Lawyer, Global Health

As a lawyer specializing in global health, you will work to improve the health of populations around the world by promoting and protecting human rights, ensuring access to essential health services, and strengthening health systems. You will often work on behalf of international organizations, governments, non-profits, and advocacy groups.

Educational Background

Most lawyers specializing in global health have a Juris Doctor (JD) degree and a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree. A JD degree can be obtained from an accredited law school, typically after three years of full-time study. A MPH degree can be obtained from an accredited school of public health, typically after two years of full-time study. Some lawyers specializing in global health also have a PhD in a related field, such as public health, international relations or human rights.

Skills

Lawyers specializing in global health must have a strong understanding of both law and public health. They must also be able to work effectively with people from diverse cultures and backgrounds, be able to think critically and solve problems, and be able to communicate effectively in both written and oral form. Additional skills and knowledge that are useful to this career include:

• Understanding of international human rights law
• Knowledge of global health issues
• Experience working with international organizations
• Strong research and analytical skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Fluency in multiple languages

Day-to-Day Work

The day-to-day work of a lawyer specializing in global health can vary depending on their employer and area of practice. However, some common tasks include:

• Advising clients on legal issues related to global health
• Drafting and reviewing legal documents, such as contracts, policies, and regulations
• Representing clients in negotiations and before international tribunals
• Conducting research on global health issues
• Advocating for policy changes

Projects

Lawyers specializing in global health may work on a variety of projects, such as:

• Developing legal strategies to improve access to essential health services
• Drafting and negotiating international agreements on health issues
• Representing victims of human rights abuses related to health
• Advocating for policy changes to improve global health outcomes

Career Growth

Lawyers specializing in global health can advance their careers by taking on leadership roles within their organizations, becoming involved in international policy-making, or pursuing further education. Some lawyers specializing in global health also go on to become judges or professors.

Personal Growth

Working as a lawyer specializing in global health can be a personally rewarding experience. It can provide you with the opportunity to make a positive impact on the world and to learn about different cultures and ways of life. It can also be a challenging career, but it is one that can be both personally and professionally fulfilling.

Self-Guided Projects

There are a number of self-guided projects that students can complete to better prepare themselves for a career as a lawyer specializing in global health. These projects can include:

• Volunteering with an international health organization
• Conducting research on a global health issue
• Writing a paper on a legal issue related to global health
• Attending a conference on global health

Online Courses

Online courses can be a helpful way to learn about global health and to prepare for a career as a lawyer specializing in this field. Online courses can provide you with the flexibility to learn at your own pace and to fit your studies around your other commitments. They can also be a more affordable option than traditional in-person courses.

Online courses can provide you with the opportunity to gain knowledge and skills in areas such as:

• Global health law
• International human rights law
• Global health policy
• Health systems strengthening
• Research methods for global health

Online courses can also provide you with the opportunity to develop skills such as:

• Critical thinking
• Problem solving
• Communication
• Negotiation
• Advocacy

While online courses can be a helpful way to prepare for a career as a lawyer specializing in global health, they are not a substitute for a traditional legal education. If you are interested in pursuing this career, you should plan to attend an accredited law school and to obtain a JD degree.