About The Program

The Washington College of Law (WCL) and American University's School of Public Affairs (SPA) offer a JD/MPP dual degree program in law and public policy. This unique combination of degrees is especially attractive for students intending to use their law degrees in the political, government or non-profit realms. The program provides a broad theoretical grounding in public analysis, program evaluation and successful policy implementation and provides students with the necessary skills to creatively address the political, financial, organizational, legal, ethical and constitutional challenges inherent in developing and delivering sound public policies. The program is designed such that both degrees can be completed in as few as eight semesters, for a total of 107 credit hours.

At WCL, there's a robust selection of course offerings in administrative law, government and regulatory process and public interest. In addition there are a number of student activities including: Administrative Law Review; American Constitution Society; Information Security & Privacy Law; Legislation and Policy Brief; National Security Law Brief and Law & Government Society.

Please note that you must apply to the JD program first before completing the separate graduate school dual degree application form. If you are an incoming first-year applicant, we will automatically send your application materials onto SPA if you are admitted to the law school. If you are a current WCL student who is interested in applying for their MPA, please email wcladmit@wcl.american.edu and request that your materials be sent to SPA.

Relevant Law School Programs:

Program on Law and Government
Marshall- Brennan Constitutional Literacy Project