Boston University

Overview

Asian Legal Studies is a unique program offered through a partnership between Boston University School of Law and the National University of Singapore (NUS). This pathway allows eligible BU Law JD students to immerse themselves in a different legal landscape by spending their third year in Singapore as full-time graduate students, culminating in the achievement of an LLM from NUS.

The program is conducted entirely in English and is tailored for qualified third-year BU Law students seeking to broaden their international legal perspective.

What you'll study

The program emphasizes a robust academic experience through a full-time study period at NUS, incorporating a blend of coursework and independent research.

• LLM Coursework: Students engage in graduate-level modules at NUS over two academic terms, covering various aspects of Asian legal studies.
• Independent Research Paper: Participants complete a 2-unit independent paper under the supervision of a BU Law professor, which contributes to their JD credit.
• BU Law Requirements: Before departing for the program, students must fulfill upper-class writing, professional responsibility, and practical skills requirements as set by BU Law.

Note: Course offerings and elective options may vary each academic year, so students are encouraged to consult the NUS program website for the most current information.

Entry requirements

Admission to the program is exclusively for qualified BU Law JD students in their third year. To be eligible, students must have completed the necessary upper-class requirements at BU Law prior to entering the program.

English language requirements

• IELTS: Minimum score of 7.0
• TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 90
• Duolingo English Test (DET): Minimum score of 125

Application documents

• Completed Application for Graduate Admission
• Three letters of recommendation
• Personal statement
• Current résumé
• Transcripts from all previously attended colleges and graduate schools
• Non-refundable application fee

Additional documents for international applicants

• International Student Data Form
• Authorized financial statement from a bank
• Copy of current I-20 and I-94 forms, if applicable
• Letter of financial support from a sponsor
• Notarized English translations of any documents not in English

Career prospects

The Asian Legal Studies program opens numerous career opportunities for graduates. Depending on their visa status and the prevailing work pass regulations in Singapore, graduates may be eligible to work in various legal roles within the region.

• Post-study Work Eligibility: Graduates can pursue work rights based on their visa status and the relevant Singapore work pass scheme.
• Employment Pathway: Graduates have the option to apply for a suitable employment pass or work pass once they secure a job offer that meets the criteria of the work pass scheme.
• Important Consideration: Regulations and eligibility criteria regarding work permits may change, so students are advised to verify the latest information with NUS and the relevant Singaporean authorities.