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

Difference Between LLB and LLM

Difference Between LLB and LLM: Becoming a lawyer involves navigating through various LLB courses offered by law colleges across the country. But the journey in legal education doesn't have to end with LLB; you can also pursue LLM. It's crucial to understand the differences between LLB and LLM, such as eligibility, course details, and entrance exams, to help you make the right choice. This article explores these distinctions to assist aspiring individuals in making informed decisions between LLB and LLM in India.

LLB vs LLM Full Form

LLB, or Bachelor of Legislative Law, and LLM, or Master of Legislative Law, differ primarily in their educational levels. LLB is an undergraduate program, while LLM is a postgraduate program. LLB can be pursued as a 5-year integrated or a 3-year program, while LLM may be offered as a one-year or two-year program.

LLB vs LLM Highlights

LLB and LLM Difference between Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criteria for 3-year LLB, 5-year LLB, and LLM programs vary in terms of minimum qualifications required. Different colleges may have variations in minimum passing marks and age limits as per their specific criteria. Generally, there is no age limit for either LLB or LLM programs in Indian law colleges. The typical minimum passing marks range from 40-45% for LLB and 50% for LLM, with reserved category candidates receiving certain relaxations.

LLB Vs LLM Course Details

The main difference between LLB and LLM is what you study. Let's break down the details:

3-year LLB

In the 3-year LLB program, students focus on learning different laws. This includes topics like corporate law, constitutional law, taxation law, family law, and criminal law.

5-year LLB

The 5-year LLB program combines law subjects with other disciplines. Depending on the specific 5-year LLB course, you might study arts, commerce, management, or science subjects along with law. There are various types of 5-year LLB courses, such as BA LLB, B.Com LLB, BBA LLB, B.Sc LLB, and BSW LLB. Unlike the 3-year LLB, the 5-year LLB gives students a broader understanding of different fields alongside law.

LLM

LLM is a postgraduate program lasting one or two years. It allows law students to specialize in specific areas. Common specializations include Criminal Law, Intellectual Property, Corporate Law, Constitutional Law, Administrative Law, Environmental Law, Human Rights, Jurisprudence, Taxation Law, Labour Law, International Law, and Law, Science, and Technology.

LLM vs LLB Entrance Exams

Top Law Entrance Exams

LLB Vs LLM Fees

Comparing the fees of LLB and LLM shows a notable difference. Generally, LLM fees are lower than LLB fees. This is because LLM programs are shorter in duration. Even on a yearly basis, LLM fees are relatively lower than LLB fees.

An average comparison of National Law Universities' fees reveals that LLB fees are around 2.6 lakh per year, whereas LLM fees are around 2 lakh per year. It's important to note that fees are usually higher in well-known private law colleges compared to government colleges.

Difference Between LLB and LLM

If someone wants to do LLM, they need to complete LLB first. Doing LLB opens up various career opportunities, such as:

• Legal associate at law firms
• Corporate legal team
• Law officer
• Private practice

On the other hand, pursuing LLM allows a lawyer to specialize in a specific area of law, leading to more opportunities and higher salaries. An LLM is often necessary for a career in academics and research, including teaching and pursuing a PhD.

LLB vs LLM Best Colleges and Jobs

Top LLB Colleges

Top LLM Colleges

LLB vs LLM Jobs and Salaries

LLB Job Profiles and Average Salary (in INR)

LLM Job Profiles and Average Salary (in INR)

LLB Vs LLM Placements

The table below shows the average salaries at the top 10 law colleges in the NIRF law rankings 2023 for their undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) law programs. These numbers help us see the difference between LLB and LLM in terms of job opportunities.

Top Law College Placements

Note: "Not available" indicates that the salary information is not provided for that specific category.