The Doctor of Law and Policy program is designed for experienced professionals seeking to effect change through a deeper understanding of the origins, development, implementation and analysis of legal and public policy decisions in government and related institutions.
We’re committed to creating an education as unique as your career path. So, whether your goal is a new career or moving up in your field, our innovative programs will get you going your way.
We work with you to map your path to your goal.
From real-world case studies to employer-based projects, we prepare you to manage what comes next.
Whatever you’re passionate about, you’ll find the classes to sharpen your specialty.
Part-time or full-time, we move at your speed, to get you where you’re going.
In an increasingly complex and globally connected environment, the Doctor of Law and Policy program empowers leaders in the government, for-profit, and nonprofit sectors to establish expertise, advance their careers, and drive lasting change. In a flexible learning format, you’ll examine the intersection of three key themes—law, research, and policy—honing your professional and analytical skills as you learn to tackle practical problems with a multidisciplinary approach.
You’ll study the impact of political, economic, and social trends, crafting recommendations, strategies, and arguments to influence global and domestic law and policy. In the Executive Program, you’ll attend weekend residencies twice a quarter in Boston, affording you the opportunity to complete your coursework and doctoral thesis in 24 months. And with the guidance of our expert faculty, you’ll design and execute a personalized plan of inquiry to study and address the public policy issues you care about most.
View the video below to hear Doctor of Law and Policy graduates share why they chose the program, what they learned, and their area of focus.
| Executive DLP | DLP | |
| Location | Boston | Seattle and Charlotte |
| Length of program | 2 years; 69 credits | 3-6 years; 69 credits |
| Modality | Accelerated, cohort, hybrid model | Adjustable course load, hybrid model |
| Classes per quarter | 3 courses | 1-2 courses |
| In-person intensive weekends | Meets twice a quarter | Meets quarterly |
| Professional experience required | 10 years | 3 years (education accepted in lieu of professional experience) |
| Cost | $102.3K | $70.2K |
| Financial aid | Available | Available |
| Other differentiating factors | Includes registration, textbook purchase, and distribution. Intensive weekend in Washington, D.C. Intensive weekend abroad. | N/A |
Beginning your journey with us is a big decision. But it's a smart one. Your field is evolving rapidly. That's why we're constantly innovating our programs to anticipate your industry's needs. So, no matter where your field goes, you can lead the way.
Please note: Enrolled students should reference the academic catalog for current program requirements.
Our faculty represents a wide cross-section of professional practices and fields. They serve as mentors and advisors and collaborate alongside students to solve the most pressing global challenges facing established and emerging markets.
I gravitated to Northeastern right away because it was the only program that offered the duality of law and policy – where it wasn’t just law and wasn’t just policy. I felt that duality would present more than one option for me to further my career.
Cherron Payne Doctor of Law and Policy, 2020
You know where you are headed and you've seen how our program will lead you there. So let's get going. Here's what you need to know before you enroll.
Application RequirementsAre You an International Student? Find out what additional documents are required to apply.
Admissions Details Learn more about the College of Professional Studies admissions process, policies, and required materials.
Financing RequirementsFinance Your Education We offer a variety of resources, including scholarships and assistantships.
How to Apply Learn more about the application process and requirements.
Estimated Total Tuition
This is an estimate based on the tuition rates for Academic Year 2024-2025 and does not include any fees or other expenses. Some courses and labs have tuition rates that may increase or decrease total tuition. Tuition and fees are subject to revision by the president and Board of Trustees at any time. Select programs at select campuses offer additional scholarships of up to 25% off the listed price for domestic students studying on campus. For more detailed information, please visit Student Financial Services.
For students interested in pursuing financial assistance or educational loans, additional educational costs, known as Cost of Attendance (COA) components, can be included in the calculation of aid and loan eligibility. Components may include food, housing, books, course materials, supplies, equipment, transportation, personal expenses, and the cost of obtaining a first professional licensure. You can find comprehensive details on the Student Financial Services website. Please keep in mind that COA can vary significantly depending on academic program, enrollment intensity, and individual circumstances.
Our admissions process operates on a rolling basis; however, we do recommend the application guidelines below to ensure you can begin during your desired start term:
*International deadlines are only applicable if the program is F1 compliant.
Below is a look at where our Law & Criminology alumni work, the positions they hold, and the skills they bring to their organization.
Learn more about Northeastern Alumni on Linkedin.
