With the devastation that COVID-19 has caused on a global scale, there has never been a more crucial time to study and practice public and global health law. 

In fall 2021, we are thrilled to welcome over 45 health law LL.M. students joining the incoming class—the largest and most diverse O’Neill has ever seen. 

They come from 24 countries and six continents: Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe, South America, and North America. About 40% are from the U.S. and 60% are international students, highlighting the global reach of the program. Additionally, about 70% of the students are female and 30% are male. 

The health law LL.M. class of 2021/2022 is made up of individuals with various professional and educational backgrounds, including health and human rights advocates, government officials working on tobacco control and health care, and private practice attorneys with expertise in intellectual property and pharmaceutical regulation.

According to Sarah Roache, director of the Health Law and Capacity Building Initiatives, “The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted many legal and regulatory challenges around access to health care and vulnerabilities in national and global health governance and infrastructure. One of the most rewarding elements of my role is facilitating collaboration and exchange of diverse perspectives on strengthening health systems and outcomes. These rich exchanges help us generate creative solutions to these crucial problems.” 

Professor Roache also offered advice to the incoming LL.M. class, saying “get to know your classmates. You are part of an amazing group of people with expertise on a wide range of health law issues. It is a rare opportunity to be surrounded by others who share your passion and you will learn from each other, support each other and become lifelong collaborators and friends.”

O’Neill’s 13th class of health law LL.M. students starts in fall 2021. For more information about O’Neill’s academic programs, including how to apply, visit our academic information page.