What is the application deadline?
Applications are accepted each year from October 1st until July 1st for classes that start in the fall semester. Early applications are advised.

What are the applicantion prerequisites?
Applicants must hold a primary degree in law (JD or LLB), and also a Master of Laws (LLM) in health law or a related field, or a master's in health administration or public health. (Individuals who possess significant practice experience may be exempt from the master's degree requirement.)

What kinds of careers can I expect to explore with this degree?
While the SJD degree is reserved primarily for those who wish to work in academia or research, it can be used as background in other areas of health law as well.  

How many students are in the class?
Loyola admits only 1-3 students into the SJD program annually. We keep our enrollments deliberately small to ensure a high degree of faculty-student interaction and individualized attention while preparing the dissertation. We draw students from around the nation and the world.

How long does it take to get the degree?
Classes for the SJD begin in Fall semester of each year.  The SJD is designed to be completed in two academic years, including one year of mandatory residence at Loyola. The degree must be completed in no more than 4 years.

Which topics of research may I pursue?
Applicants must have a clear idea of the topic area they wish to explore, and the subject must be within an area of expertise maintained by Institute faculty. At present, the SJD is limited to candidates who wish to pursue research in government health policy in domestic and international areas.

Are scholarships and financial aid available to SJD Students?
Loyola currently offers no scholarships for doctoral students. Financial Aid is available for those who qualify. Click here for information about financial aid at Loyola.

How much does it cost?
Tuition is based on a per-credit hour fee for 10 required credits, plus an additional flat fee for the dissertation during the second year. Click here for a complete schedule of tuition and fees for the current school year.