University of Edinburgh

What you'll study

This LLM focuses on comparative study of core private law topics, with an emphasis on analysing similarities and differences between common law and civil law traditions as well as transnational private law developments. You study a combination of taught modules and a substantial dissertation under academic supervision.

• Core themes: comparative approaches to contract law, property and proprietary rights, tort and liability, restitution and unjust enrichment, and principles of private law theory.
• Optional and specialised modules: comparative commercial law, family and succession law in comparative perspective, conflict of laws/private international law, European private law, international commercial arbitration, and law and the market. Module availability can vary by year.
• Teaching and assessment: learning methods combine seminars, small-group tutorials, research-led lectures and student presentations. Assessment is typically by essays and coursework, with a major independent dissertation or research project demonstrating comparative analysis and original argument.
• Programme structure: the programme is offered full-time and part-time. Full-time students undertake taught modules alongside a supervised dissertation; part-time students spread the same components over a longer period.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a strong undergraduate degree in law (for example an upper second-class honours or equivalent) or a related discipline with demonstrated legal competence. Relevant professional legal experience or an accepted graduate diploma may also be considered.

Where English is not your first language, you must demonstrate proficiency in English to the level required by the University; specific acceptable tests and scores are published by the University. Admissions decisions are made on the basis of the whole application, including academic transcripts, references and a personal statement setting out your motivation and suitability for comparative legal study.

Career prospects

Graduates of the LLM in Comparative Private Law go on to a range of careers in law and beyond. The programme equips you for roles that demand deep doctrinal knowledge and comparative legal reasoning.

• Legal practice: private practice in international firms, in-house legal teams, and specialist private law litigation or transactional work where cross-border issues arise.
• International and public organisations: roles in institutions dealing with transnational commerce, arbitration, regulatory policy or comparative law reform.
• Academia and research: doctoral study or research positions in universities and research institutes focusing on private law, comparative law or European law.
• Policy, NGOs and consultancy: advisory or policy roles that require comparative legal analysis for drafting, harmonisation projects, or international development work.

Why study at University of Edinburgh

The University of Edinburgh Law School has a long-established reputation for teaching and research in private and comparative law. You will learn from scholars who publish actively in comparative and doctrinal private law and who supervise high-quality research projects.

Studying in Edinburgh offers access to a vibrant academic community, regular seminars and public lectures, and opportunities to engage with visiting practitioners and international scholars. The School's location in a capital city provides proximity to courts, law firms and legal organisations, enhancing networking and professional development prospects.