MSSP/Master in Law (MSSP/ML) Program

The MSSP/ML dual degree program allows students to earn both degrees by completing a total of 14 credit units (CUs). This is done by cross-counting up to two courses between the ML and MSSP degrees. Completed individually, the ML requires eight credits and the MSSP requires ten credits.

Students can count up to two ML credit units as MSSP outside electives and up to two MSSP credit units as ML courses.

Students in the dual MSSP/ML may substitute up to two of the following courses from the MSSP curriculum to satisfy one or two CUs toward the ML:

• MSSP 6280: Policy Analysis of Issues, Strategy & Process
• MSSP 6310: Law & Social Policy

Students may request courses not listed here for approval and substitution instead of those listed above, subject to approval by both programs.

Although students in the ML program are encouraged to complete their ML foundational coursework before taking JD courses, MSSP students may choose the sequence that works best with their MSSP scheduling. If doing so will not disrupt their MSSP schedules, students may take one or more law classes in semesters in which the MSSP curriculum allows.

Application Information

To be considered for the dual MSSP/ML degree, candidates may apply to both programs simultaneously or they may apply to one program after admission to and matriculation in the other program (MSSP or ML). Students pursuing the dual degree must adhere to the independent admission processes and policies of both programs.

The ML program hosts monthly information sessions for members of the Penn community. Please view more information here(opens in a new tab) or contact the ML program for upcoming session dates.

Tuition and Financial Aid

Students enrolled in the MSSP/ML dual degree will be primary at the school where they begin, either the School of Social Policy & Practice (SP2) or Penn Carey Law, until they complete their primary program at which time they would become primary in their remaining program. If a student applies to and enrolls in both programs simultaneously, the student will be MSSP primary and tuition will be paid to SP2. Financial aid decisions are made independently by each school.

MSSP Internship

The MSSP internship provides an opportunity for students to expand horizons beyond the academic. It serves as an opportunity to integrate the classroom learning and apply research skills, via experiences in policy analysis, policymaking, and/or policy implementation, policy evaluation activities, and/or other policy-related activities. It allows students to gain “real” world experience while providing important networking opportunities.