.png&w=1920&q=75)
LL-M in Criminal Law at University of Delhi
Delhi, Delhi
.png&w=1920&q=75)
About the Specialization
What is Criminal Law at University of Delhi Delhi?
This Criminal Law program at University of Delhi focuses on the comprehensive study of crime, punishment, and the administration of justice. It delves into theoretical underpinnings, societal impact, and practical aspects of criminal jurisprudence within the Indian context, preparing students for specialized roles in law enforcement, judiciary, and advocacy. The program emphasizes both foundational principles and emerging areas like cybercrime and international criminal law.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for law graduates seeking advanced legal education in criminal justice. It attracts aspiring public prosecutors, defense lawyers, legal advisors in government agencies, and those aiming for judicial services in India. Professionals already in legal practice looking to specialize or academicians interested in research and teaching criminal law also find it highly beneficial, with strong prerequisites in fundamental legal studies.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue rewarding careers as criminal lawyers, public prosecutors, legal advisors to law enforcement agencies, or research associates. Entry-level salaries in India could range from INR 4-7 lakhs per annum, growing significantly with experience in firms or government. Opportunities also exist in judicial services, academia, and NGOs working on human rights and criminal justice reform within Indian companies and legal firms.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Mastering Legal Research and Writing- (Semester 1)
Dedicate significant time to understanding legal research databases, citation styles, and the art of persuasive legal writing. Attend workshops on research methodology and critically analyze legal articles to build a strong foundation.
Tools & Resources
SCC Online, Manupatra, LexisNexis India, University Library resources, legal writing guides
Career Connection
Strong research and writing skills are fundamental for drafting legal opinions, court documents, and academic papers, essential for advocacy, judicial roles, and legal consultancy in India.
Deep Dive into Constitutional and Human Rights Law- (Semester 1)
Beyond coursework, explore landmark judgments of the Supreme Court of India related to constitutional law and human rights. Participate in discussions and seminars to grasp the evolving jurisprudence and its impact.
Tools & Resources
Indian Constitution, Supreme Court Reports, various commentaries, Human Rights Law Network
Career Connection
A solid understanding forms the bedrock for any legal specialization, particularly in criminal law where fundamental rights are often at stake, aiding in effective advocacy and legal reasoning.
Engage in Foundational Mooting and Debates- (Semester 1)
Actively participate in intra-college moot court competitions and legal debates. This builds public speaking skills, legal argumentation, and confidence in presenting legal positions, crucial for future courtroom success.
Tools & Resources
Moot court societies, Faculty of Law alumni network, legal aid clinics for practical exposure
Career Connection
Develops essential courtroom advocacy skills, critical for a successful career in criminal litigation, prosecution, or defense within the Indian legal system.
Intermediate Stage
Early Specialization through Electives and Reading- (Semester 2)
Delve deep into the initial criminal law electives by supplementary reading of texts, journal articles, and case studies. Identify specific areas within criminal law that pique your interest for future specialization and research.
Tools & Resources
Bare Acts of IPC, CrPC, Evidence Act, K.D. Gaur''''s Criminal Law, various criminal law commentaries
Career Connection
Builds a strong theoretical foundation in the chosen specialization, enabling informed career choices and focused preparation for competitive exams or specialized legal practice in India.
Networking with Criminal Law Professionals- (Semester 2)
Attend legal conferences, seminars, and court sessions. Seek opportunities to interact with practicing lawyers, judges, and academicians in the field of criminal law to build a strong professional network and gain insights.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, professional legal associations, alumni events, court visits
Career Connection
Essential for mentorship, internship opportunities, and future job prospects in the close-knit Indian legal community, particularly in specialized fields like criminal law.
Analyze Landmark Criminal Judgments- (Semester 2)
Systematically study and critically analyze landmark judgments of the Supreme Court and High Courts concerning criminal law in India. Understand the judicial reasoning, societal impact, and evolution of criminal jurisprudence.
Tools & Resources
Legal databases, case law summaries, peer discussions
Career Connection
Develops analytical and critical thinking skills, crucial for interpreting statutes and precedents, and for effective advocacy in criminal litigation or judicial roles.
Advanced Stage
Specialization-Focused Internships and Practical Application- (Semester 3-4 (during breaks and alongside studies))
Secure targeted internships with criminal defense firms, prosecution offices, or law enforcement agencies. Actively participate in case discussions, assist in legal drafting, and observe trials closely to apply theoretical knowledge.
Tools & Resources
Faculty placement cell, High Court/District Court internships, specific criminal law chambers
Career Connection
Converts academic learning into practical skills, provides real-world experience, and is often a direct pathway to securing post-graduation employment in criminal law in India.
Dissertation as a Research Contribution- (Semester 3-4)
Undertake a rigorous dissertation on a contemporary or unresolved issue in Indian criminal law. Focus on original research, strong analysis, and contributing new perspectives to the field for academic or policy impact.
Tools & Resources
University library, specialized legal databases, faculty mentorship, statistical tools for empirical research if applicable
Career Connection
Showcases deep expertise and research capabilities, crucial for academic careers, policy roles, and positions requiring advanced legal analysis and problem-solving in the legal domain.
Placement Preparation and Judicial Services Exam Focus- (Semester 4)
Actively engage in career counseling, mock interviews, and resume building workshops. For judicial services aspirants, initiate preparation for competitive exams, including practicing previous year''''s papers and current affairs related to law.
Tools & Resources
University career cell, coaching centers for judicial services, online legal platforms for current affairs
Career Connection
Directly supports securing desired career outcomes, whether in private practice, public prosecution, government legal services, or the Indian judiciary, maximizing placement potential.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- LL.B. degree from the University of Delhi or any other Indian University recognized by the UGC, or an equivalent degree from a foreign University, with at least 50% marks or an equivalent grade. Relaxation for SC/ST/OBC/PWD categories as per University rules.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 76 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LLM 101 | Law and Justice in a Globalizing World | Core | 4 | Globalization and Legal Systems, Changing Paradigms of Justice, International Legal Order, State Sovereignty and Human Rights, Global Governance and Law |
| LLM 102 | Legal Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Nature of Legal Research, Research Design and Methods, Data Collection and Analysis, Legal Reasoning and Logic, Thesis Writing and Referencing |
| LLM 103 | Comparative Public Law | Core | 4 | Comparative Legal Systems, Constitutional Models, Administrative Law Regimes, Judicial Review in Different Systems, Human Rights in Comparative Perspective |
| LLM 104 | Constitutionalism: Plurality and Federalism | Core | 4 | Concepts of Constitutionalism, Federalism in India and Other Countries, Diversity and Pluralism, Minority Rights and Autonomy, Judicial Role in Federal Disputes |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LLM 201 | Human Rights in International Law | Core | 4 | Evolution of Human Rights, International Human Rights Instruments, Role of UN and Other Bodies, Enforcement Mechanisms, Human Rights in India |
| LLM 202 | Law and Social Transformation in India | Core | 4 | Role of Law in Social Change, Social Justice and Law, Judicial Activism in India, Personal Laws and Gender Justice, Law and Poverty |
| LLM CL-101 | Penology and Treatment of Offenders | Elective (Criminal Law) | 4 | Theories of Punishment, Sentencing Policies and Practices, Prisons and Correctional Administration, Alternatives to Imprisonment, Rehabilitation and Aftercare |
| LLM CL-102 | Criminology: Theories and Concepts | Elective (Criminal Law) | 4 | Nature and Scope of Criminology, Classical and Neo-Classical Theories, Sociological Theories of Crime, Psychological and Biological Criminology, Crime Prevention Strategies |
| LLM CL-103 | Victimology and Criminal Justice | Elective (Criminal Law) | 4 | Concept of Victimology, Victim Rights and Compensation, Victim Assistance Programs, Restorative Justice, Role of Victims in Criminal Justice System |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LLM CL-104 | International Criminal Law | Elective (Criminal Law) | 4 | Sources of International Criminal Law, Crimes Against Humanity, Genocide, War Crimes, International Criminal Court (ICC), Extradition and Mutual Legal Assistance, State Responsibility for International Crimes |
| LLM CL-105 | Forensic Science and Criminal Law | Elective (Criminal Law) | 4 | Basics of Forensic Science, Evidence Collection and Preservation, DNA Fingerprinting and Ballistics, Expert Witness Testimony, Legal Framework of Forensic Evidence |
| LLM CL-106 | Cyber Crimes and Law | Elective (Criminal Law) | 4 | Types of Cyber Crimes, Information Technology Act, 2000, Digital Evidence, Cyber Security Laws, International Cooperation in Cyber Crime |
| LLM 300 | Dissertation (Part I) | Project | 4 | Research Proposal Development, Literature Review, Methodology Design, Preliminary Data Collection, Academic Writing and Structuring |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LLM CL-107 | Criminal Justice Administration | Elective (Criminal Law) | 4 | Police System in India, Judiciary and Criminal Trials, Prosecution and Defense Roles, Plea Bargaining and Compounding, Reforms in Criminal Justice System |
| LLM CL-108 | White Collar Crimes | Elective (Criminal Law) | 4 | Definition and Types of White Collar Crimes, Corporate Criminal Liability, Economic Offenses in India, Anti-Corruption Laws, Regulatory Framework and Enforcement |
| LLM CL-109 | Organized Crimes | Elective (Criminal Law) | 4 | Concept and Nature of Organized Crime, Transnational Organized Crime, Terrorism and Insurgency, Narcotics and Human Trafficking, Legislative Measures Against Organized Crime |
| LLM 400 | Dissertation (Part II) | Project | 8 | Data Analysis and Interpretation, Thesis Writing and Structuring, Final Submission and Viva Voce, Presentation of Research Findings, Scholarly Publication Ethics |
