Law and psychology have many intersections within disciplines. Both are instrumental in conflict resolution and negotiation. In the courtroom, psychologists and lawyers cross paths often as they work together in determining criminal responsibility, the reliability of eyewitnesses and the validity of evidence. Students of psychology and law go on to work in law offices, forensic psychology departments and corporations.
Many post-bachelor's degree programs offer dual master's degrees in law (JD) and doctor's of philosophy (PhD) in psychology. Stanford University, Columbia University and the University of Arizona all have dual JD/PhD programs. Other schools offer a JD in law and a master's in Psychology. Duke, Valparaiso and the University of Nebraska feature dual JD/MA degrees. The length of the program depends on the university, but generally dual law and psychology degrees take around four years to complete.
Different programs have different standards for accepting students. Grade point average (GPA) and the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) are both heavily weighted in the admissions process. Stanford requires dual degree students to spend a year studying law before they take any classes in psychology. Getting into the law school is difficult, however. In 2009, students accepted to Stanford had an average 170 out of a possible 180 on the LSAT and a 3.87 GPA. At the University of Arizona Law School, a strong LSAT score is heavily weighted as 70 percent of accepted students scored better than 160. These two numbers aren't the only factors for acceptance. Law schools also consider diversity, demonstrated leadership and letters of recommendation for admission.
Students pursuing a dual degree in psychology and law will become experts in both fields. Legal studies in the history of the law, past precedents and practical applications will be countered with analysis of psychological sciences, functions and methods. Most programs will require an internship at a law practice and a thesis showing expertise in a specific field of psychology.