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Public Administration and Law, M.P.A. & J.D.

College of Arts and Sciences
Joseph F. Rice School of Law

Expand your insights beyond the legal foundations of public policy and become an expert in the complexities of writing, interpreting, and implementing laws as public policy.

Offered through the School of Law and the Department of Political Science in the College of Arts and Sciences, this dual-degree program prepares you to work at all levels of government and in nonprofit organizations or the private sector. Both schools are known for developing graduates who go on to shape policies nationally and internationally.

Program Highlights

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    Dual Coursework

    Complete your J.D. and M.P.A. in fewer total credit hours than it would take to earn both degrees independently.

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    Career Options

    Explore many career options in the public and private sectors as well as at all levels of government.

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    Grow Your Network

    Strengthen your professional network with alumni connections in both the legal and public administration fields.

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    Make an Impact

    Graduate prepared to lead in a variety of settings in an ever-changing public affairs landscape.

What You’ll Study

With an innovative and rigorous curriculum, this dual-degree program in public administration and law is designed for highly motivated students who have a passion to serve others and the desire to contribute to policymaking through a public service perspective. Graduates will be equipped to practice law in large private, governmental or nonprofit organizations.

Program WebsiteDegree Details

Building Skills

Gain the professional and personal intelligence it takes to have a successful career.

  • Advocacy

    Promoting or defending a cause or issue often using awareness, education and policy change

    Policy Analysis

    Evaluating policies for effectiveness and impact, identify areas for improvement, and inform decision-making

    Planning and Strategy

    Developing and implementing a comprehensive and effective approach to achieve specific goals

  • Legal Knowledge

    Interpreting and applying laws and regulations to specific situations or issues

    Problem Solving

    Identifying, analyzing and resolving problems or challenges using creative and effective strategies

    Administration

    Overseeing operations, managing resources and implementing policies for efficient and effective organizational functioning

Using your degree

Make your college experience the foundation for a successful future.

Potential Careers

  • Lawyer
  • Director
  • Policy or Regulatory Analyst
  • Advocate
  • Politician
  • Government Affairs Advisor

Workplace Settings

  • Law
  • Government Agencies
  • Nonprofit Organizations
  • Private Practice
  • Politics
  • Business

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