Manipal Law School (MLS), a constituent Institute of Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Bengaluru, offers a specialised LLM (Master of Laws) programme in Data Privacy and Information Technology (IT) Law. This one-year, full-time postgraduate course was introduced in 2023 and helps graduates understand how law interacts with modern digital systems.

Only a few institutions in India provide a dedicated programme in this area, which makes this specialisation a distinct academic route for learners who wish to work at the intersection of digital technology and regulation.

The LLM in Data Privacy and Information Technology Law gives students a clear understanding of the laws, regulations, and best practices governing technology. The curriculum is structured to develop the requisite skills and knowledge to navigate technology-related legal issues and advise organisations/individuals effectively.

Manipal Law School has curated a set of niche LLM specialisations to address the complex demands of the current legal landscape. The LLM in Data Privacy and Information Technology Law is one such programme. The rigorous curriculum integrates legal and technical courses. The course content is reviewed and updated at regular intervals so it remains relevant to industry expectations.
Mentioned below are some of the core subjects.

  • Tech Contracts

  • Telecom

  • FinTech

  • Blockchain

  • Artificial Intelligence

  • Robotics

Sem 1- Research skills and foundation for the specialisation

Sem 2- Specialisation with comparative learning and practical application

Regular engagement with the industry is a significant part of the learning process at MLS. Students interact with professionals across technology and legal domains, which supports consistent practical exposure and strengthens future placement prospects.

A three-month internship is mandatory for every student to help them gain hands-on experience before completing the degree. This is generally from January to March. The goal of this internship is for them to understand the practical application of law in the real world. In addition to improving their skills, these internships help postgraduates build a network of professionals in their field.

 

Eligibility Requirements
Application Process

To secure admission into the LLM in Data Privacy and Information Technology Law programme, students must meet the following eligibility requirements.

  • Pass an LLB degree from a recognised university

  • A minimum of 50% aggregate marks or an equivalent score

Selection takes place through a personal interview (PI) conducted by a panel of faculty members/subject experts. Candidates pursuing their final year of an undergraduate course in the academic year 2025-2026 will also be eligible to submit applications.

 

Students can apply for the programme through the university's official website. The application steps are given below.

For General/Domestic Category

• Online submission of the application form.

• Personal Interview (PI).

• Merit list prepared on the basis of PI performance.

• Provisional admission notice issued to shortlisted candidates.

• Completion of admission formalities.

For Foreign / NRI Category

• Online submission of the application form.

• Submission of required eligibility documents.

• Admission notice issued after verification.

• Fee payment

• Issue of provisional admission order.

• Submission of final academic results.

• Issue of final admission order.

 

Some of the main career avenues available after completing this programme are listed below.

Potential Job Roles & Sectors Hiring

  • Legal advisor or in-house counsel for social media and technology companies, responsible for handling issues related to intellectual property, contracts, e-commerce, and data protection, etc.
  • Legal advisor for government agencies or regulatory bodies related to technology and innovation.
  • Associate positions in law firms working in the field of technology law and innovative advocacy.
  • Independent technology lawyer in private practice, with work involving technology transactions, data, and intellectual property.
  • Legal researcher or teaching professional in technology law at universities or law schools.
  • Roles in international organisations, non-profit groups, or think tanks that specialize in technology and innovation advocacy.

Opportunities for Growth

  • Graduates may pursue advanced study through a PhD or M.Phil if they wish to move into deeper academic or research-based work. They can also take up certifications in specialised areas for professional growth. Given the soaring demand for experts in data privacy and IT law, LLM postgraduates can build a stable and rewarding career with strong long-term prospects.
Prof. Dr. Sarasu Esther Thomas, Professor and Director and She holds a BA LLB (Hons), LLM (Business Laws) and a PhD from the National Law School of India University. She has held several leadership roles and brings wide experience in legal education and policy-oriented work.

Prof. Dr. Sarasu Esther Thomas

Professor and Director

She holds a BA LLB (Hons), LLM (Business Laws) and a PhD from the National Law School of India University. She has held several leadership roles and brings wide experience in legal education and policy-oriented work.

Dr. Apoorvi Shrivastava, Associate Professor and Qualifications include BA LLB, LLM and a PhD in International Commercial Arbitration. Her interests span Alternative Dispute Resolution, Corporate Regulation and Data Protection Laws. Her research work focuses on areas such as Corporate Governance andSustainability.

Dr. Apoorvi Shrivastava

Associate Professor

Qualifications include BA LLB, LLM and a PhD in International Commercial Arbitration. Her interests span Alternative Dispute Resolution, Corporate Regulation and Data Protection Laws. Her research work focuses on areas such as Corporate Governance andSustainability.

Dr. Ella Gorian, Professor and Diploma of Specialist and LLM from the National University of Internal Affairs (Kharkiv, Ukraine) and a PhD from the Institute of Legislation of the Parliament of Ukraine. Her research interests include Human Rights and Public International Law, and Cybersecurity and Data Protection in the AI era.

Dr. Ella Gorian

Professor

Diploma of Specialist and LLM from the National University of Internal Affairs (Kharkiv, Ukraine) and a PhD from the Institute of Legislation of the Parliament of Ukraine. Her research interests include Human Rights and Public International Law, and Cybersecurity and Data Protection in the AI era.

Akshra Mehla, Assistant Professor and  Law specialising in Public Law and Legal Theory. She has published extensively on issues related to social justice, and law and technology, among other research contributions.

Akshra Mehla

Assistant Professor

Law specialising in Public Law and Legal Theory. She has published extensively on issues related to social justice, and law and technology, among other research contributions.

Ongoing Research Projects & Student Participation

MAHE is renowned for its vision to nurture and promote research activities of global standards. A dedicated legal research centre operates within MLS to support scholarship across emerging areas of law. Students are encouraged to participate in ongoing research projects throughout their programme.

They can contribute to faculty-led studies, undertake independent projects with faculty mentorship, and present their work at academic forums or conferences. MLS also maintains an online database that records the publications completed each year and serves as a transparent reference point for ongoing scholarly output.

Campus Infrastructure

MLS provides a vibrant learning environment that supports academic, personal, and professional growth. The eco-sustainable campus is designed to foster a holistic educational experience with state-of-the-art facilities that enable access to progressive and innovative legal education. Students learn in a modern setting that includes smart classrooms, a well-equipped moot court hall, auditoriums, and dedicated seminar rooms. They have access to interdisciplinary knowledge resources at the library. The campus also features exclusive facilities and comfortable lounge spaces that encourage collaboration and community building.

Internships & Industry Collaboration

MLS provides structured support for internships and placements across corporate firms, the Supreme Court, High Courts, companies and government bodies. Regular guest lectures, workshops, and symposia are conducted by industry experts, judges, and senior lawyers from India and abroad. The Placements and Corporate Engagement Cell assists students in securing internships and placements through coordinated efforts between faculty, student representatives, and MLS leadership. MAHE also collaborates with industry and academic partners for wider exposure. Proposed academic collaborations include institutions such as the Law Training Centre (UK), Stadio School of Law (South Africa), St. John’s University (New York), American University (Washington D.C.) and others, alongside partnerships with organisations like Nuvoco Vistas Corporation Ltd., ALMT Legal, and India Law Alliance.

Student Clubs & Societies

Students at MLS can join and benefit from several student clubs and societies that support practical learning and skill development.

Moot Court Society: Conducts regular moot court sessions and represents MLS at national and international competitions under faculty guidance.

Legal Service Clinic: Spreads awareness on socio-legal issues and provides pro bono guidance through the MLS legal team.

Debating Society: Offers a space for debates, Model United Nations (MUN) activities, and discussions on current affairs to strengthen public speaking and reasoning skills.

Cultural Club: Encourages creative expression and participation in cultural events that complement academic learning.

Environment Club: Works on sustainability initiatives on campus and collaborates with MAHE Bengaluru’s Rewilding Task Force.

1. What are the LLM in Data Privacy and Information Technology Law eligibility criteria at MLS?
Applicants of the LLM Data Privacy and Information Technology Law programme must hold an LLB degree from a recognised university with a minimum of 50% aggregate marks or an equivalent score. Selection is based on a Personal Interview conducted by a panel of faculty members and subject experts.
2. How long is the LLM in Data Privacy and Information Technology Law course duration?
The LLM in Data Privacy and Information Technology Law at MLS is a one-year, full-time postgraduate programme.
3. How can I apply for the LLM in Data Privacy at Manipal?
Students applying for the LLM in data privacy programme must submit their application through the official university website. After review, shortlisted candidates are called for a Personal Interview, and admission is confirmed based on merit and completion of formalities.
4. What career opportunities are available after completing an LLM in Data Privacy & IT Law?
Graduates can pursue roles such as technology lawyers, legal advisors, in-house counsel, researchers, policymakers or academicians. A data privacy law degree is in demand in organisations that work with technology, regulation, and policy.
5. Are there opportunities for further education after the LLM in Data Privacy and IT Law programme?
Yes. Students of this programme can pursue advanced study, such as a PhD or M.Phil. They may also take additional privacy law courses or certifications in specialised areas.
6. What is covered in the LLM in Data Privacy and IT Law programme at MLS, Bengaluru?
Some of the core subjects currently covered in the LLM in data privacy and IT law programme include tech contracts, telecoms, fintech, blockchain, artificial intelligence, and robotics. The curriculum is reviewed and updated regularly so it stays aligned with industry trends.
7. Does MLS offer research opportunities for students of the LLM in Data Privacy and IT Law programme?
Yes. Students of the LLM data privacy programme are encouraged to join faculty-led research and also explore independent research pursuits. MLS maintains a dedicated database where student publications are documented.
8. Can students of the LLM in Data Privacy and IT Law programme pursue internships?
Yes. Students undertake a mandatory three-month internship, usually from January to March. These internships help them gain exposure to the field while completing their IT and data privacy law degree.