Joint Degrees

The law school offers several joint degree programs:

1.  J.D./M.B.A. (4 year program)
2.  J.D./M.B.A. (3 year Fast Track program)
3.  J.D./M.A. in Economics (4 year program)
4.  J.D./LL.M. in Taxation (3 1/2 year program)

J.D./M.B.A. Programs

The combined J.D. /M.B.A. programs are offered jointly by the Dedman School of Law and the Cox School of Business. These programs are designed for law practice with a strong business background and for business careers with a strong legal background. Through these programs, the combined degrees may be obtained in either four academic years or in three academic years (Fast Track J.D./M.B.A program.)  Separately they would require five academic years.

These programs have been established so that an individual may integrate his or her educational experience in law and business. Since management, personnel, and corporate attorneys have their individual considerations and goals, by taking law and business courses simultaneously the student may achieve an understanding of commercial affairs from two different points of view.

J.D./M.A. in Economics Program

The combined J.D/M.A. in Economics — Law and Economics Track program is offered jointly by the Dedman School of Law and the SMU Department of Economics in Dedman College. The program is designed for law students with some prior background in economics who wish to develop further their abilities to deal with complex economic issues.

Accelerated Tax LL.M. Option

Students enrolled in the J.D. program have the option to earn both a J.D. and LL.M. in Taxation in only seven semesters of full-time study.  This dual-degree program does not change the requirements for either degree, but it does allow students to count a limited number of classes toward satisfying both degrees.  Students interested in this program should meet with the Dean for International and Graduate Programs early in their academic career to be sure they are meeting the requirements of the J.D./LL.M. dual degree.

Admission to M.B.A or M.A. Joint Degree Programs

Joint degree applicants must submit separate applications to the Graduate Division of the Cox School of Business or the SMU Department of Economics in Dedman College. Admission applications should be addressed to both schools, with the statement that they are for the joint J.D. /M.B.A. or J.D. /M.A. program.

To be admitted to a joint program, law students must apply before beginning their law studies or during their first year of law school. Students who wish to pursue the joint program after starting their first year of law school must obtain the permission of the Assistant Dean for Student Affairs at the Dedman School of Law.

Applications to the M.B.A. program may be obtained by calling 214-768-1214. Applications to the M.A. in Economics program may be obtained by calling 214-768-2694.