User:Wikiant/jd
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Juris Doctor (see etymology and abbreviations below) is a first professional[1][2] graduate degree[3][4][5] and professional doctorate[6][7][8][9][10][11] in law. The degree was first awarded by Harvard University in the United States in the late 19th century as a degree similar to the old European doctor of law degree (such as the Dottore in Giurisprudenza in Italy and the Juris Utriusque Doctor). Originating from the 19th century Harvard movement for the scientific study of law, it is the only law degree that has a goal of being the primary professional preparation for lawyers. It is the only professional doctorate in law and is a three year program in most jurisdictions.[12][13] Like other professional doctorates in the United States (M.D., D.D.S., etc.), a research dissertation or thesis is not required. This degree primarily exists in the United States, but since about 1997 it has appeared in universities in other countries for the first time, although it has a unique form in each country.