Executive Juris Doctorate Program
When considering enrolling in an Executive Juris Doctor program, it can be helpful to get information about the kinds of professionals who can benefit from this degree, as well as course format, curriculum and admissions requirements.
Just like a Juris Doctor (JD) degree program, the Executive Juris Doctor (EJD) degree is a professional law degree. While the JD program prepares students to take the bar examination, the EJD program is geared toward those who have an interest in law but do not want to actually practice law. The program typically can be completed in three years.
EJD programs are often completed online or via correspondence, and are usually self-paced. Course material is presented via recorded video lectures and live, real-time video classroom sessions. Students are not required to make any on-campus visits.
Those with an interest in enhancing their career, pursuing additional job opportunities or self-enrichment should consider an EJD program. Many individuals find an EJD degree beneficial, including teachers, accountants, law enforcement officers, healthcare administrators and entrepreneurs.
Depending on the school, some of the admissions requirements for EJD programs may include a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, a minimum undergraduate grade point average (GPA), submission of transcripts, passing an admissions test and/or completing an admissions interview.
Curriculum
The first year of the EJD program offers the same foundational courses as a JD program. Typical course topics include introductory law, torts, legal writing and research, ethics and contracts. The following two years are spent planning a curriculum based on students' personal interests. They may choose to specialize their studies in areas such as technology, criminal justice or innovation protection.
Second- and third-year courses cover topics such as constitutional law, civil procedure and business organizations. Students can also take electives during their second and third years. Elective courses include administrative law, community property law, trusts, wills, intellectual property and labor law.
It is important to note that some EJD programs require students to maintain at least a 2.0 grade point average on their coursework.
Professionals who want to gain legal expertise but not become practicing lawyers can pursue advanced studies in the field through EDJ programs.
