cmr.edu.in LL.M. | Criminal Law | Programmes at CMR University

LL.M. | Criminal Law

Scope and Objective

The LL.M. in Criminal Law programme offers advanced and specialised study in the field of criminal law, designed for law graduates and legal professionals seeking to deepen their understanding of criminal justice systems. The course covers a wide range of topics, including criminal jurisprudence, substantive and procedural aspects of criminal law, and the principles governing criminal liability. Students will explore contemporary issues in criminal law such as cybercrime, terrorism, white-collar crime, and international criminal law. The programme also provides opportunities to study landmark case laws, statutory developments, and theoretical frameworks that influence criminal law practice and reform.

The curriculum emphasises practical knowledge, critical thinking, and research skills, preparing graduates for roles in academia, policy-making, judiciary, and legal practice. Through engagement with real-world case studies, moot court simulations, and interactions with experienced practitioners, students will gain an in-depth understanding of both national and international perspectives on criminal law.

  • In-depth Knowledge: To provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental principles and advanced concepts in criminal law, covering both substantive and procedural aspects.
  • Critical Analysis: To develop students’ ability to critically analyse criminal statutes, judicial decisions, and policy frameworks in light of emerging legal issues and societal needs.
  • Legal Research and Writing: To enhance students’ skills in legal research, drafting, and scholarly writing, particularly in the areas of criminal law theory, practice, and reform.
  • Contemporary Issues: To familiarise students with current and evolving issues in criminal law, such as cybercrime, organised crime, transnational crimes, and human rights in the criminal justice system.
  • Practical Application: To provide practical exposure through case studies, moot courts, and internships that prepare students for the professional demands of criminal law practice, policy-making, and advocacy.
  • Thesis or Research Project: To enable students to conduct original research on a specific criminal law topic, culminating in a thesis or research project that contributes to the academic and professional discourse in criminal law.
  • Professional Development: To prepare graduates for career advancement in the fields of criminal law practice, public prosecution, judicial services, law enforcement, or academic research.

This LL.M. programme is designed to produce highly skilled legal professionals and scholars equipped to navigate the complexities of criminal law in a dynamic legal landscape.

Programme Structure

Semester I
  • Research Methodology
  • Comparative Public Law
  • Principles of Criminal Law
  • Criminology, Penology and Victimology
  • International Criminal Law
Semester II
  • Law and Justice in a Globalised World
  • Comparative Criminal Procedure (India, US, UK and France)
  • Criminal Justice Administration and Human Rights
  • Socio-Economic Offences and White-Collar Crime
  • Dissertation

Programme Outcome

PO1: Research Skills – Students to have sound knowledge in research analysis and develop skills in research writing.

PO2: Skill Development – Students to be equipped and well-versed in policy making, advocacy, or a combination of both.

PO3: Specialisation Skill – Students to have an in-depth understanding of the evolution, history and development of principles of criminal law and the criminal judicial process.

PO4: Advocacy Skills – Students will develop the competence to engage in defence- and prosecution-oriented functions.

PO5: Teaching Skills – Students will develop skills in teaching and presentation.

PO6: Students should be capable of critically analysing law as an instrument of social change across various legal systems.

PO7: To analyse different approaches to law and justice in diverse legal systems.

PO8: To acquire and apply legal knowledge to complex socio-legal problems.

PO9: Students should be able to understand the structure of the legal regime.

Course Outcomes Visit

What expertise will you gain?
  • Criminal law principles and theories
  • Comparative criminal procedures
  • Legal interpretation and critical legal analysis
  • Criminal law case studies and practical applications
  • Legal research and scholarly writing
  • White-collar crime, cybercrime, and human rights issues in criminal justice

Career Opportunities

  • 01
    Criminal litigation
  • 02
    Judiciary
  • 03
    Law enforcement agencies
  • 04
    Specialised legal research in criminal law or criminology
  • 05
    Law professor or academician specialising in criminal law
  • 06
    Government service

FAQs

The programme duration is one academic year or two semesters.

The admission process typically involves filling out an application form, submitting necessary academic and personal documents, appearing for an entrance test (if applicable), and clearing an interview with the admissions committee.

The requirement for an entrance exam may vary based on the university’s admission policy. You can check with the admissions office for the latest information.

To be eligible, candidates typically need a Bachelor’s degree in Law (LL.B.) from a recognised university. Applicants with related qualifications may also be considered, subject to a minimum required percentage.

Teaching involves a combination of lectures, seminars, case studies, group discussions, and interactive methods.

The job market is competitive, with high demand for skilled legal professionals in law firms, government agencies, corporations, academia, and international organisations. Graduates of CMR University are well-positioned for diverse career paths in the legal domain.

ACCP AY(2025-26)