Applying to the SJD Program

Approximately 2-4 students are accepted each year into the SJD program, which is open only to applicants who have attained a JD from an ABA accredited law school or foreign equivalent, and the completion of an LLM or foreign equivalent. Students who are currently enrolled in an LLM program at the Rogers College of Law can also submit applications for the SJD program.

We have moved to an on line application process and as of June 1, 2010, we no longer accept paper applications.   The on line application is located at:

                        https://apply.grad.arizona.edu/users

The system will require you to create an account and complete a profile information section.  You will also be asked to pay the $75 application fee as part of the on line process.

To apply for the SJD program, select the link for Indigenous Peoples Law and Policy (option of Law) and the SJD program.

In addition to the on line application itself, prospective students should submit directly to the IPLP Program office (IPLP Program c/o Melissa Tatum, The University of Arizona James E. Rogers College of Law, P.O. Box 210176, Tucson, Arizona 85721-0176 U.S.A.):

a 2-3 page overview of your proposed dissertation topic;
For international students whose first language is not English, an official Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) test report with a minimal score of 600 (or the computer based equivalent);
Two letters of recommendation;
A resume demonstrating the applicant’s professional experience;
A 2-3 page personal statement outlining your experience and accomplishments in the field of indigenous law and policy. Please include copies of any relevant publications.  The IPLP Program is particularly interested in students who, by virtue of their background and experience, will bring diverse interests and perspectives to the graduate program.
Official transcripts for all post-secondary educational institutions previously attended;

Applications are accepted and admissions decisions are made on a rolling basis beginning September 1.  The annual application deadline is March 31st for the Fall Semester, although applications may be considered on a limited basis up to July15th (conditional on available space). Earlier applications are strongly encouraged, as only 2-4 students are accepted each year.  Financial support awards are made in April. The Admissions Committee ordinarily will not consider applications until all required information has been received.

Please note:  Our experience with respect to student immigration matters confirms the importance of the March 31st deadline, as international students can experience a lengthier admissions process due to changing immigration regulations. International applicants are strongly encouraged to apply as early as possible to avoid delays in the immigration paperwork process.

Candidates who accept the offer of admissions are required to pay a non-refundable US $250.00 seat deposit.  This deposit will be credited to your tuition account.  All students born after December 31, 1956 are required by UA to verify measles/rubella immunity. Important details pertaining to proof of immunization can be obtained from the UA Campus Health Care web site. Without proof of measles/rubella immunity on file with Campus Health Services, students will not be permitted to register for classes.