A JD/MBA program combines an MBA and a law degree, making graduates highly sought after by employers. These programs teach students important business skills while giving them a solid background in law.
What Is a JD/MBA program?
JD/MBA programs are dual master’s degree programs. This type of program allows students to earn an MBA and a Juris Doctor simultaneously. Many students want to pursue multiple degrees, and most colleges allow double majors. But in law school, double majoring is problematic. That’s because law school alone takes at least three years of full-time study.
Featured Programs
For students who want to major in both law and business, a JD/MBA dual degree program is ideal. It will allow you to gain knowledge and skills in both business and law at the same time. And rather than three years of law school and an additional two years earning an MBA degree, these programs take around three to four years to finish.
Is It Hard to Earn a JD/MBA?
These programs are intense and academically rigorous, so they are a big commitment. If you do not need both skill sets, choosing either business or law school is probably better. Additionally, these dual degree programs are highly competitive. With most schools, you’ll need to apply separately to the law schools and business schools and be admitted to both.
You may also like: What Are the Differences Between a Master of Legal Studies, Master of Laws, and a Juris Master’s Degree?
Why Pursue a JD/MBA?
Students who complete a JD/MBA degree program instantly make themselves more marketable. That’s because the combination of skills from two different disciplines is highly sought after in the workplace. The knowledge you gain bridges that gap between economics and law, making you attractive to potential employers.
Another reason to pursue a JD/MBA degree program is that it opens up more job options. You can pursue a wide range of careers with this degree. Graduates of JD/MBA programs go on to be corporate lawyers, financial advisors, business managers, and the heads of law firms. They use their business and legal knowledge every day. And most of these roles command a generous salary.
Finally, JD/MBA programs will save you money in addition to time. Because the coursework is condensed, you’ll likely save at least a year on tuition. Plus, you’ll graduate faster.
Related: What Careers Are Available with a JD/MBA?
Top Affordable JD/MBA Dual Degrees: Methodology
This list features the top JD/MBA programs available now. These programs have been selected for this ranking based on the cost of graduate tuition. All of the schools have been accredited by a nationally recognized accreditation board. Additionally, we’ve verified the nonprofit status of each one. They are ordered from highest to lowest scores.
About JD/MBA Degree Tuition Structures
Tuition varies widely among colleges offering JD/MBA dual degrees. In most cases, getting a dual degree costs more than earning just a JD or an MBA. However, it always costs less than if you took the programs separately.
The tuition structures for these programs can be complicated. For example, at some colleges, students pay the tuition fee for whichever school they are taking courses in at the time. So part of the time, you would pay the law school tuition, and the rest of the time, you would pay the MBA program tuition. Often students attend classes at both the law and business schools during years three and four. What happens then? At some colleges, students will pay a percentage of the law school tuition and a percentage of the business school tuition. Of course, other colleges may have an entirely different tuition structure.
Because of this complexity, we’ve made ranking simple. The tuition fees listed in this article are based on in-state graduate tuition per academic year. All figures come from NCES College Navigator.
Note that the fees for out-of-state or online students may differ. And tuition for the JD/MBA programs may vary from a school’s standard graduate tuition rates. If you want to know the total amount a JD/MBA program will cost at a particular school, you’ll want to consult with the program advisors at both the law and business schools.
Top JD/MBA Program Rankings
| School | Tuition | Score |
| University of Wyoming | $5,382 | 100 |
| University of South Dakota | $6,123 | 99.75 |
| Texas Southern University | $6,858 | 99.50 |
| Texas Tech University | $6,956 | 99.25 |
| University of Utah | $6,970 | 99.00 |
| Georgia State University | $7,164 | 98.75 |
| University of Arkansas | $7,875 | 98.50 |
| University of Houston | $8,713 | 98.25 |
| Florida International University | $8,912 | 98.00 |
| North Carolina State University | $9,095 | 97.75 |
| Louisiana State University | $9,132 | 97.50 |
| Florida State University | $9,684 | 97.25 |
| Indiana University at Bloomington | $9,909 | 97.00 |
| University of Kansas | $9,989 | 96.75 |
| West Virginia University | $10,332 | 96.50 |
| University of Wisconsin | $10,728 | 96.25 |
| University of Florida | $10,770 | 96.00 |
| University of Alabama | $10,780 | 95.75 |
| University of Tennessee at Knoxville | $11,468 | 95.50 |
| Arizona State University | $11,720 | 95.25 |
| University of Texas at Austin | $12,050 | 95.00 |
| University of Colorado at Boulder | $12,168 | 94.75 |
| University of Kentucky | $12,311 | 94.50 |
| University of Cincinnati | $13,224 | 94.25 |
| Regent University | $15,590 | 94.00 |
| University of Washington | $16,605 | 93.75 |
| Western Michigan University | $16,884 | 93.50 |
| Creighton University | $17,190 | 93.25 |
| University of Connecticut | $17,532 | 93.00 |
| University of Virginia | $17,674 | 92.75 |
| DePaul University | $17,951 | 92.50 |
| University of Dayton | $18,090 | 92.25 |
| Loyola University Chicago | $18,990 | 92.00 |
| Michigan State University | $19,714 | 91.75 |
| Nova Southeastern University | $21,153 | 91.50 |
| Fordham University | $23,112 | 91.25 |
| Penn State University | $23,189 | 91.00 |
| Duquesne University | $24,534 | 90.75 |
| Widener University | $25,100 | 90.50 |
| Seton Hall University | $25,218 | 90.25 |
| Northeastern University | $25,801 | 90.00 |
| University of San Francisco | $27,180 | 89.75 |
| Illinois Institute of Technology | $29,052 | 89.50 |
| St. John’s University | $30,666 | 89.25 |
| Pepperdine University | $37,300 | 89.00 |
| Syracuse University | $41,616 | 88.75 |
| Northwestern University | $56,067 | 88.50 |
| Boston University | $58,560 | 88.25 |
| Tulane University | $59,000 | 88.00 |
| University of Southern California | $60,446 | 87.75 |
Joint JD/MBA Programs Rankings
#1. University of Wyoming
JD/MBA
Laramie, Wyoming
The JD/MBA program at the University of Wyoming is designed to be completed in four years. Students in this program will spend three years working through the law portion. In the final year, they will study in the MBA program. Applicants of the JD MBA program must be admitted by the law school and the business school to participate. To remain in the program, they must comply with the minimum performance standards of both schools. The GMAT or GRE may not be required for applicants who demonstrate substantial academic ability. This decision is made by the Professional Graduate Degree Programs Office on a case-by-case basis.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $5,382
Score: 100
#2. University of South Dakota
JD/MBA
Vermillion, South Dakota
The University of South Dakota offers an on-campus JD/MBA dual degree program. Throughout this degree, students will work through a curriculum that teaches critical business topics and the skills needed for a career in law. To complete the JD MBA program, students will attend the USD Knudson School of Law, the only law school in South Dakota. This combined JD and MBA program can benefit careers in banking, business law, corporate counsel, and more.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $6,123
Score: 99.75
#3. Texas Southern University
MBA/Juris Doctorate
Houston, Texas
The dual MBA/Juris Doctorate offered at Texas Southern University is ideal for those who want to jumpstart their career in corporate America. Students will work through a curriculum designed to teach them the critical skills needed to work in business. Simultaneously, they will take courses at the Thurgood Marshall School of Law. The joint master’s business degree and law program lets students finish the required courses for each degree in four years instead of five. This unique JD MBA program prepares students with the skills needed for high-level careers in the public, private, and non-profit sectors.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges & Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition: $6,858
Score: 99.50
#4. Texas Tech University
JD/MBA
Lubbock, Texas
Texas Tech University offers a dual JD/MBA program through its graduate and law schools. This joint degree JD MBA program allows students to earn both degrees in three to four years of full-time study. This makes it one of the faster JD/MBA programs available. The MBA program is a condensed version of the traditional MBA program. So it gives students a broader overview of business knowledge in their area of interest. This flexible JD MBA program has online and summer courses to accommodate busy schedules.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges & Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition: $6,956
Score: 99.25
#5. University of Utah
JD/MBA
Salt Lake City, Utah
The University of Utah has a four-year JD/MBA degree program. It’s offered through the S.J. Quinney College of Law and the David Eccles School of Business. This dual degree requires applications to the law school and the MBA program. Those who are admitted must take their first year of courses solely through the College of Law. You must complete all the requirements for each program before you earn the JD or the MBA. Students who have completed this JD MBA program have gone on to careers as corporate lawyers, business managers, and other roles.
Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges & Universities
Tuition: $6,970
Score: 99
See Also: Top Scholarships for Online Students
#6. Georgia State University
MBA/Juris Doctor
Atlanta, Georgia
An MBA/Juris Doctor degree is offered at Georgia State University. The program is administered through the College of Law and the J. Mack Robinson College of Business. Students in this program will develop their understanding and fluency in business concepts while learning principles of law. This graduate school program is an excellent option for students interested in working as corporate lawyers or in high-level business positions. Students can pursue the degrees full-time or part-time, making it one of the most flexible MBA/JD programs on our list. Ninety credit hours are needed for the JD and 51 credit hours are required for the MBA program.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges & Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition: $7,164
Score: 98.75
#7. University of Arkansas
JD/MBA
Fayetteville, Arkansas
This top JD/MBA degree is available at the University of Arkansas. You need 90 credit hours for the JD degree and 50 for the MBA program. Students will have a total of 24 shared hours for both degrees. The dual degree program can be completed in four years if pursued full-time. Students in the JD MBA program will work through a curriculum designed to teach essential business and management skills and law concepts. Students spend their time taking courses at the School of Law and the Graduate Business School.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $7,875
Score: 98.50
#8. University of Houston
MBA/Doctor of Jurisprudence
Houston, Texas
Students interested in studying at the University of Houston can enroll in the school’s MBA/Doctor of Jurisprudence degree. It’s offered through the Bauer College of Business and UH Law School. Students in this dual degree program will develop essential business concepts while gaining a solid background in law. A total of 105 credits are needed to complete the program, which takes three and a half to four years for full-time students. Part-time students can expect the JD/MBA program to take about five or six years. Students must enroll separately and be admitted to the business and law program, with two degrees awarded upon completion.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges & Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition: $8,713
Score: 98.25
#9. Florida International University
Master of Business Administration/Jurisprudence Doctorate
Miami, Florida
Florida International University students can enroll in an on-campus MBA/JD dual degree program. This pathway requires students to be accepted to the law school and the business college. And candidates who have already completed one degree cannot apply to the program. It is delivered in several ways, including a Flex MBA program and a longer Downtown MBA/JD. A total of 60 credits are needed to graduate from this JD MBA program. After completion, students will be prepared to practice law or pursue roles in corporate business.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges & Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition: $8,912
Score: 98
#10. North Carolina State University
JD/MBA
Raleigh, North Carolina
North Carolina State University students can enroll in this JD/MBA program. This JD MBA program is offered in collaboration with the neighboring Campbell University. Students pursuing this degree program will earn their MBA from North Carolina State University. And they will earn their JD while enrolled at the law program at Campbell University. Courses in this law and MBA program will be double-counted, allowing students to earn this degree in just four years of full-time study. The program equips students for high-level careers in business or to practice law.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges & Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition: $9,095
Score: 97.75
#11. Louisiana State University
JD/MBA
Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Louisiana State University offers the next JD/MBA program on our list. By allowing students to earn overlapping credits, LSU reduces the standard five years it would take to earn these degrees separately. So students can complete the dual program in just four years. Those pursuing the JD MBA program will take law courses through the Paul M. Herbert Law Center. And they will take business courses at the E.J. Ourso College of Business. So, like most of the other programs on our JD/MBA programs list, students spend time at each school, and each degree is awarded separately.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges & Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition: $9,132
Score: 97.50
#12. Florida State University
JD/MBA
Tallahassee, Florida
Students at Florida State University can enroll in a JD/MBA program. This joint degree is offered to students on-campus. Students spend time taking courses from the College of Business and the College of Law concurrently. So students can expect to complete the two degrees in four years of full-time study. The Master of Business Administration offered in this joint degree is an accelerated version of the FSU MBA program. Students must meet specific GMAT, GRE, and LSAT scores to enroll in this JD MBA program.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges & Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition: $9,684
Score: 97.25
#13. Indiana University at Bloomington
JD/MBA
Bloomington, Indiana
This JD/MBA is a three-year program at Indiana University. It is offered through the Maurer School of Law and the Kelley School of Business. It’s one of the best accelerated JD/MBA programs on our list. The program is rigorous, and students must apply and be accepted at each school. The LSAT and GMAT or GRE are required. Indiana University also offers a four-year JD/MBA program for students who would like to go at a slower pace.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $9,909
Score: 97
#14. University of Kansas
JD/MBA
Lawrence, Kansas
The University of Kansas offers a four-year JD/MBA program. It combines the three-year law school program and the two-year business management program. With this dual degree, students take three years of law courses and then one year of business study. Additionally, the MBA program is a cohort program. Students must be admitted into both programs to participate. The GMAT and the LSAT are both required for admission. A 3.0 GPA is required for all business coursework, and a 2.0 is required for coursework toward the JD degree.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $9,989
Score: 96.75
#15. West Virginia University
JD/MBA
Morgantown, West Virginia
West Virginia University offers a dual JD/MBA program. This degree is available to students partially online. Students will take their Juris Doctorate courses on-campus and complete their MBA degrees remotely. The program equips students for careers in government, banking, management, and more. This is one of the best joint JD MBA programs we’ve found. Plus, it’s also one of the fastest JD/MBA programs on our list. It takes about three years to graduate and earn both degrees.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $10,332
Score: 96.50
#16. University of Wisconsin
JD/MBA
Madison, Wisconsin
University of Wisconsin students can choose a dual degree in law and business. This program combines courses from the University of Wisconsin Law School and the Wisconsin Business School. Both schools are strongly committed to helping students tailor a JD MBA program that meets their specific goals. This program takes approximately four years. So it saves a year of study compared to pursuing either a law or MBA program separately. Dual degree students must complete 90 credits. This includes up to 30 elective law credits.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $10,728
Score: 96.25
#17. University of Florida
JD/MBA
Gainesville, Florida
UF offers a JD/MBA program through the Warrington College of Business. This program is designed so students can earn both degrees in less time. The University of Florida estimates it can be completed in about four years. Students in this program will work through a curriculum designed to teach business skills and key law concepts. Additionally, other MBA dual degree options are available at UF. For example, students can pursue an MBA combined with a master’s in Real Estate or Information Sytems. They can also get a dual Medicine/MBA or Pharmacy/MBA.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges & Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition: $10,770
Score: 96
See Also: Affordable Nonprofit Online Colleges
#18. University of Alabama
JD/MBA
Tuscaloosa, Alabama
Students at the University of Alabama can enroll in a four-year JD/MBA program. It is offered through the Manderson Graduate Business School and the Law School. A few of the courses in these programs are provided to students online. You need 114 credits to graduate with both degrees. For full-time students, it takes about four years. You’ll spend the first year at the law school and the second year in the business school. In the final two years, you’ll take both law classes and business classes.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges & Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition: $10,780
Score: 95.75
#19. University of Tennessee at Knoxville
JD/MBA
Knoxville, Tennessee
The University of Tennessee at Knoxville offers a combined JD/MBA. By combining these two degrees, students can save 15 credits of study time, which equates to about one semester of study. This program is a good choice for students who want to develop expertise in business and management while earning a degree in law. Candidates must satisfy each school’s requirements to earn the dual degree. The program is offered through the Haslam College of Business and the Law School.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges & Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition: $11,468
Score: 95.50
#20. Arizona State University
Online MBA/Master of Legal Studies
Tempe, Arizona
This next program is a little different than the others on our list. It’s an online dual MBA and Master of Legal Studies Degree. Students in this concurrent degree program will earn an MBA while studying topics like Criminal Procedure and Constitutional Law. The MBA portion is through the W. P. Carey School of Business. And the legal studies program is through the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law. Sixty-three credit hours are required to complete the degree. ASU has one of the best JD MBA programs online. However, like traditional JD/MBA programs, students must apply to and be accepted at both the law and business schools.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $11,720
Score: 95.25
#21. University of Texas at Austin
JD/MBA
Austin, Texas
Students at the University of Texas at Austin can enroll in a Master of Business Administration/JD program. To complete this degree, students must earn a total of 117 credits. Seventy credit hours of the program must be earned through the School of Law. The other 47 credit hours of the MBA program will be earned at the business school. Full-time students can complete both degrees in about four years. Both degrees are awarded simultaneously, so students should plan to finish their requirements during the same semester.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges & Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition: $12,050
Score: 95
#22. University of Colorado at Boulder
JD/MBA
Boulder, Colorado
The next Juris Doctor/MBA degree is offered by the University of Colorado at Boulder. The program is a partnership between Leeds School of Business and the Law School. This degree program is designed to be completed in about four years. Students must apply to and be admitted to the law and the MBA program to qualify. And they must take the first-year curriculum exclusively at the law school. Tuition and rates can vary depending on which UC campus a student plans to attend.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $12,168
Score: 94.75
#23. University of Kentucky
JD/MBA
Lexington, Kentucky
Students at the University of Kentucky can enroll in the school’s JD/MBA program. This law and business program allows students to earn an MBA and Juris Doctor simultaneously. A total of 109 credit hours are needed to complete the program. And it can be completed in three years. The University claims the school’s program offers the shortest time to both degrees available. Although accelerated, students still have time for professional preparation and internships in the program. The law school program is offered through the Rosenberg College of Law. And the MBA program is through the Carol Martin Gatton College of Business and Economics.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges & Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition: $12,311
Score: 94.50
#24. University of Cincinnati
JD/MBA
Cincinnati, Ohio
The University of Cincinnati offers this next top-ranking JD/MBA degree. Students in this program will spend their first year enrolled at Cincinnati Law and their second year in the Lindner College of Business. The third and fourth years will primarily be back at Cincinnati Law. Students must be admitted to both the business and law schools to be considered. This is one of the best JD/MBA programs we’ve found. And it is ideal for those who want to simultaneously earn a business degree and take their legal education to the next level.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $13,224
Score: 94.25
#25. Regent University
JD/MBA
Virginia Beach, Virginia
Regent University students can enroll in a dual degree Juris Doctor and MBA program. It is offered through the School of Business & Leadership and the law school. Students in this program will develop a unique skillset perfect for the current job market. They will study key legal concepts and ideas typically required for a career in law. But they will also receive training in business analytics, finance, accounting, economics, and more. Students who want to pursue this joint degree must seek admission before completing a third of any single degree program. They will also need to consult with their faculty advisor to devise an approved degree plan.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges & Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition: $15,590
Score: 94
#26. University of Washington
JD/MBA
Seattle, Washington
The University of Washington offers an excellent JD/MBA program. This program is designed to teach students business skills while simultaneously pursuing a degree in law. Students will take courses from the Law School and the Foster School of Business at UW. Students can complete the program in four years by pursuing these degrees in a joint format. The University of Washington maintains relationships with nearby businesses like Microsoft and Amazon. And they can sometimes help with career placement.
Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges & Universities
Tuition: $16,605
Score: 93.75
#27. Western Michigan University
JD/MBA
Kalamazoo, Michigan
Students enrolled at Western Michigan University can enroll in a Juris Doctor/MBA dual degree program. It is offered through the Haworth College of Business and the Thomas M. Cooley Law School. By enrolling in this joint degree, students can reduce their study time to four years. Courses include international finance, business tax planning, business venturing, contract law, and more. Students must complete the second degree within 12 months of the first to earn both degrees.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $16,884
Score: 93.50
#28. Creighton University
JD/MBA
Omaha, Nebraska
Students can enroll in a JD/MBA program at Creighton University. This joint law and business program is offered on-campus. The first year of study is strictly at the law school, and students must submit a “Notice of Intent” form to the Associate Dean before enrolling in their first MBA class. Creighton offers several concentrations for this program. They include Business Law, Criminal Law & Procedure, Health Law, and more. At least 60 credit hours are needed to finish the program. And students must apply to and be admitted to each school for consideration.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $17,190
Score: 93.25
Related: Largest Nonprofit Online Universities
#29. University of Connecticut
JD/MBA
Hartford, Connecticut
The University of Connecticut offers a Juris Doctor/Master of Business Administration degree. A total of 116 credit hours are needed to complete this program of study. It is available as a three-year or a four-year program. However, the three-year program is one of the fastest JD/MBA programs available. In both programs, students will take courses offered by the School of Business and the Law School. You must be admitted to each degree program to qualify. Part-time students are welcome to apply. In addition, the school has flexible evening classes for working professionals.
Accreditation: New England Commission on Higher Education
Tuition: $17,532
Score: 93
#30. University of Virginia
JD/MBA
Charlottesville, Virginia
Students at the University of Virginia can enroll in a four-year JD/MBA program. Courses are offered by the School of Law and the Darden School of Business. Students must secure admission for each degree program separately. And they must notify the registrars and apply to the faculty advisors to do this. A total of 122 credits are needed to complete the whole program. In addition, students are required to meet the grading standards of each school to be awarded both degrees.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges & Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition: $17,674
Score: 92.75
#31. DePaul University
JD/MBA
Chicago, Illinois
DePaul University currently offers students a JD/MBA degree on-campus. To complete this program, students must earn 72 credits across both the Juris Doctor program and the MBA. Students enrolled in this program will work to expand their knowledge of legal concepts and learn vital business management skills. The MBA program at DePaul is accredited by AACSB International. Accreditation by this elite body is highly coveted throughout the world. Additionally, there are 16 concentrations for students to choose from. This program is ideal for those looking for high-level career paths in business.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $17,951
Score: 92.50
#32. University of Dayton
JD/MBA
Dayton, Ohio
The next JD/MBA program is available to students at the University of Dayton. Students can earn two professional degrees in less time by enrolling in this program. You’ll take courses from both the School of Law and the School of Business Administration. And the program can be completed in four years if pursued full-time. You must meet the admission requirements of both the business and law schools. And you’ll be required to take your first year of coursework at the law school.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $18,090
Score: 92.25
#33. Loyola University Chicago
JD/MBA
Chicago, Illinois
Loyola University Chicago offers a JD/MBA dual-degree program in law and business. Students will attend the Quinlan School of Business and the School of Law at Loyola. The program allows students to complete both degrees with six fewer credits than if they were pursued separately. In addition to the JD degree, students in the program will earn an MBA degree with a specialization in business law. A total of nine credit hours from each degree program are counted toward the other degree program.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $18,990
Score: 92
#34. Michigan State University
JD/MBA
East Lansing, Michigan
Students at Michigan State University can enroll in the school’s JD/MBA. This MBA/Juris Doctor program is designed to prepare students for a career in corporate law. However, it can lead to several other lucrative careers as well. Students can complete the two degrees in about four years. Candidates will work through the Juris Doctorate course and the MBA courses concurrently. Both the law school and the business school award funding to qualified applicants. However, this financial aid program is competitive, so candidates are encouraged to apply early. Students must be accepted at both the law and business colleges to participate.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $19,714
Score: 91.75
#35. Nova Southeastern University
JD/MBA
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Students at Nova Southeastern University can enroll in a JD/MBA dual degree. It is offered by the Huizenga College of Business & Entrepreneurship. The program is designed for students who want to expand their understanding of business and management principles. Students can expect to complete the program in about four years. This dual degree affords students a wide range of opportunities for new career paths. In addition to the dual law JD/MBA program, students can also choose from several other dual degree programs. These include real estate, accounting, medicine, and more.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges & Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition: $21,153
Score: 91.50
#36. Fordham University
JD/MBA
Bronx, New York
A JD/MBA program is offered to students by Fordham University. Students enrolled in this graduate school program will attend the Fordham Law School. And for the MBA degree, they will take courses at the Gabelli School of Business. It takes four years of full-time study to complete the dual degree program. And students will need to be admitted to the School of Law and business school separately. Throughout the program, students will alternate their studies between the two schools.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $23,112
Score: 91.25
#37. Penn State University
JD/MBA
University Park, Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania State University students can enroll in a JD/MBA program. It’s offered through Penn State Law and the Smeal College of Business. All candidates must apply and be accepted to both the business and law schools. Students will be in residence at the law school for six semesters. And they will attend the MBA degree program for two, for a total of eight semesters. Typically, students can complete this graduate school program in four years. You must complete the first-year curriculum at the law school before enrolling in courses for the MBA degree at Smeal.
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Tuition: $23,189
Score: 91
#38. Duquesne University
JD-MBA Joint Degree
Pittsburgh, Pennslyvania
Duquesne University offers a JD-MBA Joint Degree program to its students on campus. It takes full-time students approximately four years to complete. However, part-time students may also apply. Students will work through a curriculum designed to teach them crucial skills to succeed in business, plus core concepts in law. Students can either begin at the law school or the business school, but they must be accepted to each program separately. Prospective students must also submit a recommendation from the School of Law registrar.
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Tuition: $24,534
Score: 90.75
#39. Widener University
JD/MBA
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
Students at Widener University can enroll in the school’s Juris Doctor and online MBA dual degree. Its offered through Delaware Law and the Widener University School of Business Administration. Students will have a reduction of 18 credits over pursuing the two degrees separately. This dual degree can be completed in four years of full-time study. Part-time students can complete it in five years. The MBA JD program at Widener can equip students to work in corporate environments, law firms, and more.
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Tuition: $25,100
Score: 90.50
#40. Seton Hall University
JD/MBA
Newark, New Jersey
Students at Seton Hall University can enroll in a four-year dual degree in law and business. This program is only offered to students on-campus. The MBA program requires 42 credits, and the JD degree requires 88 credits. A maximum of 12 credits earned at either the business school or school of law can count toward the other program. The dual degree is only available to full-time students. And it is only open to students in their first-year program at the law school. Prospective students must complete separate admissions documents for each degree.
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Tuition: $25,218
Score: 90.25
#41. Northeastern University
JD/MBA
Boston, Massachusetts
Northeastern University students can enroll in an accelerated JD/MBA program. Offered on-campus, this joint degree program combines courses from the D’Amore-McKim School of Business with the Northeastern School of Law. Students earn both a law degree and a master’s in business. The program can be completed in four years. Courses include corporations, patent law, financial management, and more. The first and last years of this program are dedicated to the law portion. And the middle two years focus on the business degree.
Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
Tuition: $25,801
Score: 90
#42. University of San Francisco
JD/MBA
San Francisco, California
The University of San Francisco offers a JD/MBA degree program. This program is through the University’s Law School and School of Management. By combining courses from the law and business school, students can reduce the total time to earn both the law and business degrees to just four years. A total of 84 credit hours are needed to complete the program. You will need to submit separate applications for each program. Part-time JD students who wish to join the program must convert to full-time status in the second year to be eligible.
Accreditation: Western Association of Schools & Colleges Senior College & University Commission
Tuition: $27,180
Score: 89.75
#43. Illinois Institute of Technology
JD/MBA
Chicago, Illinois
The JD/MBA program at Illinois Tech is offered through a partnership with the Chicago-Kent College of Law. Students in this program will work through both a Juris Doctorate and MBA program concurrently. By double-counting some of the credits in these programs, students can complete this degree in four years. Candidates must apply to and be accepted by each program separately. Students in this program will develop business and management skills while simultaneously earning a law degree. This will enable them to work in many roles, such as law firms, banks, corporate environments, and more.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $29,052
Score: 89.50
#44. St. John’s University
JD/MBA
Queens, New York
St. John’s University offers a four-year JD/MBA program. Courses in this program are offered by the Tobin College of Business and the Law School. While completing this degree, students will study topics in business analytics, law and other important business ideas and principles. The total credits needed for both the law and business degrees combined is 107. Students in the program can complete 30 credit hours of business coursework without having to pay additional tuition.
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Tuition: $30,666
Score: 89.25
#45. Pepperdine University
JD/MBA
Malibu, California
The next JD/MBA degree on our list is at Pepperdine University. Students must be admitted to the Caruso School of Law and the Graziadio Business School. This is an on-campus, 129-credit-hour program that can be completed in four years of full-time study. However, students may also enroll part-time. The program includes 47 units of business courses and 82 units of law studies. Classes begin in the fall semester of each year. This program equips students to work in many settings, including law firms, corporate environments, banking, and more.
Accreditation: Western Association of Schools & Colleges
Tuition: $37,300
Score: 89
#46. Syracuse University
JD/MBA
Syracuse, New York
Students at Syracuse University can enroll in the nation’s only online joint JD/MBA program. It is offered through the College of Law and the Whitman School of Management. This ABA-accredited program is designed for students who cannot relocate to attend law school. The law and MBA program features live online classes and self-paced instruction. Plus, there are plenty of opportunities for experiential learning. It is taught by the same professors as the on-campus programs. Students can earn both degrees in about 4.5 years by earning 6 to 11 credits each term.
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Tuition: $41,616
Score: 88.75
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#47. Northwestern University
JD/MBA
Evanston, Illinois
Northwestern University offers a JD/MBA program through the Kellogg School. By combining these programs, students will reduce the time needed to graduate to just three years. This is one of the fastest JD/MBA degrees on this list. Students in this program will start their first year focusing on the law curriculum. In the second year, students will switch to the business school. They will then return to the law curriculum for their third year. Northwestern has the country’s largest JD-MBA program and the largest alumni network.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $56,067
Score: 88.50
#48. Boston University
Accelerated 3-Year JD/MBA in Law & Management
Boston, Massachusetts
Boston University offers an Accelerated JD/MBA in Law & Management degree. Designed to be completed across seven semesters, students can finish this degree in just three years. Students will concurrently take courses from the MBA program and the Juris Doctorate program. The courses in this program are offered in the evening. This is to provide working professionals greater flexibility with class scheduling. To succeed in the program, students must take a full course load. And they will need to attend the summer semester of the first year. The second summer will be an internship at a law firm or other legal setting.
Accreditation: New England Association of Schools & Colleges
Tuition: $58,560
Score: 88.25
#49. Tulane University
JD/MBA
New Orleans, Louisiana
This next JD/MBA degree program is found at Tulane University. Tulane offers this degree in a three-year and a four-year format. The three-year format follows an accelerated curriculum and is one of the fastest JD/MBA programs available. The four-year program offers a similar education experience at a slightly slower pace. Students will take courses at both the Tulane Law School and the Freeman Business School.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges & Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition: $59,000
Score: 88
#50. University of Southern California
JD/MBA
Los Angeles, California
University of Southern California students can enroll in a Juris Doctor/Master of Business Administration program. A total of 91 credit hours are needed to earn both the law and business degrees. This program is designed to be completed in four years. By completing this degree, students will develop business and management skills to work in law firms and corporate settings. Applicants must apply to the law school and the business school and take the LSAT and the GMAT or GRE.
Accreditation: Western Association of Schools & Colleges
Tuition: $60,446
Score: 87.75
How Do You Get Accepted into the Top JD/MBA Programs?
Most JD/MBA programs are very selective. And the most well-known colleges—such as Duke University, Harvard University, and the University of Chicago—are even more competitive. We’ve left some Ivy League Institutions off our list for this reason. However, we’ll discuss a few of them in this final section.
For all JD/MBA programs, applicants will generally need to apply separately to the law and business schools. And they will need to earn admission to each one. There are two options if candidates are accepted at one school but not the other. One is to try and add the extra degree later on. The other is to cross-register for coursework at the other school.
Candidates also need to be aware of the order in which they submit their applications. Some programs require students to apply and enroll at each school simultaneously. Other schools want candidates to be accepted at the law school before applying to the business school.
Test Scores Needed for JD/MBA Programs
You will want the highest scores possible on the GMAT and LSAT to apply. Some schools may waive test scores. And others will allow candidates to submit GRE scores instead. But that’s not the case for all of them. So if you are looking at specific law or business schools, check into these requirements well in advance.
Application Essays and Letters of Recommendation
For each program, you will usually need recommendation letters and application essays. However, you will give yourself the best chance of acceptance by submitting different ones to each school. That’s because law and business schools are not always looking for the same characteristics from their applicants.
Also, the guidelines can vary widely between law and business schools. So it’s best to pay close attention to what each school is looking for. Then, write separate essays. And ask those writing your recommendation letters to tailor them to each graduate school separately.
The details of each MBA/JD program will vary, as will the deadlines. Students should try and target only those programs they are highly interested in. Then, research all the specifics. Contact each program’s admissions officers if you are confused about any aspect of the process.
Examples of Ivy League Institution Admissions Processes
Harvard University
Harvard offers a Joint Degree Program in Law and Business. Students will attend both the Law School and Harvard Business School. Candidates must apply to and be admitted separately to each school. At Harvard, students can apply to each school simultaneously. However, they can also apply for the JD/MBA program during their first year at either the Law School or Harvard Business School.
Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania
UPenn students interested in the JD/MBA program need to submit their applications first to the Carey JD/MBA Program. This is accomplished via the Wharton School application process. The Wharton School application includes information for the MBA and the law school portion. With this integrated system, candidates do not need to apply to each separate school.
Duke University
Duke Law School and the Fuqua School of Business offer an accelerated JD/MBA program. Like the Wharton School application, Duke University has a streamlined application process. You only need to submit one online application instead of one for Duke Law School and another for Fuqua. You can retry later if you are accepted at the business school but not the law school, and vice-versa. Duke Law School does require standard law entrance exams.
NPCO Staff
This concludes our ranking of the top JD/MBA programs
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