LLM in Taxation or Diploma in Taxation

The tax code never stops changing — neither should you. Stay dynamic with a Tax LLM from the University of San Diego School of Law.

The Top-Ranked LLM in Taxation in California and the Greater West Coast

You’re certain about a future in tax law. Be certain your Tax LLM program gives you the Day 1 Advantage. As one of the best graduate tax programs in the country, USD School of Law has produced 40 years’ worth of highly skilled tax lawyers. 

Students choose USD School of Law knowing they’ll gain the skills they need to compete at the Big 4 level. Graduates go on to notable, fulfilling careers, successfully navigating their clients through the complexities of the tax system.

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With an ever-expanding list of alumni accomplishments, an impressive faculty roster of tax professionals, and a consistently high specialty ranking, the USD School of Law LLM in Taxation program is the trusted source for cultivating master practitioners in the field of tax law.

Key Features of our Tax LLM Programs

The LLM in Taxation and Diploma in Taxation prepare attorneys for: 

  • private practice with a focus on tax law
  • in-house corporate counsel positions
  • legal positions in large accounting firms
  • positions in taxation agencies at the state and federal levels

Regardless of the type of law you practice currently or intend to practice in the future, all actions have (tax) consequences. Taxes affect everything. A mastery of tax law will not only help you have a meaningful impact on your clients’ daily lives, but it will also give you the competitive edge you need to advance your career.

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Candidates are provided with a strong foundational basis in tax law, but also have the flexibility to select advanced tax electives from the impressive and diverse curriculum to create a course of study that focuses on their particular areas of interest.

Survey the Curriculum

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The strong core of distinguished faculty compromises a diverse range of scholars and practitioners, all of whom are leaders in their areas of teaching and practice and have a remarkable commitment to the academic and professional development of their students.

Get to Know Our Faculty

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Our unique Tax Planning Lab simulation course bridges the gap between theory and practice by assimilating students into a tax-focused corporate environment. Taught onsite at Sempra Energy, students shadow attorneys and complete simulation exercises, allowing them to apply the law they’re learning to everyday tax situations.

Witness the Difference

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Almost 1,000 graduates are currently in practice in California, throughout the United States, and around the world. Alumni include current and former U.S. Tax Court clerks, members of the judiciary, partners and associates in a variety of firms, sole practitioners, and government officials.

Start Networking

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The First Step Toward Taking the (Tax) Law Into Your Own Hands

Find out why the USD Tax LLM Program gives you the Day 1 Advantage by reading our program guide, Piece Together the Tax Puzzle: LLM in Taxation & Diploma in Taxation. In it, we delve into our approach to tax law, our unique course offerings, externship and clinical opportunities, and focus on professional development. You’ll meet alumni just like you and — potentially — some of your future colleagues and professors.

A Tax LLM Designed to Complement Your Career, Not Delay It

Over the years, we’ve tailored our experiential education program to support full- and part-time students. With simulation classes, externships, extracurriculars, and 3 different tax clinics providing direct client representation opportunities, you can gain the practical experience you need to set you apart along with the rest of your advanced tax coursework. Find out which approach might be right for you: 

 
  Full-Time Part-Time
Program Start Fall or Spring term Fall, Spring, or Summer term
Program Length Complete the degree requirements in as little as 1 semester (USD School of Law JD/LLM option) or finish in one year The flexibility to take up to 4 years to complete degree requirements
Credit Options 9 or more credits per semester 8 or fewer credits per semester
Coursework Offered during both the day and evening to accommodate students’ needs Offered during both the day and evening to accommodate students’ needs

This is one investment you don’t need to puzzle over: a tax law degree with classes geared towards your career interests, a network of support, and an academic experience designed to fit your needs and achieve your goals. Graduate with long-term employment opportunities at your fingertips — with job offers that sometimes start right inside the classroom.

Earn Your Tax LLM with Your JD

Are you a JD student enrolled at the University of San Diego School of Law?

If so, you’ve got the unique opportunity to earn an LLM in Taxation in just one additional semester after completion of the JD degree.

Up to 12 credits of USD School of Law advanced tax courses (excluding Tax I), taken as a USD School of Law JD within 30 months of enrolling in the LLM in Taxation program may be applied toward the LLM degree. If you’re considering this option, contact Graduate and International Programs for planning and advice!

Crack the Tax Code with our LLM in Tax Law

The University of San Diego School of Law is marked by a long tradition of excellence in the ever-in-demand field of taxation. Our unique course offerings provide a multitude of opportunities for students to get the practical tax law experience they need to set themselves apart from the start. Request more information about our top-ranked LLM in Taxation program and we’ll get in touch with you soon.