Meet James Nafziger
Professor Nafziger is an internationally recognized expert in international law, dispute resolution, and sports law, with a distinguished career that includes teaching and leadership roles at prestigious institutions worldwide.
Program Snapshot
- Degree Type
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LLM (Master of Laws)
- Program Type
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Graduate
- Credit Hours
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25
- Time to complete
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1-2 Years
- Campus
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Salem Campus
Student Success
Sonny Nguyen, LLM '16, overcame incredible hardships as a refugee to become a successful attorney. His journey from fleeing Vietnam to advocating for human rights in the U.S. is a testament to his perseverance and determination.
Sonny’s Story
From Refugee to Respected Attorney
Surviving pirate attacks, prison, and unimaginable loss, Sonny Nguyen’s life could have taken many directions. Instead, he turned his past struggles into a passion for justice, now thriving as a personal injury attorney in Tacoma, Washington.
Program Values
The Willamette University LLM program is committed to fostering a deep understanding of the law, both in the United States and internationally. Our program emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, practical application, and ethical leadership, empowering students to become proficient legal professionals who can navigate complex legal challenges in a global context.
Introducing Some of Our Faculty
The LLM program at Willamette is guided by experienced legal professionals who are passionate about your success. Our faculty are more than just teachers - they’re mentors who provide personalized guidance, helping you master complex legal concepts and apply them in real-world situations. With their support, you’ll gain the skills and confidence needed to excel in your legal career.
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Meet Symeon Symeonides
Professor Symeonides is a globally renowned expert in conflict of laws and comparative law, with a prolific career that includes drafting influential legal codes, authoring 29 books, and being honored with multiple lifetime achievement awards.
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Meet Sheryl Buske
Sheryl Buske is an expert in legal writing and child law, with extensive experience in academia and child welfare practice. Her international work, including as a Fulbright Scholar in Ghana, focuses on children’s rights and child labor issues.
Curriculum
The LLM curriculum at Willamette is designed to provide a robust foundation in U.S. law while allowing you to tailor your studies to your specific interests. Whether you choose to concentrate in Business Law, Advocacy, International Law, Public Service, Health Law, or U.S. Law, you’ll benefit from a curriculum that combines theoretical knowledge with practical application.
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LAW 150 Introduction to American Law
This foundational course provides a comprehensive overview of the U.S. legal system, including its structure, sources of law, and key legal principles. It is essential for international students who wish to understand the nuances of American law.
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LAW 153 Legal Research, Writing, and Analysis
Develop your legal research and writing skills with this intensive course, which emphasizes the techniques and strategies necessary for effective legal analysis and argumentation. This course is particularly valuable for students planning to sit for a U.S. bar exam.
Program Requirements
The LLM program requires the completion of 25 credit hours, including core courses and electives tailored to your chosen concentration. For students with foreign law degrees, the program includes mandatory courses in Legal Research and Writing and Introduction to American Law. Additionally, LLM candidates must complete a supervised writing project that meets the Graduation Writing Requirement.
Admissions Information
To apply, candidates must hold a JD from an accredited American law school or its equivalent from a foreign law school. The application process includes submission of a personal statement, resume, letters of recommendation, and official transcripts. Admissions are rolling, and we encourage early applications for best consideration.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Willamette University offers financial aid options, including federal aid and merit-based scholarships for qualified LLM candidates. All applicants are automatically considered for scholarships based on academic performance and professional experience, with no separate application required.
