What Can Students Study at Harvard Law School?

Pursue advanced legal education at Harvard Law School, exploring diverse Harvard Law School programs for career growth and societal impact.

Harvard Law School provides a robust and varied academic environment for aspiring legal professionals. Students seeking rigorous training and intellectual challenge will find a multitude of pathways designed to shape future leaders in law, public service, and business. The institution stands as a global beacon for legal scholarship and practical application, attracting students from the US and around the world.

Overview

• Harvard Law School offers the Juris Doctor (JD), Master of Laws (LL.M.), and Doctor of Juridical Science (S.J.D.) degrees.
• The JD program forms the core of legal education, preparing students for bar admission and legal practice.
• LL.M. studies allow experienced lawyers to specialize and deepen their expertise in specific legal fields.
• The S.J.D. is a doctoral program for those pursuing an academic career in law.
• Joint degree options combine legal study with other disciplines like business, public policy, or medicine.
• Students can pursue certificates, clinical experiences, and a vast array of specialized courses.
• Cross-registration with other Harvard faculties and MIT expands interdisciplinary learning opportunities.

Juris Doctor (JD) and Foundational Harvard Law School Programs

The Juris Doctor (JD) remains the flagship degree at Harvard Law School, serving as the primary pathway for entry into the legal profession. This three-year program offers a comprehensive curriculum, balancing foundational legal principles with opportunities for specialized study. First-year courses cover core subjects such as Civil Procedure, Constitutional Law, Contracts, Criminal Law, Property, and Torts. These courses establish a strong theoretical and practical understanding of the American legal system.

Beyond the first year, students can tailor their academic experience significantly. They select from hundreds of advanced courses, seminars, and writing groups. The institution encourages an individualized approach to legal education. Students may delve into specific practice areas, including corporate law, international human rights, environmental law, or intellectual property. Clinical programs are integral to the JD experience, offering hands-on legal work under faculty supervision. These opportunities allow students to represent clients, participate in policy advocacy, and develop crucial lawyering skills. The depth and breadth of Harvard Law School programs ensure a well-rounded legal education.

Graduate-Level Study Options

For lawyers who already hold a first law degree, Harvard Law School presents advanced graduate programs: the Master of Laws (LL.M.) and the Doctor of Juridical Science (S.J.D.). The LL.M. program is typically a one-year course designed for individuals seeking to deepen their understanding of specific legal fields or to gain exposure to the American legal system. LL.M. candidates often come from diverse international backgrounds, bringing global perspectives to classroom discussions. They can specialize in areas like international law, taxation, or corporate governance.

The S.J.D. is Harvard Law School’s most advanced research degree, akin to a Ph.D. in other disciplines. This program prepares scholars for careers in legal academia. S.J.D. candidates engage in intensive, independent research, culminating in a dissertation that makes a significant contribution to legal scholarship. Admission to the S.J.D. program is highly competitive, requiring a strong academic record and a well-defined research proposal. These graduate Harvard Law School programs cater to specialized professional goals.

Joint Degree Options and Cross-Registration Opportunities

Harvard Law School actively promotes interdisciplinary study through a variety of joint degree programs and extensive cross-registration options. These offerings allow students to combine their legal education with expertise in other fields, preparing them for complex roles at the intersection of law and other professions. Common joint degrees include the JD/MBA (with Harvard Business School), JD/MPP (with Harvard Kennedy School), and JD/MD (with Harvard Medical School). Other specialized programs exist, linking law with areas like urban planning, public health, or East Asian studies.

The ability to cross-register for courses at other Harvard faculties and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is a significant advantage. This flexibility enables students to pursue interests outside the law school’s curriculum, bringing diverse perspectives to their legal studies. A student might take economics courses at Harvard College, public health seminars at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, or technology and innovation classes at MIT. This broadens their analytical toolkit and contextualizes legal issues within a wider societal framework.

Exploring Specialized Study Within Harvard Law School Programs

Beyond the core degree requirements, students can delve into numerous specialized areas of law. Harvard Law School fosters expertise in a vast range of subjects, from traditional fields to emerging legal disciplines. Specialized centers and institutes, such as the Berkman Klein Center for Internet & Society, the Petrie-Flom Center for Health Law Policy, Biotechnology, and Bioethics, and the Program on International Financial Systems, provide dedicated resources for research and study. These centers host events, lectures, and offer unique seminar experiences.

Students can pursue various certificates or participate in specific programs focused on areas like human rights, dispute resolution, or tax law. Clinical placements offer practical experience in areas such as criminal justice, immigration law, or entrepreneurship law. These hands-on opportunities bridge academic learning with real-world legal challenges. Furthermore, a wide array of student organizations and journals caters to almost every legal interest, providing platforms for peer learning, advocacy, and professional networking. The depth of the Harvard Law School programs supports highly specialized career paths.