Difference Between LLB and LLM, Exams, Career, Placement, and Eligibility.

It is necessary to navigate through the numerous LLB courses offered by law schools across the country to become an attorney. But even an LLB may not signify the end of your legal training; you have an LLM option as well. To make the most optimal choice, one must understand the differences between LLB and LLM, such as eligibility, course details, and entrance exams. To help students make informed decisions about pursuing an LLB or LLM in India, this article examines the key differences between these two programs.

LLB vs. LLM

The primary field of difference between LLM, or Master of Legislative Law, and LLB, or Bachelor of Legislative Law, is educational level. Whereas LLM is a postgraduate course, LLB is an undergraduate course. Whereas an LLM could be a one-year degree or a two-year degree, an LLB could be undertaken as a three-year or five-year integrated course.

Highlights of LLB vs. LLM

For a brief LLB and LLM course overview, refer to the easy-to-read table below, which provides details regarding course type, course level, tests, starting salary, best recruiters, and career profiles.

LLM and LLB: The difference between the eligibility criteria

The lowest requirements to be eligible for LLM courses will vary. Based on their individual needs, various universities might have varying lowest passing marks and age limits. For LLB and LLM, the minimum passing marks are generally 40–45% and 50%, respectively, with some exceptions available to students belonging to the reserved category.

LLB vs. LLM Course Details

Three-year LLB

Students on the three-year LLB course focus on studying several laws. This includes courses such as criminal law, taxation law, family law, corporate law, and constitutional law.

Five-year LLB

Law subjects are mixed with others in the five-year LLB qualification. Depending on the specific 5-year LLB course, you could also study science, business, management, or the arts alongside law. 5-year LLB courses are offered in a range of types, such as BA LLB, B.Com LLB, BBA LLB, and B.Sc LLB. The 5-year LLB course, unlike the 3-year course, offers students a broader knowledge of most subjects alongside law.

LLM

LLM is a one- or two-year postgraduate course. It allows legal students to specialize in specific areas of study. Intellectual property, corporate law, constitutional law, administrative law, environmental law, human rights, jurisprudence, taxation law, labor law, international law, criminal law, and law, science, and technology are some typical specializations.

Entrance Exams: LLB vs LLM

You often need to sit for entrance tests in a bid to be admitted to some of the best law schools and universities. These tests are administered by organizations at the state or federal levels, including the National Testing Agency (NTA) and other state organizations. On their respective pages, you can find more information about private institutions' entrance tests and whether you qualify to meet their standards if interested.

The Difference Between LLM and LLB

One has to complete an LLB before pursuing an LLM. Holding an LLB provides one with a wide variety of job opportunities, including

• Associates in law offices
• Team of corporate attorneys
• Officer of the law
• Individual practice

Nevertheless, acquiring an LLM allows a legal practitioner to specialize in one subject matter of law, which presents more opportunities and increases earnings. An academic and research career, such as teaching and PhD studies, often calls for an LLM. 

LLB vs. LLM: Top Universities and Careers

There are several highly regarded universities that provide LLB and LLM courses for students seeking a legal education. These courses are provided by national law universities as well as other private or public universities. Below are some of the highly regarded universities:

College Name

1. Banaras Hindu University
2. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar College of Law
3. Government Law College, Mumbai
4. Lucknow University
5. KIIT School of Law
6. Lovely Professional University
7. Symbiosis Law College
8. UPES Dehradun
9. TNDALU
10. Dr. Preeti Global University

Career

After receiving an LLB or LLM, you have several career opportunities with fair compensation. LLB graduates can work in diverse sectors, such as civil services, advocacy, and legal consultation. Below are some LLB job titles along with their average salaries:

FAQs

Is LLM possible without LLB?

You can nevertheless apply for the LLM program even if you have never studied law. All you need to do is prove that you have extensive work or academic experience in the courses you want to pursue.

Does the judiciary gain from LLM?

To become a judicial service officer or civil judge in India, you do not need an LLM degree. An LLB or BALLB degree is enough for these posts. An LLM degree is generally not needed for exams such as RJS, MPJS, DJS, GJS, UPPSC-J, JPSC-J, etc.

Does a judge need an LLM?

You don't require an LLM degree to become a judge. You just require an LLB from an Indian university approved by law. You also have to be a member of the State Bar Council and enrolled as an advocate under the Advocates Act of 1961.