JD Designation - Frequently Asked Questions

 

What is a J.D.?

J.D. stands for Juris Doctor. It is a law degree that is typically granted to students who receive a legal education after they’ve completed an undergraduate degree. On the other hand, the LL.B. is typically granted after completion of a legal education that is obtained following graduation from high school in virtually all Commonwealth jurisdictions. The J.D. degree designation is intended to bring the law school up to the growing international standards for second degree law programmes.

Why has Faculty Council approved this change in degree?

Faculty Council felt that the J.D. degree designation would more accurately reflect the educational accomplishments of the vast majority of the Faculty’s graduates who enter with at least one university degree (25% now enter with graduate degrees). In addition, the J.D. is viewed as providing our graduates with a more competitive degree designation. This is particularly important for the increasing numbers of students and graduates who choose to work or study outside Canada.

Does this change the admissions policy at the Faculty?

No.

If I apply for a J.D., does this affect my call to the bar in a province of Canada?

No. We have written to each of the provincial law societies to ensure that they understand that the re-designation of our degree does not connote any change in the Faculty’s academic mission or programme.

Do I have to get a J.D.?

No, not unless you want to.

If I keep my LL.B., will anything change?

No.

Can I have both a J.D. and an LL.B.?

No.

How do I get my J.D.?

All graduates were sent information on how to obtain/convert their LL.B. to a J.D. Information is also available on the Office of Convocation Conversion of Bachelor of Laws to Juris Doctor web page.

How much will it cost to convert my LL.B. to a J.D.?

Please see the Office of Convocation Conversion of Bachelor of Laws to Juris Doctor web page for current fees.

Who do I contact if my J.D. degree has not arrived within a month?

You should contact the Office of Convocation by telephone at 416-978-3629 or by email at convocation.office@utoronto.ca.

What if I run into problems with my J.D. request?

If you have any problems with a J.D. request, please contact the Office of Convocation by telephone at 416-978-3629 or by e-mail at convocation.office@utoronto.ca.

What if I have other questions that are not answered here?

If you have any other questions relating to the processing of your J.D. Diploma, please contact the Office of Convocation by telephone at 416-978-3629 or by e-mail at convocation.office@utoronto.ca.