Syracuse University

What you'll study

This programme combines rigorous legal research methodology with applied professional subjects and elective interdisciplinary options. Core study typically covers advanced legal research methods, legal writing and drafting at a graduate level, statutory and regulatory analysis, and comparative legal systems. Students learn empirical and doctrinal research techniques, digital legal research tools, and methods for organising and presenting complex legal information.

• Advanced Legal Research and Methodology
• Professional Legal Writing and Advocacy
• Regulatory Compliance and Administrative Law
• Evidence, Litigation Strategy or Alternative Dispute Resolution (elective options)
• Data Privacy, Technology and the Law (elective)
• Empirical Methods for Legal Scholars (quantitative and qualitative approaches)
• Capstone: supervised thesis, major research project, or practicum placement

Programme delivery generally mixes seminars, workshops and supervised independent research. The capstone allows students to consolidate skills through an extended research paper, a client-focused research brief, or an internship/practicum with a legal or policy organisation.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) from an accredited institution. Candidates with a first degree in law, political science, public policy, criminal justice, or related fields are well suited, but strong applicants from other disciplines with relevant professional experience are also considered.

• Academic transcripts demonstrating a satisfactory undergraduate record.
• A personal statement outlining research interests, professional goals and reasons for pursuing the degree.
• Curriculum vitae or résumé showing academic and/or professional experience.
• Letters of recommendation (often two) from academic or professional referees.
• Depending on background, applicants may be asked to submit a writing sample.

International applicants who do not hold a degree taught in English will usually need to provide evidence of English language proficiency. Some applicants with substantial professional legal experience may be eligible for advanced standing or tailored course plans.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with advanced capabilities in legal research, drafting and analysis that are valuable across the public, private and third sectors. Typical roles include:

• Legal researcher and policy analyst in government agencies, think tanks and NGOs
• Compliance officer and regulatory specialist in financial services, healthcare, technology and corporate settings
• Senior paralegal or litigation support specialist in law firms
• Researcher or editor for legal publishers and information services
• Consultant on legal-technical projects, including e-discovery and legal informatics
• Preparation for doctoral study or entry into academic and high-level research careers

Career Services at Syracuse support students with employer connections, internships, interview preparation and alumni networks to help transition into or advance within these roles.

Why study at Syracuse University

Syracuse University offers the programme within a research-rich environment that bridges professional schools and interdisciplinary centres. Students benefit from access to experienced faculty with expertise in law, public policy, information studies and data-driven research methods.

• Interdisciplinary collaboration across relevant departments and research centres enhances practical and theoretical training.
• Strong support services including personalised advising, writing and research assistance, and robust career services aimed at graduate students.
• Opportunities for applied placements and partnerships with government offices, NGOs and private-sector employers in the region and nationally.
• Extensive library and digital resources to support advanced legal and empirical research.

The programme is designed for students seeking both the academic rigour of advanced legal research and the professional skills employers expect, making it suitable for those wanting to broaden or specialise their career pathways in law, policy and compliance.