Is a JD-MBA Program Right for Me?

A JD-MBA program is a dual graduate degree that allows students to complete a Juris Doctor (JD) and a master’s of business administration (MBA) at the same time. Students best-suited for this type of graduate program typically have strengths in both areas of study, including writing abilities and high scores on the LSAT and GMAT. Students who earn a JD-MBA often pursue careers in any combination of business and law professions.

It is not uncommon for universities to offer dual graduate degree programs such as a JD-MBA if they already offer both individual degree tracks. While program specifics, such as length and concentrations, differ across different institutions, students can expect to develop a strong understanding of law and business theories as well as strong foundations in policy.

Most JD-MBA programs require a bachelor’s degree. While there is no one bachelor’s degree subject required, some prove more helpful to students than others. These include a bachelor’s in paralegal studies, a bachelor’s in business administration, or a bachelor’s in legal studies.

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

In this course, learners study the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure. These are the basic rules that guide civil procedure within court and other legal processes. Students focus on the foundational policies behind specific court procedures as well as how federal and state jurisdictions impact civil proceedings.

Legal contracts constitute the basis for many civil court cases. This course focuses on interpreting and writing contracts, effects of breach of contract, and accepting and declining contractual offers.

This course provides learners with information on how to use statistics and situation-specific methods in management to solve problems and track improvements in business. Students focus on scientific approaches to management.

A common course in MBA and JD-MBA courses, marketing management addresses how to make decisions and develop strategies and skills in marketing. Learners look at decision-making across entire organizations and businesses as well as the impact of these decisions.

A JD-MBA, sometimes listed as a MBA/JD, bridges the gap between business and law schools.

Potential career paths mirror this, including in-house legal counsels or risk-management directors. Common careers for someone with a JD-MBA are attorney, financial manager, and auditor. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, these professionals earn median annual salaries between $77,250 and $131,710, as of May 2021.

A JD-MBA is a specialized graduate degree that gives students applicable skills for the business and legal sectors. For example, managing a business involves knowledge of regulations and compliance, and law offices require business skills to attract clients and operate successfully.

A business attorney generally works for a law office. They research and write legal documents to settle disputes for business clients. Business attorneys argue client cases in court and negotiate terms within settlements. A business attorney generally specializes in taxation, patents, property ownership, or other areas related to a specific business.

Average Annual Salary (as of May 2022): $81,730

A director of risk management uses knowledge in both law and business to analyze financial data and trends to measure risks to a company’s financial health. These professionals develop plans and guide businesses step by step to enhance and further develop operations in a financially sound manner.

Average Annual Salary (as of May 2022): $124,200

An investment manager handles investment accounts for individuals or businesses. When working for a business, these professionals often handle funds associated with employee retirement accounts as well. An investment manager protects a fund’s initial value and forms a strategy to help these funds grow. They must be aware of market changes and laws surrounding investments.

Median Annual Salary (as of May 2021): $131,710

Some may decide to seek higher degrees after obtaining a JD-MBA to begin careers in academia. Pursuing a Ph.D. in law or a doctorate in criminal justice might make a resume stand out, but they are not necessary to practice law.

Lawyers are required to participate in continuing education, and most states have a minimum continued legal education requirement that must be completed each year. Some JD-MBA graduates may already hold a paralegal graduate certificate. Other advanced degrees available include a doctorate of business administration or a master’s in legal studies.