both the legal community and the wider public in Manitoba,” stated Dr. Richard Jochelson, Dean of Law. “These changes promote access to justice, encourage citizen advocacy, and create more opportunities for individuals to engage in legal education for societal improvement. The new course-based LLM option will attract more practicing lawyers, allowing them to deepen their legal knowledge and improve their practice through our clinical courses.”
The course-based LLM is designed for practicing lawyers and those in the legal sector with law-related education and experience, such as public service members, who seek further academic qualifications. This degree provides specialized knowledge relevant to one’s career, offering practical skills and insights not typically covered in undergraduate education.
“Both the course-based and thesis-based LLMs offer students numerous ways to tailor their studies,” said Dr. Donn Short, Associate Dean of Research and Graduate Studies. “Students can choose a general field of study or specialize in areas like Human Rights, Business, Indigenous Studies, Law and Society, Criminal Law, or Public Policy. Course-based LLM students organize their courses around a specific theme, gaining mastery in their chosen area through classroom experiences. In contrast, thesis-based students take courses designed to support the development and implementation of a substantial research project culminating in a thesis.”
The thesis-based LLM is geared towards students aiming for academic careers or those who wish to engage in extensive original research. Completing a thesis requires demonstrating competence in conducting research and presenting findings.
The University of Manitoba’s Faculty of Law prides itself on offering personalized supervision from faculty members who are at the forefront of legal scholarship. The faculty’s research informs lawyers, courts, legislative bodies, and policymakers across the country and is published in leading journals and by reputable presses.
Thesis-based LLM students will each have a dedicated advisor, while course-based students will be assigned a Study Advisor with expertise in their chosen field, appointed by the Associate Dean of Research and Graduate Studies.
Applications for the LLM program open 18 months before the start term, with the annual application deadline set for December 15 for the following fall term.