online phd in law and policy

Doctor of Law and Policy (DLP) Policy Powerhouse: Lead the Way

Credit Hours

View Courses

100% online, 8-week courses

Transfer in up to 50% of the degree total

Become a More Knowledgeable, Ethical Statesman or Stateswoman with Our Online Doctor of Law and Policy Degree

Do you currently work in public policy or law? Perhaps you are passionate about the work you do, and you are seeking additional training that can help make you a more knowledgeable, effective statesman or stateswoman. By pursuing a career in law and public policy, you are choosing a challenging but rewarding vocation that is critical to the defense of individual liberties. Conferring our Doctor of Law and Policy can help equip you with the advanced training needed to confront the political challenges posed to freedom and safeguard our democracy.

If there are 2 things in the world today that affect people of every background, they are law and policy. Law is the moral and philosophical foundation upon which public policy is built, and public policy is an expression of the will of the people through the political process. When public policy is understood through the lens of the law, it is better formulated, more easily defended, and more effectively applied.

A doctor of policy and law degree online is designed to equip you with an in-depth knowledge of the law and its connection to public policy. This degree program can help you develop skills in public policy analysis, policy formulation, law implementation, and enforcement methods. At Liberty, we don’t just seek to train law and policy students – we seek to develop policy experts and legal scholars who can critically analyze complex issues and provide meaningful, impactful solutions that improve the lives of others.

Backed by a brick-and-mortar campus ranked among Niche.com’s Top 5 College Campuses in America

• What Sets Us Apart?
• Private Nonprofit University
• 600+ Online Degrees
• No Standardized Testing for Admission
• Transfer in up to 75% of an Undergrad Degree
• Transfer in up to 50% of a Grad/Doctoral Degree

Why Choose Liberty’s Doctor of Law and Policy Degree?

At Liberty, we believe that God is the creator of all things, including law and public policy. We also believe that we have a responsibility to train ethical, principled leaders whose commitment to country and family is preceded only by their devotion to God. By choosing Liberty, you are choosing a respected, accredited institution of higher education that is devoted to academic excellence and moral virtue.

As the scope and influence of government grow, so does the demand for policy experts. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for political scientists is projected to grow 6% by 2029 — a growth rate higher than the national average.* If you’re interested in running for elected office, this degree can help equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate complex political issues, interpret current laws, and write legislation for new laws. Our professors are esteemed scholars with years of experience in their fields who will draw on their expertise to help you succeed academically, professionally, and spiritually.

Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges ( SACSCOC ), so you can rest assured that this degree program has met rigorous accreditation standards. As a pioneer in distance education since 1985, we know what it takes to construct insightful, challenging degree programs that offer tremendous benefits to you.

*Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, at Occupational Outlook Handbook: Political Scientists (viewed online April 27, 2021). Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.

What Will You Study in Our Doctor of Law and Policy Degree?

Our Doctor of Law and Policy features in-depth courses that are designed to help you become a service-oriented statesman or stateswoman.

This degree program is divided into 4 sections: policy, law, research methods and tools, and a 5-step capstone sequence. In the policy section of this degree, you will study the foundational aspects of statesmanship and public policy. You will also study the founding era, the Constitution, contemporary challenges, the role of the state, foundations of federalism, and policy analysis methodology.

The core law courses will cover the foundations of the American legal process, constitutional law, and public policy. You will also study economics, administrative law, and human rights law. The law courses are taught by our law school faculty – all of whom hold Juris Doctor degrees and are licensed to practice law.

The research methods and tools section of our Doctor of Law and Policy degree features courses in research, writing, and analysis for law and policy as well as public policy lawyering skills. In addition, this section of our DLP degree can teach you quantitative and qualitative methods that are useful in conducting public policy research. Our Doctor of Law and Policy also includes a capstone sequence. Throughout the capstone, you will be able to hone your research skills and study a research concept that you’re passionate about.

Potential Career Opportunities

• Elected official
• Journalist/reporter
• Legislative aide
• Policy analyst
• Research fellow

Featured Courses

• LPCY 702 – Constitutional Law and Public Policy
• LPCY 704 – Law, Economics, and Public Policy
• PLCY 700 – Foundations of Public Policy
• PLCY 703 – Contemporary Challenges to Constitutional Order and the Role of the State

Degree Information

• This program falls under the Helms School of Government .
• View the Graduate Government Course Guides (login required) .

Degree Completion Plan

Not sure what to choose?

Speak to one of our admissions specialists to help you choose the program that best fits your needs.

• Tuition & Aid

Your success is our success, which is why we are committed to providing quality academics at an affordable tuition rate. While other colleges are increasing their tuition, we have frozen tuition rates for the majority of our undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs for the past 9 years – and counting.

Eligible current and former military service members and their spouses may qualify for a special rate of $300/credit hour ( learn more ) .

Tuition rates may change annually. For the most current information, please visit our LU Tuition Cost page.

All Tuition & Fees

Financial Aid & Scholarships

Financial Aid Forms & Eligibility

Scholarship Opportunities

Admission Information for the Doctor of Law and Policy

Admission requirements.

• A non-refundable, non-transferable $50 application fee will be posted on the current application upon enrollment (waived for qualifying service members, veterans, and military spouses – documentation verifying military status is required) .
• Send official college transcripts (mailed as sealed, unopened copies or sent via a direct electronic transcript system). A regionally or nationally accredited master’s degree with at least a 3.0 GPA is required for admission in good standing.
• Applicants whose native language is other than English must submit official scores for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or an approved alternative assessment. For information on alternative assessments or TOEFL waivers, please call Admissions or view the official International Admissions policy .

Preliminary Acceptance

If you are sending in a preliminary transcript for acceptance, you must:

• Be in your final term and planning to start your doctoral degree after the last day of class for your master’s degree.
• Complete a Master’s Self-Certification Form confirming your completion date. You may download the form from the Forms and Downloads page or contact an admissions counselor to submit the form on your behalf.
• Submit an official transcript to confirm that you are in your final term. The preliminary transcript must show that you are within 6 credit hours of completion for a 30-48 credit hour master’s degree or within 9 credit hours of completion for a 49+ credit hour master’s degree.
• Send in an additional, final official transcript with a conferral date on it by the end of your first semester of enrollment in the new doctoral degree.

Transcript Policies

Official college transcript policy.

An acceptable official college transcript is one that has been issued directly from the institution and is in a sealed envelope. If you have one in your possession, it must meet the same requirements. If your previous institution offers electronic official transcript processing, they can send the document directly to [email protected] .

Admissions Office Contact Information

(800) 424-9596

(888) 301-3577

Email for Questions

[email protected]

Email for Documents

[email protected]

Liberty University Online Admissions Verification

1971 University Blvd.

Lynchburg, VA 24515

Ready to Apply?

Submit your application online or over the phone.

Apply by phone: (800) 424-9595

Liberty University is dedicated to providing world-class educational experiences to military students across the globe.

Who May Qualify?

• Active Duty
• Reserve/National Guard
• Veterans/Retirees
• Spouses of Service Members and Veterans/Retirees

Military Tuition Discount

We want to help you find the doctoral degree you want – at a price you’ve earned. As a thank-you for your military service, Liberty University offers eligible current and former service members like you or your spouse multiple pathways to earn a doctoral degree for only $300/credit hour . Find out how you can take advantage of this unique opportunity as you work toward your goal of reaching the pinnacle of your profession – for less.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is liberty university accredited.

Liberty University holds institutional accreditation through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges ( SACSCOC ).

What resources will be available to me in this program?

You will have access to vast online resources through Liberty University’s library portal while pursuing your online Doctor of Law and Policy degree.

Inner Navigation

• Why Choose Liberty?
• What Will You Study?
• Admission Information

Have questions?

Are you ready to change your future?

Apply FREE This Week*

Request Information

*Some restrictions may occur for this promotion to apply. This promotion also excludes active faculty and staff, military, non-degree-seeking, DGIA, Continuing Education, WSB, and certificate students.

Request Information About a Program

Request info about liberty university online, choose a program level.

Choose a program level

Bachelor’s

Master’s

Certificate

Select a Field of Study

Select a field of study

Select a Program

Select a program

Next: Contact Info

Legal first name.

Enter legal first name

Legal Last Name

Enter legal last name

Enter an email address

Enter a phone number

Full Address

Enter an address

Apt., P.O. Box, or can’t find your address? Enter it manually instead .

Select a Country

Street Address

Enter Street Address

Enter State

ZIP/Postal Code

Enter Zip Code

Back to automated address search

Start my application now for FREE

College of Professional Studies

Law and policy.

The Doctor of Law and Policy program (DLP) is designed for experienced professionals who are interested in the origins, development, implementation, and analysis of legal and public policy decisions in government and related institutions.

Northeastern's Doctor of Law and Policy Program empowers leaders working in government, for-profit, and nonprofit sectors to advance in their careers with a deeper understanding of public policy. Our Doctor of Law and Policy engages students in advanced coursework that develops legal reasoning, research, and policy analysis skills. By examining the intersection of three key themes—law, research, and policy—within their professional fields, the program prepares leaders to tackle practical challenges with a multidisciplinary approach.

Through the program, you will complete a doctoral thesis that examines a compelling policy change. Graduates establish themselves as an expert on a topic in an area they would like to make a shift or see a change, to help solve new and emerging issues or explore an area they are passionate about.

The Doctor of Law and Policy program offers two different learning formats based on professional experience and need for flexibility: the Doctor of Law and Policy–Executive Program format with residencies taking place twice a quarter, and the Doctor of Law and Policy program format with quarterly residencies in Seattle . In both programs, the majority of coursework takes place online.

Dr. Kim Larson has left the university as of 9/15/2021.

More Details 

Unique features.

• Complete your doctorate in as little as two years through our Executive DLP format with residencies in Boston. You can also enroll in our DLP program with residencies in Seattle to earn your degree in 3-6 years.
• Advance your current career  by learning the skills and knowledge needed to move into policy and management positions in government, nonprofit agencies, research organizations, consulting firms, and more.
• Earn your doctorate online, with in-person residencies.  Designed for working professionals, the DLP program combines the flexibility of online learning with immersive residences.
• Past students have come from all over the country and worked for a range of employers such as Amazon, the FDA, the Department of Justice, Harvard University and other higher education institutions, the U.S. State Department, and more.
• Learn from faculty that are industry leaders.  They are distinguished policymakers, foreign service officers, international consultants, international education consulting experts, and experts in development policy with considerable domestic and global experiences.
• Cohort learning model allows students to cultivate a network of friends and colleagues from a multitude of industries, ages, and experiences.
• Past guest speakers have included Supreme Court Justices Sonia Sotomayor, Samuel Alito, and Clarence Thomas; Marty Baron, executive editor of the Washington Post; Mason Dunn, executive director of the Massachusetts Transgender Political Coalition; Dr. Victor Dzau, president of the National Academy of Medicine, and more.

Program Objectives 

• Develop new leadership and strategic-thinking skills
• Utilize law as a way to be a better policy maker and change agent
• Interpret research and use it to further policy-related goals
• Be able to negotiate with stakeholders in courts, legislatures, and agencies in the corporate and nonprofit environments 

Graduates Share Their Story

View the video below to hear Doctor of Law and Policy graduates share why they chose the program, what they learned, and their area of focus.

What Program Format is Right for Me?

Testimonials, chrissie noonan, 2019 dlp graduate, scott smith, 2020 dlp graduate, cherron payne, 2020 dlp graduate, looking for something different.

A graduate degree or certificate from Northeastern—a top-ranked university—can accelerate your career through rigorous academic coursework and hands-on professional experience in the area of your interest. Apply now—and take your career to the next level.

Program Costs

Finance Your Education We offer a variety of resources, including scholarships and assistantships.

How to Apply Learn more about the application process and requirements.

Requirements

• Online application
• The Foreign Credential Evaluation (FCE) is a required assessment of all transcripts and documents from non-U.S. accredited post-secondary education institutions. (Review the FCE requirements by country.)
• Professional resumé:  Current resumé that displays job responsibilities, relevant experience, and education history
• Academic recommendation:  This letter should come from a former professor or mentor who can speak to your ability to succeed in an academic environment. The recommender should address your capacity to conduct research and write at the doctoral level. If you have been out of school for a long time or are no longer acquainted with your professors, you may ask someone who has evaluated you during a professional training seminar or workshop to compose this recommendation.
• Two Professional Recommendations:  One must be from your current supervisor; recommendations should not come from individuals who report to you. Recommenders are encouraged to identify specific examples that highlight your skills and abilities.
• Discuss your career trajectory and your professional goals. How will earning this degree help you achieve those goals? (500 words)
• Identify an important problem or issue related to your profession. Why do you want to explore and understand this problem or issue? Be sure to articulate how this problem or issue relates to law and policy. (500 words)
• Interview:  Applicants may be requested to participate in an interview as part of the admissions process. If this is determined, we will reach out to you directly.
• Proof of English language proficiency:  ONLY for students for whom English is not their primary language:  English language proficiency guidelines
• DLP Transfer Credit  – Due to the cohort model of the Doctor of Law and Policy program, transfer credits from other institutions are not accepted.

Are You an International Student? Find out what additional documents are required to apply.

Admissions Details Learn more about the College of Professional Studies admissions process, policies, and required materials.

Admissions Dates

Our admissions process operates on a rolling basis; however, we do recommend the application guidelines below to ensure you can begin during your desired start term:

Domestic Application Guidelines

International Application Guidelines *

*International deadlines are only applicable if the program is F1 compliant.

Industry-aligned courses for in-demand careers.

For 100+ years, we’ve designed our programs with one thing in mind—your success. Explore the current program requirements and course descriptions, all designed to meet today’s industry needs and must-have skills.

View curriculum

Northeastern's signature experience-powered learning model has been at the heart of the university for more than a century. It combines world-class academics with professional practice, allowing you to acquire relevant, real-world skills you can immediately put into action in your current workplace. This makes a Northeastern education a dynamic, transformative experience, giving you countless opportunities to grow as a professional and person.

Learn About Getting Real World Experience

Our Faculty

Northeastern University faculty represents a broad cross-section of professional practices and fields, including finance, education, biomedical science, management, and the U.S. military. They serve as mentors and advisors and collaborate alongside you to solve the most pressing global challenges facing established and emerging markets.

Theodore (Ted) R. Johnson

Seth Harris

Megan Kennedy

Kevin M. Brannon

J.D. LaRock

Fiona Creed

By enrolling in Northeastern, you’ll be connected to students at our 13 campuses, as well as 300,000-plus alumni and more than 3,500 employer partners around the world. Our global university system provides you with unique opportunities to think locally and act globally and serves as a platform for scaling ideas, talent, and solutions.

Below is a look at where our Law & Criminology alumni work, the positions they hold, and the skills they bring to their organization.

Where They Work

• City of Boston
• State Board of Education

What They Do

• Business Development
• Entrepreneurship
• Community and Social Services

What They're Skilled At

• Policy Analysis
• Legal Writing
• Public Speaking
• Legal Analysis

Learn more about Northeastern Alumni on  Linkedin .

Related Articles

10 Emerging Skills Public Health Professionals Need To Stay Competitive

Public health careers: what can you do with an mph.

10 High-Paying Careers in the Public Health Industry

Find A Degree

The 7 Best Online Schools for Doctorate in Law (Juris Doctor) Degree Programs

Phd program rankings.

• Fully Funded PhDs in Education
• Doctor of Nursing Education
• Ph.D.: No Application Fees
• No-GRE Online Ph.D. in Psychology
• No-GRE Online Ph.D. Programs
• Fast Online Doctoral (Ph.D. and Ed.D.)
• The Most Affordable Online DBA
• Doctorate in Public Policy/Administration
• Doctor of ABA
• Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
• Doctorate in Marketing
• ALL Ph.D. Degree Program Rankings

Career Guides

• Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine
• Aerospace Engineering
• Behavioral Health (D.B.H.)
• Chemical Engineering (PhD CE)
• Chemistry (D.Chem.)
• Clinical Nutrition (D.C.N.)
• Speech-Language Pathology (CScD)
• Criminology (D.Crim.)
• Economics (DEc)
• Health Science (D.H.S./D.H.Sci)
• Library Science (D.L.S.)
• Molecular Biology (Phd Mol Biol)
• Occupational Safety and Health (D.O.S.H.)
• Physics (Ph.D. Physics)
• ALL PhD Career Guides

Valuable Resources

• Best Laptops for Ph.D. Students
• Gift Ideas for Ph.D. Students
• Burnout & Chronic Stress
• The Key to Free Grad School
• Ph.D. Guide for International and Domestic Students
• Habits Of Highly Effective Leaders
• Online Doctorate Reputation
• Journals for Ph.D. Students
• Earning a PhD
• Write a Perfect Essay Like a PhD
• Master’s Degree As a Bridge To Ph.D.
• Self-Funding Your PhD
• Importance of Accreditation
• Online Ph.D. Support Groups
• Getting Accepted to an Online Ph.D.
• Common Fears of Ph.D. Students
• Habits of Successful People
• US Doctoral Degrees
• ALL VALUABLE RESOURCES

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why earn a Doctorate Degree?
• What are the Ph.D. Admission Requirements?
• How Much Does a Ph.D. Cost?
• How many years will it take for me to achieve my doctorate degree online?
• Do online doctorate degree programs require campus visits?
• Ph.D. vs. Doctorate
• ALL FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
• Highest-Paying Doctoral Degrees
• Famous Ph.D. Theses In History
• Struggles Only a Ph.D. Student Would Understand
• Ph.D. Requiring Residencies
• The World’s Richest Doctors
• Academic Conferences
• Most Popular PhD Degrees
• ALL Ph.D. Highlights

A Doctorate in Law is an optional academic feat for Law majors who seek advanced learning, specialize in research, and contribute to law literature. Juris Doctor degree holders–students who have completed three years in law school and may practice the profession– are eligible for admission to the Doctorate in Law degree program.

An Online Doctorate Degree in Law is generally research-intensive and usually requires an extensive doctoral thesis. On average, students finish the degree in three to four years. The Online Doctorate in Law degree is designed for adult learners who aim to go beyond the law practice and explore other competencies, including in the areas of scholarly research and publication, as well as teaching in academia.

Page Jumps!

Walden university, liberty university, abraham lincoln university, emory university, florida state university, loyola university chicago, california southern university, best online schools for doctorate in law (juris doctor) degree programs.

Methodology: We compiled a list of the 10 Best Online Schools for Doctorate in Law Degree Programs for 2021, listed in no particular order due to each school’s unique degree program and highlights. In exploring these features, we also mention the career opportunities for graduates who have acquired advanced knowledge and skills in the discipline. The following attributes were considered: Highlights each school’s accreditation details, required credit hours for program completion, admission requirements and retention rates, Programs designed to relay a better understanding of legal and ethical laws, public policy and legal trends to the working professional, Includes Dissertation/Doctoral study in Juris Doctor Law, Options in Concentrations; allowing students opportunities to expand on their current credentials, apply for advancements, or pursue a teaching career at the university level, 100% Online, Blended or Hybrid format options, Financial Aid options: Scholarships, Grants, Military Aid, Offers experiential learning through an effective online distance learning format by quality professors outstanding in the field of Doctorate Law (Juris Doctor), Based on prestigious and notability as an online school according to reputable academic resources. To learn more, please see our Methodology page.

ONLINE PH.D. IN CRIMINAL JUSTICE WITH A LAW AND PUBLIC POLICY CONCENTRATION

Program Standouts: The Ph.D. in Criminal Justice with a Law and Public Policy concentration at Walden University explores the contemporary practices and theories and national and global issues in the administration of criminal justice.

This online doctorate degree provides the necessary skills and knowledge a student needs to attract exciting new career opportunities, whether they want to pursue leadership roles in the current organization or start a new career in criminal justice. It is ideal for students who are interested in gaining an in-depth knowledge of the law or studying legal concerns in the workplace.

Students need to have 98 credit hours to earn this online doctorate program.

Campus Location: Minneapolis, Minnesota

Accreditation: Walden University receives accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission

Retention Rate: 33%

Acceptance Rate: 98%

Admission Requirements:

• A master’s degree from an accredited college or university
• Admission Application
• Writing Assessment
• Application Essay
• Official Transcript of Records

Program Core Components:

• The Nature of Crime and Criminology
• Policy and Analysis in Criminal Justice Systems
• Technological Solutions and 21st–Century Crime
• Qualitative Reasoning and Analysis
• Leadership: Putting Theory into Practice in Criminal Justice Administration

Degree Outcomes: Graduates of this online doctorate program have the option to pursue career advancement in their current profession. They are able to evaluate the root cause of crime and its specific impact on the practice of law, procedures, and policies.

In addition, it has prepared them for a variety of positions, such as:

• private investigator,
• professor/instructor,
• criminal investigator,
• director of emergency management,
• and other roles related to the law/criminal justice industry.

LEARN MORE ABOUT WALDEN UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE PH.D. IN CRIMINAL JUSTICE WITH A LAW AND PUBLIC POLICY CONCENTRATION

ONLINE PH.D. IN PUBLIC POLICY

Program Standouts: Liberty University has a Ph.D. in Public Policy that provides the ethical background and skills that students or professionals need to mold the local, national, state, and local law in order to pursue peace and instill Christian values in the pursuit of happiness.

This online Ph.D. degree is suitable for individuals seeking to enhance their current credentials, strengthen their skills in policy research or put an emphasis on educating the next generation of law professionals.

It has five specializations, namely:

• Education Policy,
• Economic Policy,
• National Security Policy,
• Foreign Policy,
• and Social Policy.

Students need to have 60 credit hours to earn this degree in a span of three years, depending on the students’ timeframes of learning.

Campus Location: Lynchburg, Virginia

Accreditation: Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Retention Rate: 32%

Acceptance Rate: 99%

• Official College Transcript of Records
• Application Fee
• Proof of English Proficiency
• Statement of Purpose
• Foundations of Statesmanship & Public Policy
• Foreign Policy, Globalization & Statesmanship
• Natural Law, The State & The Gospel
• Statesmanship, Federalism & Intergovernmental Relations
• The Founding Era & Constitution

Degree Outcomes:

Graduates of this online doctorate program are equipped with essential skills in law and governance. They are built upon their existing expertise in their chosen specialization and hone their craft to help create a better, secure and prosperous future for the nation.

LEARN MORE ABOUT LIBERTY UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE PH.D. IN PUBLIC POLICY

ONLINE JURIS DOCTOR DEGREE PROGRAM

Program Standouts: The Juris Doctor online program of Abraham Lincoln University is designed for individuals who want to practice law or those interested to pursue into one of the many legal fields that a Juris Doctor degree offers.

It is ideal for working professionals and provides students with increased flexibility without sacrificing their quality of education. They are able to learn the advanced analytical skills necessary to create legal documents, perform legal research, and investigate legal issues and concerns. The Juris Doctor of ALU requires 140 quarter units to earn this degree.

The university prides itself on the establishment of a rigorous, online law degree that provides competence in the educational goals of their law students.

Campus Location: Los Angeles, California

Accreditation: Abraham Lincoln University has received accreditation from the Distance Education Accrediting Commission.

Retention Rate: 73%

Acceptance Rate: 100%

• Completed Online Application
• $50 Non-Refundable Application Fee
• Completed Online Assessment Test
• Current government-issued photo ID
• 500-1000 Word Personal Statement describing the professional and personal goals and explanation on pursuing a Juris Doctor degree
• Official Transcript of Records  
• Criminal Law
• Contracts A and B
• Constitutional Law
• Criminal Procedure
• Advanced Legal Research & Writing

Abraham Lincoln University’s law school graduates of the Juris Doctor program have the eligibility to become full members of the State Bar of California and are eligible to practice in California. They are able to understand the principles and theories of law, their relationships with others, and their limitations.

Graduates are prepared for a rewarding career as well as prepared for the California First Year Law Students’ Examination and California General Bar Examination.

LEARN MORE ABOUT ABRAHAM LINCOLN UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE JURIS DOCTOR DEGREE PROGRAM

ONLINE JD DEGREE

Program Standouts: The Juris Doctor program offered by the Emory Law of the Emory University provides empowerment to discern students’ legal path right from the beginning of their legal studies. The faculty handling the Emory Law are experts in their respective law careers and dynamic teachers in the learning environment.

The freshman year of studies immerses students in the language of the law, sophomore students have the opportunity in a one-week immersion in advocacy and a summer internship program, and the third-year students of this online doctorate program puts an emphasis on mentorship programs under the supervision of a dedicated 3L Career Center adviser.

Students will need 90 credit hours to earn this degree.

Campus Location: Atlanta, Georgia

Accreditation: Emory University has earned accreditation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Retention Rate: 95%

Acceptance Rate: 13%

• $80 Non-refundable Application Fee
• Two Letters of Recommendation
• Personal Statement
• Civil Procedure
• Introduction to Legal Advocacy, Research, and Communications I and II
• Legislation and Regulation

Juris Doctor graduates of Emory University have demonstrated an understanding and knowledge of procedural American Law and they are equipped with professional skills that are needed for ethical participation and competence as members of the legal professions.

In addition, they demonstrate competence in reasoning, problem-solving in a legal context, legal analysis, and legal research. A rewarding career awaits them in the private and government sectors that need legal expertise across different issues and concerns of the society.

LEARN MORE ABOUT EMORY UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE JD DEGREE

JURIS DOCTOR (J.D.) ONLINE PROGRAM

Program Standouts: Florida State University offers a Juris Doctor program through its College of Law. This doctorate degree is completed in an average of three years depending on the students’ timeframe of learning. It is specially formatted in traditional courses and develops to include the latest in interdisciplinary and theoretical analyses.

The university offers several learning opportunities for experiential learning and courses that enable students to be competitive and highly-skilled entrants into the business, law, and government sectors. Additionally, students have the option to enroll in any FSU’s joint-degree programs namely:

• Urban and Regional Planning and Law,
• Oceanography: Aquatic Environmental Science and Law,
• Sport Management and Law,
• Business and Law,
• Social Work and Law,
• Information and Law,
• Public Administration and Law,
• Information Technology and Law,
• or International Affairs and Law.

Campus Location: Tallahassee, Florida

Accreditation: Florida State University receives accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

Retention Rate: 96%

Acceptance Rate: 37%

• Online Application Form
• $30 Non-refundable Application Fee
• Law School Admission Test or GRE
• LSAC Report
• Residency Form
• Optional but preferable requirements such as Academic Addendum, Diversity Statement, and Letter of Recommendation
• TOEFL and IELTS Requirement (For international students only)

Program Specializations:

• International Law
• Environmental, Energy, and Land Use Law
• Business and Tax Law

Degree Outcomes: Graduates of this Juris Doctor program have a strong wealth of knowledge through FSU’s extensive and hands-on learning program. The hands-on learning experience in the Mock Trial and Moot Court programs equipped their graduates to be appellate and trial advocates.

They are provided the opportunity to hone their research and writing skills that are essentially useful when they navigate in different sectors of the society through promising legal professions.

LEARN MORE ABOUT FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY’S JURIS DOCTOR ONLINE PROGRAM

ONLINE LAW DEGREES: JURIS DOCTOR (JD) DEGREE PROGRAM

Program Standouts: California Southern University’s Juris Doctor program is suitable for individuals who prefer the convenience and flexibility without compromising their busy, working professions.

This online JD program is a rigorous and challenging program that puts an emphasis on ethical responsibility and analytical thinking capabilities. The rigorous program has the same case books and materials that many of the country’s most prominent law schools use.

Students will become part of a community that provides overall support and tools essential to the study of law and business. CalSouthern’s JD program requires 88 credits for degree completion. Students can earn this degree in as quick as 2 years depending on their pace of learning.

Campus Location: Costa Mesa, California

Accreditation: California Southern University received accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission.

Retention Rate: 67%

• Online Enrollment Application
• $75 Application Fee
• Official Transcript of Records of Undergraduate Coursework
• JD Assessment Questionnaire Completion
• Signed Enrollment Agreements
• Contracts I and II
• Legal Writing I and II
• Constitutional Law I and II
• Professional Responsibility
• Legal Research

Graduates of CalSouthern’s online JD program acquire an advanced set of knowledge of the traditional fields of law.

They are integrated with skills that are helpful in understanding and applying legal procedures, to comprehend legal principles, limitations of the law, and excel in the State Bar of California examinations. They have the eligibility to sit for the California Bar Exam.

LEARN MORE ABOUT CALIFORNIA SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE LAW DEGREES: JURIS DOCTOR DEGREE PROGRAM

WEEKEND JURIS DOCTOR PROGRAM

Program Standouts: The Juris Doctor program of Loyola University Chicago is a rigorous program combined with practical experience students need to rise above the competition.

Students will work closely with world-class faculty to learn the foundations of the American legal system. The set of coursework under this program helps students learn to effectively apply the study of law to real-world challenging scenarios.

Students must complete 86 credit hours to earn a JD degree in Loyola. Experiential learning that is comprised of 6 credit hours is required to demonstrate the applied knowledge and skills of the students all throughout the program.

All online courses are offered through the university’s highly interactive and collaborative online learning platform – Sakai.

Campus Location: Chicago, Illinois

Accreditation: Loyola University Chicago is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission

Retention Rate: 86%

Acceptance Rate: 77%

• Completed Online Application Form
• LSAT Scores
• One Letter of Recommendation
• Law School Admission Test Exam
• Character and Fitness Questions
• Qualification for Bar Exam Admissions
• Administrative Law

Students who complete the JD program will earn the same rewarding opportunity to gain benefits from quality, world-class legal education at Loyola. They have achieved unwavering success in serving different sectors of society through promising career pathways in the government and private sectors.

LEARN MORE ABOUT LOYOLA UNIVERSITY CHICAGO’S WEEKEND JURIS DOCTOR PROGRAM

Why should i earn a doctorate in law (juris doctor) degree.

Earning a Juris Doctor (JD) degree is an excellent option for anyone interested in learning more about the legal field and pursuing a career as an attorney. A JD degree provides the necessary skills and knowledge to practice law and a deeper understanding of the legal system.

The degree also offers a variety of opportunities for specialization and career advancement. Those with a Juris Doctor degree can also look forward to higher salaries, increased job security, and more job opportunities.

What can I do with a Doctorate in Law (Juris Doctor) Degree?

A Doctorate in Law (Juris Doctor) Degree is the highest degree in law and is typically required to practice law in the United States. With a Juris Doctor, you could pursue a career in legal practice by becoming a lawyer, a judge, or a law professor.

Additionally, a Juris Doctor can open up policy-making, advocacy, and legal consulting opportunities. You could also apply your degree to a career in government, business, or nonprofit organizations.

Do I need a Doctorate in Law (Juris Doctor) Degree to become a lawyer?

Yes, in most states in the United States, you must have a Juris Doctor (JD) degree in order to become a licensed lawyer.

What is the average salary for an Attorney?

The average salary for an attorney in the United States is approximately $135,740 per year to upwards of $239,200 annually, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This figure can vary depending on geographic location, experience, and other factors.

Doctor of Law and Policy

• Program Description
• Find Out More

Our flexible online doctoral program allows you to work at your own pace and collaborate in a cohort, including quarterly in-person residencies at our Seattle campus. Gain the skills you need from global and domestic policy leaders to advance your career.

The Doctor of Law and Policy is a national online program with classes that meet in-person in Seattle once per quarter. Students from all over the country, including Washington state, are encouraged to join this group of working professionals and accomplished leaders. Candidates come from a variety of industries including health care, nonprofit, education, biotechnology, business, government, social services, homeland security, and technology.

This professional doctoral degree emphasizes the integration of qualitative and quantitative social science methods, economics, law and policy, and political theory. Doctoral candidates specialize in a particular domain that enables them to align their research and doctoral thesis with their professional and intellectual interests.

The DLP program provides you with the opportunity to complete your coursework and doctoral thesis within 3-6 years

Request More Information

Certificate information.

If now is not the right time for you to enroll in a Northeastern University–Seattle master’s or doctoral degree program, but you know that advanced study will enhance your skills and career potential, consider our graduate certificate programs .

Align Master of Science in Computer Science

Doctor of Education

Master of Professional Studies in Analytics

Master of Science in Computer Science

Master of Science in Data Analytics Engineering

Master of Science in Data Architecture and Management

Master of Science in Economics

Master of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering

Master of Science in Information Systems

Doctor of Law and Policy — Boston

The Doctor of Law and Policy program (DLP) is designed for experienced professionals who are interested in the origins, development, implementation, and analysis of legal and public policy decisions in government and related institutions.

Take a Quick Look

We’re committed to creating an education as unique as your career path. So, whether your goal is a new career or moving up in your field, our innovative programs will get you going your way.

Northeastern's Doctor of Law and Policy Program (DLP) empowers leaders working in government, for-profit, and nonprofit sectors to advance in their careers and become change agents with a deeper understanding of public policy.

Our DLP engages students in advanced coursework that develops legal reasoning, research, and policy analysis skills. By examining the intersection of three key themes—law, research, and policy—within their professional fields, the program prepares leaders to tackle practical challenges with a multidisciplinary approach.

Through the program, students will complete a doctoral thesis that examines a compelling policy change. Graduates establish themselves as experts on topics where they want to see change, help solve new and emerging issues, or explore an area they are passionate about.

Northeastern's DLP programs offer the majority of coursework online, although there are two different learning formats based on professional experience and one's need for flexibility:

• Doctor of Law and Policy (includes quarterly residencies in Charlotte or Seattle) Classes meet in Charlotte and Seattle twice a quarter, with online learning throughout the rest of the year. You can complete your doctorate in 3-6 years.
• Doctor of Law and Policy–Executive Program (includes residencies twice a quarter in Boston) Complete your doctorate in as little as two years with the Executive DLP format.

Program objectives

• Utilize law to be a better policy maker and change agent.
• Develop new leadership and strategic thinking skills.
• Interpret research and use it to further policy-related goals.
• Be able to negotiate with stakeholders in courts, legislatures, and agencies in corporate and non-profit environments.

Unique Features

• Learn alongside Industry Leaders: Your classmates are made up of fellow accomplished individuals who represent a wide range of fields, ages and experiences. Past students have come from all over the country and worked for various employers such as Amazon, the FDA, the Department of Justice, Harvard University and other higher education institutions, the U.S. State Department, and more.
• Learn from faculty that are industry leaders including distinguished policymakers, foreign service officers, international consultants, international education consulting experts, and experts in development policy with considerable domestic and global experiences.
• Travel abroad with your cohort for an international intensive and domestically to Washington, DC., to experience law and policy in a real-life, immersive experience. Past guest speakers have included Supreme Court Justices Sonia Sotomayor, Samuel Alito, and Clarence Thomas; Marty Baron, executive editor of the Washington Post; Mason Dunn, executive director of the Massachusetts Transgender Political Coalition; Dr. Victor Dzau, president of the National Academy of Medicine, and more.

Check Out Your Career Prospects

Beginning your journey with us is a big decision. But it's a smart one.  Your field is evolving rapidly. That's why we're constantly innovating our programs to anticipate your industry's needs.  So, no matter where your field goes, you can lead the way.

reported increased earnings of those with doctoral degrees vs. master's degrees

Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2024

Expected lifetime earnings for someone with a doctoral degree

Michigan State University, 2024

Get Set With a Course Plan

Please note: Enrolled students should reference the academic catalog for current program requirements.

Distinguished Faculty

Kevin Brannon

Cost and tuition.

Avg Institutional Aid

% Receiving Aid

Estimated Total Tuition

This is an estimate based on the tuition rates for Academic Year 2024-2025 and does not include any fees or other expenses. Some courses and labs have tuition rates that may increase or decrease total tuition. Tuition and fees are subject to revision by the president and Board of Trustees at any time. Select programs at select campuses offer additional scholarships of up to 25% off the listed price for domestic students studying on campus. For more detailed information, please visit Student Financial Services .

For students interested in pursuing financial assistance or educational loans, additional educational costs, known as Cost of Attendance (COA) components, can be included in the calculation of aid and loan eligibility. Components may include food, housing, books, course materials, supplies, equipment, transportation, personal expenses, and the cost of obtaining a first professional licensure. You can find comprehensive details on the  Student Financial Services website. Please keep in mind that COA can vary significantly depending on academic program, enrollment intensity, and individual circumstances.

Application Deadlines

Our admissions process operates on a rolling basis; however, we do recommend the application guidelines below to ensure you can begin during your desired start term:

Domestic Application Guidelines

International Application Guidelines *

*International deadlines are only applicable if the program is F1 compliant.

Did you know?

Below is a look at where our Law & Criminology alumni work, the positions they hold, and the skills they bring to their organization.

Where They Work

• City of Boston
• State Board of Education

What They Do

• Business Development
• Entrepreneurship
• Community and Social Services

What They're Skilled At

• Policy Analysis
• Legal Writing
• Public Speaking
• Legal Analysis

Learn more about Northeastern Alumni on  Linkedin .

Related Programs

Doctor of law and policy — seattle, application requirements.

• Online application
• The Foreign Credential Evaluation (FCE) is a required assessment of all transcripts and documents from non-U.S. accredited post-secondary education institutions. (Review the FCE requirements by country.)
• Professional resumé:  Current resumé that displays job responsibilities, relevant experience, and education history
• Academic recommendation:  This letter should come from a former professor or mentor who can speak to your ability to succeed in an academic environment. The recommender should address your capacity to conduct research and write at the doctoral level. If you have been out of school for a long time or are no longer acquainted with your professors, you may ask someone who has evaluated you during a professional training seminar or workshop to compose this recommendation.
• Two Professional Recommendations:  One must be from your current supervisor; recommendations should not come from individuals who report to you. Recommenders are encouraged to identify specific examples that highlight your skills and abilities.
• Discuss your career trajectory and your professional goals. How will earning this degree help you achieve those goals? (500 words)
• Identify an important problem or issue related to your profession. Why do you want to explore and understand this problem or issue? Be sure to articulate how this problem or issue relates to law and policy. (500 words)
• Interview:  Applicants may be requested to participate in an interview as part of the admissions process. If this is determined, we will reach out to you directly.
• Proof of English language proficiency:  ONLY for students for whom English is not their primary language:  English language proficiency guidelines
• DLP Transfer Credit  – Due to the cohort model of the Doctor of Law and Policy program, transfer credits from other institutions are not accepted.

International Requirements

Are You an International Student? Find out what additional documents are required to apply.

Admissions Details Learn more about the College of Professional Studies admissions process, policies, and required materials.

Financing Requirements

Finance Your Education We offer a variety of resources, including scholarships and assistantships.

How to Apply Learn more about the application process and requirements.

Let’s Find Your Path Forward

Our enrollment representatives can walk you through the application process and help you explore your program options.

Call Toll Free: 877.668.7727

Back to top

• Academic Leadership
• Accreditations
• Explore Programs
• Global Pathways
• Program Learning Outcomes
• Application FAQ
• CPS Admissions Policies
• Financial Aid
• Graduate Admissions
• International Admissions
• Military Applicants
• Undergraduate Admissions
• Academic Resources
• Co-op and Experiential Learning
• Enrolling at CPS
• Registering for Classes
• Take A Course
• College Leadership
• Giving to the College
• Latest News
• Schools & Centers

• School of Law

Ph.D. in Law

The Ph.D. in Law prepares graduates for global leadership in the judiciary, academia, business and government. Since 1966, the program has offered a select number of diverse students the opportunity to attain their highest professional aspirations and career goals. A preeminent center for interdisciplinary legal studies, UW Law offers a global focus and innovative approach to integrating legal scholarship within the humanities and social sciences, medicine and global health, business and technology, and environmental and public policy.

The Ph.D. program is designed to provide a rich and thorough foundation in research methodologies, jurisprudence, legal theory, policy, dissertation preparation and ready access to specialized elective coursework from within the law school and university-wide research centers, institutes and schools. Throughout the program, our graduate students receive individualized attention from exceptional faculty and staff.

With its long and respected history, the Ph.D. program provides students with a global alumni network. Alumni are committed supporters and mentors and lead in many sectors around the world.

The Ph.D. program requires a minimum of three years’ study, at least two years of which are comprised of coursework taken while in residence at the UW. Ph.D. candidates must complete 90 credits. A minimum of 60 credits must be taken at the UW including a minimum of 27 dissertation credits. Some of the credits earned in an LL.M. program may be counted among the 60 credits.

Doctoral dissertation committees are led by faculty experts from UW Law and include members with deep knowledge and expertise from across the university. Students can customize their studies with interdisciplinary coursework, independent study, field research, global internships and externships.

See full curriculum

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

Related Links

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