A Master of Laws tailor-made for clerks, federal civil servants and diplomats

By Graduate Studies

Communication, Faculty of Law

Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies Program
parliament canada
The University of Ottawa's Faculty of Law capitalizes on its unique geographic position in Canada to attract the best graduate students.

Whether you're a law clerk, public servant or diplomat, our new Master of Laws (LLM) with thesis options are designed to allow you to integrate your unique experiences with rewarding graduate studies.

By joining our Faculty, you'll benefit from privileged access to Canada's leading courts and political institutions, as well as personalized guidance to hone your research, policy-making or negotiation skills.

Our programs, offered in French and English, prepare tomorrow's leaders in the field of law and justice. Explore these options tailored to your career path and become an agent of change:

1. Law clerk option

Build on your experience as a law clerk by integrating it with a Master of Laws degree. Designed specifically for law clerks, this option allows you to complete your LLM during or up to five (5) years after your clerkship at the Supreme Court of Canada, the Federal Court of Appeal, the Federal Court, a provincial court of appeal or another court deemed equivalent by the Faculty of Law.  You may be awarded up to 6 credits for your clerkship.

2. Legal experience in the federal government option

Are you a senior lawyer in Canada’s public service? This tailored program recognizes and values your contribution to law and public administration by awarding you up to 6 credits for your professional experience. Deepen your research and policy development skills and position yourself as a leader in the public service.

3. Diplomatic legal experience option

Advance your diplomatic career by enriching your legal skills. This option allows you to study in our specialized Master of Laws program while continuing your work as a diplomat. Earn up to 6 university credits for your legal experience in a diplomatic environment. To qualify, you must have prior legal training.

Why choose the LL.M at the University of Ottawa?

A dynamic research culture that addresses the pressing issues of the day: explore diverse areas such as environmental law, health, aboriginal legal traditions and much more.

Internationally renowned professors: learn from over 100 passionate and inspiring experts.

Exceptional financial support: thanks to a strong network of federal, provincial and private partners, the University of Ottawa offers more than $41 million in annual scholarships and financial support to graduate students.

Our programs start in September and are offered full-time over 12 months or part-time, depending on your needs. Courses are given in person.

Apply today on our online platform and become a pillar of legal innovation in Canada and beyond.