Transcript evaluation

I have just finished the requirements for my LLM from Northumbria (Newcastle, UK), and now I may need to get the degree evaluated. Any recommended evaluation agencies, particularly for a Canadian possibly applying to a Canadian school?

Finally, a technical question. Do they merely say what the degree is equivalent to or do they assign a grade level to it?

Thanks.

 

Hi novemberdude,

How long did it take you to complete the LL.M.?
Did you find the program difficult?

 

Re: Re: Transcript evaluation

Hi,

I started the program in Fall 2004 and submitted my dissertation at the end of August 2006, so basically 2 full years.

In terms of difficulty I'm afraid I don't have much basis for comparison. Definitely in depth research is expected, so I would not recommend the program for someone who does not like or is not good at research. I found that a high level of performance was required, but the workload was certainly manageable. I suppose it helps that I was very interested in my area of study.

It might be worth pointing out that all work submitted was externally moderated to ensure quality so I would assume that the level of work was comparable to most English Universities.

If you have any other questions feel free to ask.

 

Re: Re: Re: Transcript evaluation

Hi novemberdude,

Were there course work and exams or was it purely a research degree?

 

Re: Re: Re: Re: Transcript evaluation

It was 6 "taught" modules (distance learning courses) each assessed by a 4000 word essay on an assigned topic, followed by a dissertation on a topic which had to be approved by the department. For the dissertation the student is assigned a supervisor to whom interim submissions have to be made.

Overall I would rate it as a quality program. Northumbria are pretty serious about providing a good distance learning product, the staff is generally supportive and responsive, and they have been making minor improvements to the program.

I also have to say that I had a couple really good profs there. I am actually thinking (very very tentatively and not that seriously) about doing a PhD with them so my experience must have been okay.

As an aside if you are interested in a research based master's I'm not sure if you will find one in the UK that is completely devoid of residency requirements. However most schools do offer MPhil's which would be research based and I would expect that at least some schools will run with limited residencies.

 

Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: Transcript evaluation

Hi novemberdude,

Did you make any trip to UK throughout the program?
Do you have prior law knowledge, e.g., J.D. or LL.B.?

 

Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: Transcript evaluation

I did not, however there are optional study weeks. I regret not going, I think it would have enhanced the experience.