UNH Franklin Pierce School of Law Introduces Online Specialization in Health and Life Sciences
The University of New Hampshire's Franklin Pierce School of Law is set to innovate legal education as it announces the introduction of a new online specialization focusing on Health and Life Sciences Law. Targeted for a fall 2025 launch, this program aims to bolster the institution's already robust offerings in specialized legal training.
This new concentration will add to the existing curriculum that emphasizes Intellectual Property (IP), Technology, and Information Law. Designed primarily for Hybrid Juris Doctor (JD) students, the Health and Life Sciences Law program will thoroughly explore the complex interaction between healthcare, science, intellectual property, and business law. By doing so, it prepares graduates for advanced career paths in today's competitive and expansive global economy.
The curriculum for the Health and Life Sciences Law specialization is meticulously crafted. It will cover critical areas such as the development, distribution, and regulatory framework surrounding biological products and services, including biotechnology, biologics, and pharmaceuticals. Through this specialized training, students will not only become subject-matter experts but also develop their skills as strategic thinkers.
Professor Lucy Hodder, director of the Health and Life Sciences programs, expressed her enthusiasm for this development, stating, "We have a tradition of innovation at UNH Franklin Pierce and in our health law and policy program. Our goal is to teach students to develop pathways to sustainable solutions in our healthcare and life sciences innovation space."
Since its establishment, the UNH Franklin Pierce School of Law has distinguished itself through an emphasis on innovative legal education tailored to the needs of the modern workforce. The program specifically targets professionals with backgrounds in intellectual property, technology, healthcare, life sciences, and related fields. Law firms and organizations are increasingly looking for graduates with a strong understanding of these areas, highlighting the relevance of the new specialization. Dean Megan Carpenter noted the shift towards domain-specific knowledge in law graduates: "Employers want to hire law graduates who have domain knowledge so they can hit the ground running."
The online Hybrid JD program, which was first introduced in fall 2019, accommodates students' professional lives by allowing them to continue working while pursuing their degrees. The program requires students to attend only 3-5 days of residency each quarter, making it particularly appealing for those balancing careers and education. Through a thorough, year-round 3.5-year curriculum comprising 10 semesters, students engage with dedicated faculty, academic support, and resources tailored to their success.
As the American Bar Association (ABA) approves this non-residential JD program, it reinforces UNH Franklin Pierce's reputation for leadership in specialized legal education. Students interested in learning more about this innovative online program can visit the law school's website for further information.
In conclusion, the introduction of the Health and Life Sciences Law specialization is a significant step towards providing legal education that is not only relevant but also aligned with the needs of a rapidly evolving industry. This program promises to cultivate the next generation of legal experts equipped to navigate the intricacies of health law and life sciences, solidifying the law school's commitment to excellence in legal education.