I'd like to hear some opinions on the value of JD/MA International Relations programs. My goal is to work in defense/national security on the government or private side.
-Do I risk marginalization in the legal world as a result of the MA? That is, will I been seen as something other than a pure lawyer (say, more of an academic), and have fewer offers as a result?
-If I change my direction completely and want to go biglaw in three years, will the Master's make me seem like a less-dedicated or less-well-trained lawyer and hurt my chances (assume biglaw would otherwise be an option with just the JD)?
-Will it be a problem if my additional graduate degree makes me a square peg on the federal pay schedule (for example, eligible for pay above the graduate degree entry point but below the PhD/experienced Master's entry point)?
-Are there any jobs you can think of that would prefer a JD/MA over a JD-only? For example, I can imagine that Hill jobs might prefer someone with training in legal writing as well as extensive knowledge of foreign policy.
I am interested in your thoughts on the practical value of the dual degree, not its monetary value (i.e. I am not looking for a breakdown of the degree cost vs. added salary over x years).
JD/MA Int. Rel. Dual Degree Forum
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Re: JD/MA Int. Rel. Dual Degree
Having a Masters in the field of policy you want to work in is always beneficial in DC. BTW, I hope you're ok with living in DC.swatcats wrote:I'd like to hear some opinions on the value of JD/MA International Relations programs. My goal is to work in defense/national security on the government or private side.
No. I know multiple biglaw -> policy lawyers who also have an MA. It's not a problem.Do I risk marginalization in the legal world as a result of the MA? That is, will I been seen as something other than a pure lawyer (say, more of an academic), and have fewer offers as a result?
No.If I change my direction completely and want to go biglaw in three years, will the Master's make me seem like a less-dedicated or less-well-trained lawyer and hurt my chances (assume biglaw would otherwise be an option with just the JD)?
No.Will it be a problem if my additional graduate degree makes me a square peg on the federal pay schedule (for example, eligible for pay above the graduate degree entry point but below the PhD/experienced Master's entry point)?
DC policy jobs. Hill, think tanks, NGOs, State, defense contractors, etc.Are there any jobs you can think of that would prefer a JD/MA over a JD-only? For example, I can imagine that Hill jobs might prefer someone with training in legal writing as well as extensive knowledge of foreign policy.
Very practical, so long as the extra $$ isn't a large hindrance to you.I am interested in your thoughts on the practical value of the dual degree, not its monetary value (i.e. I am not looking for a breakdown of the degree cost vs. added salary over x years).