Juris Doctor (JD) / Master of Public Policy

Loyola University of Chicago

In the JD/Master of Public Policy program, you'll learn to design effective solutions in the creation, implementation and enforcement of government policies. As an advocate in a variety of settings (legislative, judicial, or executive), you'll use the tools of law in public service. You will be equipped to work in multiple venues, including the courtroom, legislative offices, and public policy institutes on a wide variety of social and regulatory issues.

Graduates will be prepared to work in government agencies, nonprofit organizations, advocacy and lobbying positions, as well as private sector firms.

You will achieve all learning outcomes of both the JD and MPP degrees. Your studies in each program will be enhanced by designing a curriculum tailored to your interests and career goals.

Degree Requirements

To earn a dual JD/MPP degree, you must complete a total of 89 credit hours, including 65 law school credit hours and 24 MPP credit hours. With careful planning, you can earn both degrees in three years of concentrated study. You will spend your first year as a full-time law student and take one MPP course in the spring semester. JD foundational course requirements and skills and experiential course requirements will be taken in the second and third years, concurrent with several MPP courses. A public service externship will be completed in either the summer following the first or second year.

By pursuing two degrees through the dual degree program, you may obtain both degrees simultaneously in less time than if you pursued the degrees separately. The dual JD/MPP program provides graduates with the skills necessary to work as an advocate in a variety of governmental settings and influence and implement public policy.