The JSD degree can typically be completed within three years – one year in residence of full-time study with coursework, followed by a period of research and writing (generally an additional one to two years).
Study in the JSD begins with a year-long colloquium (LAW 762) that familiarizes students with contemporary issues in legal theory. The colloquium also exposes students to a variety of research methods efficacious for identifying, analyzing, situating and critically assessing legal norms, institutions and behavior. These approaches will include those drawn from the social sciences and humanities.
While enrolled in the colloquium, each student will also undertake a year-long independent study under the supervision of their thesis advisor (LAW 799). This study will first introduce the student to the formal conventions of U.S. scholarly writing about law and legal institutions. Students will frame and refine their thesis topic, work with reference librarians to identify useful resources, and develop a plan of work. In most cases, it is expected that the thesis topic will grow out of the draft thesis proposal required as part the application.
The balance of the first-year program will be devoted to such substantive coursework (concentration electives) as may be appropriate to the dissertation topic. These courses will be selected in consultation with and subject to the approval of the thesis advisor. With approval, JSD students will be free to take courses outside the School of Law that are relevant to their research programs.
By the beginning of the second semester, a three-member Dissertation Committee will be assembled for each student. This Committee will help the student develop a formal thesis proposal that will include a complete reading list. Qualification for candidacy will be conditioned on an examination on the reading list, as well as approval of the thesis proposal. The examination may be written or oral at the discretion of the Committee. First year students will submit a written self-evaluation to the thesis advisor at the end of each semester.
In subsequent years, students proceed with the necessary research and writing for their thesis (LAW 899). This work may be undertaken while in residence or at any place where the necessary work can be done, and should be completed in one to three additional years. Candidates will report progress to their Dissertation Committee at least once each semester, including providing a written self-evaluation, and will submit draft chapters for comment. Upon completion of the thesis, the student will present an oral defense to the Committee.
JSD candidates on student visas are permitted to remain in the country for a period of two years. This includes the one academic year of full-time study and research in residence at the law school followed by a second year of research. After each academic year students are required to provide documentation regarding their plans to the Office of International Student Services.