UA Adds Joint Law/Master of Applied Politics Degree

Akron, Ohio, Aug. 1, 2005 —A new degree at The University of Akron closely integrates law and the world of politics. Beginning this fall, University of Akron law students can earn a joint Juris Doctor/Master of Applied Politics degree.

The joint degree, which is only the second of its kind in the country, is a collaboration of the university's nationally recognized Bliss Institute of Applied Politics, Department of Political Science and School of Law.

“Students appropriately see a law degree as an entry to the world of politics,” says Dr. John Green, director of the Bliss Institute. “Having a joint Juris Doctor/Master of Applied Politics will make them even better prepared.”

Richard L. Aynes, dean of the UA School of Law, adds that since students will be able to take many courses jointly in both programs, the students will be able to earn their joint degrees at a much faster pace than if they took the programs consecutively.

Elizabeth Reilly, associate dean of the School of Law, also notes that the joint degree program is especially timely in this era of campaign finance and election law changes.

Currently, many UA law students participate in the Bliss Institute's Internship Program, primarily in Washington, D.C., and Columbus, Ohio. “Students taking internships realize how useful it is to join their knowledge of law with the practice of politics,” says Dr. Stephen Brooks, associate director of the Bliss Institute. “Now they can add courses to supplement their practical experience.”

For more information, call the School of Law at 330-972-7331 or the Bliss Institute at 330-972-5182.

The University of Akron School of Law also offers joint degrees in the fields of taxation, public administration, business administration and human resources management.

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