Straus Institute Admissions
Admission Information for Academic Programs
Priority Deadline for Partial Scholarships is February 15
Straus Institute applications are accepted on a rolling basis and need to be submitted at least four months prior to the intended start date with courses starting in mid-August, January and late May. It is recommended that international students submit applications at least six months prior to their expected start date. Applications can be submitted up to one year in advance.
| Applications By | Program Start | Term |
|---|---|---|
| June 1 | Mid August | Fall |
| October 15 (of the previous year) | Early January | Spring |
| March 1 | Late May | Summer |
Master of Laws (LLM) Programs

Our LLM programs are for those who have already earned a law degree. The 24-unit program comprises required and elective courses. For the LL.M in Dispute Resolution, concentrations are available in mediation, arbitration, and litigation.
The following LLM program options are available:
- LLM in Dispute Resolution
- LLM in International Commercial Arbitration
- LLM in US Law
- LLM in Entertainment, Media, and Sports Law
Master of Dispute Resolution (MDR)

The Pepperdine Caruso Law MDR is a 26-unit program for those with a bachelor's degree. The program has 12 units of required coursework and 14 elective course units.
Certificate in Dispute Resolution

A certificate in Dispute Resolution at the Straus Institute is earned in 14 units and is offered as a stand-alone program, as well as a joint program with a number of Pepperdine University's graduate programs.
Summer and Winter Programs
Those interested in attending our Summer Program or our Winter Intensive Program should complete the applicable form: