Studying Constitutional Law: Degrees at a Glance
Master of Studies in Law (MSL) degree programs with a focus in constitutional law are designed for non-lawyers who work alongside lawyers or with the judicial system. J.D. programs with a concentration in constitutional law are designed for aspiring lawyers interested in practicing in the field of constitutional law.
Graduates of MSL programs typically work in the field of constitutional law in a non-legal capacity, such as a postsecondary criminal justice professor. Graduates of J.D. programs are eligible to practice law, including constitutional law, after passing a bar examination. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), in May 2011 there were about 14,600 postsecondary criminal justice teachers and 571,000 lawyers working in the nation.
| Master of Studies in Law | Juris Doctor | |
|---|---|---|
| Who Is This Degree For? | Non-lawyers interested in becoming experts in or advancing their careers in constitutional law | Aspiring constitutional lawyers |
| Common Career Path (with approximate mean annual salary) | Postsecondary criminal justice teacher ($66,000)* | Lawyer ($130,000)* |
| Time to Completion | 1 year, full-time | 3 years, full-time |
| Common Graduation Requirements | - Coursework - Independent studies or clinical experiences | - Coursework - Clinical experiences - Judicial internships |
| Prerequisites | Bachelor's degree | Bachelor's degree |
| Online Availability | None found at this time | None found at this time |
Sources: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Master of Studies in Law
Designed for non-lawyers who work with lawyers or in legal issues, these programs provide students with advanced knowledge of the U.S. Constitution and the types of legal issues that can arise under the laws the document establishes. This allows students to understand the laws that pertain to their careers and any limitations those laws might pose.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Designed for non-attorneys, so you do not need to possess a J.D. to attend
- Can lead to a career other than practicing law
- Provides an education about the law and legal process without needing to attend law school
Cons
- Does not prepare or allow you to practice constitutional law
- May not increase employment opportunities or salary prospects
- Degree might not be required to work in a non-lawyer capacity
Courses and Requirements
MSL in constitutional law programs typically require approximately two years of study. The curriculum of these programs includes international criminal law, immigration law, administrative law and disability discrimination. Other issues discussed might include the freedom of religion and speech.
Online Degree Options
Currently, these programs are not available online. Attending an in-person program allows you to interact with professors and other students while you learn about the American legal system and U.S. Constitution. This may lead to establishing relationships with lawyers or other individuals who may benefit your future career.
Stand Out with This Degree
Consider honing your writing skills to stand out with this degree. Being knowledgeable about the contents, production methods and common wording in legal documents may make it easier to understand them when they appear on your desk in the future.
Juris Doctor
Juris Doctor programs prepare individuals to take state bar exams, become licensed and work as attorneys. Completing a concentration in constitutional law provides students with in-depth knowledge of the field. This advanced knowledge may make it easier to find employment in the field of constitutional law upon graduation.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Program prepares you to work as a lawyer
- Completing a constitutional law concentration may impress law firms that focus on the field, which could make it possible to obtain employment with one of these firms after graduation
- Possessing a J.D. with a concentration can help you stand out against other law school graduates possessing solely a J.D.
Cons
- Requires three years of study
- Graduation from law school does not guarantee a career as an attorney or the ability to practice constitutional law
- Degree is not required to work as a non-lawyer
Courses and Requirements
First-year law students complete a curriculum of classes focusing on basic law subjects, such as constitutional, property, tort and criminal law. Second- and third-year law students take elective classes and complete judicial internships and clinical experiences.
Online Degree Options
Currently, online J.D. from accredited institutions are unavailable. Attending an on-campus program allows you to interact with your professors, some of whom may be practicing attorneys. Establishing relationships with licensed, practicing attorneys may increase the likelihood of finding employment after graduation.
Stand Out with This Degree
To stand out with this degree, consider gaining experience working in the field of constitutional law during your studies. Having practical experience working in a constitutional law firm, clinic or having handled constitutional law-related issues during a clinical experience demonstrates that you not only possess classroom-provided knowledge about the field, but also understand the practical aspects of working in constitutional law.
