LLB and LLM are two distinct degrees at different levels in the law field. You don’t choose one over the other; instead, LLB comes first, and LLM is an option you can consider later.
LLB is an undergraduate course that gives the foundational knowledge of law, while LLM is a postgraduate course for those who have completed their LLB and want to specialise further in a specific area of law.
If you want to learn more about both courses, then read our blog on LLB vs LLM to know the key differences, eligibility criteria, duration of the course and career scope, and what the top colleges to pursue law courses. This blog can help clear all your doubts in Law courses like LLB and LLM.
What Is LLB?
LLB stands for Bachelor of Laws. It’s an undergraduate law degree that teaches you the basics of legal subjects like the Constitution, criminal cases, civil rights, and how laws work in India. There are two ways to do LLB in India: either a 5-year integrated course after Class 12 (like BA LLB or BBA LLB), or a 3-year course after you finish your graduation in any stream.
LLB is approved by the Bar Council of India (BCI), which means after completing the LLB, you can register as an advocate and start practising law in Indian courts. After doing LLB, many students become lawyers, work as legal advisors, or prepare for exams like the judiciary or UPSC with law as their subject.
What Is LLM?
LLM stands for a Master of Law, it is a 2-year postgraduate degree specially designed for deepen the understanding of law after an LLB degree, because an LLB degree gives you the basic knowledge of the law field, while the LLM offers you different specializations in areas like corporate law, constitutional law, criminal law, human rights, or international law or many other law fields.
It is an ideal course for students who want to build expertise in a specific legal field, work in research or academics, or apply for teaching jobs in law colleges. Many students also choose LLM to boost their career prospects in top law firms, government organisations, or international legal institutions.
LLB vs LLM: Detailed Course Comparison
Feature | LLB | LLM |
Full Form | Bachelor of Laws | Master of Laws |
Level of Course | Undergraduate | Postgraduate |
Eligibility |
| Must have completed LLB |
Course Duration | 3 years after graduation 5 years after Class 12 | Usually, 2 years |
Focus Area | General law subjects | Specialised area of law (e.g., corporate, criminal, etc.) |
Purpose | To make a foundation for a legal career | To get deeper knowledge, research, or academic growth |
Approved By | Bar Council of India (BCI) | University Grants Commission (UGC) |
Career Stage | Starting point in the legal field | Suitable for advanced roles or academic positions |
Career Opportunities | Advocate, legal advisor, corporate legal roles, etc. | Law professor, legal researcher, senior legal consultant |
LLB Vs LLM: Key Differences
LLB | LLM |
LLB is the first step toward becoming a lawyer. It introduces students to the basics of the legal system and the foundation of Indian law. | LLM is a specialised course that helps students dive deeper into one area of law, making them experts in that specific subject. |
This course is for students who want to understand how the law works and build a strong base for practising law or joining the legal profession. | LLM is best for students who already have a law degree and want to enhance their knowledge, either for academic purposes or higher roles in the legal field. |
In LLB, students study general areas of law like criminal law, contract law, tort law, and constitutional law. | In LLM, students choose a specialisation like corporate law, human rights, environmental law, or international law and study it in detail. |
It is the minimum qualification required to become a lawyer and register with the Bar Council of India. | While not compulsory to practise law, an LLM adds value to your legal profile, especially if you aim for teaching, research, or high-level legal positions. |
LLB graduates usually begin their careers as advocates, legal assistants, or pursue internships to gain courtroom experience. | LLM graduates often move toward research, academic jobs, policy-making roles, or senior positions in law firms, courts, or global organisations. |
Eligibility Criteria for LLB and LLM
For LLB
- For LLB candidate needs to complete a bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognised university.
- Integrated LLB candidates need to complete 10+2 from a recognised board.
- You need to have a valid score card of an entrance exam, as many top law schools admit students through entrance exams like CLAT, LSAT India, or state-level exams.
- There is no age limit to take admission in this course.
For LLM
- For LLM candidate needs to complete a bachelor’s degree in law from a recognised university. It can be a 3-year degree or a 5-year integrated degree.
- Candidates need to score a minimum of 50–55% marks in LLB.
- You need to have a valid score card of an entrance exam, as many top law schools admit students based on their entrance exam score card.
- There is no age limit to take admission in this course.
Course Duration: LLB vs LLM
Course Duration of LLB
The LLB (Bachelor of Laws) is an undergraduate law degree. If you’ve already completed a graduation in any other subject, you can go for a 3-year LLB course. But if you want to study law right after your 12th, then you can choose a 5-year integrated LLB program like BA LLB, BBA LLB, etc.
Course Duration of LLB
LLM (Master of Laws) is a postgraduate course that you can do after completing your LLB. It lets you study law in more depth and choose a specialisation like corporate law, human rights law, or international law. In India, an LLM is a 2-year course.
Career Opportunities After LLB and LLM
- Advocate
Advocates mainly represent the clients in courts and give legal advice. After your LLB and registration with the Bar Council, you can practice in district courts, High Courts, or the Supreme Court. They draft documents, present arguments, and help people solve legal problems.
Average Salary: INR 1,80,000 to INR 4,80,000
- Legal Advisor
Legal advisors are responsible for working with companies or government offices to help them follow the law. They usually handle legal paperwork, check policies, and prevent legal issues. An LLM in corporate law is often preferred for this role.
Average Salary: INR 2,40,000 to INR 6,12,000
- Corporate Lawyer
A corporate lawyer’s main work is to handle legal matters for businesses, like contracts, mergers, or rules. They usually work in companies or law firms.
Average Salary: INR 4,00,000 to INR 13,00,000
- Legal Researcher / Policy Analyst
The role of a legal researcher involves researching laws, drafting reports, and helping with legal policies. Researchers can also work with NGOs, think tanks, or universities on topics like human rights or environmental law.
Average Salary: INR 2,40,000 to INR 6,00,000
- Professor or Lecturer
Professors or lecturers are responsible for teaching law students in universities; they prepare lessons and do legal research, and legal writing.
Average Salary: INR 1,80,000 to INR 7,20,000
- International Lawyer
These lawyers work on international issues like trade, human rights, or immigration. With an LLM in international law, they work with global organisations like the UN or WTO.
Average Salary: INR 2,00,000 to INR 7,80,000
- Public Prosecutor
Public prosecutors represent the government in criminal cases. They work with the police, study evidence, and present the case in court to make sure justice is served.
Average Salary: INR 8,64,000 to INR 9,36,000
- Arbitrator / Mediator
Arbitrators or Mediators are those who help people or businesses settle disputes peacefully without going to court. It’s a quicker and more private way to resolve problems, especially useful in business matters.
Average Salary: INR 2,40,000 to INR 4,80,000
Top Law Colleges in India for LLB and LLM
Law University Name | Location |
National Law School of India University (NLSIU) | Bangalore, Karnataka |
National Academy of Legal Studies and Research (NALSAR) | Hyderabad, Telangana |
The National Law Institute University (NLIU) | Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh |
Hidayatullah National Law University (HNLU) | Raipur, Chhattisgarh |
Gujarat National Law University (GNLU) | Gandhinagar, Gujarat |
National Law University (NLU) | New Delhi |
National University of Advanced Legal Studies (NUALS) | Kochi, Kerala |
Dr. Ram Manohar Lohiya National Law University (RMLNLU) | Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh |
Rajiv Gandhi National University of Law (RGNUL) | Patiala, Punjab |
Chanakya National Law University (CNLU) | Patna, Bihar |
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing between LLB vs LLM, it depends on where you are in your legal journey. If you are at the beginning and want to become a lawyer, then LLB is the right and only choice for you. It gives you the basic knowledge and allows you to start practising law.
On the other hand, LLM is for those who have already completed LLB and want to gain more knowledge in a specific area of law, like corporate law, international law, or human rights. So, think about your career goals and then decide which course suits you best.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Can I do LLM without LLB?
Ans. No, you must complete an LLB or equivalent law degree before applying for an LLM.
Q2. Which course has better career options: LLB or LLM?
Ans. Both have good career options, but LLB is the basic requirement to start a law career. LLM gives you a deep understanding of your chosen area.
Q3. Is LLB enough to become a lawyer in India?
Ans. Yes, after completing LLB and enrolling with a State Bar Council, you can start practising as a lawyer.
Q4. Do I need to clear any entrance exam for LLM?
Ans. Yes, most universities require candidates to clear entrance exams like CLAT-PG, AILET-PG, or university-specific tests for admission to LLM.
Q5. Can I pursue LLM abroad after doing LLB in India?
Ans. Yes, many Indian students pursue an LLM from foreign universities. However, you need to meet their eligibility and qualify TOEFL or IELTS.