Wednesday, March 23, 2016
Tue, 22 Mar 2016
staff
Liberty University School of Law is now offering three master’s-level programs online, after the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) granted approval last month for the programs to commence. The programs approved are Liberty’s Master of Laws (LL.M.) in International Legal Studies, Juris Master (J.M.) in American Legal Studies, and J.M. in International Legal Studies. Liberty began accepting applications to all three programs on February 19, 2016.
The American Bar Association (ABA) likewise granted acquiescence for the programs in July. While the ABA does not formally accredit degree programs other than a Juris Doctor (J.D.), the process of acquiescence essentially affirms that the ABA has no objection to additional programs. Liberty Law’s JD program was approved by the Council of the Section of Legal Education and Admission to the Bar of the American Bar Association (321 North Clark Street; Chicago, IL; 60654-7598; 312.988.6738) in 2010.
Those who already hold a Juris Doctor can apply for the LL.M. degree, while the J.M. programs will be open to those who do not already have a J.D. The LL.M. program will provide multiple opportunities for future international lawyers, corporate lawyers, diplomats, and legal scholars with global ideas consistent with the rule of law. As with Liberty Law’s J.D. program, a top priority for the new programs will be to achieve a unique level of excellence.
B. Keith Faulkner, dean of the law school commented, ”We are excited to expand Liberty Law’s offerings through our two Juris Master programs and our LL.M. In International Law. The online delivery of these innovative programs will allow students from around the country and globe to study law and legal studies from a Christian worldview. Our mission to provide future leaders a superior legal education will be reflected in both programs.”
Still, Liberty Law’s legacy of a Christ-centered focus will likewise remain a top priority.
“We are extremely excited about these groundbreaking new programs,” said J. Matt Barber, Liberty Law’s associate dean for Online Programs. “This provides fantastic new opportunities to influence the world for the Kingdom of God – to train legal champions for Christ within both a domestic and international framework,” he added.
Dr. Yuri Mantilla is director of Global Initiatives and program director for the LL.M. degree. “In an increasing global economic context, American lawyers also need to know international legal doctrines and norms that influence their practice in business law and human rights law,” he said.
The online nature of the program will allow overseas students to study without having to spend money on travel or obtaining a U.S. visa in order to study.
Regarding the J.M. degrees, there are an increasing number of professionals who want to gain legal knowledge in order to enhance professional careers. Often, however, they lack the extensive time and financial means required to obtain a Juris Doctor.
“The JM degree will increase their opportunities to gain employment in areas of the marketplace where there is an interaction and interrelation between the law and other areas of knowledge,” concluded Mantilla.
For additional information about Liberty University’s law degree programs, please visit the School of Law website.