law degree or phd

Law Degree vs. PhD – a Waste of Time?

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Should I Go to Law School or Get a PhD?

The hypothetical question is: should I go to law school or get a Ph.D.? Which one is better for successful career – law degree vs. PhD? The short answer: it depends on your aspirations. Law degree vs. PhD choice depends on many factors I will mention in this blog post.

Juris Doctor is a professional degree where law student after passing the bar exam is allowed to practice law as an attorney. Ph.D. is essentially designation for a highly skilled researcher or professor in some areas.

In my opinion, unless you love the area for which you want to obtain a Ph.D., JD may offer some kind of career and a shot of getting paid, especially JD for tier 1 law school.

Well, some people compare law degree vs. Ph.D. and say that law school awarding Juris Doctor is better since JD is only three years and law school newcomers have it easier than PhDs. Then, after passing bar exam former law student, now law graduate, is allowed to work and practice law.

And Ph.D. is six years of low pay with no guarantee of a good-paying position. But comparing a Ph.D. to a law degree is like comparing apples to oranges – they are just different creatures. 

Should I go to law school or get a PhD? Of course, it depends on what you want to do. Do you know what lawyers do at work and not on TV? Many law graduates are surprised by the reality of law practice once they enter the legal world.

This is not what they expected. No glamour – just hard, grueling, stressful work. I do not recommend jumping into law school without first researching what legal work is. 

Same with Ph.D. – years of grueling work and ass-kissing and often no prospect of tenure job, or any job at all, depending on the field. On the other hand, Ph.D. in tech can make an absolute killing in terms of money. Read further below.

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Ph.D. is a Drag

PhDs are paid a little stipend, barely enough to make ends meet. They have to kiss the ass of a professor they research for. And in the end, there are not many job opportunities other than the university of some research center, and it is very difficult for new PhDs to find good employment at universities these days. 

They go into field work quite often. Usually, they are employed by labs for scientists and fields for engineers. Ph.D. itself is not always a solid credential for an employer at a company or in non-academia in general. I tend to think it depends on the field of Ph.D. 

In terms of practical application at work and a chance to have at least some flexibility of a career, JD probably beats Ph.D. But, I do know someone with Ph.D. in physics who breathes and dreams physics 24/7. They would never change to the law. PhDs do work very hard and a lot of hours. 

Law Degree vs. PhD And the College Rank

Another aspect is the rank of college where you are obtaining JD or Ph.D. Choosing between tier 4 law school for JD and Tier 1 college program for Ph.D., I may tend to say that Ph.D. might be a good option to try. And another way around is, well, another way around – college rank is a big factor in deciding because high college rank gives prestige and reputation and opens up work opportunities in the future. Low college rank – not that much. 

I would not rush into the decision. For a law school newbie, the law school also means incurring substantial student debt. What if you do not like the law? On the other hand, law school may lead to a more specific job opportunity than Ph.D. Ph.D. is even worse for jobs than law school. If I would have to choose between Ph.D. and law school – I would choose a law school.

But, take your time and think about it. One advantage of a Ph.D. is that if you can obtain a funded Ph.D., you can try for a couple of years without incurring student debt. Cannot do that with law school because it usually leads to student debt. 

Ph.D. in STEM degree then to law school

Tip: I saw on forums some commenters suggesting to obtain a Ph.D. in STEM areas then go and obtain their JD, to have a solid shot at making a killing as intellectual property attorneys – 6-figures to start from higher-ranked schools, and even jobs during law school at 50k-70k. 

Well, undergraduate degrees in STEM with few years of either fieldwork or Ph.D. also seem to open doors in law firms. I am talking about one of my former law school classmate-engineer, not even Ph.D., who got a 60K job offer while still in j=her second year of law scjool.

I am sure she got much more when she graduated and passed the bar exam. That could be a long-term but path to take. Non-STEM Ph.D. has almost no effect on the probability of finding a job after law school, except that employers may think this is gonna be one smart attorney employee.

Shall you decide to go to law school – check my detailed reviews of recommended LSAT preparation courses for getting a top LSAT score. 

Law Degree v. PhD not clear cut

Overall, it looks like if choosing between law school and Ph.D. one should either stay away from both or go with law school path unless a Ph.D. is in:

• Top school.

And, if one was admitted to tier 1 law school, then I can confidently say to just go ahead and obtain a law degree. Or, if one can go to lower-tier law school for cheap or practically for free, then law school may be more beneficial than Ph.D. care wise. But only if he or she wants to be an attorney. 

This is also reinforced by the serious lack of work opportunities for PhDs, where colleges are contracting due to a decline in applications, and obtaining tenure track teaching position nowadays is more difficult than becoming an astronaut. While a law degree is not without problems and the legal market is competitive, a law degree can open some doors even in the non-legal world. Ph.D. probably cannot offer that. 

Law school is also not a too practical degree, because law students do not learn how to practice law but rather learn general theory and a lot of it. PhDs will probably have an easy time in law schools after their doctorate program, because law school is not so brainy, and Ph.D. research, analysis, and writing skills can make law studies seem like a walk in the park. Some say that Ph.D. in philosophy will make law school seem like kindergarten. Law school admission test LSAT will also be relatively easy after Ph.D. But it all comes down to the job market, right?

Using job search web sites to evaluate law school v. Ph.D. prospects

Here is what I suggest you do: go to Indeed.com, or other major job search site like Monster.com, and type in “Ph.D.” to see how many Ph.D. positions are open. Then, type in “Ph.D.” and name of the field of your particular Ph.D. interest. And see market demand for yourself. 

I did that search and my impression is that Ph.D. in STEM, and/or quantitative areas are in demand by organizations and companies. This is in line with the overall trend of market demand for STEM graduates. Some positions offer up to $110,000 in annual salary. But others, offer as low as $22,000 per year for a person with Ph.D. Is it worth to spend 6-7 years on Ph.D. just to make $22,000? I do not think so. 

I also see that the overall number of job postings for PhDs is noticeably higher than the total sum of job postings for JDs and attorneys, where some of the latter probably show up in both searches for JD and attorney. But the problem with Ph.D. though is that the total number must be divided by many different Ph.D. specializations, and one should research carefully market demand for his or her particular field of interest. 

The holding: Ph.D. in tech or STEM probably trumps law school, but it is not necessary for a career

Undergraduate STEM degree from a good college may be enough for a nicely paid job and career. It can also give a major boost to law students. Ph.D. may open other opportunities, but this is so specific to each field, that I will need a separate website just to evaluate that.

But right now, law school v. Ph.D. or Ph.D. v. law school comparison comes down to few factors like school or college rank, the field of study as well as natural abilities, passions and career goals of the student.

Having said that, I saw a job posting for a Ph.D. in artificial intelligence or machine learning, offering $300k PLUS partnership equity. Wow, probably in a start-up. AI, machine learning and big data fields are booming right now and Ph.D. in those probably can yield very handsome annual salary.

The world has moved from social studies to tech and quantitative fields. Even me, trying to learn basic coding and database skills just to make sure I do not fall completely behind. 

My childhood career aspiration was biology. I know I would be happy doing that, but life happened and now I am a cynical legal professional. I earned my money, but I still look at science majors with some level of admiration and envy.

The grass is always greener on the other side, right? 

Choose your field wisely and do your research. Whatever you choose, make sure you like what you do – either money side or work side. This is the only way to be happy. Trust me, low paid happy person with passion in life will find more opportunities in life than an unhappy one. 

The other specific advice I will give you is to be very careful about incurring any student debt, even $10,000 or less. Make sure you get sufficient value for it because a modern college education is sometimes outdated and does not offer enough value to graduates.

Here is a good article on why PhD may be a waste of time and money.

Here is a link to MIT Sloan PhD which may be worthy check shall you pursue PhD. 

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Doctor of Laws (J.S.D./S.J.D.)

After graduating with a Juris Doctor a person is eligible for practicing law in the particular state where they pass their bar examination.

A person may then go on to specialize in a specific area of the law and study for a Master of Laws degree.

For those individuals who prefer to work in academia or in other types of work that have an emphasis on legal scholarship, the Doctor of Laws is the next step.

A Doctor of Law degree is the highest level of law degree that is offered in the United States.

The Doctor of Laws degree falls into four general categories including a Doctor of Juridical Science, a Doctor of Jurisprudence, a Doctor of Philosophy, and a Doctor of Comparative Law.

The American Bar Association states that there are around 20 law schools in the United States that currently offer doctor of law degrees.

Degree and Application Requirements

While the number of doctoral programs is limited, the requirements for application and degree requirements vary greatly.

Almost all of the programs will require that an individual complete a master of laws program or a comparative program such as a Master’s in Comparative Law, a Juris Master’s, or a Master’s of Jurisprudence.

There are some law schools that limit enrollment in their doctoral programs to only those who have completed an LL.M. program with their particular school.

This means that if you complete a master’s program at one law school you may not be eligible for admission into a particular law school for your doctorate.

It is important to factor this limitation into the decision-making process when considering law schools for your master’s program if you are considering a doctorate program afterward.

There are numerous doctorate programs that require individual applicants to gain approval from a member of the faculty stating that they are willing to be the applicant’s advisor and committee chairperson for their dissertation.

This must be accomplished before a person applies to the program.

Doctorate Program Considerations

When considering a doctorate program it is essential to evaluate each of the programs carefully.

It is essential to look at the programs and weigh your own particular area of interest against the specializations of the faculty of each of the schools.

If interested in writing a dissertation and conducting specific research, consider a school that has a faculty member who has similar interests.

There are some doctoral programs that will require the student to pursue coursework in additional areas and other programs do not have this requirement.

Almost all of the programs will require the student to write a dissertation that could be published and that makes a contribution of value to the literature of law.

Most programs will require that a doctoral student conduct their research under the supervision of a faculty advisor.

The majority of these programs will require that the degree be completed in a time frame of two to five years, with the first two years being completed “in residence.”

The rate for these programs will vary, but no financial aid is typically available for a doctorate program.

About Michael Morales

2 responses to doctor of laws (j.s.d./s.j.d.).

I am researching the best program since I am so eager to become a Doctor of Philosophy because we are a family of lawyers, I am willing to take the challenge.

So, this is what Juris Doctors are. I am dating one and I have no idea what a Juris Doctor does. Thanks for the info!

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Students who graduate with their doctorate from the law program report average early career wages of $56,355.

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Vanderbilt Law School's Ph.D. Program in Law and Economics is unlike any other. Dual-degree students pursue a J.D. and a Ph.D. concurrently in a fully integrated curriculum that combines economic theory and methodology with the study of law. The program is designed so that students complete both degrees in just 6 years. Admitted students receive a full funding package , including tuition for both degrees and a competitive annual stipend, for all 6 years of study.

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Applicants must complete separate applications to Vanderbilt Graduate School and Vanderbilt Law School. Each applicant's Law School and Graduate School applications will be considered together in a collaborative admissions process.

Program faculty guide students through an innovative law and economics curriculum in which students pursue policy-relevant research. The program offers 4 primary research fields: behavioral law and economics, labor markets and human resources, law and economics, and risk and environmental regulation.

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Top 10 Best PhD in Law Programs [2024]

A PhD in law is an advanced qualification that will make you a true legal expert. You can use that credential to work as a legal research scholar or teach at a post-secondary level. This is not only a prestigious career path but also a lucrative one — today’s law PhD holders have an average salary  of $93,000.

Today’s law schools emphasize an interdisciplinary approach to legal education, equipping students to work in a diverse range of fields.

Interested in an advanced criminal justice  career? Below we’ll cover the top PhD in law programs, universities, and what you need to know before pursuing a doctorate in law.

Table of Contents

Top PhD in Law Programs

Yale university, law school.

Yale University’s Law School ranks first  in the nation, with its 20 legal clinics offering an immersive experience for students. This PhD program has a purely academic focus. To qualify for admission, you’ll need to already have a JD (Juris Doctor) degree. If accepted, you’ll be able to benefit from Yale Law School’s acclaimed “Yale Teaching Program.”

• Courses: Criminal law & administration, international human rights, and complex civil litigation.
• Duration:  3 years
• Delivery: On-campus
• Tuition: Fully funded
• Financial aid: Full tuition coverage, health insurance, and stipend.
• Acceptance rate:  7%
• Location: New Haven, Connecticut

Stanford University

Doctor of the Science of Law (JSD)

Stanford University is another highly acclaimed institution in the field of law education with a tough admissions process. Only a few exceptionally gifted students with an international JD or LLB or a SPILS (Stanford Program in International Legal Studies) qualification are accepted into this program every year. The program has an emphasis on an interdisciplinary approach to law.

• Courses:  Advanced antitrust, current issues in business law, and reinventing American criminal justice systems.
• Credits: 44 units
• Duration: 4 years
• Tuition : $64,350 per year
• Financial aid: Scholarships, fellowships, grants, assistantships, federal work-study, and loans.
• Acceptance rate: 5%
• Location:  Stanford, California

The University of Chicago, The Law School

Doctor of Jurisprudence (JSD)

The Law School of the University of Chicago is renowned for its interdisciplinary approach to teaching and cross-lists its courses with other departments. The faculty include philosophers, political scientists, historians, and law scholars. Students also have the option to pursue a Doctorate in Comparative Law (D.Comp.L.) instead of a JSD if they wish.

• Courses: Antitrust & intellectual property, civil rights clinic: police accountability, and American legal history.
• Duration: 5 years
• Tuition : $7,647 per year
• Financial aid: Full tuition scholarship, fellowship, and health insurance.
• Acceptance rate: 7%
• Location: Chicago, Illinois

Columbia University, Law School

JSD Program

The Columbia Law School emphasizes experiential learning with law clinics, moot courts, and externships, offering opportunities for innovative education and valuable intellectual exchange. Students can conduct independent research with the help of their faculty advisors and they need to submit a DPR (Dissertation Progress Report) at the end of each year.

• Courses:  Intellectual property & technology, international & comparative law, and law of the workplace.
• Duration:  5-6 years
• Tuition : $75,572 per year
• Financial aid: Grants, loans, and first child allowance.
• Location:  New York City, New York

Harvard University, Law School

Doctor of Juridical Science (SJD)

Harvard University is one of the world’s most famous centers for education, and its Law School  is equally renowned. The school has a unique grading system that uses the classifications honors, pass, low-pass, and fail. This flexible SJD program allows students to design their own study plan and choose faculty supervisors for independent research.

• Courses: Advanced comparative perspectives on US law, environmental justice, and strategic litigation & immigration advocacy.
• Duration:  4 years
• Delivery:  On-campus
• Tuition : $67,720 per year
• Financial aid:  Scholarships, grants, and loans.
• Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts

The University of Pennsylvania, Carey Law School

Doctor of Science of Law (SJD)

Carey Law School’s curricula cut across disciplinary and international lines to create law experts in every field, including business, health, technology, education, and social work. For admission to the Carey Law School PhD, you must already hold an LLM or JD from the same school or an institution of similar standing.

• Courses: Privacy & racial justice, appellate advocacy, and disability law.
• Tuition : Refer tuition page
• Financial aid: Full tuition, stipend, health insurance, and scholarships.
• Acceptance rate: 9%
• Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

The University of Arizona, James E. Rogers College of Law

The University of Arizona’s James E. Rogers College of Law is one of the country’s most affordable top-tier law schools. This PhD law degree offers the choice of two concentrations: International Trade & Business Law, and Indigenous Peoples Law & Policy.

• Courses:  International business & investment structuring, federal Indian law, and trusts & estates.
• Duration:  3-5 years
• Tuition and fees : $26,000 per year
• Financial aid:  Scholarships, federal work-study, loans, veteran benefits, and fellowships.
• Acceptance rate: 85%
• Location: Tucson, Arizona

The University of Texas at Dallas, School of Economic, Political, and Policy Sciences

Doctor of Philosophy in Criminology

The University of Texas’ School of Economic, Political, and Policy Sciences creates professionals capable of dealing with modern issues like risk management, political violence, social inequality, healthcare, and international trade & conflict resolution. You’ll need a bachelor’s in criminology or a related discipline to apply for this PhD in criminology.

• Courses: Advances in criminology theory, evidence-based crime prevention, and regression & multivariate analysis.
• Credits: 75 semester credit hours
• Financial aid: Scholarships, grants, and loans.
• Acceptance rate: 79%
• Location:  Richardson, Texas

Abraham Lincoln University, School of Law

Juris Doctor (JD)

This school was founded with to provide affordable education to working professionals who cannot attend regular law school. This doctorate in law is a flexible JD degree that can be completed entirely online through the university’s high-level education technology.

• Courses:  Criminal law, civil procedure, and wills & trusts.
• Delivery: Online
• Tuition : $10,100 per year
• Acceptance rate: 90.3%
• Location:  Glendale, California

Walden University

Online PhD in Criminal Justice

Walden University aims to help working professionals pursue advanced degrees and has been ranked #1  in research doctorates for African-American students. This program was one of the first online doctorates in criminal justice and allows students to explore national and international issues in criminal justice administration with a dual emphasis on contemporary theory and practice.

• Courses: History & contemporary issues in criminal justice, policy & analysis in criminal justice systems, and research theory, design & methods.
• Credits: 77 quarter credits
• Tuition : $636 per quarter hour
• Financial aid: Grants, scholarships, loans, and veteran benefits.
• Acceptance rate: 100%
• Location: Minneapolis, Minnesota

What Do You Need to Get a PhD in Law?

The exact requirements vary depending on the program, but you’ll typically need a LLB, LLM, or JD as a basic prerequisite.

As part of the admission process, you usually need to submit:

• Academic transcripts from previous studies
• Personal essay and/or research proposal
• Recommendation letters

To earn your doctorate, you’ll have to complete coursework, qualifying examinations, and usually a dissertation to a high standard.

Preparing for a Law Doctorate Program

The best PhD in legal studies programs are competitive, so it’s important to start preparing early. Keep up to date on developments in the field and research the best universities that offer your preferred specialization.

Look into leading faculty members in your areas of interest, and network by joining relevant professional communities. Once you’ve decided on your dream program, check admission requirements to prepare the strongest possible application.

Things to Consider When Choosing a Law PhD Program

Choosing the best law PhD program will depend on a range of factors, including your passions and interests. However, there are a few general factors that are essential for everyone deciding on a law school for their PhD to consider:

• Location:  First, a school close by could save you on accommodation costs. But that’s not the only location consideration. You should look at your school destination for evidence of a booming legal or education industry. For example, New York is a hub for business, while Boston is known as a center for technology.
• Cost and funding:  Ensure the program costs align with your budget and explore financial aid opportunities.
• Specialization:  Some schools offer unique specializations like social justice, law and economics, and international law. Choose a program with a focus on your preferred specialization.
• Faculty:  The university’s reputation is important, but its faculty credentials are equally critical. Explore faculty backgrounds by researching published papers and social media profiles like LinkedIn.
• Class sizes:  Smaller class sizes mean better one-on-one attention; however, a larger cohort offers better networking opportunities.
• Placement support:  What happens after graduation? Are you on the hook for finding a job on your own, or does the school offer placement options? Find out where alumni are employed to get an idea.

Why Get a Doctorate in Law?

A doctorate degree in law will allow you to pursue roles in the legal field as a scholar, researcher, or academic, and build a worthwhile career.

Several candidates apply for admission to PhD in jurisprudence programs every academic year, but top law schools have low acceptance rates, and only a few are accepted. For example, Harvard only has around 70 SJD students  while hundreds or thousands may apply. Therefore, with this qualification, you’ll belong to an exclusive group of in-demand professionals.

Jobs for PhD in Law Degree Holders

Here are some common roles for PhD holders in law with the average annual salaries for each:

• General Counsel ($170,183 )
• Staff Attorney ($71,106 )
• Professor of Law ( $131,926 )
• Project Manager ( $76,264 )
• Senior Research Associate ( $75,029 )

Course Costs

The cost greatly depends on where you study, but prestigious law schools can charge annual tuition of around $65,000. Once you factor in living expenses, books, and facility fees, the total cost can add up to around $100,000 a year. However, you can find programs with tuition and fees for as little as $7,500 a year. Moreover, most top institutions offer full-tuition scholarships, stipends, and similar financial aid that cover almost all of your expenses.

Course Length

Typically, a PhD in law takes 3-5 years to complete. However, most programs will give you extra time to complete your doctorate if needed.

Skills You’ll Gain through a PhD in Law

Aside from giving you in-depth and expansive legal knowledge, PhD in law programs can also help you develop the following skills:

• Communication
• Presentation
• Critical Thinking
• Project Management
• Problem Solving

Key Takeaways

A PhD in law is an excellent choice for legal professionals seeking a career in research or academia. While a JD or Juris Doctor is equivalent to a PhD, the former equips you to become a law practitioner.

On the other hand, if you want to teach at a post-secondary level or conduct further legal research, you will need a PhD. Prepare early and choose a program that will best help you to achieve your career goals.

For more law education advice, take a look at our guide on the best master’s in criminal justice programs , or weigh up your options with the highest-paying PhDs .

PhD in Law FAQs

What is a phd in law called.

A PhD in law is usually called a Doctor of Law or Doctor of Laws. Some universities offer a JD (Juris Doctor or Doctor of Jurisprudence) degree, while others offer SJD (Doctor of Juridical Science) or JSD (Doctor of Science in Jurisprudence) programs.

Is a PhD in Law the Same as a JD?

A JD (Juris Doctor) degree is suitable for anyone who wants to practice as a licensed legal professional. These programs usually take three years to complete and are mostly coursework-focused.

On the other hand, a PhD in law may take 5-6 years to complete and usually involves a dissertation or major research project. If your aim is professional research or a job in academia in the discipline rather than practicing law, a PhD is better for you.

What is the Highest Degree in Law?

A PhD in law is generally considered the most advanced law degree. While some universities call it by other names, such as SJD (Doctor of Juridical Science) or JSD (Doctor of Jurisprudence degree), this is essentially the same thing.

How Long is a PhD in Law?

PhD Law programs typically take 3-5 years to complete. You may take longer for individual reasons, such as if you choose to study part-time.

What Does a PhD in Law Do?

A PhD in law will equip you to work in legal research or academia.

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Ph.D. in Law PhD in Law

A Ph.D. requires a minimum of three years' study, at least two years of which comprises work done while in residence at the University of Washington. Students enter the Ph.D. program having already identified a dissertation supervisory chair and additional committee members (referred to as the student’s Doctoral Supervisory Committee), who will support and shepherd them through the Ph.D. curriculum and dissertation writing process.

Ph.D. candidates must complete 90 credits, at least 60 of which must be taken at the University of Washington, in order to receive a doctoral degree.

I. Requirements

Overall course requirements.

Ph.D. students must successfully complete a minimum of 90 credits including at least 60 course credits and 27 dissertation credits (LAW 800—minimum two credit hours per quarter). With the approval of the Ph.D. Program Director and Steering Committee, an appropriate master’s degree from an accredited institution may substitute for up to a maximum of 30 of the course credits.   This determination of substituting master’s credits takes place at the time when the presumptive chair agrees that the Ph.D. student’s prospectus is ready to defend at a General Examination.   The 60 course credits also include courses required by the School of Law as described immediately below.

Required Competencies:

The primary requirement is the production of a dissertation that, in the opinion of the Ph.D. Doctoral Supervisory Committee, represents a novel and significant contribution to the discipline of law. In addition, Ph.D. students are required to demonstrate competencies in four areas: 

• Understanding of common law legal systems and differences between major legal systems around the world.
• An understanding of a research methodology area relevant to the topic of their dissertation research.
• Subject matter expertise in the area of their dissertation research.
• The ability to present and discuss the results of their dissertation research.

An understanding of common law legal systems and differences between major legal systems around the world

This requirement will be satisfied by 8 credits of coursework as follows:

• Required course: B550 American Legal Systems and Methods (4 credits) or equivalent
• Additionally, students will have to complete B557 Graduate Writing Seminar (4 credits) or the equivalent to demonstrate understanding of the American legal system.

Research Methodology

Broadly speaking, modern academic legal research is supported by one or more of the following:  jurisprudential approaches, qualitative approaches, quantitative approaches. Competency will be satisfied by at least 3-4 credits of coursework as follows, chosen in consultation with the supervisory chair:

• PPM 502 Research Design (4)
• EDPSY 586 Qualitative Methods of Educational Research I (4 credits)
• ARCH 567 Qualitative Research Methods (3)
• CS&SS 536 Analysis of Categorical and Count Data (3)
• LAWA 595 Jurisprudence and Moral Philosophy (4)

Elective courses: Law A599 Legal Research Methods (3 credits), Law   A 549 Advanced Legal Research   (4 Credits) 

Subject Matter Expertise (10-12 credits of subject discipline required courses)

The remaining courses to fulfill the credit requirement are to be chosen based on the Ph.D. student’s dissertation research topic. For instance, students with a focus on intellectual property must complete that discipline’s required courses. The same is true for sustainable international development, health law, etc.

Presentation/Discussion Competency

The presentation/discussion competency will be satisfied by successful completion of the general and final examination process described below.

Other Requirements

Law 600 tutorial with supervisory chair (1-2 credits per quarter).

In addition to the above requirements, students are expected to take 1-2 Law 600 credits with their supervisory chair per quarter to facilitate regular communication during the time leading up to their general exam. The chair will monitor the student’s academic progress and advise on appropriate courses to be taken (at the law school and in other departments on campus) related to the Ph.D. student’s research.

First- and Second-Year Elective Courses

All Ph.D. students are expected and encouraged to take subject-matter courses relevant to their dissertation research topic as part of their 60 credits of coursework. There is a rich variety of courses available in the School of Law and in other schools and departments across the University of Washington campus. For example, the   Graduate School has a variety of graduate certificate programs   that not only may be pertinent to student’s research interests but may provide an additional credential to enhance a student’s academic portfolio.

II. General Examination

Completion of 60 course credits (up to 30 credits from an accredited LL.M. or other pertinent master's degree may be counted toward the 90-credit total) and a Dissertation Prospectus approved by the Doctoral Supervisory Committee are required prior to this exam.

Students must pass an oral   General Examination   designed around individualized readings determined in consultation with the student’s Doctoral Supervisory Committee, and a Dissertation Prospectus that contains the student’s detailed dissertation study plans, including research questions and the chosen methodology and study plan to answer them.

To be eligible for the General Exam, the student must have completed a minimum of 60 course credits (including credits being taken the quarter of the exam) of which at least 18 credits must be at the 500 level and above. Numerical grades must be received in at least 18 quarter credits of coursework taken at the University of Washington. The Graduate School accepts numerical grades in department approved 400-level courses accepted as part of the major and in 500-level courses (this excludes 499 credits). 

Students are required to write and successfully defend a Dissertation Prospectus that outlines a detailed plan for the Ph.D. dissertation. The General Examination tests the student’s understanding of, and facility with, the scholarly literature that relates to the proposed dissertation topic, along with the strength of the proposed research proposal and its design.

III. Final Examination (Doctoral Defense)

In addition to a successful General Examination, the Ph.D. candidate must complete at least 27 dissertation credits over a period of at least three quarters. Candidates total credit count must reach 90 and they must have completed their doctoral dissertation.

To complete the degree, the candidate must complete a   Dissertation Defense   (also known as the   Final Examination ) administered by the Supervisory Doctoral Committee and devoted to the presentation and defense of the dissertation. It should be noted that the Graduate School requires a cumulative 3.0 GPA to obtain a graduate degree. For the final Dissertation Defense, students must get their committee members’ signatures on the UW Graduate School Doctoral Dissertation Reading Committee Approval form and submit that before the end of the quarter (the form will be provided at or prior to the student’s defense and submission instructions are on the form). More detailed information is on the Ph.D. Program’s Canvas page.

Students must be registered and may not be on leave during the quarter that the General and Final Examinations are taken.

IV. Official Submission

After a successful Final Examination, the dissertation must be submitted in the required format to the University of Washington Graduate School by 11:59 p.m. PST on the  last day of the quarter . The PhD Candidate must be registered and may not be on leave during the quarter that the dissertation is submitted.

For details of degree requirements please see Graduate School Policies-Doctoral Degree .

Ph.D. in Law

• Current Ph.D.s in Law
• PhD Admissions

Graduate Programs, UW School of Law William H. Gates Hall Box 353020 4293 Memorial Way Seattle, WA 98195-3020, USA gradlaw@ uw .edu

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Northwestern's JD-PhD program is open to students who intend to pursue an academic or research career and whose teaching and research will be enriched by both degrees. The program is designed to allow students to complete both degrees more effectively than they would through consecutive degree programs. Students are able to complete the entire program, including dissertation, in as few as six or seven years.

Northwestern JD-PhD graduates have obtained faculty positions in law and graduate schools as well as prestigious judicial clerkships.

Advantages of Northwestern's JD-PhD Program

The most integrated program of its kind.

The program offers a coherent course of study on a set track that integrates the rigorous terrains of doctoral and law studies. Faculty members from each of the schools jointly supervise students' research and dissertations.

An Accelerated Course of Study

Students can complete the entire program in as few as six or seven years (varies by department). All students can earn both degrees more quickly than they would through consecutive degree programs. JD-PhD students spend the first two or three years doing graduate-level course work in various disciplines through The Graduate School, the following two or three years at the Law School, and the final years completing their dissertations.

A Strong Community

Students from various doctoral programs are treated as a cohort, so they have a community of peers in law, in their disciplines, and among those seeking the combined degree. Both law and graduate school faculty are involved at every step to support students' progress in the program and to ensure that each student progresses consistently.

An Important Qualification

There is a growing trend among top law schools to hire faculty who have PhDs as well as law degrees. Northwestern's JD-PhD program presents the most efficient option to obtain these credentials.

Outstanding Faculty

Interdisciplinary study is a hallmark of Northwestern and the Law School has a higher percentage of PhD-trained scholars than any top law school in the country.

The Most Generous Funding in the Country

Northwestern offers the most financially generous JD-PhD program in the country, typically providing full funding—including tuition and living expenses—for seven academic years and six summers.

Related Links

The Graduate School | Law School Course Catalog | JD-PhD Brochure  (pdf)

Ph.D. Admission

Applications will be accepted in the fall for study to commence in the subsequent fall. The application deadline is December 15, but the Admissions Committee will begin to review each application when it is complete. Applications must be submitted via Yale University's Graduate School of Arts and Sciences application website.

• Personal Statement (500-1000 words) The personal statement should describe the applicant’s motivations for pursuing the Ph.D. in Law degree and should describe the applicant’s qualifications to undertake the proposed course of study, especially qualifications that are not evident from the applicant’s CV.
• Research Proposal (1000 words) The research proposal should describe the project that the applicant plans to undertake as a dissertation. The proposal should describe the project’s scope, its scholarly significance and research methodology, including any source materials on which the project will rely or any empirical research that the applicant intends to undertake. The research proposal need not be as fully developed as a dissertation prospectus, and projects are expected to evolve over the course of students’ time in the program. Nonetheless, applicants are expected to have a clear sense of the general research project that they will undertake.
• Writing Sample The writing sample should be a piece of legal scholarship authored solely by the applicant. Ideally, the writing sample should be on a subject related to the applicant’s proposed research project. Submitted writing samples should be no more than the equivalent of 30-published pages in length (15,000 words)—an excerpt from a longer work may be used.
• Letters of Recommendation Applicants will be asked to identify three individuals willing to write letters of recommendation on their behalf. Recommenders will then receive an email with instructions about how to submit letters directly to the Graduate School. Applicants should choose recommenders who are best situated to evaluate an applicant’s past academic work and potential to produce first-rate legal scholarship. The Ph.D. Admissions Committee strongly recommends that at least two recommenders hold academic appointments at a law school.
• Test Scores The applicant will be asked to self-report his or her LSAT score; scores from any administration of the exam will be accepted. Prior to matriculation, those admitted to the Ph.D. in Law program will be required to provide formal confirmation of the self-reported score.
• Transcripts The applicant will need to upload records of academic performance to the online application prior to submission. No transcripts should be mailed. This upload may be in the form of a scanned copy of the applicant's transcript or academic record. If the transcript is in a language other than English, the applicant will also need to provide an English translation of the transcript. The translation must be certified to be an accurate translation of the original and be notarized or otherwise authenticated. The translation and the original transcript can then be uploaded to the application.
• Curriculum Vitae The applicant should submit a curriculum vitae listing all academic honors and awards, publications and presentations, and other professional accomplishments.
• Application Fee Each applicant must pay the application fee in the amount and manner required by the Graduate School.

Previous applicants who were not admitted to the Ph.D. in Law program and who wish to reapply must submit a completely new application and pay the application fee. Applicants who have been denied admission three times may not submit further applications.

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Law and Psychology

Jd/phd — law and psychology.

There are nearly as many intersections between law and psychology as there are areas of policy regulation. Conflict resolution and negotiation; judgment and decision-making capacity; prejudice and stereotyping; criminal responsibility; competency; assessment of evidence, including the reliability of eyewitnesses, and lie detection; hedonics; developmental psychology and educational policy; addiction and drug policy—these are just a few of the frontiers open to scholars and practitioners educated in both law and psychology.

Stanford has a rich tradition of collaboration between its psychology department and law school, with faculty members co-authoring publications, and students working together and enrolling in interdisciplinary programs. Stanford’s psychology department has long been considered the strongest in the nation, with an atypical breadth of scholarly strength that supports a wide range of student interests. Stanford is also one of the nation’s leading centers for neuroscience research , bringing together biologists, psychologists, social scientists, and policymaker-lawyers to deepen our understanding of the brain.

Students pursuing a JD/PhD in law and psychology generally go on to academic careers in law schools, psychology departments, policy jobs, and think tanks. However, issues pursued through this joint degree program are also highly relevant to legal practice. Every day, litigators and negotiators make strategic decisions based on accounts of human decision-making. Those who regulate markets make decisions based on accounts of how people process distinct sorts of information. Those who work with medical ethicists make judgments that depend on assumptions about competency or the nature of pain.

Special Requirements

Students must have completed a year of law school before entering the psychology department or have completed a year of psychology graduate school before applying to the law school.

Course Requirements

As many as 54 quarter units of approved courses may be counted toward both degrees. No more than 31 quarter units of approved courses that originate outside the law school may count toward the law degree.

The maximum number of law school credits that may be counted toward the PhD in psychology is the greater of: (i) 36 quarter units; or (ii) the maximum number of units from courses outside the department that PhD candidates in psychology are permitted to count toward the PhD under general psychology department guidelines or in the case of a particular student’s individual program.

Note to applicants:  The Knight-Hennessy Scholars program awards full funding to Stanford graduate students from all disciplines, with additional opportunities for leadership training and collaboration across fields. Joint Degree applicants are encouraged to apply to the  Knight – Hennessy Scholars Program.  Please be aware that the Knight-Hennessy Scholars applications are due in early Autumn one year prior to enrollment. View dates and deadlines: knight-hennessy.stanford.edu/dates-and-deadlines .

Janet Cooper Alexander

• Frederick I. Richman Professor of Law, Emerita

Ralph Richard Banks

• Jackson Eli Reynolds Professor of Law
• Faculty Director, Stanford Center for Racial Justice

Henry T. Greely

• Deane F. and Kate Edelman Johnson Professor of Law
• Director, Center for Law and the Biosciences
• Professor, by courtesy, Genetics
• Chair, Steering Committee of the Center for Biomedical Ethics
• Director, Stanford Program in Neuroscience and Society

Mark G. Kelman

• James C. Gaither Professor of Law

Deborah Hensler

• Judge John W. Ford Professor of Dispute Resolution

Daniel E. Ho

• William Benjamin Scott and Luna M. Scott Professor of Law
• Professor of Political Science
• Professor of Computer Science (by courtesy)
• Senior Fellow, Stanford Institute for Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence (HAI)
• Senior Fellow, Stanford Institute for Economic and Policy Research
• Director of the Regulation, Evaluation, and Governance Lab (RegLab)

Robert J. MacCoun

• James and Patricia Kowal Professor of Law
• Senior Fellow at the Freeman Spogli Institute for International Studies

Alison D. Morantz

• James and Nancy Kelso Professor of Law
• Director of SIDDLAPP
• Senior Fellow, Stanford Institute of Economic Policy Research

Robert Weisberg

• Edwin E. Huddleson, Jr. Professor of Law
• Faculty Co-Director, Stanford Criminal Justice Center

Support NYU Law

• JD Admissions
• Dual Degree Programs

JD/PhD and JD/MA Programs

New York University School of Law (Law) and Graduate School of Arts and Science (GSAS) offer coordinated dual degree programs leading to a Juris Doctor (JD) and either a PhD or MA degree in two Arts and Science disciplines:

Law and GSAS also offer dual degree programs leading to a JD and MA in the following disciplines:

• French Studies
• Latin American and Caribbean Studies

Law and GSAS also offer dual degree programs leading to a JD and PhD in the following disciplines:

• American Studies
• Comparative Literature
• Computer Science
• Hebrew and Judaic Studies
• Italian Studies
• Mathematics
• Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies
• Neural Science
• Psychology (Cognition and Perception)

Students enrolled in these dual degree programs will work closely with faculty advisors in both the School of Law and GSAS to develop an integrated program of study and research. The programs are particularly aimed at students interested in pursuing academic careers. We expect that students who complete the JD/PhD program will be strong candidates for faculty positions in both law schools and in arts and sciences programs. The JD/MA programs provide rigorous interdisciplinary training for students interested in legal academia, but also for students who plan to pursue other career paths related to law.

These coordinated programs reduce the amount of time required to complete both degrees. The School of Law will count 12 credits of GSAS coursework toward the total of 83 credits required for the JD degree, typically allowing dual degree students to complete their JD coursework in five semesters rather than the usual six. All coursework must be approved by the respective program to count towards the dual degree program. Likewise, some law school coursework will count toward the PhD and MA program requirements, allowing students to accelerate the completion of those degrees. For students in the JD/MA program, both degrees are typically conferred at the end of four years (eight semesters) rather than the usual five years to complete both degrees separately. For students in the JD/PhD program, the JD is typically conferred at the end of the fourth year, while the student continues to complete the PhD requirements.

Prospective dual degree students must apply independently to both the School of Law and GSAS and be admitted to both. Current law students or GSAS doctoral students may apply to enter a dual degree program during their first year. Students looking to start the JD/PhD program at GSAS should inquire with the School of Law about the program sequence. Please refer to the GSAS website for information regarding funding for PhD candidates.

Students interested in a dual degree program are encouraged to contact Amy Chu, Senior Director of Academic Services and Registration at the School of Law ( [email protected] or 212-998-6020) or Tania Barnes at GSAS ( [email protected] ) for more information.

For questions regarding admission to the JD program, please contact the Office of JD Admissions at  [email protected]  or (212) 998-6060.

© 2024 New York University School of Law. 40 Washington Sq. South, New York, NY 10012.   Tel. (212) 998-6100

Law and History Program of Study

Students who plan to practice in almost any area of law, as well as those interested in the academic study of legal history have much to gain from courses in Law and History. The Program of Study in Law and History offers students a chance to examine law and its relationship to the larger world of social movements, economic change, politics and government – in the context of studying law in a period of time different from our own. It is designed to reflect the present evolution of interdisciplinary university education in our rapidly changing world. Law and History offers students a chance to contrast our present circumstances with the past, a chance to understand the long path of development that led to the legal problems we grapple with in the present, and the chance to see the deep roots of the social forces that are changing the shape of our own world. The program offers a chance to study lawyers, legal institutions, and the larger society and its interaction with law. The study of law in historical context provides a rich foundation for both practice and scholarship in all fields of law.

The Program of Study in Law and History is designed to be useful to both students who might take one or several of its foundational or advanced courses to round out their law school education, and for those who are interested in more sustained exposure to academic legal history and interdisciplinary study that will connect them to faculty and students from other parts of the university. The program is designed:

• To guide students through foundational and advanced courses and seminars about law and history, and related subjects.
• To facilitate faculty-student interaction and scholarship about legal history—broadly defined—among interested faculty and students.
• To offer support and advising for students who are engaged in the JD/PhD program in history and plan to pursue academic careers.

The law school boasts unmatched expertise in law and history. Students involved in the program have the opportunity to study with renowned faculty who are leaders in the field. Members of the Harvard Law School faculty write and teach about a wide range of law and history subjects, periods, localities, and methods. We have experts in Civil Rights, the Legal Profession, Economic History, Comparative Law, the Ancient World, English Legal History, Legal Thought, Slavery and Emancipation, and all periods of American Constitutional and Legal History.

Interested students are advised to enroll in a range of course offerings. Foundational courses introduce students to the study of law and history, while advanced courses offer in-depth study of particular subjects. Students also are encouraged to attend the law and history workshop; in this context, students can deepen their understanding of the central questions and controversies that animate the field of legal history.

Academic Offerings

For the latest academic year offerings in Law and History, please visit the HLS Course Catalog .

Foundational Courses

These courses offer context, perspective and introductory readings about or relevant to legal history to interested students.

• American Legal History
• Legal History Workshop

Advanced Courses and Seminars

• American Legal History, 1776 – 1865
• American Legal History: Law, Economy, and Society in the Era of the American Revolution
• American Legal History: From Reconstruction to the Present
• Comparative Law: Ancient Law
• Constitutional History I: From the Founding to the Civil War
• Constitional History II: From Reconstruction to the Civil Rights Movement
• Constitutional Law: Money and the Making of American Capitalism
• English Legal History
• Legal History: History of American Economic Regulation
• Legal History: Workshop on the Political Economy of Modern Capitalism
• Legal History Seminar: Continential Legal History
• Legal History Workshop: Race and Policing in Historical Context
• Legal History Workshop: Sex and the Law
• Making Legal History
• Pierson v. Post and the Theory of Property Seminar
• Politics, Social Life and Law in Jeffersonian America
• The Warren Court

Related Courses

• Advanced Legislation: Statutory Interpretation
• American Legal Education
• Civil Liberties and the Second Reconstruction: Problems of Suppression and Covert Disruption
• From Protest to Law: Triumphs and Defeats of the Civil Rights Revolution 1950-1970
• Mind and Criminal Responsibility in the Anglo-American Tradition
• The Legal Architecture of Globalization: Money, Debt, and Development

Academic Careers

Students who wish to pursue academic careers in this area should enroll in a variety of the offerings described above combined with significant research and writing under the direction of relevant faculty. For further information, contact the Law and History Program of Study faculty leaders and advising faculty.

Advising Faculty

William Alford

Nikolas Bowie

Christine Desan

Tomiko Brown-Nagin

Charles Donahue

William Fisher

Annette Gordon-Reed

Elizabeth Papp Kamali

Michael Klarman

Adriaan Lanni

Anna Lvovsky

Kenneth Mack

Intisar Rabb

Kristen A. Stilt

Laura Weinrib

Fellowship Opportunities

• Raoul Berger-MarkDeWolfe Legal History Fellowship
• Reginald F. Lewis Fellowship
• Rappaport Fellowship

Interdisciplinary Study

The Law School offers a  Coordinated JD/PhD Program  with the Harvard  Graduate School of Arts and Sciences  (GSAS). Students in the program earn a JD and a PhD, allowing them to integrate the study of law with their doctoral studies in history. Several  members  of the  Harvard History Department  work in areas related or highly relevant to the law.

To be admitted to the coordinated JD/PHD program, students must apply to and be separately admitted to both the Law School and to GSAS. Students interested in the coordinated program are encouraged to contact  April Pettit , in the Office of Academic Affairs at HLS, or  Shelby Johnson , in the Office of Student Affairs at GSAS, for further information.

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5 Types Of Law Degrees And Careers For Graduates

Editorial Note: We earn a commission from partner links on Forbes Advisor. Commissions do not affect our editors’ opinions or evaluations.

If you’re planning to earn a law degree, you might consider becoming a lawyer—but there are plenty of other options for law school graduates.

What can you do with a law degree ? Any professional whose career requires knowledge of the legal system, laws and regulations could find value in a law degree. Some law programs prepare students to become lawyers, and others cater to learners pursuing other types of careers that don’t involve practicing law.

Why You Can Trust Forbes Advisor Education

What Are the Different Types of Law Degrees?

This article discusses five types of law degrees and popular career options for graduates. Whether you plan to become a lawyer or work in another career requiring legal knowledge, consider one of these degrees to help you reach your goals.

Master of Dispute Resolution

If you don’t intend to work as a lawyer, but you want to build on your skills in mediation, conflict resolution or negotiation, consider earning a Master of Dispute Resolution (M.D.R.). People who earn an M.D.R. often find work in human resources, labor relations and business management.

In an M.D.R. program, your coursework may include negotiation, arbitration, conflict management and mediation theory. You need a bachelor’s degree to earn an M.D.R. Additional requirements may include letters of recommendation, interviews and personal statements.

Master of Laws

If you’ve already earned a law degree and want to specialize in a particular type of law—such as intellectual property or tax law—earning a Master of Laws (L.L.M.) degree can help you do so.

Coursework for an L.L.M. typically includes subject matter related to areas of legal specialization, such as taxes, copyrights, the environment and human rights. A bachelor’s degree is required to earn this degree. Universities may also set additional requirements, such as letters of recommendation, interviews or personal statements.

Master of Legal Studies

If you don’t intend to practice law, but your job requires you to be well-versed in legal concepts, earning a Master of Legal Studies (M.L.S.) degree can teach you what you need to know. This degree is a popular choice among labor relations specialists, human resources managers, compliance officers and management analysts.

The coursework in an M.L.S. program may cover legal procedures, ethics, research, legal writing and legal strategies. A bachelor’s degree is required to pursue an M.L.S. Universities may also ask for letters of recommendation, interviews and personal essays.

Juris Doctor

If you’re wondering how to become a lawyer , a Juris Doctor (J.D.) is the traditional path for students who plan to take the bar exam and become attorneys or judges. Earning a J.D. typically takes three years of full-time study or four to five years for part-time learners. Some universities offer their J.D. programs as part of a joint-degree option, which can also take four to five years to complete.

Earning a J.D. typically involves coursework in contracts, torts, constitutional law, wills and trusts, criminal law and other legal issues. A bachelor’s degree is a prerequisite for earning a J.D. degree, though you can choose your undergraduate major . Additional requirements may include passing scores on the Law School Admission Test® or the Graduate Record Examination, letters of recommendation and/or law school personal statements .

Doctor of Juridical Science

A Doctor of Juridical Science (S.J.D.) degree serves those who plan to work in academia. You need both a J.D. and an L.L.M. degree to earn your S.J.D., which is the highest degree awarded in the legal field. The timeframe for earning an S.J.D. varies by university, but it typically requires at least two years of full-time study.

An S.J.D. degree has no standard curriculum, so each university works with its students to customize their program. The path to an S.J.D. usually involves seminars, research and one-on-one study with faculty. In addition to a J.D. and an L.L.M., S.J.D. programs may also require letters of recommendation, research proposals or personal statements.

Careers for Law Degree Graduates

We sourced the below salary data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

Arbitrator, Mediator or Conciliator

Median Annual Salary: $64,030 Required Education: A bachelor’s degree is required to become an arbitrator, mediator or conciliator. Some organizations require an MBA, law degree or another graduate degree. Job Description: Arbitrators, mediators and conciliators serve as facilitators to solve disputes between two or more parties. These neutral figures work to reach settlements in all parties’ best interests.

Median Annual Salary: $55,960 Required Education: In most cases, a bachelor’s degree is required to become a journalist. Journalists who are experts in specific subject areas may have a graduate degree, such as a legal degree. Job Description: Journalists research and gather information about current events and noteworthy happenings. They write news stories to inform the public. Journalists’ work may appear on television, online, in newspapers or in other forms of media.

Median Annual Salary: $128,610 Required Education: A law degree is required to become a judge. They also need to have experience working as a lawyer before becoming a judge. Job Description: Judges preside over court hearings and oversee legal processes, such as resolving disputes and issuing decisions on legal matters. These professionals consider evidence and information from lawyers, witnesses and other parties as they reach judgments on cases or claims.

Median Annual Salary: $135,740 Required Education: In most states, a law degree and passing scores on a state bar exam are required to become a lawyer. States set their own requirements, so make sure to check with yours for more information. Job Description: Lawyers represent and advise their clients on many types of legal issues, both in and out of the courtroom. Their duties may include preparing and filing documents, researching and analyzing legal matters and arguing on their client’s behalf.

Political Scientist

Median Annual Salary: $128,020 Required Education: A master’s degree is required to become a political scientist. Job Description: Political scientists research and analyze information on political trends, policies and government systems. This may include collecting data from public opinion polls, monitoring governmental policy decisions or creating political or economic forecasts.

Postsecondary Teacher

Median Annual Salary: $80,840 Required Education: The educational requirements for postsecondary teachers vary according to their area of expertise and where they teach. Most college professors need doctoral degrees, but a master’s degree may suffice at some educational institutions. Job Description: Postsecondary teachers educate students at colleges and universities. They may also help develop curriculums, serve on committees and advise students.

Which Law Degree Should You Pursue?

The type of law degree you choose should align with your career goals, budget and how long you plan to continue your education.

If you intend to become a practicing attorney, earning a J.D. degree helps you do so. It provides you with the knowledge you need to practice law and qualifies you to take the bar exam.

If you have your J.D. degree and you’re ready to specialize in a specific type of law, earning an L.L.M. may be the best option. This degree gives you a deeper understanding of particular types of law. As a lawyer with this specialized knowledge, your options for career advancement and earning power may increase.

If you’re a lawyer interested in working in academia, you may want to earn an S.J.D. degree. This course of study broadens your knowledge and teaches you the skills you need to become a legal scholar and educate other aspiring lawyers in a university environment.

If you aren’t interested in becoming a lawyer but plan to work in a career that requires dispute resolution skills, you may consider earning an M.D.R. degree. This degree helps you understand the legal issues related to helping people resolve conflicts and disputes.

If you don’t plan to become a lawyer, but you do need to understand laws and regulations in your career, earning an M.L.S. is a great way to help you reach your goals. This versatile degree can be useful for many career paths requiring legal knowledge.

Frequently Asked Questions About Law Degrees

A J.D. is the most common law degree. In most cases, this degree is required for lawyers to earn licensure to practice law.

Since a J.D. is required to practice law in most states, this is the degree most lawyers have.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the highest-paid lawyers work for the federal government. These lawyers make a median annual salary of $158,370.

– Sheryl Grey (Education Writer) and Brenna Swanston (Editor)

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