International perspectives, lasting connections: Inside the LLM in International Legal Studies
In today’s interconnect legal landscape, opportunities for law students to gain an international perspective are more important than ever. Since 2017, Nottingham Law School and Campbell University’s Norman Adrian Wiggins School of Law have partnered together to create such opportunities through the LLM International Legal Studies. This joint programme enables Juris Doctor (JD) students to develop high-level research and writing skills through the completion of an LLM alongside their JD.
Published on 12 September 2025
For Evey Morris, from Charlotte NC, this programme was an opportunity to broaden her legal skills and gain experience beyond the traditional curriculum.
“In exploring Campbell’s program offerings, I discovered the opportunity to enrol at NTU and immediately knew it was something I wanted to pursue.
For my research, I chose to examine an issue that I had increasingly encountered in online discourse: copyright infringement by global fast fashion retailers. With the support of both Campbell and NTU faculty, I conducted legal research and authored a comprehensive thesis on this issue as my submission for the LL.M. in International Legal Studies degree. My assigned faculty mentor at NTU, Mr. Martin Szarkiszjan, provided invaluable feedback and answered questions throughout the writing process. "
I completed and submitted my thesis in the fall of 2024, and in May 2025, was honored to be hooded by Deputy Dean Matthew Homewood during Campbell Law’s Juris Doctor graduation ceremony.
Through this LLM, students are afforded the possibility of visiting Nottingham:
“Beyond the academic focus of the LL.M. program at NTU, I was particularly excited by the chance to visit the campus in person and engage directly with the faculty and staff. Upon our arrival, the program directors at NTU welcomed us warmly, sharing the history and mission of the institution and taking a genuine interest in getting to know each participating student. During our visit, we toured the campus and were introduced to the wide array of resources and support services available to NTU students. I thoroughly enjoyed my time in Nottingham and was greatly impressed by the university’s academic environment and the breadth of opportunities it offers.”
Evey speaks highly of the impact this LLM has had on her career:
“The process of researching and writing my thesis for the LL.M. in International Legal Studies provided me with valuable legal research and writing skills that I would not have otherwise acquired. Through this experience, I developed the ability to engage in deep critical analysis, distill extensive bodies of legal scholarship, and adhere to rigorous academic writing standards within strict deadlines.
As I began sharing my experience in the NTU program and the focus of my thesis at professional networking events, I consistently found that legal professionals were intrigued by the subject matter and eager to learn more. The program offered the opportunity to cultivate specialized, transferable skills applicable across numerous areas of legal practice.
Demonstrating to prospective employers the capacity to manage a substantial, independent research project while maintaining academic precision is an enduring advantage of participating in this program. While challenging, the experience was exceptionally rewarding, and I take great pride in my lasting connection to Nottingham Trent University. I look forward to pursuing further international opportunities as my legal career progresses.”
Another recent graduate, Taryn Wilkins, reflects on how the programme not only strengthened her academic skills, but also offered memorable international experience:
“The program’s unique structure, blending rigorous independent research with international academic collaboration, pushed me to think critically and broadened my understanding of global and comparative legal frameworks. It also prepared me to approach complex legal and policy challenges with clarity, creativity, and confidence - skills I will carry into my legal career.
Traveling to Nottingham to present and defend my thesis was an added highlight. The irony of discussing modern questions of representation and federal power on British soil was not lost on anyone in the room. Although the trip was brief, I thoroughly enjoyed exploring the city, connecting with faculty, and learning more about all that Nottingham Law School has to offer.”
Judge Rob Young joined us for Graduation in Nottingham in July:
“I have learned a great deal through the process of examining the origins of Juvenile Courts in the United States and the whole experience has given me tremendous insight into what we as judges should be doing in our juvenile courtrooms. I am grateful to the Administrative Office of the Courts for making this opportunity possible, for the instructors at Campbell University Law School and for the guidance of my academic advisor at Nottingham Trent (who has subsequently become a friend) who helped me get my dissertation written, the support of my family who encouraged me along the way, and the wonderful staff at Nottingham Trent, particularly Deputy Dean Matthew Homewood, who not only helped solve the many technical difficulties that arose along the way but also carried out a truly rich and meaningful graduation ceremony in the English tradition.
I want you to rest assured that the day was one of the best for me in recent memory. I am so glad I chose to make the journey here for graduation and more importantly, am grateful for the chance to be a part of Nottingham Trent’s LLM program. And I must add, that dinner at the Cosy Club with my party and Dr. Trickett was a pure delight as well.
Thank you for all your help and for being such a strong advocate for your wonderful program.”
The LLM in International Legal Studies stands out as more than just an academic qualification. It is a transformative experience that equips students with advanced legal research and writing skills, fosters international collaboration, and creates lasting professional and personal connections. For Campbell JD students, the opportunity to graduate with both a JD and an LLM not only strengthens their credentials but also broadens their perspective on the law’s role in a global society. As the reflections of Evey Morris, Taryn Wilkins, and Judge Young demonstrate, the programme leaves its graduates with skills, memories, and connections that will shape their legal careers for years to come.