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Hey TLS, I have a question:

I have applied to a few JD/PhD programs but there is one school that I really want to attend that does not offer a JD/PhD in the discipline I want to pursue. They do however offer a JD and a separate PhD in the discipline. My question is whether joint JD programs are negotiable or not. Could I email the correct people at this school and propose why I would like to enroll in both the JD and PhD program of the school or am I pretty much going to get flat out denied if I attempt to do so?

I don't get it - if they don't have PhD program, what are you expressing interest in?

Mad Hatter wrote:I don't get it - if they don't have PhD program, what are you expressing interest in?

They do have the PhD program, just not offered through the JD/PhD tracks listed.

I'm pretty sure that, at most schools, you can apply to the JD and the PhD programs separately even if they don't have a dual degree program listed. I would email the people at the PhD program and the JD program separately to make sure that it is feasible if you are interested in going this route.

This is only an issue from a funding perspective (which is a big deal). Apply separate to the programs and try to negotiate funding after admission to both programs. PhD programs are usually flexible enough to allow you to start your JD at a convenient time.

I'd be more concerned about being denied from the PhD depending on what it is. Some PhDs are very focused on admitting students that are going to contribute to scholarship. They will be looking at whether the JD will help this, or whether you see them as just a boost for your JD employment prospects.