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If you're considering pursuing a dual-degree program, combining a Juris Doctor (JD) with a Master of Business Administration (MBA) can set you up with a powerful set of skills and open up a series of exciting career opportunities. In this article, we’ll explore the 25 best JD-MBA programs available for dual-degree applicants, covering various aspects of the programs to help you make an informed decision.
What is a JD-MBA Program?
A JD-MBA dual-degree program is designed for students who want to gain expertise from both business and law schools. As the name implies, enrolling in a JD-MBA program allows students to concurrently pursue a Juris Doctor and a Master of Business Administration. Because of the overlap, JD-MBA programs typically take four years to complete instead of the five or six years it would take to complete both degrees separately. Students also often benefit from the interdisciplinary curriculum that includes courses from both law and business disciplines.
During the program, students generally have the opportunity to explore a wide range of subjects and concentrations, including contract law, corporate finance, negotiation strategies, and business ethics. Having strategic course overlap such as this between a university’s law and business school ensures that graduates truly experience a unique curriculum that prepares them for a career in both the legal and business worlds.
The Benefits of Pursuing a JD-MBA
Having this particular combination of degrees equips graduates with a versatile skill set, making them highly valuable in a range of industries. As a JD-MBA graduate, you’ll also possess a deep understanding of the legal framework surrounding business transactions and will be able to approach complex business problems from both a legal and strategic perspective.
The JD-MBA program also provides students with unique networking opportunities. Throughout the program, students have the chance to interact with professionals from both the legal and business communities. This exposure allows students to build a strong professional network, which can be invaluable when seeking internships, job opportunities, or mentorship.
The Downsides of Pursuing a JD-MBA
Pursuing a JD-MBA can be challenging due to its demanding workload and significant financial burden. The dual degree program requires at least four years of intense study, leaving little time for other commitments. Additionally, the combined tuition and associated costs can lead to substantial student debt. Graduates may also face difficulties in finding roles that fully leverage a JD and MBA, potentially leading to underemployment in one field. It’s important to consider whether it’s truly advantageous to have both degrees for your chosen career path.
Potential Career Paths for JD-MBA Graduates
JD-MBA graduates have numerous career paths to choose from. Some common career options include:
- Corporate Law: Many JD-MBA graduates pursue careers as corporate lawyers, providing legal advice to companies on various matters such as contracts, compliance, and mergers and acquisitions. They play a crucial role in ensuring that businesses operate within the bounds of the law and navigate legal complexities.
- Entrepreneurship: With their combination of legal and business knowledge, JD-MBA graduates are well-equipped to start their own businesses and navigate legal and financial challenges. Their understanding of both disciplines allows them to make informed decisions and mitigate risks.
- Consulting: JD-MBA graduates can also pursue careers in consulting, where they apply their legal and business expertise to help organizations solve complex problems and make strategic decisions. Their ability to analyze issues from multiple perspectives makes them valuable assets to consulting firms.
- Government and Public Policy: Some JD-MBA graduates choose to work in government or public policy roles, leveraging their legal and business acumen to shape legislation and make informed policy decisions. Their unique skill set allows them to understand the legal implications of policy choices and assess the economic impact of proposed regulations.
These are just a few examples of the many career paths available to JD-MBA graduates. The combination of legal and business knowledge opens doors to a wide range of opportunities, allowing graduates to pursue their passions and make a meaningful impact in their chosen fields.
MBA Resume Examples
Use these examples from top MBA program admits to prep the best possible application resume.
The Top 25 JD-MBA Programs
All right — now that we've covered what JD-MBA programs are and what types of career opportunities they can create for you, let's take a look at the top 25 programs that offer this dual-degree. We'll dive into each program so that you can get a good idea of what is out there, and make an informed decision about where you'd like to apply.
1. Harvard University
Program Overview
The JD-MBA program offered by Harvard Law School (HLS) and Harvard Business School (HBS) is Harvard’s oldest MBA joint degree program. Designed to be completed in four years, the program sets graduates up with a skill set necessary for leadership positions across multiple sectors including private enterprise, government, and nonprofit organizations. Harvard’s JD-MBA program is extremely selective with only around 10 students accepted into each year’s cohort.
Year-By-Year Breakdown:
- Years 1 & 2: Each year is spent on first-year core curriculum for either the Business School or Law School, chosen in whichever order the student prefers. During the summer of each year, students usually work in a job occupation related to whichever field they chose.
- Years 3 & 4: Students take a Mandatory Joint Degree Program Seminar during either of these years. All other courses are electives for both HLS and HBS. During the summer of Year 3, students work from a variety of legal and business summer internship opportunities.
Candidates are also required to fulfill specific program requirements, including the 2-Credit Professional Responsibility Requirement, the HLS Pro Bono Requirement entailing 40 hours of public service, and the 2-Credit JD Written Work Requirement.
Admission Requirements
Prospective candidates must apply separately to HLS and HBS and secure independent admission to each school. If you’re a current MBA or JD student, you can apply to the opposite program by its listed deadline. Applications to HBS may be submitted in either of the two rounds of admission, though we recommend submitting your application during Round 1 to ensure the greatest chance of admission.
Deadlines
Harvard Business School Deadlines:
- Round 1: September 4, 2024
- Round 2: January 6, 2025
Harvard Law School Deadline:
- February 15, 2024
For more information on Harvard’s JD and MBA programs, read our articles Harvard Law School: Program and Application Overview and Harvard Business School — MBA Program & Application Overview.
2. Stanford University
Program Overview
Stanford University offers a JD-MBA joint degree program through Stanford Law School (SLS) and Stanford Graduate School of Business (GSB). With a focus on preparing students for careers in law, public service, or management, this program attracts applicants with its strong emphasis on the practicality of the legal/managerial workspace.
The program offers flexibility in its completion paths:
- Option 1: Begin with two years of law school, followed by the first year of business school, and conclude with primarily business school courses in the final year.
- Option 2: Start with one year of law school, followed by the first year of business school, and then undertake a mix of courses at both schools in the remaining two years.
- Option 3: Commence with one year of business school, followed by the first year of law school, and similarly pursue a blend of courses at both institutions in subsequent years.
*Prospective students aiming for the February bar exam may opt for a winter quarter leave during their fourth year to prepare for and take the exam, with a return to classes in the spring quarter, completing the program in 11 quarters.
Students must complete 84 MBA units and 80 JD units, adding up to a total of 164 units. Stanford says that most students accomplish this within 11 to 12 quarters (approximately four years). Students are also required to complete five quarters (excluding summer) of full-tuition residency study at Stanford GSB.
Admission Requirements
To gain admittance into Stanford’s JD-MBA program, applicants must apply to and receive offers from both Stanford Law School and the Graduate School of Business. They must also specifically state their interest in the joint degree program during the application process. If currently enrolled in either the JD or MBA program, applicants need only to submit their application to the respective program they are not currently enrolled in. As for timing, applicants may apply for the JD-MBA joint degree program in any round of admission.
Note: For the Stanford GSB application, applicants must choose the Essay B option (“Why Stanford?”) to articulate their rationale for pursuing the joint degree.
Deadlines
Stanford Graduate School of Business Deadlines:
- Round 1:
- Application Deadline: September 10, 2024
- Decision Notification: December 5, 2024
- Round 2:
- Application Deadline: January 8, 2025
- Decision Notification: April 3, 2025
- Round 3:
- Application Deadline: April 8, 2025
- Decision Notification: May 29, 2025
Stanford Law School Deadlines:
- December 1, 2023: Application must be received and deemed complete for the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program.
- February 15, 2024, 11:59 PM PST: Final deadline for application submission.
Interested in learning more about Stanford’s JD and MBA programs? Read our articles, Stanford Law School: Program and Application Overview and Stanford GSB — MBA Program & Application Overview.
3. University of Pennsylvania
Program Overview
The Carey JD-MBA Program at the University of Pennsylvania combines coursework UPenn’s Carey Law School and The Wharton School to offer a unique three-year program designed to integrate legal and business education. For students already enrolled at either Wharton or Penn Carey Law, a four-year track is available. This track allows matriculation at the partner school in the second or third year for 1L entrants or in the third year for 2L entrants, with similar curriculum requirements but a different summer program.
The university also offers an optional (by application) immersive semester in San Francisco during which students can interact and learn from the regional economy.
Year-By-Year Breakdown:
- Year 1: Students take courses from Carey Law School, followed by a summer session of both Law and Wharton courses.
- Years 2 & 3: Blended curriculum of Law and Wharton coursework with a special JD-MBA capstone in the third year.
Students must complete 86 total credit hours in the Law School and a minimum of 15 course units in The Wharton School. As part of the Law School’s program requirements, students must also conduct at least 70 hours of supervised pro-bono legal work.
Admission Requirements
For students who are not currently in either program, UPenn’s approach to the application is very different from most JD-MBA programs. Instead of applying to both programs simultaneously, the university offers an integrated application – available through Wharton’s application system – which includes elements of the full-time MBA application and a Carey Law School supplement. There are no additional essays for the JD-MBA application, but applicants should reference their desire to join the dual degree program in their two essays for the Wharton application.
In addition to the JD-MBA application through Wharton, applicants must register with the Law School Admission Council (LSAC) Credential Assembly Service (CAS). Official transcripts and recommendation letters should be sent to LSAC, and test scores must be sent directly to Penn Carey Law.
It’s important to keep in mind that because the application is specialized for the JD-MBA program, applicants are not considered for individual admission to either school.
For current students at the Carey Law School, 1Ls can apply to the three or four-year program, while 2Ls can only apply to the four-year program. Meanwhile, current Wharton students are eligible for the four-year JD-MBA program in the first year of their MBA and can apply directly to the Law School using the JD application.
Deadlines
Applicants may only apply during Round 1 or 2 of the Wharton MBA application timeline, as seen below.
Round 1:
- Application Deadline: September 4, 2024
- Interview Invitations:October 24, 2024
- Decision Notification: December 10, 2024
Round 2:
- Application Deadline: January 3, 2025
- Interview Invitations: February 19, 2025
- Decision Notification: April 1, 2025
Note for Moelis Fellows: The JD application may not be released until after the Wharton deadline of September 6. Moelis Fellows are still eligible to be considered under Round 1 provided all materials are received by September 30, 2023.
For a better understanding of UPenn’s JD and MBA programs, browse through the following articles: University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School: Program and Application Overview and The Wharton School — MBA Program & Application Overview.
4. Northwestern University
Program Overview
The JD-MBA Program at Northwestern University provides a comprehensive curriculum touching the key aspects of Northwestern’s law and business schools. The program is structured over three years, integrating coursework from both the Pritzker School of Law and the Kellogg School of Management. This program is unique in that JD-MBA students also get the option to choose from seven majors during their MBA studies: Accounting, Economics, Finance, Marketing, Operations, Strategy, and Managing Organizations. Alternatively, students may pursue a "General Management" track.
Year-By-Year Breakdown:
- First Year: Students complete the standard first-year law classes at the Law School’s Chicago campus.
- Summer Term: A minimum of 3.0 Kellogg credits are required, with options for Law School coursework and experiential opportunities.
- Second Year: Students transition to Kellogg's Evanston campus to fulfill their MBA course requirements.
- Summer Internship: Work a summer internship in law or business, facilitated by both institutions’ career centers.
- Third Year: Returning to the Law School full-time, students complete remaining coursework with the option to take select Kellogg electives.
Regardless of waivers or course load, students must complete 16 credits from Kellogg and 85 credit hours from Northwestern Law during their time in the program.
Admission Requirements
Applicants with a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution are eligible to apply, with no specific prerequisites in business or law-related fields required. Similar to UPenn, an integrated application is available through Kellogg Admissions. All you need is a valid GMAT or GRE score! LSAT scores or separate law school applications are not required.
Once again, because the JD-MBA application is integrated, admissions decisions are solely for the joint degree program itself, and candidates cannot be admitted to only one program unless you mention interest in a secondary Kellogg program in the application process.
Kellogg’s website states, “Applicants must also complete a supplemental Law School application item and register with the Law School Credential Assembly Service (CAS), which includes post-secondary transcripts and LSAT scores.”
Deadlines
Applicants can apply using the integrated JD-MBA application at Kellogg during any of the school’s full-time application rounds, as seen below.
- Round 1: September 11, 2024
- Round 2: January 8, 2025
- Round 3: April 2, 2025
Read our articles Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law: Program and Application Overview and The Kellogg School of Management — MBA Program & Application Overview for additional information on Northwestern’s JD and MBA programs.
5. Columbia University
Program Overview
The JD-MBA Program at Columbia University offers an intensive, cross-disciplinary curriculum designed to equip students with the tools and resources to become key players in the business world. The program is structured over three years, integrating coursework from both Columbia Law School and Columbia Business School. If you’re interested in legal scholarship, Columbia University’s program should be at the top of your list given the fact that the Law School is home to 14 law journals, including the Columbia Law Review, one of the top legal scholarship publications in the world.
Year-By-Year Breakdown:
- Year One: Students complete the first-year foundation curriculum requirements at Columbia Law School.
- Year Two: Jump to Columbia Business School, students complete the core curriculum requirements and may begin taking electives at both schools.
- Year Three: Return to Columbia Law School with the option to register for courses at both schools, including cross-listed classes.
Students must earn 71 law credits and 45 business credits, in addition to separate requirements from each school, to satisfy all degree requirements for both schools. Elective offerings in disciplinary areas outside of business law are available during the second and third years. On top of this, students must work a minimum of 40 hours of pro bono service for their JD program requirements.
We know that doing the mental math for degree programs can be difficult, but luckily, the Columbia Law School has provided a sample plan of study to help applicants get a better grasp of what each semester will look like. You can find that plan along with a list of courses for the JD-MBA here.
Admission Requirements
Columbia University provides a joint Three-Year JD-MBA application available on the Business School’s application portal. Applicants will also need to submit a Credential Assembly Service (CAS) report via a supplemental form through LSAC. In addition to this and the materials asked for in the traditional Full-Time MBA application, applicants must also respond to the following essay question: “Why are you interested in the J.D./MBA at Columbia University? What are your career goals after completing the program? (500 words).”
First-year JD students at Columbia Law School can also apply for admission into the JD-MBA program by submitting a regular full-time MBA application to the Business School.
Deadlines
Columbia Business School Full-Time MBA application dates are as follows:
- January 2025 Entry Application Deadline:
- Round 1
- Application Deadline: June 18, 2024
- Interview Decisions: Rolling
- Final Decisions: Ongoing, no later than August 15
- Round 2
- Application Deadline: August 15, 2024
- Interview Decisions: Rolling
- Final Decisions: Ongoing, no later than August 15
- Round 1
- August 2025 Entry Application Deadline:
- Round 1
- Application Deadline: September 10, 2024
- Interview Decisions: By November 15
- Final Decisions: By December 20
- Round 2
- Application Deadline: January 7, 2025
- Interview Decisions: By February 20
- Final Decisions: By March 26
- Round 3
- Application Deadline: April 1, 2025
- Interview Decisions: By May 1
- Final Decisions: By May 15
- Round 1
For applicants who are not currently first-year JD students at Columbia Law School:
- Early Decision:
- Opens: September 1
- Application Deadline: November 15
- Admissions Decision Released: December 31
- Regular Decision:
- Application Deadline: February 15
- Admissions Decision Released: April 30
For applicants who are in their first year of the JD:
- January 2024 Entry Application Deadline: September 13, 2023
- August 2024 Entry Application Deadlines:
- Round 1: September 13, 2023
- Round 2: January 5, 2024
- Round 3: April 3, 2024
Looking for more info on Columbia’s law and business schools? Read our articles, Columbia Law School: Program and Application Overview and Columbia Business School — MBA Program & Application Overview.
6. Yale University
Program Overview
The MBA/JD program at Yale University combines courses from Yale Law School and Yale School of Management in order to offer a four-year integrated curriculum designed to prepare students for careers in government, law, or the private sector.
Year-By-Year Breakdown:
- Years 1 & 2: Students 5ake classes at Yale Law School, completing foundational coursework.
- Year 3: Transitioning to Yale School of Management (SOM), students begin their integrated MBA curriculum.
- Year 4: Students take electives at both schools and elsewhere at Yale, culminating their interdisciplinary education.
Admission Requirements
Prospective students must gain admission to both Yale School of Management and Yale Law School independently. Sometimes, students may also apply to the JD program during their first year at Yale SOM, or apply to Yale SOM during their first two years at Yale Law School.
One of the most grueling parts of the application process for JD programs is taking the LSAT, but we’re happy to report that if you’re hesitant to take the LSAT, Yale Law School allows for JD applicants to only submit a GRE under the condition that you don’t have a reportable LSAT score. Just one note: in order to maintain equality between the admissions committee’s evaluation of LSAT and GRE scores, you must report all GRE scores from the past five years.
Deadlines
Yale SOM’s Full-Time MBA application dates are as follows:
- Round 1:
- Application Deadline: September 10, 2024
- Decision Notification: December 5, 2024
- Round 2:
- Application Deadline: January 7, 2025
- Decision Notification: March 20, 2025
- Round 3:
- Application Deadline: April 8, 2025
- Decision Notification: May 15, 2025
Yale Law School opens its applications on September 1, 2023, but applications will only be able to be submitted starting October 1, 2023. The deadline to submit your application is February 15, 2024.
For more information on Yale’s Law School and Business School, read our articles Yale Law School: Program and Application Overview and Yale School of Management — MBA Program & Application Overview.
7. University of Chicago
Program Overview
The University of Chicago offers a joint-degree program in law and business available to students right out of undergrad. Students benefit from the interdisciplinary strengths of UChicago Law and Chicago Booth, preparing them for leadership roles in business, law, or hybrid environments. The program offers both a three-year accelerated JD-MBA and a traditional four-year JD-MBA structure.
Three-year Structure:
- Year 1: Three quarters of Law Courses (+ Leadership Module)
- Summer Term: Law or Business Internship and Two Booth Courses
- Year 2: Three quarters of Booth and Law Courses (+ Leadership Module)
- Summer Term: Law or Business Internship
- Year 3: Three quarters of Law Courses
Four-year Structure:
- Year 1: Law School
- Summer Term: Internship
- Year 2: Law School* (Summer Internship)
- Summer Term: Internship
- Year 3: Business School* (Business-related Summer Internship)
- Summer Term: Internship
- Year 4: Business & Law School**
*Students can choose residency at Booth Business School during the second or third year.
**Students select the final quarter of residency at Booth.
Admission Requirements
Prospective students can apply through UChicago’s JD-MBA Scholars Program if they are in their final year of undergraduate study. Accepted students defer admission for two to four years to gain work experience.
UChicago also makes the application process for the three-year or four-year JD-MBA program easy by providing a centralized joint application. Better yet, applicants have the option to submit their application during two different rounds. Similar to Yale’s requirements, applicants can choose between submitting a valid GRE, GMAT, or LSAT score. The university does not require an LSAT score, but if one exists you are required to provide it.
Deadlines
- Round One:
- Application Deadline: September 19, 2024
- Decision Notification: December 5, 2024
- Round Two:
- Application Deadline: January 7, 2025
- Decision Notification: March 27, 2025
- Round Three:
- Application Deadline: April 3, 2025
- Decision Notification: May 22, 2025
- UChicago JD-MBA Scholars:
- Application Deadline: April 29, 2025
- Decision Notification: July 1, 2025
To learn more about UChicago’s JD and MBA programs, take a look at our articles, University of Chicago Law School: Program and Application Overview and Chicago Booth — MBA Program & Application Overview (2024).
8. University of California, Berkeley
Program Overview
UC Berkeley’s JD-MBA program blends the curriculum of Berkeley Law and the Haas School of Business. The law school requires students to be in residence for their full first year and recommends completing the first two years of law school before pursuing another program. Students have the flexibility to start at either the law school or their master’s program, but it's advisable to discuss the planned curriculum and schedule with the Berkeley Law Dean of Students.
Suggested Year-By-Year Breakdown:
- Years 1 & 2: Students complete the first two years of law school.
- Year 3: Transition to MBA courses.
- Year 4: Continue MBA courses but, for the final semester, return to the law school.
Admission Requirements
In order to join the JD-MBA program, applicants must apply and be admitted independently to both departments. Students in their first year in one of the participating schools or departments can also apply to the other respective program and begin the JD-MBA program at the start of their next year. Applicants can apply to the JD program with a valid GMAT score instead of the LSAT or GRE.
UC Berkeley also wants students pursuing the JD-MBA program to notify both the Dean of Students and the Financial Aid Office on their own in order to sort out program outlines and finances.
Deadlines
Berkeley Law Deadlines:
- November 15 – Binding Early Decision application deadline
- December 15 – Application Deadline for the Berkeley Law Opportunity Scholarship and Public Interest Scholars Program
- February 15 – Regular Decision Application Deadline
Haas School of Business Deadlines:
- Round 1:
- Application Deadline: September 12, 2024
- Decisions Released: December 12, 2024
- Round 2:
- Application Deadline: January 9, 2025
- Decisions Released: March 27, 2025
- Round 3:
- Application Deadline: April 3, 2025
- Decisions Released: May 8, 2025
Interested in learning more about UC Berkeley’s programs? Read: University of California--Berkeley School of Law: Program and Application Overview and University of California Berkeley Haas School of Business—MBA Program & Application Overview.
9. New York University
Program Overview
NYU’s School of Law and Stern School of Business offer a dual JD-MBA program capable of being finished in four years. The program often sees students employed in law firms, corporate counsel offices, investment and accounting firms, entrepreneurial or general business organizations, or nonprofit agencies and government institutions.
Year-By-Year Breakdown:
- Years 1 & 2: Take JD courses at NYU School of Law.
- Year 3: Begin MBA classes at Stern School of Business.
- Year 4: Combination of both JD and MBA courses from their respective schools.
Admission Requirements
Prospective dual degree students must apply by submitting the Law School’s regular JD application and an additional Dual Degree Application from NYU Stern. If you’re in your first or second year of Law School at NYU, you can also apply with Stern’s Dual Degree Application to start your MBA courses for your third year.
NYU Law School requires applicants to submit an LSAT score.
Deadlines:
The application deadline for all applicants, including students currently enrolled at NYU School of Law, is February 15th.
NYU Stern School of Business Full-Time MBA application dates are as follows:
- Round 1:
- Application Deadline: September 16, 2024
- Decisions Released: December 1, 2024
- Round 2:
- Application Deadline: October 16, 2024
- Decisions Released: January 1, 2025
- Round 3:
- Application Deadline: January 16, 2025
- Decisions Released: April 1, 2025
- Round 4:
- Application Deadline: April 16, 2025
- Decisions Released: Ongoing
Read more about NYU’s programs in our articles, NYU School of Law: A Comprehensive Overview and Guide and New York University Stern School of Business—MBA Program & Application Overview.
10. Georgetown University
Program Overview
Georgetown University’s four-year JD-MBA program between Georgetown Law and McDonough School of Business is unique in its offering of students the option to specialize in either Corporate Law or Public Policy, each requiring 24 units of coursework. Students can also opt for the MBA Management Science major by completing 6 STEM-eligible elective credits and 18 MBA. core credits.
Year-By-Year Breakdown:
- First Year: 30-31 J.D. credits
- Second Year: 31.5 M.B.A. credits
- Third Year: 22 J.D. credits, 9 M.B.A. credits
- Fourth Year: 23-24 J.D. credits, 3 M.B.A. credits
Students must complete 119.5 academic credits in total during their time with Georgetown’s JD-MBA program, with 76 credits from the Law Center and 43.5 credits from the M.B.A. program. Of these, 9 M.B.A. credits count toward the JD degree requirements. Upon successful completion of the program, students receive both the JD and MBA degrees along with a Joint Program Certificate.
Admission Requirements
Prospective students not currently attending Georgetown must apply independently to both programs and be admitted into both. Current students in their first year of either program can also apply to the other school and earn/begin the joint program status at the start of their next year.
Deadlines
Applicants must apply for the McDonough School of Business’s MBA program in any of the following rounds:
*Round 1:
- Application Deadline: October 2, 2023
- Decision Notification: December 7, 2023
Round 2:
- Application Deadline: January 4, 2024
- Decision Notification: March 18, 2024
Round 3:
- Application Deadline: March 26, 2024
- Decision Notification: May 1, 2024
Round 4:
- Application Deadline: April 30, 2024
- Decision Notification: May 29, 2024
All applications are due by 11:59 p.m. ET on the deadline day.
* No application deadlines yet for the 2024-2025 cycle.
Georgetown Law’s preferred application deadline is March 1, 2024, but they will still continue to accept and review applications throughout the spring and summer.
For a comprehensive overview of Georgetown’s JD and MBA programs, take a look at our articles Georgetown University Law Center: Program and Application Overview and Georgetown McDonough School of Business – MBA Program & Application Overview.
Get Into Grad School With the Help of an Expert
It’s no secret that getting into a JD-MBA program is a difficult thing to do. To give your application the best chance of success possible, then, we highly recommend working one-on-one with an expert Leland MBA or JD admissions coach. Here are some of our most highly-rated coaches; or, browse through all of our Law School admissions coaches here and our MBA coaches here.
11. University of Michigan
Program Overview
The University of Michigan Law School and Stephen M. Ross School of Business offer a four-year dual degree program allowing students to concurrently pursue studies in Law and Business Administration. This program is known for creating students with a deep intellectual interest in the fields of law and business. Students often enroll in the program coming from different academic approaches and emphases, which leads to a diverse post-grad employment profile.
Year-By-Year Breakdown:
- Year 1: First-year curriculum of either MBA or JD.
- Year 2: First-year curriculum of program not chosen during Year 1.
- Years 3 & 4: Courses from both schools.
Admission Requirements
Prospective students must apply separately and gain admission to both schools during any round of application. The Law School may waive the JD application fee for applicants simultaneously applying to a formalized dual degree program. The LSAT is required by the Law School for admissions consideration.
Deadlines
University of Michigan Law School JD Deadline: February 29, 2024.
Stephen M. Ross School of Business MBA Deadlines:
- Round 1:
- Deadline: September 9, 2024
- Decision: December 6, 2024
- Round 2:
- Deadline: January 6, 2025
- Decision: March 14, 2025
- Round 3:
- Deadline: March 24, 2025
- Decision: May 2, 2025
If you’re curious and want to find out more about UMichigan’s JD and MBA programs, read University of Michigan--Ann Arbor Law School: Program and Application Overview and University of Michigan Ross School of Business — MBA Program & Application Overview.
12. University of Virginia
Program Overview
The University of Virginia School of Law and Darden School of Business offer a dual-degree program enabling students to earn both a JD and MBA in four years. Students in UVA’s JD-MBA program also benefit from having the student-run JD-MBA Society, which serves as both a social and professional space for current students and faculty.
Year-By-Year Breakdown:
- Years 1 & 2: The first-year curriculum of each program, chosen in any order.
- Years 3 & 4: Mix of coursework from the two schools.
Note: Students are encouraged to verify state bar requirements, as additional credits may be necessary for admission. ABA standards limit J.D. candidates to 17 credits per semester, and credits cannot be granted for coursework completed before matriculation at the School of Law.
Admission Requirements
Prospective students must gain admission separately to both the Darden School and the School of Law through each school’s standard admissions processes. Applications can be submitted before entrance, before the third year of Law, or before the second year of Darden. Approval from both schools’ faculty advisors is required for admission.
Deadlines
UVA School of Law Application Deadline: March 1, 2024
Darden School of Business Deadlines:
- Early Action: September 5, 2024
- Round 1: October 2, 2024
- Round 2: January 7, 2025
- Round 3: April 2, 2025
For more information related to admissions for UVA’s JD and MBA programs, read University of Virginia School of Law: Program and Application Overview and The University of Virginia Darden School of Business — MBA Program & Application Overview.
13. Duke University
Program Overview
Duke Law School collaborates with the Fuqua School of Business to offer a JD-MBA dual degree program which students can complete in four years. Some students can also opt for an accelerated track, finishing in three and a half years. This option allows students to enter the job market sooner. Commitment to this option is not required during the application process and can be explored during the first year of study at Duke.
Example Year-By-Year Breakdown:
- Year 1: Law Courses
- Year 2: Law Courses
- Year 3: MBA Courses
- Year 4: MBA Courses
For a more detailed look at possible schedules, look here.
Admission Requirements
Applicants must separately apply and be accepted into both the JD and MBA programs at Duke. Current students can also matriculate into one degree program at Duke and apply to the other during the first year of study. Each school goes through its normal application review process, and students receive separate decisions for each degree.
Deadlines
Duke Law School Deadlines:
- Early Decision:
- Round I: November 3, 2023
- Round II: January 5, 2024
- Regular Decision: February 15, 2024
Duke MBA Application Deadlines:
- Early Action
- Application Deadline: September 4, 2024
- Interview Decision Sent: October 4, 2024
- Final Decision Release: October 18, 2024
- Round 1:
- Application Deadline: October 1, 2024
- Interview Decision Sent: November 18, 2024
- Final Decision Release: December 12, 2024
- Round 2:
- Application Deadline: January 9, 2025
- Interview Decision Sent: February 17, 2025
- Final Decision Release: March 14, 2025
- Round 3:
- Application Deadline: February 20, 2025
- Interview Decision Sent: March 21, 2025
- Final Decision Release: April 4, 2025
- Round 4:
- Application Deadline: April 3, 2025
- Interview Decision Sent: April 18, 2025
- Final Decision Release: May 8, 2025
*International applicants should apply in EA, Round 1, Round 2, and Round 3 for visa processing.
To learn more about Duke’s law and business programs, read Duke University School of Law: Program and Application Overview and Duke University Fuqua School of Business — MBA Program & Application Overview.
14. Cornell University
Program Overview
Cornell University’s SC Johnson College of Business offers a dual-degree program in collaboration with Cornell Law School, both renowned institutions known for their collegial culture and expert faculty. Both schools boast in the fact that they are “deliberately small” with an authentic and close knit academic environment. The JD-MBA program at Cornell can be completed in three or four years.
Program Structure and Curriculum:
- 3-Year Dual-Degree Program:
- Year 1: JD Courses
- Year 2: Mix of first-year MBA courses and continuation of Law courses
- Year 3: Combination of MBA and JD courses
- 4-Year Dual-Degree Program:
- Year 1: JD courses
- Year 2: MBA courses
- Years 3 & 4: Mix of JD and MBA courses
Admission Requirements
Applicants must apply and be accepted simultaneously to both programs. If you are a current student, you must apply to the second program any time before graduation.
Deadlines
SC Johnson College of Business Deadlines:
- Round 1: September 18, 2024
- Round 2: January 9, 2025
- Round 3: April 10, 2025
Cornell Law School Deadlines:
- Early Decision: January 1
- Regular Decision: March 1
Interested in learning more about Cornell’s JD and MBA programs? Read our articles, Cornell Law School: Program and Application Overview and Cornell University SC Johnson Graduate School of Business.
15. Carnegie Mellon University
Program Overview
Carnegie Mellon University offers a four-year dual-degree program in collaboration with the University of Pittsburgh School of Law and the Carnegie Mellon Tepper School of Business. This program is special because it enrolls students across two different universities, allowing them to earn advanced standing credits between the two schools.
Year-By-Year Breakdown:
- Year 1: Take first-year classes for either the JD or MBA.
- Year 2: First-year classes for the opposite program of Year 1.
- Years 3 & 4: Mixed enrollment of JD and MBA courses.
JD students must complete 88 credits, while MBA students need 192 units. Completing the JD degree entitles the student to 30 units of advanced standing at the Tepper School, and completing the MBA entitles the student to 15 credit hours of advanced standing at the Law School.
Tuition is paid at the full rate of the respective program during the first year, and then adjusted during the subsequent years based on a percentage of each school's tuition.
Admission Requirements
Candidates must apply and be admitted separately to both the Tepper MBA Program and the University of Pittsburgh JD program. Applicants can submit their applications to both programs simultaneously or during the first year of study at either school. In addition to all this, however, a dual degree application must also be completed and submitted to both schools, at which point a special admissions committee will review and decide upon the student’s application.
Deadlines
Tepper School of Business Deadlines:
- *Round 1: October 2, 2023
- Round 2: January 8, 2024
- Round 3: March 4, 2024
- Round 4: May 6, 2024
University of Pittsburgh School of Law Deadline: May 1, 2024
* No application deadlines yet for the 2024-2025 cycle.
Note: A dual degree application must be completed and submitted to both schools by March 15.
For more information on Carnegie Mellon’s MBA program, take a look at our article CMU Tepper School of Business – MBA Program & Application Overview.
16. University of California, Los Angeles
Program Overview
UCLA Law and UCLA's Anderson School of Management offer a joint degree program designed to prepare students for specialization in various areas, including public service, international trade, industrial relations, corporate law and finance, and specific areas of management consulting.
Admission Requirements
To pursue one of the formal joint degree programs, applicants must apply separately to UCLA Law and directly to the Anderson School of Management. Each school has its own application process, requirements, and deadlines.
Applicants interested in creating an individualized joint degree program or pursuing a joint degree program with another university will work with the Dean of Students office during their first or second years of law school to seek approval for the joint degree.
Deadlines
Anderson School of Management Deadlines:
- Round 1:
- Application Deadline: October 1, 2024
- Decision Release Date: December 13, 2024
- Round 2:
- Application Deadline: January 6, 2025
- Decision Release Date: March 27, 2025
- Round 3:
- Application Deadline: April 7, 2025
- Decision Release Date: May 16, 2025
UCLA Law Deadline: Applications for Fall 2025 will be available through the LSAC online application service on September 3, 2024. Applications will be due by January 31, 2025.
To learn more about UCLA’s JD and MBA programs, check out our articles University of California--Los Angeles School of Law: Program and Application Overview and UCLA Anderson School of Management – MBA Program & Application Overview.
16. University of Southern California
Program Overview
The University of Southern California combines programs from Marshall School of Business and Gould School of Law to offer a JD-MBA dual degree program designed to be completed in four years.
Sample Year-By-Year Breakdown:
- Year 1: Law courses
- Year 2: MBA courses
- Years 3 & 4: Combination of Law and Business courses
Admission Requirements
Applicants must apply and gain admission to both the USC Gould School of Law and the Marshall School of Business. Current students in their first year of classes at Gould may also apply. Scores for the GMAT/GRE and LSAT are required.
Deadlines
Gould School of Law Deadlines:
- Early Binding Decision Application Deadline: November 15, 2023
- Priority Application Deadline: February 1, 2024
- Regular Application Deadline: April 1, 2024
- *Round 1:
- Application Deadline: October 15, 2023
- Admissions Decision: By December 31, 2023
- Round 2:
- Application Deadline: January 5, 2024
- Admissions Decision: By March 31, 2024
- Round 3:
- Application Deadline: March 1, 2024
- Admissions Decision: By May 15, 2024
- Round 4:
- Application Deadline: April 15, 2024**
- Admissions Decision: By June 15, 2024
* No application deadlines yet for the 2024-2025 cycle.
**Applications submitted after April 15, 2024, will be considered on a space-available basis.
17. University of South Dakota
Program Overview
The University of South Dakota offers a dual JD-MBA degree program between the Knudson School of Law and Beacom School of Business. USD has seen its students fully equipped and prepared to enter into careers in business law, corporate counsel, banking and health care administration.
Admission Requirements
Eligible students may apply for the dual degree program at the completion of their first year (1L) in law school.
Deadlines
Knudson School of Law: The deadline for JD applications is July 1st, although they recommend submitting applications earlier for timely processing.
Beacom School of Business: Applications are typically due three weeks before the start of the semester.
18. Texas Southern University
Program Overview
Texas Southern University’s JD-MBA program combines legal expertise with advanced management study, often seeing its graduates enter into roles in investment banking, accounting, international trade, corporate law, management consulting, and more. Students completing the program receive both an MBA degree from the Jesse H. Jones School of Business and a JD degree from the Thurgood Marshall School of Law.
Admission Requirements
Applicants must apply and gain admission to both programs respectively. As for current students, they must be admitted to both the MBA and JD programs before completing either program, or else they will be ineligible for the JD-MBA dual degree. Admission to the dual degree program involves evaluation by both the School of Business and the School of Law.
Deadlines
The deadline for submission of all application and admission materials is July 15th for the Fall semester and November 15th for the Spring semester of each year. Early submission is encouraged.
Application for the dual program must be made between September 1 of the previous year and April 1 of the following year for admission in the fall semester.
20. Texas Tech University
Program Overview
Texas Tech University’s joint program between the Rawls College of Business and TTU School of Law enables students to earn both a law degree and an MBA in three to four years. Law students have the option to begin the dual program either during the summer prior to their first year of law school or during the summer after their first year of law school.
Admission Requirements
Applicants must meet the admission requirements for both Rawls College and the Law School. Current JD students interested in pursuing dual degrees must declare their intent no later than their second semester in law school. The LSAT is accepted in place of the GRE or GMAT exam, but not the other way around.
Deadline
The application deadline for all applicants, including students currently enrolled at TTU’s School of Law, is May 1.
*International students are encouraged to apply at least six months in advance when possible.
21. Georgia State University
Program Overview
Georgia State University offers a JD-MBA dual degree program through its College of Law and the J. Mack Robinson College of Business. With an innovative legal curriculum and a top-ranked business program, GSU’s joint degree program prepares students for successful careers in risk management, in-house counsel for large and small businesses, compliance, and business and corporate law practice.
Admission Requirements
Prospective students must be accepted by both colleges and meet the curriculum requirements for both programs. Admission to one program does not guarantee acceptance to the other. The LSAT is required for the JD application, and the GRE or GMAT is required for MBA admissions unless the student is already enrolled at or admitted to the College of Law.
Deadlines
GSU Law Deadlines:
- Priority Deadline for Merit Scholarship Consideration: March 15, 2024
- Final Deadline: June 1, 2024
J. Mack Robinson College of Business Deadlines:
- *Round 1:
- Application Deadline: October 16, 2023
- Decision Notification: December 1, 2023
- Round 2:
- Application Deadline: January 22, 2024
- Decision Notification: March 22, 2024
- Round 3:
- Application Deadline: March 18, 2024
- Decision Notification: May 10, 2024
- Round 4:
- Application Deadline: May 6, 2024
- Decision Notification: June 14, 2024
- Round 5:
- Application Deadline: Rolling
- Decision Notification: Rolling
* No application deadlines yet for the 2024-2025 cycle.
22. North Carolina State University
Program Overview
North Carolina State University’s Poole College of Management has teamed up with the Norman Adrian Wiggins School of Law at Campbell University to offer a JD-MBA program that integrates business administration with careers in law and public service, allowing students to earn both degrees in four years of full-time study instead of the usual five.
Four-Year Course Breakdown:
- Year 1: JD Classes
- Year 2: Core MBA Classes & MBA Concentration
- Year 3: Mix of JD and MBA Classes/ Concentration
- Year 4: Mix of JD and MBA Classes/Concentration
Admission Requirements
Prospective students must apply to and receive acceptance into both the Norman Adrian Wiggins School of Law at Campbell University and the College of Management. This involves submitting all required application materials and meeting the admission standards of both programs. Students enrolled at Campbell Law School do not need to submit GMAT or GRE scores when applying to the Jenkins MBA program.
Deadlines
Campbell University School of Law Deadlines:
- Early Decision Application Deadline: November 15
- Competitive Scholarship Application Deadline: March 22
- Final Application Deadline: May 1
North Carolina State University’s MBA Deadlines:
- One Day to MBA*
- Application Deadline: September 15, 2024
- Decision Notification: October 11, 2024
- Standard Application - Round 1
- Application Deadline: November 1, 2024
- Decision Notification: Week of December 16, 2024
- Round 2
- Application Deadline: January 15, 2025
- Decision Notification: Week of March 3, 2025
- Round 3
- Application Deadline: March 1, 2025
- Decision Notification: Week of April 7, 2025
*One Day to MBA is an exclusive application process that allows applicants to receive an admissions decision within 24 hours of being interviewed. Participating in One Day to MBA also allows applicants to waive their application fee.
23. Louisiana State University
Program Overview
Offered through the Paul M. Hebert Law Center and the E. J. Ourso College of Business, this dual degree program allows students to complete both degrees in four years.
Year-By-Year Breakdown:
- Year 1: Students begin with their first year at either the law school or business school.
- Year 2: Dependent on choice from previous year, begin/continue law school or begin business courses.
- Years 3 & 4: Mix of law and business courses.
Admission Requirements
Students must apply and receive admissions offers from both the Law and Business Schools. Bachelor's Degree: From an accredited U.S. institution or its foreign equivalent. GMAT or GRE scores are required for candidates with a GPA below 3.0, and an LSAT is mandatory for admission to the Paul M. Hebert Law Center.
Deadlines
The final deadline to submit all applications for consideration of the joint JD-MBA program is June 30, 2023.
24. Florida State University
Program Overview
Florida State University’s College of Law and College of Business offer a joint JD-MBA program, allowing students to concurrently complete both degrees. The typical program sequence for students in the joint pathway is as follows:
- Year 1: Law Courses
- Year 2: Business Courses
- Years 3 & 4: Law Courses
Admission Requirements
Applicants must be in their first year of Law School and complete a Joint Graduate Pathway Application form. After completing the form, they must submit it to the College of Law’s joint graduate pathway coordinator. They must also complete the College of Business Applicant Statement Essay Questions for MBA Program Admission form.
Deadlines
All documents must be submitted to the College of Law’s Office of Admissions before June 1st of the first year of law school.
If you’re looking to learn more about the JD program at FSU, read our article Florida State University College of Law: Program and Application Overview.
25. Indiana University Bloomington
Program Overview
Indiana University offers both a four-year and a three-year JD-MBA dual-degree program through the Maurer School of Law and the Kelley School of Business. The flexibility of this program allows students to engage in various activities, clubs, clinics, and presentations at both schools.
For those with a specific career path in mind, the three-year JD-MBA program offers an accelerated option to obtain both degrees in just three years. This program is rigorous and requires approval from both schools for admission. It's important to note that the three-year program does not replace the four-year program; both options are available to applicants.
Admission Requirements
Applicants must apply separately to the Maurer School of Law and the Kelley School of Business and meet the admission requirements for both programs. They must inform both schools of their intention to pursue either the four-year or three-year JD-MBA program.
Current JD students at the Maurer School of Law can enter the JD-MBA program by applying to the Kelley School of Business before the end of their second year of law school. Similarly, MBA students at the Kelley School of Business can apply to the Maurer School of Law by the end of their first year of business classes.
Deadlines
For the three-year program, applicants are recommended to submit their applications to both schools by March 1. Applications received after April 15 may only be considered for admission to either program individually or for participation in the four-year JD-MBA program.
For the four-year program, the Maurer School of Law has a deadline of June 1, or May 1 for international applicants. The Kelley School of Business, meanwhile, has the following deadlines:
- Round 1:
- Application Deadline: October 15, 2024
- Decision Notification: December 20, 2024
- Round 2:
- Application Deadline: January 5, 2025
- Decision Notification: March 15, 2025
- Round 3:
- Application Deadline: March 1, 2025
- Decision Notification: April 30, 2025
- Round 4:
- Application Deadline: April 15, 2025
- Decision Notification: May 31, 2025
For an in-depth understanding of Indiana University’s JD and MBA programs, read our articles Indiana University Maurer School of Law: Program and Application Overview and Indiana University Kelley School of Business – MBA Program & Application Overview.
Final Note
Pursuing a JD-MBA program is a huge investment in your future which will open doors to many diverse career opportunities. Remember that each program has its own strengths and requirements, so it’s crucial to do thorough research and choose the one that aligns best with your professional goals and personal circumstances.
The application process can also be extremely competitive and demanding. For the best chance of success, consider seeking out the expertise of our expert coaches, or reading through some of our articles on JD and MBA admissions!
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