University of Toronto

Overview

The Doctor of Juridical Science (SJD) is a distinguished and research-oriented doctoral degree designed for outstanding law graduates who aspire to contribute original scholarship in the field of law. This program is tailored for individuals seeking academic careers in law schools or research roles that influence policy and practice.

• Degree: Doctor of Juridical Science (SJD)
• Level: Doctoral (terminal research degree)
• Credits: Primarily focused on dissertation work, with course requirements varying based on the student's supervisory plan
• Duration: Typically spans several years, influenced by the scope of the dissertation and the student's progress
• Delivery: On-campus
• Language of instruction: English
• English tests accepted: IELTS or TOEFL iBT
• Application: Candidates must submit a comprehensive application package, including academic credentials and supporting documents

Note: Specific tuition fees, intake dates, and dissertation/course credit requirements may vary. For the most accurate information, please refer to the University of Toronto's program page.

What you'll study

The SJD program is predominantly centered around dissertation research. Students will engage in advanced coursework and research activities as outlined in consultation with their supervisors and committee members.

Indicative coursework themes include:

• Organization of Transactional Legal Practice
• Corporate Social Responsibility, Ethics, and the Law
• Legal Theory
• Anti-Corruption Law: International, Domestic, and Practical Perspectives
• Authorship and Copyright: Theory and History
• Civil Law
• Comparative Constitutional Law and Politics
• Crime and Punishment
• Trademark Theory
• Judgement in Law and Politics
• Kant’s Philosophy of Law
• Law and Literature
• Legal Archaeology: Studies in Cases in Context

Dissertation requirement: Completion of a unique SJD dissertation that reflects extensive independent research, culminating in a significant contribution to legal scholarship.

Academic development: Throughout the program, students will enhance their research design skills, receive scholarly feedback, and work towards the successful completion of their dissertation under faculty mentorship.

Entry requirements

Prospective candidates are typically expected to hold a strong academic record, with a recommended minimum grade point average (GPA) of A-. This indicates a solid foundation in legal studies and research capabilities essential for success in the SJD program.

Career prospects

Graduates of the SJD program are well-equipped for a variety of prestigious roles in academia, including professorships at law schools, as well as research positions in policy-making organizations and legal think tanks. The program also prepares students for influential careers in legal practice, where they can apply their expertise to shape legal standards and practices.