Doctor of Law and Policy – Online
The Doctor of Law and Policy program (DLP) is designed for experienced professionals interested in the origins, development, implementation, and analysis of legal and public policy decisions in government and related institutions.
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Overview
Northeastern’s Doctor of Law and Policy (DLP) program empowers leaders working in the government, for-profit, and nonprofit sectors to advance in their careers with a deeper understanding of public policy. Our DLP students develop legal reasoning, research, and policy analysis skills. By examining the intersection of law, research, and policy within their fields, students learn to tackle challenges with a multidisciplinary approach.
Students complete a doctoral thesis that examines a compelling policy change and establish themselves as an expert on a topic in which they would like to see a change or help solve a new issue, or in an area they are passionate about.
Duration: Three to six years
Commitment: Part time
Course load: Adjustable, with one to two courses per term
Learning Modality:
- 100% online coursework
- Two residencies per year in Seattle or Northeastern’s Global Campus Network
- Residencies are independent of specific courses
- Students must complete a total of five courses to graduate
Prerequisites: Three years professional experience required
Career Prospects
A Doctorate of Law and Policy prepares graduates to evaluate legal frameworks, design evidence-based policy solutions, and lead complex initiatives across government, nonprofit organizations, consulting firms, and the private sector.
Lawyer
Lawyers advise clients on legal rights and responsibilities, represent individuals and organizations in legal proceedings, and help shape policy through litigation and regulatory advocacy. Median annual salary: $145,760 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Lawyers, May 2023 wage data).
Political Scientist
Political scientists research public policy issues, analyze political systems, and provide insight to government agencies, research organizations, and advocacy groups on policy development and implementation. Median annual salary: $132,350 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Political Scientists, May 2023 wage data).
Management Analyst
Management analysts assess organizational performance and recommend improvements in strategy, operations, and policy implementation using data-driven approaches. Median annual salary: $99,410 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Management Analysts, May 2023 wage data).
Program Curriculum
For details on required courses, concentrations, and electives, please consult the current academic catalog.
Distinguished Faculty
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Seth Harris
Distinguished Professor of the Practice teaching law and legal reasoning to students in the Doctor of Law & Policy program.Full bio
Cost and Tuition
Tuition
Estimated Total Tuition
This is an estimate based on the tuition rates for Academic Year 2025-2026 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.
Admissions
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