The J.S.D. (doctor of juridical science or doctor of the science of law) degree is IIT Chicago-Kent’s most advanced degree, designed primarily for those who are interested in sustained independent legal research and writing with the ultimate goal of pursuing a career in legal academics.

The basic aim of the J.S.D. program is to provide opportunity and encouragement for distinguished scholarship through advanced course work, seminars, colloquia and independent research, under the advice and guidance of members of the Chicago-Kent faculty. Upon admission, J.S.D. candidates will be assigned to a faculty thesis adviser working in their area of interest. Two additional advisers, either from Chicago-Kent, other faculties within IIT, or other universities will join the thesis adviser to form a special committee of faculty advisers.