In a growing global economy, the career paths of business and law professionals are increasingly convergent. The role of an attorney in the day-to-day management of businesses is now vital, as the modern business professional requires immediate access to sound legal advice. A dual-degree program provides training that gives you the knowledge, skills and background you need to function in both the law and business sectors.
Graduates from the JD/MBA program can pursue careers in the legal and business professions, especially where those areas overlap. A dual degree is appropriate if you are pursuing a career in banking, management, government regulations, consulting or corporate positions in legal, tax or accounting departments.
You will achieve all learning outcomes of both the JD and MBA degrees. Your studies in each program will be enhanced by designing a curriculum tailored to your interests and career goals.
CURRICULUM
You will work with your advisors to plot your course sequence based on admission time, career goals, and course availability. The total number of business courses to be completed in year four will be based on course waivers and prerequisites completed. The MBA advisor will determine the final course of study required to earn the degree. Here is a sample plan:
YEAR ONE
Fall and Spring Terms
Full time Law program, 29-30 credits
Summer Term
YEAR TWO
Fall Term
12 Law credits (4 courses) and 3 Business credits (1 course)
Spring Term
YEAR THREE
Fall Term
12 Law credits (4 courses) and 3 Business credits (1 course)
Spring Term
12 Law credits (4 courses) and 3 Business credits (1 course)
Summer Term
YEAR FOUR
Fall Term
6-9 Business credits (2-3 courses)
Winter Term
6-9 Business Credits (2-3 courses)
Spring Term
Degree Requirements
To earn a dual JD/MBA, you must complete a total of 120-122 credit hours. Of these, 77 hours will be law credits. The remaining hours will be completed in business and will vary depending on prerequisite courses completed prior to enrollment. You can earn the both degrees in four years of concentrated study, completing the JD program in three years and graduating from the MBA program at the end of year four.
FEES
The School of Law and Northampton Financial Aid Office are committed to helping students secure the necessary financial resources to make their legal education at Northampton affordable