Top 5 Best Common Law Schools :
Ranked : #2
Financial Times LLM program Listing 2016
Ranked : #7
Osgoode Professional Development, Osgoode Hall Law School of York University
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CAN
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About
Osgoode Professional Development (OsgoodePD), is a division of Osgoode Hall Law School at York University – one of Canada’s largest, oldest and most prestigious legal institutions. We foster the career advancement of legal professionals worldwide with a wide range of study options that include LLM degrees, non-credit and preparatory programs.
OsgoodePD offers the broadest range of programs available in Canada for internationally-trained lawyers. Whether you are looking to specialize in a professional graduate degree or start the process of qualifying to practice common law in Canada, there’s a learning option to suit your
needs. From full-time professional graduate degrees to non-credit courses to help you prepare for the NCA Exams, OsgoodePD has your development goals in mind.
Students will complete their studies in two locations: at Osgoode Hall Law School on the York University campus, and at Osgoode Professional Development in downtown Toronto. This gives students access to the full range of campus services and downtown Toronto amenities.
University Rankings (2)
Living in Toronto
The Osgoode Professional Development Conference Centre at One Dundas Street West is situated in the heart of downtown Toronto. As Canada’s economic capital with a multicultural spirit and cosmopolitan flare, Toronto is a great place to live, study and work.
Toronto, the capital of Ontario, is home to people from around the world. Its population of 2.5 million makes it the fifth-largest city in North America, and it is ranked as one of the safest. Toronto’s bustling finance district, just steps from the OsgoodePD Centre, is the gateway to a remarkably diverse economy that includes many leading law firms, the Toronto Stock Exchange – the world’s fifth largest – and a majority of Canada’s corporations. Toronto is also Canada’s financial capital and the third-largest financial centre in North America. The city’s business capital ranks alongside economic powerhouses such as New York, Boston and Chicago.
Torontonians are well-known for their inclusiveness and tolerance. Each year, some 100,000 new immigrants settle in the city that UNESCO has rated the world’s most diverse. In fact, approximately 49% of Toronto’s residents were born outside of Canada, and the city works hard to bring a little piece of home to every one of its diverse communities. The city’s more than 7,000 restaurants reflect the tastes, cultures and ingredients of the world, and Toronto is the proud host of more than 1,000 world-class festivals, including the Toronto International Film Festival, Caribana, the Honda Indy Toronto and the Toronto Jazz Festival.
Where better to take the next step in your legal education?
The city is a cultural paradise with outstanding museums and art galleries such as the Royal Ontario Museum and the Art Gallery of Ontario. It is home to the Toronto Symphony and the Canadian Opera Company, and countless venues for all types of entertainment. Every year, Toronto’s International Film Festival reinforces the city’s reputation as “Hollywood North”. Four major league sports teams also call Toronto home – the Toronto FC (soccer), the Toronto Raptors (basketball), the Toronto Blue Jays (baseball) and the Toronto Maple Leafs (hockey). Major sporting events for tennis, golf and auto racing also take place annually in Toronto.
To this, add a low crime rate, clean environment, hiking and biking trails, beaches, a beautiful waterfront and a public transit system that earns the city a consistent rating as one of the most livable cities in the world.
Student Resources
Students in our Professional LL.M programs benefit from an exceptional level of student service from our dedicated staff, who make it their priority to ensure each student has a truly memorable educational experience. Access to information about OsgoodePD’s programs and events, along with course webpages, is provided through the MyOPD student portal.
For more information about program details, services, rules, and regulations, review our program handbooks below:
• IBL Student Handbook 2016-2017
Osgoode Hall Law School
York University champions new ways of thinking to drive teaching and research excellence. Osgoode Hall Law School internationally renowned as one of Canada’s largest and most distinguished law schools.
Our motto is “Through Law to Justice.” It’s what we live and breathe. Osgoode is a diverse and supportive community that takes seriously its professional and ethical obligation to serve the public. Osgoode is a place where students, faculty, staff, and partner organizations work together to achieve the common goal of making a difference around the globe through leadership and service both within and beyond the legal profession.
We promote respect of diversity of people and perspectives through our commitment to inclusion. We are dedicated to increasing the diversity of our student body so that it reflects the varied nature of Canadian society.
We are committed to critical thinking, professionalism, ethics and experiential education that extends beyond the conventional classroom and library experiences.
As one of the oldest, largest and most distinguished law schools in Canada, Osgoode has been the leader in developing the principal features of the modern law school curriculum. Our Juris Doctor, Graduate and Professional Development Programs offer extraordinarily rich and varied perspectives on law taught by the country’s leading scholars and finest practitioners.
LL.M Programs
Specializations: Full Time Study
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Specializations: Part Time Study
Deadlines
We encourage you to submit your documents as early as possible as the admissions committee meets on a regular basis and may be in the position to make early offers of admission. Keep in mind that not every specialization has start dates each term. Late applications are not considered for the Canadian Common Law or International Business Law and other full-time specializations. Subject to space availability, late applications may be considered for other specializations. Please contact admissions-opd@osgoode.yorku.cato inquire about the possibility of submitting an late application.
LLM Application Deadlines
| Winter 2018 | Online Application Deadline |
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| Full-Time Specializations & Canadian Common Law Part-Time | September 13, 2017 |
| Part-Time Specializations | October 11, 2017 |
| Single Course Enrolment (SCE) | November 8, 2017 |
Below you’ll find information on applying to graduate degree programs through the York University application portal. If you’re interested in applying for Single Course Enrollment, you can find instructions on how to apply here.
Steps to Apply
1. Online Application: Application Form and Fee
Submit your application using York University’s Graduate Studies online application. A non-refundable application fee of $100 CAD is required, payable by Visa or MasterCard.
On the ‘Goal of Study’ section, select:
• Term in which your program is scheduled to begin (Fall or Winter)
• Part Time Studies or Full Time Studies*
• “I wish to study toward a degree.”
• Under the “Degree Selection” list a pop-up box will appear. Enter LLM in the “Search all Columns” box on the top right corner. Then select Canadian Common Law
*Note that Full-Time applications are only accepted during the Fall term
2. Upload Application Documents to MyFile
Within approximately two business days of the submission of your online application form you will receive an e-mail containing your student/application number. Use your student number and date of birth to log into your application on MyFile and begin uploading your documents.
All application documents must be received two weeks after the application deadline, however we encourage you to submit all required documents as soon as possible after receiving a student/application number. The admissions committee review files on an ongoing basis and may make early offers of admission where files are complete.
Required Non-Academic Documents:
• Current Resume / CV: If you have been called to the bar please indicate the year and jurisdiction
• Personal Statement: Your personal statement should discuss your interest in the program and how your past studies and related professional experience have prepared you for the program (maximum 500 words in length).
• Writing Sample: An academic or professional piece of written work that demonstrates your academic ability.
• Two References: References may be academic or professional. You can either provide your referee details via MyFile and a reference form will be sent to them via e-mail or you can give them our Recommendation Form.
• The LLM Supplementary Form: Complete our Supplementary Form and upload to MyFile
3. Transcripts
Transcripts from every post-secondary institution you have attended are required.
You can upload “unofficial” transcripts through MyFile. Transcripts provided in this way are sufficient for the initial assessment of your application.
You may receive a decision of conditional admission based on uploaded “unofficial” transcripts. At that time (or as soon as final transcripts are available) you must send one final (indicating degree conferred) official transcript for every postsecondary institution you have attended.
If you do not have access to “unofficial” transcripts, you may submit official transcripts by mail to the address below:
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By Mail |
By Courier |
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York University Office of Graduate Admissions P.O. Box GA2300 4700 Keele Street Toronto, ON CANADA M3J 1P3 |
York University Office of Graduate Admissions W322 Bennett Centre for Student Services 4700 Keele Street Toronto, ON CANADA M3J 1P3 |
Please note given the high volume of transcripts the office of Graduate Admissions receives, it typically takes about 10-15 business days for transcripts to be matched to your application. We strongly encourage you to submit your transcripts early.
Important notes about transcripts:
• If transcripts are in another language, an official English translation is required.
• If the name on your transcript differs from the legal name that you currently use, please make sure that you include your former name on your application form.
• If you have taken courses at York University, we will obtain transcripts on your behalf. Please provide your York student number with the application and ensure that you have no outstanding fees, as such status will block the release of your transcript.
• To be considered “official”, it must be evident that you have had no direct access to the transcripts. Transcripts must come directly from, and bear the seal of, the issuing institution. If the institution issues transcripts directly to you, the envelope must be sealed by the institution and remain sealed until opened by York University to be considered official.
• Photocopied or faxed transcripts are not considered to be official.
• Transcripts from other credential evaluation services are considered “unofficial”.
• Original transcripts submitted become the property of York University and cannot be returned.
4. Proof of English Language Proficiency
If your first language is not English, you must supply proof of language proficiency as set out in the table below. You may be exempted from this requirement if you have completed at least two years of full-time study at an accredited university where English is the only official language of instruction at the university (not at the program level only).
For more information about language requirements click here.
5. Check your Application Status
On MyFile you can:
• check your application status (and accept your offer if you’ve been admitted)
• check whether your application documents have been received
Tuition & Funding
Degree programs
| Domestic Tuition (Excluding Supplementary Fees) | International Tuition (Excluding Supplementary Fees) |
| $24,132.02 | $35,537.70 |
Fees include the required course materials. Where assigned, textbooks are provided in hard copy and all other course materials and readings are provided in electronic format only.
Program fees are paid in installments each term:
- Students in the International Business Law specialization pay fees over four full-time terms
- Students in all other full-time specialization pay fees over three full-time terms
- Students in part-time specializations pay fees over six part-time terms
Students who complete the program in fewer than the above will have their final installment added at the end of their program. Students who require more than the above will be subject to additional tuition fees.
Supplementary Fees
Supplementary fees are included in each term’s tuition fee installment and are subject to change each term based on approval by York’s Board of Governors and in accordance with guidelines set by the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities. For more information please see Student Financial Services.
Supplementary fees for the Summer 2017 term: $160.65 for part-time students, and $321.30 for full-time students.
Additional Fees
Registration Fee: $15 per term (non-refundable).
International Students’ Health Insurance: The University Health Insurance Plans (UHIP) is mandatory for all international students. This does not apply to domestic students. For more information, visit the York International website.
Domestic Students’ Health Insurance: Full-time domestic students York University Graduate Students’ Association (YUGSA) health plan. The plan is mandatory for all full-time students without comparable coverage for drugs AND dental and is optional for those registered part-time.
Videoconferencing: Students who opt to participate in the program via videoconference will be provided with the required hardware and software at a cost of $300. This fee is in addition to the tuition fees listed above.
Financial Assistance
Financial Aid
Students in the Professional LLM program may qualify for financial aid if they meet the eligibility criteria. Please visit York’s Student Financial Services website for more information.
Royal Bank Credit Line for OsgoodePD LLM Students
Students in the Professional LLM program may qualify for Royal Bank Credit Line of up to $80,000 at a preferential interest rate. For further details and contact information, please refer to the Information Sheet.
Bursaries
Osgoode Professional Development bursaries are granted to LLM students with financial need. Applications are accepted once every Fall, Winter and Summer. To be eligible students must have completed at least one term of study.
Scholarships and Awards
International Student Entrance Scholarships
Entrance scholarships are awarded to international students applying to a full-time LLM program who demonstrate the strongest academic ability and potential as indicated by their application materials. The maximum amount awarded is $5,000. All individuals who apply and have submitted all required documents by late February of the year in which they intend to start the program and meet the criteria are eligible for these scholarships and will automatically be considered for an entrance scholarship (see application deadlines for details). If a scholarship is awarded, it will be credited to the student’s financial account during the Winter term.
The Professor Marilyn L. Pilkington Award
Professor Marilyn L. Pilkington, the Dean of Osgoode Hall Law School from 1993 to 1998 and founder of Osgoode Professional Development, established this award to be given to a student pursuing studies in the LLM program. The award will be granted annually (each Fall term) to a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, protected person, resident of Ontario, on the basis of academic achievement and financial need. Preference will be given to a graduate of Osgoode Hall Law School.
Academic Waivers and Tax Credits
Academic Fee Waiver for Senior Citizens (Partial For OsgoodePD LLM Programs)
Note that this fee waiver is administered by York University, not OsgoodePD. The fee waiver is a partial waiver for this program and is capped at the current Faculty of Graduate Studies part-time tuition fee rate and covers academic fees only. Students are responsible for any additional charges including interest charges, student health and dental plans, course materials fees, supplementary fees, etc.
For more information see the Waivers and Payments by a Third Party (External Agency) page on York University’s website.
Tuition and Education Tax Credit
Students may qualify for a tax credit for tuition fees and education amounts. The amount of the tax credit depends on each student’s taxable income. For information, please consult Canada Revenue Agency’s Information on Students and Income Tax.
Non-Degree Programs: Single Course Enrollment
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Fees for Summer 2017 Term Courses (Includes Supplementary Fees):
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| Domestic Students | International Students | |
| Single Course without Assessment (audit) | 3 credit course $2,091.33 | 3 credit course $3,041.80 plus HST |
| 6 credit course $4,182.65 | 6 credit course $6,083.60 plus HST | |
| 9 credit course $6,273.99 | 9 credit course $9,125.40 plus HST | |
| Single Course with Assessment | 3 credit course $2,091.33 | 3 credit course $3,041.80 |
| 6 credit course $4,182.65 | 6 credit course $6,083.60 | |
| 9 credit course $6,273.99 | 9 credit course $9,125.40 | |
Fees include the required course materials. Where assigned, textbooks are provided in hard copy and all other course materials and readings are provided in electronic format only.
Additional Fees
Registration Fee: $15 per term (non-refundable).
Videoconferencing: Students who opt to participate in the program via videoconference will be provided with the required hardware and software at a cost of $300. This fee is in addition to the tuition fees listed above.Cancellation and Refund Policy
Cancellation and Refund Policy
Single Course with Assessment
Once you have accepted your offer of admission you will be registered in course(s) and fees will be applied to your student account. Course withdrawals are subject to the non-degree students refund policy:
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Refund Amount
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Deadline
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| Full Refund | 10 business days before start of course or earlier |
| 60% Refund | Before second day of course |
| No Refund | Second day of course or later |
Course drop requests must be made in writing by submitting the completed Course Transaction Form to the Graduate Program Assistant for the course.
Single Course without Assessment (Audit)
Payment in full to Osgoode Professional Development is required upon acceptance of your application for LLM Single Courses. A full refund (less a $75 administration fee) will be issued for cancellations received in writing a minimum of 14 days prior to the course start date. Written cancellations received less than 14 days before the course start date will be refunded subject to a $250 administration fee. No refunds will be issued after the course commences; non-attendance or withdrawal after the course start date will incur the full fee.
About OsgoodePD
Osgoode Professional Development is a world leader in law school lifelong learning. Part of Osgoode Hall Law School, one of the oldest and best law schools in Canada, we offer credit and non-credit programs for Canadian and international lawyers, paralegals, non-law professionals, and firms and organizations.
Our Continuing Legal Education programs range from one-hour briefings to conferences and short courses taught by practising lawyers and a range of experts in other disciplines. For in-depth study of a particular legal subject or to sharpen your skills, consider one of OsgoodePD’s Certificate programs for legal professionals or non-law professionals. You can also customize your own group program to deliver the in-depth, practical training your employees or team require.
OsgoodePD’s flagship academic programs include a course-based Professional LLM degree with a variety of different specializations taught on campus or through distance learning by Osgoode’s award-winning professors, senior practitioners, judges and policymakers.
The International Business Law LLM and Canadian Common Law LLM programs are designed specifically for internationally-trained lawyers and law graduates. If a degree isn’t your goal, you can choose from a selection of LLM courses offered each year as single courses.
Most of our courses and programs are offered on-site and through the convenience of distance education using webcast and video streaming. OsgoodePD is also pleased to offer Programs on Demand, a selection of previously offered and exclusive on-demand courses available whenever your schedule permits.
No matter what your learning journey, it will be backed by OsgoodePD’s unwavering commitment to quality, accessibility and customer service. Osgoode Professional Development operates at the heart of Toronto’s business core at Yonge and Dundas Streets, steps away from the city’s subway line, financial district and government offices.
Acknowledgement of Indigenous Peoples and Traditional Territories
York University recognizes that many Indigenous nations have longstanding relationships with the territories upon which our campuses are located that precede the establishment of York University. We acknowledge our presence on the traditional territories of the Mississaugas of New Credit, the Huron-Wendat, the Haudenosaunee Confederacy and the Métis Nation of Ontario.
Information Sessions
Attend a complimentary Information Session - LL.M Specializations
Learn more about the Professional LLM programs being offered by attending an Information Session via webinar. Discover the many benefits a legal master’s degree (LLM) can offer you and your career.
Upcoming Professional LLM Info Sessions Webinars (General and Specializations)
SPRING SESSIONS: TO BE ANNOUNCED
Learning doesn’t have to end with an LLB
Osgoode Professional Development is meeting the needs of practising lawyers by offering part-time programs in over 17 different Professional LLM specializations. Classes are held at our convenient downtown Toronto Conference Centre with some programs available via distance learning, so you can learn from anywhere.
Attend an Information Session - For InternationaL Students
Whether you are looking to specialize with a professional graduate degree or start the process
of qualifying to practice common law in Canada, there’s a program at Osgoode to suit your needs.
Choose a date based on the attendance format that best suits your needs. We offer
on site (in-person) Open House events or attendance at an online webinar.
Webinar: Full-Time LLM Options
Location: Online
SPRING SESSIONS: TO BE ANNOUNCED
Webinar: Options for NCA Candidates
Location: Online
SPRING SESSIONS: TO BE ANNOUNCED
Open House Events
Location: Osgoode Hall Law School
Ignat Kaneff Building, Room # IKB 4016
York University, 4700 Keele Street
Toronto, ON M3J 1P3
SPRING SESSIONS: TO BE ANNOUNCED
Certificate in Foundations for Graduate Legal Studies
This program is designed to provide you with the foundation you need for successful graduate legal study. Students in this program
- study the foundations of Canadian public and private law in an interactive class setting
- learn and practise common law legal, analytical and writing skills by building from simple to more complex problems and documents, with opportunity for small group and individual feedback and tutoring
- lay the foundation for successful performance in LLM courses and in your future legal career
Who is this Program for?
This program is primarily designed for graduates of law degree programs from outside Canada who are interested in pursuing graduate legal studies in Canada. We also welcome applications from professionals without a law degree who have some law-related work experience or education and who are interested in pursuing further education in law.
If your first language is not English, you must have an English language proficiency test score of at least 7.0 IELTS or its equivalent. If you need an advanced academic English course before taking this program, consider applying for York University’s Advanced Legal English (YUELI) program.
Program Structure
The program is full-time and comprises four courses that run between January and May each year. Students attend classes in person at both of OsgoodePD and Osgoode Hall Law School campuses. After the intensive two-week orientation course, students can expect to attend class four times per week, for a total of 12 hours’ class time weekly. Classes are interactive and are taught by law professors and adjuncts who are practicing lawyers from a variety of fields.
Course and Course Descriptions
Orientation to Law
This course is a two-week intensive introduction to law school study in Canada and Canadian legal practice. The course introduces students to basic common law concepts and teaches students essential skills such as learning by the Socratic Method, taking lecture notes, reading cases and legislation, preparing case summaries, and engaging in common law predictive analysis. Throughout the course, guest speakers will be invited in to talk about various areas of legal practice, including litigation practice, corporate practice and government practice. There will be assigned readings, guest speakers, group discussion and tasks, as well as individual written assignments.
Introduction to Graduate Legal Analysis and Writing
This course is designed to familiarize students with core analysis and writing skills. This will involve working extensively with the legal problem solving skills required within a common law regime, becoming familiar with creating commonly used legal documents and academic papers. The primarily assignment-based nature of this part of the course requires a significant and “steady” time commitment. The instructors assume that students will approach the course, and the assignments required as part of the course, in a professional manner. The course will be presented through online lectures and exercises, in-class lectures, discussions, hands-on training sessions, exercises and in-class assignments. Students are expected to do the required readings and complete any assigned quizzes and/or exercises before classes and will be asked to participate in discussions.
Introduction to Canadian Law
This course serves as an introduction to the Canadian legal system. It is intended to provide students a broad understanding of how the law operates in a Canadian context and the conceptual foundation to pursue more detailed studies in Canadian law. The focus of this course is primarily upon Canada’s legal structure and Constitution. Among other topics, the course covers legal tradition, legal theory, sources of law, relationship of various categories of law and the branches of government, court hierarchy, case and statute interpretation and administrative decision making.
Introduction to Private Law in Canada
This course provides students with an introduction to private law in Canada. Through the course students will learn the fundamentals of Canadian tort, contract and property law in common law provinces. This course also provides students with a foundation in Canadian corporate and commercial law.
Eligibility Requirements
If your first language is not English, you must have an English language proficiency test score of at least 7.0 IELTS or its equivalent to be considered for this program. We are seeking participants who have a strong interest in the program and demonstrated academic potential.
Message from the Executive Director
Thanks to the talent and energy of our instructors, students, and staff, OsgoodePD is a global leader in law school lifelong learning.
Founded by Dean Marilyn Pilkington in 1995 with the Professional LLM in ADR, OsgoodePD’s programs have grown and evolved. And they will continue to evolve, to provide thoughtful and practical lifelong learning to lawyers, and other professionals and executives with legal obligations or risks in their jobs.
I invite you to explore what we offer, and to join us, either in person or online. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, email me atvwatkins@osgoode.yorku.ca. We’re always open to new ideas.
Keep learning!
Victoria E. Watkins
Executive Director, Osgoode Professional Development
Assistant Dean, Osgoode Hall Law School
Hotels & Parking, Room Rental Opportunities
If you require accommodations in downtown Toronto, OsgoodePD has arranged Corporate Rates with the following hotels within walking distance of OsgoodePD.
Hotels
1. Toronto Marriott Downtown Eaton Centre
Effective until the end of March 31, 2017, our delegates can benefit from a special corporate discounted rate* per room (standard King or Double Room), per night. This rate is not guaranteed and has limited availability.
2. Pantages Hotel Toronto
Rates are offered on Deluxe and Premium suites, for January-December 2016. A Deluxe suite is a studio suite with a kitchen, washer/dryer. A Premium suite is a boutique suite which is a one bedroom suite with a separate parlour area, kitchen and washer/dryer.
Parking
1. Parking at Atrium on Bay
The parking entrance is located on Edward St. Exit Atrium on Bay onto Dundas Street. Osgoode Professional Development is located directly across the street from Atrium on Bay.
2. Parking at the Eaton Centre
Enter off Bay Street, south of Dundas Street. To reach 1 Dundas Street West, exit the parking garage and walk into the Eaton Centre, go up to the street level, you should be outside of Sears, the indoor entrance to 1 Dundas is to the right of Sears.
3. City Hall & Nathan Phillips Square
Walking from the City Hall parking garage to 1 Dundas Street W. – Leave the garage from the “Seal” exit onto Bay Street, cross the road and walk down Albert Street. This will take you to the entrance to an entrance to the Eaton Centre. Once in the Eaton Centre, turn into Sears and walk through to the other side. The entrance to 1 Dundas Street West is on your left hand side.
Room Rental Opportunities
Located steps from the subway line, financial district and government offices, the Osgoode Professional Development Conference Centre at 1 Dundas Street West provides a convenient and professional environment for short meetings or full-day functions. Weekend and evening rentals can also be accommodated, subject to availability. Our private meeting rooms include a competitive rate schedule and access to a full range of audio-visual and videoconferencing equipment, not to mention a spectacular view of downtown Toronto.
Food and beverage service is also available. We will work closely with our catering partners to provide a package that meets your needs. Packages are designed to focus on the requirements of your function and that of your guests.
For further details, including room specifications, catering options, as well as equipment and service offerings, please contact us or download the Rental Opportunities Package.
If you are part of the York University community, please inquire via email about special rental rates.
Admissions Requirements
Most specializations run on a 1 or 2 year cycle.
International Business Law LLM
To be considered for admission you must prove that you have met the following requirements. Note that these are minimum requirements and meeting them does not guarantee admission to the program:
• Completion of a degree in law from a four year program in an accredited institution outside Canada. You may apply during your final year of studies if your degree will be conferred before you begin the LLM program.
• An overall B (75%) average or equivalent. If you have 5 years or more of relevant practice experience, we will consider an exemption from this requirement. Learn more about how York Graduate Admissions assesses international educational credential equivalency.
• If your first language is not English, you must supply proof of language proficiency as set out in the table below. You may be exempted from this requirement if you have completed at least two years of full-time study at an accredited university in a country (or institution) where English is the only official language of instruction.
We are particularly interested in candidates with professional experience and language scores in the range of 7.5 IELTS or equivalent. We also welcome applications from candidates who do not have a law degree, but have a university degree, a superior academic record and significant work experience in a field related to international business law.
International students admitted to the LLM in International Business Law are generally admitted conditional on the completion of preparatory courses in July and August, before the program’s credit courses begin.
The minimum language score requirements for admission to the International Business Law LLM program are as follows:
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Test Type |
Test Score |
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TOEFL – Paper Based |
580 (with minimum of 5 on TWE) |
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TOEFL – Computer Based |
237 |
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TOEFL – ibt (Internet Based) |
92 |
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IELTS |
7.0 |
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YELT – York English Language Test |
Band 3 |
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YUELI – York University English Language Institute |
Level 6 with Honours |
Note that when assessing language proficiency, we will look not only at your overall test score but also at your individual scores in writing, reading, listening and speaking. If you have a 6.5 IELTS score or equivalent, you are welcome to apply so long as you anticipate that you will be able to meet our minimum language requirements by May 30.
Pre-LLM Foundations Program
For internationally trained lawyer or law graduates that don’t meet the minimum admission requirements,Osgoode’s Pre-LLM Foundations Program is designed to provide you with the language, analytical and writing skills needed to succeed in your studies and beyond. Our program provides the training you need to develop and perfect your skills in a small-group setting, with tutoring and support built-in. The program is also ideal for prospective NCA candidates looking to improve their language and writing skills before embarking on the accreditation process.
Local Representatives
If you are applying from China and are interested in applying to the International Business Law LLM, please contact Tony Y. Zeng, York University’s Official Representative in China at 86-10-58698047, by email or visit the Chinese website. Any applications received by Osgoode Professional Development from China will be redirected to Tony Zeng’s office.
If you are applying from India, South and Central America, Southeast Asia, Africa or the Middle East, you are welcome to contact your local Canadian University Application Centre (CUAC) Office for information about our program and assistance with the application process. See CUAC’s website for a list of local CUAC offices. You are also welcome to apply to us directly.
Canadian Common Law LLM
To be considered for admission you must demonstrate that you have met the following requirements. Note that these are minimum requirements and meeting them does not guarantee admission to the program.
• A Bachelor of Laws degree or its equivalent from a university outside Canada or a Bachelor of Civil Laws (not a common law degree) from a Canadian university. You may apply during your final year of studies if your degree will be conferred before you begin the LLM program.
• An overall B (75%) average or equivalent. If you have 5 years or more of relevant practice experience, we will consider an exemption from this requirement. Learn more about how York Graduate Admissions assesses international educational credential equivalency.
• If your first language is not English, you must supply proof of language proficiency as set out in the table below. You may be exempted from this requirement if you have completed at least two years of full-time study at an accredited university in a country (or institution) where English is the only official language of instruction
International students admitted into the LLM in Canadian Common Law are conditionally admitted based on completion of preparatory courses in July and August, before the program’s credit courses begin.
The minimum language score requirements for admission to the Canadian Common Law LLM program are as follows:
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Test Type |
Test Score |
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TOEFL – Paper Based |
600 (with minimum of 5 on TWE) |
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TOEFL – Computer Based |
250 |
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TOEFL – ibt (Internet Based) |
100 |
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IELTS |
7.5 overall and 7.0 in reading and writing |
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YELT – York English Language Test |
Band 1 |
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YUELI – York University English Language Institute |
Level 6 with Distinction |
Note: Results must be sent to our office by the issuing institution in a sealed envelope to be considered official.
If you are admitted with a 7.0 IELTS, you will be required to successfully complete a one-month long International Business Law Preparatory Course.
Pre-LLM Foundations Program
For internationally trained lawyer or law graduates that don’t meet the minimum admission requirements, Osgoode’s Pre-LLM Foundations Program is designed to provide you with the language, analytical and writing skills needed to succeed in your studies and beyond. Our program provides the training you need to develop and perfect your skills in a small-group setting, with tutoring and support built-in. The program is also ideal for prospective NCA candidates looking to improve their language and writing skills before embarking on the accreditation process.
Other LLM Specializations
To be considered for admission, you must meet the following requirements. Note that these are minimum requirements and meeting them does not guarantee admission to the program:
• An LLB or JD degree with an overall B average (or equivalent). Applicants with less than a B average in the LLB or JD will be considered provided they also have 5 years or more of relevant practice experience.
• If your first language is not English, you must supply proof of language proficiency as set out in the table below.
• You may be exempted from this requirement if you have completed at least two years of full-time study at an accredited university in a country (or institution) where English is the only official language of instruction.
The minimum language score requirements for admission to other LLM Specializations are as follows:
|
Test Type |
Test Score |
|
TOEFL – Paper Based |
600 (with minimum of 5 on TWE) |
|
TOEFL – Computer Based |
250 |
|
TOEFL – ibt (Internet Based) |
100 |
|
IELTS |
7.5 overall and 7.0 in reading and writing |
|
YELT – York English Language Test |
Band 1 |
|
YUELI – York University English Language Institute |
Level 6 with Distinction |
If you do not have an LLB or JD degree, you will be considered provided you have a university degree, a superior academic record and significant work experience related to the specialization for which you have applied. Graduate degree preferred. Note however that the General Law LLM is only open to applicants who hold an LLB or JD.
All those admitted to the LLM who do not have a Canadian LLB or JD degree will be conditionally admitted based on completion of the one-week intensive course Introduction to Graduate Legal Studies (GS Law 6149).
Courses in the Professional LLM do not fulfill the Federation of Law Societies’ National Committee on Accreditation (NCA) requirements. For a program that is designed to meet the NCA requirements, see the LLM in Canadian Common Law.
If you are admitted to the program and you elect to attend via live videoconference (where applicable), you will be required to purchase the hardware and software necessary for participation from OPD at a cost in addition to regular tuition fees.
LL.M Single Courses
LLM single courses are a great way to explore the Professional LLM experience without committing to a full degree program. Choose from a selection of Professional LLM courses offered each year as single courses in a wide range of subject areas. If you are an internationally trained lawyer or law graduate, consider single courses from the Canadian Common Law LLM to help you meet your NCA accreditation requirements. Apply 6-8 weeks before the course starts. Admission is subject to space availability.
OsgoodePD’s Single Course Enrollment (SCE) offerings provide the opportunity to take graduate level courses from OsgoodePD without committing to a master’s degree program. If you want to explore a new area of law, fulfill your Continuing Professional Development (CPD) requirements or if you’re interested in satisfying your NCA requirements, SCE might be the right option for you.
Choose from more than 40 LL.M courses offered each year in a wide range of areas.
Professional LLM courses are taught by some of the top legal educators in the country, including professors from Osgoode and other leading law schools, as well as top practitioners, judges and policy makers.
Current Single Course Enrollment Offerings
Single Course Enrollment Options
• Single Course with Assessment:
Students enrollment in the with assessment option participate in all aspects of the course, are expected to complete all assignments/exams and receive a final, official grade. Students in this stream are formally admitted to York University as Non-Degree Visiting Students. Students can take a lifetime maximum of 12 credits with assessment as non-degree students. NCA CANDIDATES: If you are applying for courses to satisfy your NCA requirements, you must apply for Single Course with Assessment.
Students who complete single course(s) with assessment and are subsequently admitted to an LLM degree program will receive advanced standing for courses successfully completed subject to the degree requirements of the LLM specialization to which they have applied.
• Single Course without Assessment (Audit):
Students who audit an LLM course are expected to will prepare for, attend and actively participate in classes but do not complete assignments/exams or receive a final grade. Audit students are not formally admitted, and will not receive an official transcript. However, confirmation of attendance will be provided by Osgoode Professional Development, if requested.
Audited courses cannot be considered for advanced standing.
Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
Lawyers in some jurisdictions across Canada are required to undertake mandatory Continuing Professional Development (CPD) hours. The Law Society of Upper Canada and Law Society of British Columbia, for example, consider participation in an LLM course as an eligible education activity which fulfills members’ annual CPD substantive requirements (ie. 9 of the 12 required hours). A select number of LLM courses have been accredited for professionalism hours and are indicated on the schedule.
LLM courses fulfill substantive CPD requirements and professionalism hours, if applicable, whether they are taken without assessment (audit) or with assessment.
In-House & Custom Programs
OsgoodePD offers in-house and custom group skills training programs for legal and non-law organizations. We will work with you to maximize your training budget and ensure your team members receive the skills and updates necessary for personal and organizational success. Customized certificate programs are also available.
OsgoodePD offers custom and in-house programming in a variety of learning formats and locations. Your team can participate in live, in-person sessions at our downtown learning suite or enjoy live or online programs at your office or designated meeting space. You can choose between one of our pre-existing programs or we will work with you to develop a customized legal update or skills training program.
We also offer in-house Certificate programs that deliver in-depth training and onsite assessment. Choose from one of our pre-existing programs or let us develop a custom certificate program that meets the unique needs of your organization.
Key Benefits
• Cost-Effective Solution. Customizing program content allows you to maximize the value of your training dollars to produce exactly the results you need.
• Flexibility. You choose the date, time and location of training.
• Tailored Programming. We work with you to ensure your training goals are met. We will develop programs based on specific information provided by your company to address the issues and challenges you face.
• Learn from Recognized Experts. OsgoodePD has relationships with the industry leaders, providing your organization with an unparalleled learning experience.
• Uniform Message. All team members receive the same information at the same time.
• Strengthen Team Dynamic. In the learning process, participants will work together and share common experiences, discuss problems and solutions.
• Immediate Results. Our training is focused on skills that can be applied quickly in the workplace.
A sampling of OsgoodePD’s custom/in-house clients:
- Ministry of the Attorney General, Crown Law Office – Civil
- Canada Post
- Ontario Securities Commission
- Government of Nunavut – Community and Government Services
- Yukon College
- BC Ministry of Justice, Crown Counsel Office – Criminal Justice Branch
- Office of the Children’s Lawyer
- Government of Canada – Department of Justice
- LCBO
- Coroners’ Office – Ontario
- Department of Justice (Canada)
- Bennett Jones LLP
- Government of Jamaica – Cabinet Office
Distance Learning
OsgoodePD offers students outside the GTA an opportunity to take LLM courses via videoconferencing!
Our cutting-edge videoconference technology uses two-way communication over the internet that allows you to interact with other students by participating in discussions, asking questions and even seeing electronic presentations as easily as if you were in our downtown Toronto classroom.
Note: Video-conferencing not available for courses within the Canadian Common Law or International Business Law LLM programs.
Using the required hardware and software and a good-quality internet connection, you may be able to participate from your home or office (where applicable). Please note, some courses require in-person attendance.
Within a distance 75 km of our location, OsgoodePD assumes that you will attend classes in person. Beyond a distance of 50KM or more in distance from downtown Toronto , you may choose to use OsgoodePD’s videoconferencing option (where applicable). Once you indicate your preference to attend by videoconference, our technicians will contact you to conduct a pre-assessment.
The conferencing platform is designed to be used with a computer meeting the minimum specifications; our technicians will determine whether your computer meets those requirements as part of your pre-assessment. Depending on your home/office set up, you may need to upgrade your system or internet connection in order to use the videoconference option effectively. Please note that the videoconference option offers some flexibility in terms of being able to connect to the classes while traveling, however because of the extreme variability in internet connection quality, we cannot make guarantees when using the system outside your designated location(s).
Should you decide that the videoconference option is the right choice for you, OsgoodePD will provide the required hardware and software for your computer at your home/office at a cost ($300.00) in addition to the regular tuition fees. If you have specific technical questions, please feel free to contact us and one of our technicians will be happy to help you.
Options for Internationally Trained Lawyers
Whether you want to specialize in a practice area, are on the road to accreditation, or need additional training in the foundations of Canadian law, OsgoodePD’s programs will provide you with the knowledge and support you need to succeed.
OsgoodePD delivers the broadest range of programs available in Canada (and online) for internationally-trained lawyers and experienced professionals. Choose from LLM degrees, non-credit programs and preparatory programs that have the curriculum to suit your needs:
| Program | Full Time Options | Part Time Options | Pathway to Accreditation | Degree Program | Career Development Support |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Canadian Common Law | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| International Business Law | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
| Tax Law - Full Time | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
| General Law - Full Time | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ||
| Single Course Enrollment (SCE) | ✓ | ✓ | |||
| Online NCA Exam Prep | ✓ | ||||
| YUELI’s Intensive Advanced Legal English Program | ✓ | ||||
| Certificate in Foundations for Graduate Legal Studies | ✓ |
