exterior photo of O'Brian Hall from across campus.

Academic Degrees and Programs

Each student at the School of Law has an opportunity to craft a curriculum drawing from numerous classes, clinics, concentrations, and degree programs. A law school education incorporates both the theory of law and the real-world skills that new graduates need to succeed as lawyers.

On This Page

Students sit in rows in a classroom, working on laptops and taking notes during a lecture.

Traditional JD Programs

The Juris Doctor is the basic U.S. law degree, and is held by the vast majority of practicing U.S. lawyers, as well as businesspeople, policy makers, academics and people in other walks of life.

LLM Programs

Students who already hold a first law degree can pursue one of our Master of Laws (LLM) programs, each offering specialized study tailored to specific interests and career goals.

2-Year JD Program

This program is for students with a law degree from outside the U.S. who want to earn a Juris Doctor and qualify for the New York State Bar.

JSD Program

The law school’s most advanced degree, the program prepares students for careers in academia, the judiciary, public service, and high‑level policy roles in international organizations.

Undergrad Program

The changing legal market is creating new careers that don’t require a law license but do require legal knowledge. Understanding key legal areas gives you an advantage in any field.