Pepperdine Caruso Law Straus Institute for Dispute Resolution Launches Online Master of Laws in International Commercial Arbitration
Pepperdine Caruso Law's Straus Institute for Dispute Resolution has launched an online Master of Laws (LLM) in International Commercial Arbitration, in addition to its established on-campus program.
The LLM program prepares legal professionals to navigate complex international disputes through practical training in international arbitration and alternative dispute resolution. The new online format provides flexibility for working attorneys and international practitioners while also offering the opportunity for students to engage directly with faculty and peers at the law school's campus. The program can be completed in a 12 to 24 months period.
Students study international commercial arbitration theory and doctrine, Procedure and Practice, Negotiation and Mediation, and participate in a Capstone Mock Arbitration designed to develop practical skills. International attorneys also complete foundational courses in Introduction to United States Law and Legal Research and Writing.
Courses will be taught by internationally recognized scholars and practitioners, including arbitration expert professor Jack Coe.The program brings together US and international attorneys, corporate counsel, and judges, creating a global learning environment and professional network.
“My time at the Straus Institute’s LLM program was truly transformative,” said Anke Meier (LLM ’08), head of arbitration at Noerr law firm in Germany. “As a lawyer practicing international arbitration, I draw on these skills daily.”
Gladys Gondwe (LLM ’25), a high court judge of Malawi, said the program also influenced her work in the justice system. “The program has exponentially advanced my career, enabling me to apply my mediation skills to improve access to justice and reduce case backlogs in Malawi,” she said. Gondwe also serves as coordinator of the Malawi-Pepperdine University partnership, which is advancing alternative dispute resolution (ADR) mechanisms nationwide.
“The Pepperdine LLM program ignited a passion for dispute resolution that now defines my career,” said Joy Atkinson (LLM ’18), who went on to establish her own ADR practice, Atkinson Resolution.
Applications for the LLM in International Commercial Arbitration are accepted on a rolling basis through the Law School Admission Council. Applicants must hold the requisite primary law degree from their jurisdiction, such as a JD for US applicants.
To learn more about the program, including curriculum, tuition, financial assistance, and admissions requirements, visit the LLM in International Commercial Arbitration website.