JD/MA with the Department of Political Science
Politics and the law meet at an increasingly busy intersection. A strong navigator is on track for a career in the public policy sector or a law practice involving government agencies. The JD/MA dual-degree program offered by the School of Law and the Department of Political Science gives you the opportunity to combine the study of law with an exploration of the political context within which legal systems operate.
You will achieve all learning outcomes of both the JD and MA in Political Science degrees. Your studies in each program will be enhanced by designing a curriculum tailored to your interests and career goals.
CURRICULUM
You will work with your advisors to plot your course sequence based on admission time, career goals, and course availability. Here is a sample plan:
YEAR ONE
Fall and Spring Semesters
YEAR TWO
all Term
8-10 credits of Law School coursework
Advocacy
Elective courses
6 credits of Political Science coursework
Research Design
Political Analysis I
Spring Term
YEAR THREE
Fall Term
12-14 credits of Law School coursework
3 credits of Political Science coursework (course in American Politics)
Degree Requirements
To earn a dual JD/MA in Political Science degree, you must complete a total of 96 credit hours, including 78 law school credit hours and 18 credit hours of political science credit. The dual degree can be completed in three years of concentrated study. You will spend your first year as a full-time law student. JD foundational course requirements and skills and experiential course requirements will be taken in the second and third years, concurrent with political science coursework. You must also pass a comprehensive examination in political science.
FEES
The School of Law and Northampton Financial Aid Office are committed to helping students secure the necessary financial resources to make their legal education at Northampton affordable