The University of Southern California has launched a new accelerated JD MBA program that brings together the academic strengths of the USC Gould School of Law and the USC Marshall School of Business.
The announcement marks the creation of the first program of its kind on the West Coast. And it reflects the schools’ growing collaboration in response to rising student interest in interdisciplinary legal and business education.
The three-year curriculum compresses a traditional four-year dual degree into eight continuous semesters, including summer terms. Admissions leaders at USC report significant demand from prospective students seeking to fast-track their education and enter the workforce sooner, particularly those targeting executive leadership roles or positions requiring a blend of legal and business expertise.
The program integrates rigorous coursework from both schools and includes specialized classes, experiential learning opportunities, and coordinated mentorship designed to strengthen students’ preparation for competitive career paths. USC officials say the structure aims to mirror the customization available in each school’s standalone programs while adding new support systems tailored for accelerated students.
Interest in the program has already grown since informal outreach began, with admissions receiving a high volume of inquiries from prospective applicants. The program’s emphasis on flexibility and cross-disciplinary training aligns with trends across law, consulting, and accounting sectors, where roles increasingly require the ability to operate across multiple domains.
Administrators from both Gould and Marshall framed the initiative as part of a broader effort to innovate in response to evolving workplace expectations. Leaders say the accelerated offering reinforces USC’s position as a national hub for interdisciplinary higher education and expands opportunities for students seeking a diverse set of academic and career options.
KEY QUOTES
“Through creativity and collaboration, USC Gould and USC Marshall have partnered on an innovative program that not only advances our academic mission, but also opens up an abundance of professional possibilities.”
Franita Tolson, Dean, USC Gould School of Law
“USC is renowned for its scholarly excellence and leadership in both law and business, and our new accelerated degree places students at the cutting edge of both fields.”
Geoffrey Garrett, Dean, USC Marshall School of Business
“Our desire to meet the increasing demand for interdisciplinary education is a significant factor in creating this program — participating students will develop the skillset to explore and excel in a broad range career paths aligned with their interests.”
Kyle Mayer, Vice Dean of MBA Programs, USC Marshall School of Business
“Students will have all the support mechanisms that both schools already provide, and additional support from structures we are building for the accelerated program.”
“Collaboration within the USC academic community is a great opportunity for innovation that can help our students reach their goals.”
David Kirschner, Associate Dean of Admissions, Financial Aid and Innovation, USC Gould School of Law
