Hi all,

I know that LLM Guide is more concerned with LLM and JD programs more than JSD/SJD. However; I found it beneficial to make this post for those applicants who are interested in applying to a doctoral degree at CLS, Cornell, UW, GWU,etc.
I hope we can share information about experiences, backgrounds, eligibility restrictions, admission standards etc.
Information from applicants currently applying to the above mentioned programs, and/or those who have been already admitted to any of the above programs will be highly appreciated.
I will start by myself, I received my first law degree (LLB ) from Cairo University And an LL.M. degree from Indiana University. I applied to JSD at CLS and UW, and I am now preparing my applications to Cornell, Chicago, GWU.
thank you in advance.
Ayman

Ayman,

Do you plan on going into legal academia? What is your focus/thesis?

Thanks,

~Jitana

an SJD is the 'highest' law degree, and yet is not a PhD. besides, most schools encourage you to apply first to a LLM program, and only once you've been admitted (or even along the 1st year) then you apply for the 2nd year (research only; you may audit classes but they do not show up in your transcripts). Lastly, most schools do not provide funding for such program. That being said, get in touch with professors and admissions offices and ask them for advice

Ayman,

Do you plan on going into legal academia? What is your focus/thesis?

Thanks,

~Jitana

an SJD is the 'highest' law degree, and yet is not a PhD. besides, most schools encourage you to apply first to a LLM program, and only once you've been admitted (or even along the 1st year) then you apply for the 2nd year (research only; you may audit classes but they do not show up in your transcripts). Lastly, most schools do not provide funding for such program. That being said, get in touch with professors and admissions offices and ask them for advice

unfortunately, a SJD is not a PhD, i.e. is not a doctoral program. a SJD has been conceived because (till last year) there was no PhD in law offered in the US. Yale Law is the fist school that has launched such program, although it's open to US JDs only... Nevertheless, bear in mind that a US PhD lasts on average 5-6 years, usually awards you a masters' degree after two years, when you're done with your courses as well as your 2nd year paper...

unfortunately, a SJD is not a PhD, i.e. is not a doctoral program. a SJD has been conceived because (till last year) there was no PhD in law offered in the US. Yale Law is the fist school that has launched such program, although it's open to US JDs only... Nevertheless, bear in mind that a US PhD lasts on average 5-6 years, usually awards you a masters' degree after two years, when you're done with your courses as well as your 2nd year paper...