University of Chicago

What you'll study

This programme blends rigorous training in legal research methods with applied, practice-oriented modules. You will learn how to frame complex legal questions, design and execute research projects that draw on doctrinal, comparative and empirical techniques, and communicate findings for academic, policy and commercial audiences.

• Legal Research Methods — advanced doctrinal analysis, use of primary sources, citation and scholarly conventions.
• Empirical Legal Studies — quantitative and qualitative research design, statistics for lawyers, data collection and interpretation, use of public datasets.
• Comparative and International Law — methods for comparative legal analysis and cross-jurisdictional research strategies.
• Statutory and Regulatory Analysis — techniques for interpreting legislation and understanding regulatory design and impact.
• Legal Technology and Information Management — digital research tools, legal informatics, document analysis and emerging tech in legal practice.
• Professional Writing and Communication — drafting research reports, policy memos, briefing notes and advocacy materials for diverse audiences.
• Capstone Research Project or Dissertation — a substantial supervised research project that applies the programme’s methods to an original question in law or policy.

Teaching combines seminars, workshops, hands-on lab sessions and one-to-one supervision for the capstone research project. Students typically take a mixture of core modules and electives drawn from the Law School and relevant divisions across the University, enabling interdisciplinary approaches to legal questions.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised undergraduate degree (BA, BS or equivalent). Candidates with a first degree in law, social sciences, public policy, economics or related fields are well placed for the programme, but applicants with other academic or professional backgrounds who can demonstrate readiness for advanced research training are also considered.

Typical application materials include:

• A completed application form.
• Official academic transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
• A personal statement describing research interests, professional objectives and reasons for choosing the programme.
• Curriculum vitae outlining academic and professional experience.
• References (usually two) from academic and/or professional referees who can speak to the applicant’s research potential.
• Proof of English language proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English (accepted tests and required scores are indicated by the University).

Admission decisions are based on the whole application package: academic record, evidence of research potential, clarity of purpose and fit with the programme’s offerings. Relevant professional experience, publications or project work can strengthen an application.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with strong analytical and research skills applicable across a range of careers. Common paths include:

• Legal research positions in law firms, judicial chambers or professional legal organisations.
• Policy analyst or researcher roles in government departments, public agencies and legislative bodies.
• Research and advisory positions at think tanks, NGOs and international organisations.
• Compliance, risk and regulatory roles in financial institutions, corporations and professional services firms.
• Legal publishing, editing and knowledge management roles.
• Preparation for doctoral study or academic careers where formal research training is required.

The programme’s emphasis on empirical methods and professional communication also suits those moving into consultancy, data-driven policy work, or in‑house teams that require rigorous legal analysis translated into operational or strategic recommendations.

Why study at University of Chicago

The University of Chicago offers a research-intensive environment with close links between the Law School and other disciplines such as economics, public policy, political science and computer science. Students benefit from access to comprehensive law libraries, specialised research centres and a faculty engaged in high-impact scholarship.

Situated in an intellectually vibrant campus with strong connections to Chicago’s legal, policy and business communities, the programme provides opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration, guest seminars from practitioners and access to city‑based research placements. The curriculum’s balance of methodological training and applied projects is tailored to equip graduates with both scholarly rigour and practical skills sought by employers across the public, private and third sectors.