The Ph.D. Program in Law and Economics is unique. It combines analytical training in economic theory and methodology with the study of law. While one can separately earn a J.D. and a Ph.D. in economics at many other universities, our program is distinctive in that training in economics is fully integrated with training in law. Upon completion of the program, you will receive a Ph.D. in Law and Economics and a J.D.

Preparing for the program requires thought and planning. First, the study of economics at the Ph.D. level requires a high level of competence in mathematics. Admitted students usually major in economics or mathematics. In addition to completing one year of undergraduate level calculus, students should pursue additional coursework in mathematics and economics.

Highly recommended courses are:

• linear algebra
• real analysis
• statistics
• intermediate microeconomic theory

Second, because they are so indicative of performance in law school and graduate school, solid scores on the LSAT and the GRE are required for all students admitted to the Ph.D. program.

The LSAT is offered four times per year. The remaining LSAT test dates in 2012 are June 11, October 6, and December 1. You must register in advance and can do so at www.lsac.org. Applicants with a J.D. need not submit LSAT scores.

The Vanderbilt J.D. class of 2014 obtained a median LSAT score of 169 (97th percentile) and a median undergraduate grade point average of 3.73.

The GRE is offered year round. You can learn about the GRE and register at www.ets.org/gre. NOTE: On August 1, 2011, ETS changed the scoring system for the GRE. For details see www.ets.org/gre. The Law and Economics program uses a Concordance Table provided by ETS to interpret new GRE scores.

Students admitted to the program are expected to have a GRE score above 700 on the quantitative test. The average GRE score for the quantitative portion for law and economics students is currently 784, and the average undergraduate grade point average for law and economics students is 3.87.

Free practice tests and review questions for both exams are available through the ETS/LSAT websites. Individual study or course preparation for both the LSAT and the GRE are recommended.

Checklist for the year prior to enrollment

    Review your current undergraduate coursework, especially in mathematics.

    Register for the GRE and LSAT (summer/fall the year before you plan to enroll).

    September 1 – December 31:  Begin the admission process with the online application to the Graduate School. This initiates contact from the Law School. You will receive required supplemental application materials from the Law School along with a reminder to register for the "LSAT only," provided you are not applying to other law schools. If you are applying to multiple law schools, register with LSDAS and complete the Law School application online. Once complete, your Law School application will be automatically downloaded by the Law School.

    Have three letters of recommendation sent to the Graduate School.

    Have official copies of all college and university transcripts sent to Program Manager, Law and Economics at the Law School (and LSDAS, if using their services).

    Write and submit your Statement of Purpose with the Graduate School application.

    By January 15:  Submit your application for priority consideration and funding.