Advancing Democracy Area of Expertise
Students interested in understanding the legal principles to advance democracy will learn how to address critical societal issues and advocate for legal reform, both at the local and global levels. Learning from expert faculty, students will be able to pursue their area of interest within the degree program, allowing graduates to participate and advocate for justice and democracy in an ever-changing world.
A JD degree is beyond just preparing individuals for legal practice and qualifying them to take the bar exam. The JD equips graduates with critical thinking, analytical reasoning and problem-solving abilities that are highly transferable across diverse careers. Whether pursuing a career in law, business, government or nonprofit sectors, JD holders bring a deep understanding of legal frameworks, ethics and negotiation skills to their roles.
An integral part of the JD curriculum is the top-ranked Legal Method and Writing Program. This program is designed to ensure practice-ready students who are well-equipped to succeed when they begin externships, summer jobs, clerkships and legal careers.
JD certificates
ASU Law certificates are specialized credentials that allow students to focus their studies in key areas. These certificates enhance JD degrees by providing in-depth expertise and recognition in specific legal fields.
An LLM degree is for legal professionals (with a JD degree or foreign equivalent) seeking specialized expertise in a specific area of law. It enhances career opportunities by deepening knowledge, expanding networks and often facilitating entry into higher-level roles in law firms, multinational corporations, government agencies and academia.
If you want to understand legal principles and apply them to your field of interest without actually becoming a lawyer, the MLS is for you. An MLS degree from ASU Law can open new professional opportunities or simply enhance the career you already have. Graduates frequently advance in their careers, secure promotions or launch their own businesses.
Emphasis areas within the MLS program allow students to tailor their studies to specific career interests. These specialized tracks provide focused education and credentials that enhance career opportunities and expertise in chosen legal fields.
In-person: Criminal Law, Conflict Resolution, International Rule of Law and Security and Tribal Self-Governance
Online: Criminal Law and Conflict Resolution
First-year JD students take courses in civil procedure, contracts, torts, legal method and writing, property, constitutional law, criminal law, legal advocacy and professional responsibility.
Master’s degree and second- and third-year JD students can choose from a diverse list of course offerings that explore a range of trending and impactful subjects, such as:
Explore past, current and future lists of course schedules and descriptions.
Students can take part in externships, clinical programs, law journals and fellowships to obtain hands-on, real-world experience and enhance their legal studies.
