Liberty University

What you'll study

Students select a cognate to focus their studies. Available cognates listed by the program are:

• Campaigns and Elections
• International Affairs
• Leadership
• Middle East Affairs
• Policy Studies
• Public Administration

Certain law courses may also be credited toward the academic requirements of the M.A.P.P. when taken as part of the dual degree pathway.

Entry requirements

Applicants to the dual J.D./M.A.P.P. must meet all admission requirements established by the Helms School of Government for the Master of Public Policy program. Permission to enroll in the combined degree must be obtained from the law school Associate Registrar and the Vice Dean for Academic Affairs. Applications for the dual program are submitted through the Liberty University School of Law Office of the Registrar (email: lusolregistrar@liberty.edu).

Career prospects

The degree prepares graduates for roles that bridge law and public policy, including positions in public administration, policy analysis, campaign management, international affairs, leadership roles in non‑profits or government agencies, and regionally focused policy work such as Middle East affairs. Combining a J.D. with the M.A.P.P. is intended for students seeking to practice law with a strong grounding in policy development and implementation.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

Pursuing the dual degree can reduce overall time and expense compared with taking the two degrees separately. For students in the dual J.D./M.A.P.P., law school tuition for fall and spring semesters covers the cost of M.A.P.P. courses; courses taken in winter and summer terms are not covered by law school tuition. Prospective applicants should consult the School of Law Registrar for detailed billing and funding guidance.