Since 2007, the Leitner Center has offered scholarships to students to attend the LL.M. Program in International Law and Justice at Fordham Law School. In 2011, the program was renamed the Vivian Leitner Global South LL.M. Scholars Program, honoring the life of Vivian Leitner and with a specific focus on enabling graduate students from the global south to enroll in Fordham’s Master of Laws (LL.M.) in International Law and Justice.

Program Overview

The program offers Selected Scholars a scholarship that waives tuition for the LL.M in International Law and Justice, and covers some additional fees.

The Program is named to honor the memory of Vivian Leitner, who passed away in 2010. Ms. Leitner was an intrepid traveler, a student of many cultures, and a fierce critic of injustice wherever she found it.  She was born in Turkey, eventually immigrating to the United States in 1950.  She was always grateful for the opportunities she found to advance her education and her work.  It is therefore fitting to name in her honor this scholarship program that seeks to create such opportunities for others.

Each year, up to four of the most highly qualified students from the global south for this prestigious Program.  Vivian Leitner Scholars demonstrate outstanding academic merit and leadership potential and a strong commitment to advancing human rights and justice in their home countries. 

The Scholars are fully integrated in the law school community through projects and events at the Leitner Center and Fordham Law School. Vivian Leitner Scholars share their perspectives and experiences with the Law School academic community and contribute to diversity in the Fordham student body, enriching classroom experiences.

LLM in International Law and Justice

The LLM program in International Law and Justice offers students the opportunity to gain an advanced understanding of human rights protection and promotion on international, regional, and domestic levels. The degree is designed primarily for lawyers and students who work or intend to pursue a career in the public sector, including high-level government attorneys, leaders in nongovernmental organizations, and academics. This LLM program was created under the auspices of the Leitner Center at Fordham.

Each student is required to complete a minimum of 24 credits of approved courses; the maximum number of credits permitted is 30.

Full-time students take 10-15 credits per semester (11-13 recommended); part-time students take 2-9 credits per semester and must complete the program within 24 months of starting. Up to 4 credits may be taken during summer terms.

Application

The deadline for the 2026-2027 Vivian Leitner LL.M. Scholarship is March 13, 2026.  The 2026-2027 Scholarship application can be found here.

Questions about the Program may be sent to: leitnercenter@law.fordham.edu