What defines a family? How are children's rights evolving? The practice of child and family law requires both a sensitive manner and a discerning legal mind. The Master of Laws (LLM) in Child and Family Law degree program is designed to sharpen and inform both needs. We offer a comprehensive study of the latest in child law trial practice and legislation, international rights for children, adoption law, and domestic violence.

The opportunity to work closely with nationally-recognized faculty members and experienced practitioners in the field means you'll be well-versed in this evolving discipline.

Related Programs

Curriculum

Students can start the LLM in Child and Family Law program in the fall or spring term. The program is designed to be completed in 6 terms (two calendar years). Students complete the program fully online. 

Course List

Code	Title	Hours
Required Courses
LAW 651	LL.M. Childlaw Thesis	3
Elective Options		21
Total Hours		24

Elective Option Samples

Course List

Code	Title	Hours
LAW 667	Introduction to Children's Law, Policy and Practice	2
LAW 668	Leadership Development	4
LAW 669	Education Law and Policy	3
LAW 670	Child Welfare Law and Policy	2
LAW 671	Juvenile Justice Law and Policy	2
LAW 673	Mental Health Law and Children	2
LAW 678	International Children's Rights	2
LAW 680	ChildLaw MJ Independent Study	1
LAW 683	Legal Issues in School Discipline	2
LAW 687	Introduction to Legislative and Policy Advocacy	3
LAW 689	Family Law	3
LAW 690	Financial Aspects of Divorce	3
LAW 692	Special Education Law and Advocacy	2

Education Immersion Weekend

In addition to the required curriculum, students are highly encouraged to travel to Loyola's Chicago campus during their tenure in the program for an Education Immersion Weekend (EIW). Each year a current event topic is selected which intersects with our Child, Compliance, and Health Law Programs to present significant findings and similarities from a legal perspective. During the weekend, students gather in person to workshop,  thesis/capstone project, attend experiential learning workshops, and meet with faculty, students and alumni. This event provides students an opportunity to further network and connect with faculty, students, staff, and alumni.

Suggested Sequence of Courses

The below sequence of courses is meant to be used as a suggested path for completing coursework.  An individual student’s completion of requirements depends on course offerings in a given term as well as the start term for a major or graduate study.  Students should consult their advisor for assistance with course selection.

Plan of Study Grid

Term 1		Hours
Electives		3
Electives		3
	Hours	6
Term 2
Electives		3
Electives		3
	Hours	6
Term 3
Electives		3
Electives		2
	Hours	5
Term 4
Electives		2
Electives		2
	Hours	4
Term 5
LAW 651	LL.M. Childlaw Thesis	3
	Hours	3
	Total Hours	24

Degree Requirements

To earn an LLM in Child Law degree, you must compete a total of 24 hours, including the 3 credit hour LLM thesis. Visit our Registrar for a complete list of degree requirements, academic calendars, and registration process. You may access full course descriptions here.

Learning Outcomes

You will be able to:

• Conduct complex and specialized legal research and analysis
• Participate in scholarship that contributes to the greater understanding of law and policy as it affects children and families
• Explain how child development and family dynamics influence child and family law and policy
• Compare perspectives on issues facing children and families in a global environment
• Describe the historical, socio-economic and cultural context in which child and family laws, policies and practices are developed and implemented
• Identify and articulate areas in which laws and policies should be improved to promote positive outcomes for children, families and communities
• Identify the unique legal and ethical needs and circumstances of child and adolescent clients