Essential Information
A juridical science doctoral degree can be completed in two or three years. Degree candidates must complete an extensive research dissertation that must be defended orally in front of a committee of faculty members. Some juridical science programs have doctoral candidates teach basic courses to undergraduate and law students.
Gaining admission into a Doctor of Juridical Science degree program is extremely competitive. Admission requires students to demonstrate high academic achievement and the ability to complete a research dissertation. Applicants need a Juris Doctor before starting courses in a Doctor of Juridical Science program. The admissions process might also involve an interview with faculty or counselors.
Doctor of Juridical Science Degree
Students are allowed to take classes relevant to individual interests involving specialized areas like international law, maritime law or corporate law. Courses in juridical science doctoral programs often discuss research-related legal issues like judicial decision-making, the effects of regulations and the evolution of laws. Doctor of Juridical Science degrees might involve classes in the following:
- Civil litigation
- Constitutional law
- Evidence
- Arbitration law
- Music industry and entertainment law
Popular Career Options
A juridical science doctoral degree often leads to employment in academia, research or government. Graduates with doctorate degrees in juridical science may create careers in one of the following occupations:
- Non-profit director
- Researcher
- Professor
- Legal publication editor
- Attorney
Employment Outlook and Salary Information
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports law professors earned a median salary of $116,430 in 2020. Opportunities for postsecondary law teachers are expected to increase by 7% between 2019 and 2029, according to the BLS. Lawyers should see 4% job growth over the 2019-2029 decade, and individuals in this profession were paid median salaries of $126,930 in 2020, based on the BLS' data.
For individuals who have already earned their law degree and are interested in pursuing academic or administrative positions within the law field, a Doctor of Juridical Science program can give them the research experience and legal expertise needed to advance their careers.
