University of Victoria

Overview

The Juris Doctor (JD) and Master of Public Administration (MPA) program at the University of Victoria is a unique double degree designed for individuals aspiring to gain expertise in both legal practices and public policy. This comprehensive program fosters a deep understanding of law while equipping students with essential governance skills to navigate the complexities of public administration. The curriculum includes structured coursework and culminates in a research-based thesis, complemented by practical work experiences in public administration.

What you'll study

The JD/MPA program integrates coursework from the Faculty of Law and the School of Public Administration. Students will engage in a variety of subjects that cover both legal and public administration domains.

Law coursework (examples)

• Debtor and Creditor Relations
• Securities Regulation
• Commercial and Consumer Law
• Secured Transactions and Negotiable Instruments
• Real Property Transactions

Public administration component

Alongside the law curriculum, students will complete core MPA requirements, which include essential courses in public administration and policy. Additional graduate-level coursework will support thesis research, ensuring a well-rounded education.

Thesis / research requirement

• Students must complete a thesis that showcases their ability to conduct research and apply both legal and public administration perspectives to a relevant policy issue.

Entry requirements

Admission to the JD/MPA program is competitive and assesses applicants based on their overall academic background and application materials. Specific GPA or grading scale thresholds are not publicly listed. Prospective students must apply separately to both the JD and the MPA programs and indicate their intention to pursue the double degree.

Career prospects