Is Law School Considered a Type of Graduate School?
When discussing higher education, law school often raises confusion among students and employers. Is it a type of graduate school, or something more akin to a master’s program? This article delves into the intricacies of legal education, examining its status within the framework of higher education.
Law School as a Graduate School
In the United States, law schools are indeed considered a type of graduate school. These institutions typically require applicants to have completed an undergraduate degree, and they culminate in a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree, which is a professional graduate degree required to practice law.
The Juris Doctor: A Professional Degree
A J.D. degree stands as a testament to the rigorous and specialized training required for a career in law. Unlike master’s degrees, which generally take two years and prepare students for specialized research, a J.D. is a three-year program, focusing on the practical application of legal principles and ethical considerations.
Advanced Law Degrees in the U.S.
While a J.D. is the primary degree, there are advanced law degrees available. One such degree is the Master of Laws (LL.M.). Unlike the J.D., which is an entry-level degree, the LL.M. is designed for law graduates who wish to further their expertise in a specific area of law. Students interested in obtaining an LL.M. must first earn a J.D., and they often pursue this degree to enhance their academic and professional credentials.
International Perspectives on Legal Education
The structure of legal education varies by country. In the UK, for example, a law degree can take the form of a Bachelor of Laws (LLB). After obtaining this degree, students can pursue Master’s degrees in law, such as an LL.M., which often include professional examinations bundled into the program.
The Confusion Around Law Degrees
Somewhat confusingly, there is a degree called a Juris Master (J.M.), but this is not as prevalent as the J.D. and is a much newer program. This degree also differentiates itself from the J.D. as it typically requires a master’s degree, not a bachelor’s, as its starting point.
Other Legal Degrees
In the United States, several specialized law degrees exist, including the LL.M. in Tax Law, which requires a J.D. as a prerequisite. However, these degrees are relatively rare and not widely recognized, leading to less emphasis on their existence in professional circles.
Employer and Pay Bump Considerations
Employers often consider the acquisition of advanced education, such as a J.D., equivalent to a doctorate when providing pay bumps. However, it is important to note that a J.D. does not come with the title of "Doctor" as is typically associated with medical and other doctoral programs.
While some institutions may offer the option to pay a small fee to replace a J.D. diploma with a title that includes "Doctor," this practice is not widely recognized as providing any added status or real-world value beyond the J.D. itself.
Whether considering a law school as a graduate school, looking at the nuances of J.D., LL.M., and other specialized degrees, or understanding how these degrees impact professional opportunities, the landscape of legal education is complex and worth exploring further.