Georgetown University

What you'll study

The programme combines intensive legal research and writing instruction with advanced coursework in substantive areas of law and professional practice. Core components typically include advanced legal research methods, doctrinal and comparative analysis, empirical research techniques for legal questions, and advanced legal writing and argumentation. Students may also take elective seminars in areas such as administrative law, regulatory policy, international law, human rights, compliance, and litigation strategy.

Program structure generally mixes taught modules with a substantial supervised research project or capstone that demonstrates mastery of legal research and the ability to apply it to a concrete policy or practice problem. Learning emphasises practical application: drafting memoranda, policy briefs, research reports, and deliverables for non‑academic audiences. Opportunities for clinic work, externships or collaborative projects with Georgetown’s centres and institutes can often complement classroom study.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised undergraduate degree. Candidates with a first degree in law, social sciences, public policy, business, or related disciplines are well suited, although applicants from other backgrounds who can demonstrate relevant professional experience and strong academic potential are also considered.

• Completed undergraduate degree from an accredited institution.
• A personal statement outlining academic and professional goals and reasons for pursuing advanced legal research training.
• A current curriculum vitae or résumé detailing relevant work, research or volunteer experience.
• One or more academic or professional references addressing the applicant’s research potential and writing ability.
• Evidence of English language proficiency where required (e.g. IELTS, TOEFL) for applicants whose prior education was not in English.

Some applicants may be asked to submit a writing sample demonstrating analytical and written communication skills. Admissions may consider professional experience and prior coursework in lieu of certain formal prerequisites.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue a range of careers that draw on advanced legal-research and writing skills. Common destinations include legal research roles in law firms, in‑house legal and compliance teams, government agencies, legislative bodies, and regulatory organisations. Alumni also work as policy analysts and researchers for think tanks and NGOs, research associates in academic departments, and advisers in international organisations.

The degree is also used as a pathway into doctoral study or specialised professional training, and it benefits professionals seeking promotion to roles that require sophisticated research, regulatory interpretation, or the preparation of policy reports and legal opinions.

Why study at Georgetown University

Georgetown University offers proximity to major federal agencies, international organisations and policy institutes in Washington, D.C., giving students direct access to practical research opportunities and a network of practitioners. The law faculty includes experienced scholars and practitioners who combine rigorous teaching in legal methods with engagement in contemporary policy debates.

Students benefit from Georgetown’s interdisciplinary culture, with access to seminars, research centres and collaborative projects across law, public policy, international relations and business. The university’s professional development resources, career services and alumni network help translate the programme’s research training into meaningful career opportunities in the public, private and non‑profit sectors.