Llm By Research

Program Overview

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The LLM by Research at the University of Aberdeen is a Master's degree designed for students seeking to conduct independent legal research. It offers intensive training in research methods and culminates in a 40,000-word dissertation, providing an opportunity for students to contribute to the body of legal knowledge. The program is flexible, allowing for full-time or part-time study, and is supervised by research-active faculty in a wide range of legal subjects.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

• It is specifically designed for students who aim to pursue a PhD in law or who are looking for an alternative to traditional taught LLM programs.
• The program culminates in a 40,000-word dissertation, providing an in-depth exploration of the chosen topic.

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Objectives:

• To enable students to develop advanced research skills and methodologies.
• To encourage independent and critical thinking in a legal context.
• To provide an opportunity for students to contribute to the body of legal knowledge through original research.

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Program Description:

• The LLM by Research is offered on a full-time (12 months) or part-time (24 months) basis, providing flexibility for working students.
• Students receive intensive training in research methods and are assigned two supervisors who provide guidance and support throughout the program.
• The program draws on the expertise of the Law School's research-active faculty, who offer supervision in a wide range of legal subjects.
• Students benefit from access to dedicated research spaces and a comprehensive law library with extensive collections of legal materials.

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Outline:

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The LLM by Research program typically follows this structure:

• Year 1 (Full-time) or Years 1 & 2 (Part-time):
• Students focus on developing their research skills and methodology.
• They undertake independent research on their chosen topic, guided by their supervisors.
• They may participate in research seminars and workshops offered by the Law School.
• Year 2 (Full-time) or Year 4 (Part-time):
• Students focus on writing their dissertation, which is an in-depth exploration of their chosen research topic.
• They receive ongoing supervision and feedback from their supervisors.
• They may present their research findings at conferences or workshops.

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Individual Modules:

• The LLM by Research program does not involve pre-defined modules.
Students independently develop their research topic and tailor their studies accordingly.
• However, the program may offer optional research seminars and workshops that students can choose to attend based on their interests and research focus.

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Assessment:

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The LLM by Research is assessed through the following methods:

• Dissertation: The primary assessment method is the 40,000-word dissertation, which is expected to demonstrate advanced research skills, critical analysis, and original contribution to the field of law.
• Supervisor feedback: Students receive ongoing feedback from their supervisors throughout the program, both on their research progress and the quality of their written work.
• Presentations: Students may be required to present their research findings at seminars or conferences, providing an opportunity for peer feedback and discussion.

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Assessment Criteria:

• The dissertation is assessed based on its originality, depth of research, critical analysis, clarity of argument, and the quality of writing.
• Supervisors also consider the student's research progress, engagement with the program, and the overall contribution to their chosen field of study.

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Teaching:

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The LLM by Research program employs a variety of teaching methods:

• Individual Supervision: Students receive regular one-on-one meetings with their supervisors, who provide guidance and support throughout the research process.
• Independent Research: Students are expected to engage in independent research, utilizing the Law School's library resources and attending relevant research seminars and workshops.
• Research Skills Training: The program may offer workshops and training sessions to equip students with the necessary research skills and methodologies.
• Peer Learning: Students may have opportunities to present their research findings at seminars or discuss their work with peers in research groups.

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Faculty:

• The Law School has a highly qualified and research-active faculty who supervise LLM by Research students.
• These faculty members are experts in their respective legal fields and bring diverse research interests and methodologies to the program.

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Careers:

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The LLM by Research prepares students for a variety of careers in law, academia, and other fields:

• Academia: Graduates may pursue further research leading to a PhD in law or pursue careers in teaching and research at universities or research institutions.
• Legal Practice: The program's research and writing skills development are valuable assets for careers in legal practice, particularly in areas requiring in-depth research and analysis.
• Policy and Advocacy: Graduates may work for government agencies, NGOs, or other organizations involved in policy development and advocacy, using their research skills to inform policy decisions.
• Business and Management: The program's analytical and problem-solving skills are relevant to careers in business and management, particularly in roles requiring research and strategic decision-making.

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Other:

• **The LLM by Research program at the University of Aberdeen is ranked Top 10 in the UK for Law by the Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024.

• The program offers a flexible structure that caters to the needs of both full-time and part-time students.
• Students benefit from access to a dedicated research community with opportunities to collaborate with and learn from other research students.
• The Law School provides a supportive environment for research, with a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration and engagement with real-world legal issues.