Political Science - Juris Doctorate 3+3
Program Details
- Location
- Akron Campus
- Level
- graduate
- Academic Pathway
- joint
- Degree/Program Type
- MA Master of Arts
- Format
- In-person
- Course Info
- Master of Applied Politics/Juris Doctor, JD/MAP
- College
- Buchtel College of Arts & Sciences (BCAS)
- School/Department
Program Contact
- Dr. David B. Cohen
-
Professor of Political Science; Director, Applied Politics Program; Fellow, Ray C. Bliss Institute of Applied Politics
330-972-6045
Overview
The Juris Doctor / Master of Applied Politics is the only joint degree of its kind in the United States. Offered through the School of Law and the Department of Political Science at The University of Akron, this program prepares students for careers at the intersection of law, government, and politics. By combining legal education with applied political strategy, students gain the tools to lead in legislative affairs, public advocacy, campaign law, lobbying, and public service.
Students can complete both degrees with 18 fewer credits than if earned separately, saving time and tuition while expanding their career potential.
Admissions Requirements
Applicants must be admitted separately to:
The University of Akron School of Law
The Graduate School for the Department of Political Science (MAP program)
MAP admission requirements include:
Bachelor’s degree with 3.0 GPA or higher
Two letters of recommendation
Statement of personal goals
Official transcripts
No GRE required
Career Outcomes
Graduates with a JD/MAP from The University of Akron are equipped for various roles, including:
Legislative counsel or policy advisor
Political consultant or campaign legal strategist
Lobbyist or government affairs director
Nonprofit or public interest law leadership
Election law specialist
Advocacy or PAC counsel
Law school or political science educator
YES, some things just set us apart.
Our program gives students real chances to work on real political issues—not just study them in a classroom. They connect students with hands-on experience, mentorship, and professional networks that help turn a political science degree into a career.
Career Connections
Experiential Learning
Connect to internships in court, law, government, campaigns, and non-profits through our national placement network.
View Internship Opportunities
Real-World Learning
Ray C. Bliss Institute of Applied Politics
Gain hands-on experience in campaigns, advocacy, and civic engagement through a nationally recognized bipartisan institute.
Explore Bliss Institute
Intelligence & Security
Morell Center for Intelligence and Security Studies
Preparing the security professionals of tomorrow by bringing together security practitioners for internships, training, research, and education in the areas of intelligence, national security, and cybersecurity.
Explore Morell Center