Columbia Law School strives to admit individuals to the LL.M. Program who are committed to academic and professional excellence and who, through their prior experience, recommendations, and academic history, demonstrate the qualities and skills necessary for rigorous intellectual engagement. Admission decisions are based not only on your potential but also on your demonstrated motivation and self-discipline. Diversity of all kinds deeply enriches the Columbia student body. Our admissions process welcomes applicants of all backgrounds and professional and life experiences. Learn more about the process below. The role of a lawyer is to advocate, persuade, engage in difficult conversations, and work with others to resolve conflicts or to achieve a common goal. In short, lawyers must lead. Acquiring a core set of skills and a leadership mindset can transform lawyers into strategic and creative thinkers with the vision to change the world for the better - and influence others to do the same.