Dr. Jacob Bronsther

Associate Professor

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Biography

Jacob Bronsther is an Associate Professor at the MSU College of Law, specializing in the theoretical foundations of criminal law and sentencing. His current research projects explore the concept of a 'debt society' concerning individuals who incur debt while committing offenses, potential means of repayment, and the moral and legal significance of intentions in criminal law. Additionally, Bronsther examines the impacts of political partisanship and the legislative process on criminal law, highlighting issues related to climate change. He joined MSU in 2021 after serving as a Climenko Fellow and Lecturer at Harvard Law School. He obtained his Ph.D. from the London School of Economics and Political Science, where he studied under Professors Nicola Lacey and Peter Ramsay. Previously, he practiced white-collar criminal defense in New York and earned his J.D. from New York University School of Law and an M.Phil. in Political Theory from Oxford University. He holds a double B.A. in Philosophy and Government from Cornell University and was a Fulbright Scholar in Mauritius. His scholarship has been featured in leading law reviews and various academic journals, and he has presented his work at prestigious forums and published commentary in prominent media outlets such as The Washington Post and The New Republic.

Research Interests

Requirements for Michigan State University College of Law

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3.73
TOEFL
Listening
Required:17
Reading
Required:17
Writing
Required:17
Speaking
Required:17
Total
Required:79
IELTS
Listening
Required:6
Reading
Required:6
Writing
Required:6
Speaking
Required:6
Overall
Required:6.5
Duolingo
Overall Score
Required:110
Overall
Required:110
PTE
Listening
Required:48
Reading
Required:48
Writing
Required:48
Speaking
Required:48
Overall
Required:53
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree from a 4-year accredited institution
Application Checklist
  • LSAC Credential Assembly Service (CAS) registration
  • LSAT Score (Valid within 5 years)
  • Official Transcripts
  • Personal Statement (2-3 pages)
  • Professional Resume
  • Two letters of recommendation (up to four accepted)
  • Application Fee ($75)
  • Character & Fitness Disclosures
Specialization Notes

The Juris Doctor (JD) is the primary professional degree. Admission is based on LSAT scores, academic record, and professional accomplishments. Median LSAT for Fall 2025 was 162.