University of San Diego School of Law has partnered with Centro de Enseñanza Técnica y Superior (CETYS) University to create an accelerated cross-border pathway that allows Mexican law students to earn a U.S. law degree in approximately four and a half years.
Formalized through a newly signed memorandum of understanding, the program allows CETYS students to complete legal studies in both Mexico and the United States while earning an LL.M. from USD School of Law.
Designed to strengthen binational legal education, the program provides students with foundational knowledge of U.S. law along with opportunities to specialize in areas such as business and immigration law. Graduates may also be eligible to sit for the California Bar Exam, expanding their professional opportunities internationally.
Robert Schapiro, dean of USD School of Law, said the program will be an ideal way to equip the lawyers of the future to be able to support exchange among business and people across the border.
“The connections between California and Mexico — and particularly Southern California — we think are vital to the economic prosperity of both regions and also to the growth of the human relationships and the shared values that are so important to both of us,” Schapiro said.
The program is expected to enroll an initial cohort of approximately 30 students per year and aims to foster stronger cross-border collaboration, professional mobility and shared understanding between the two regions.
Law school leaders said the partnership reflects a commitment to preparing lawyers to navigate the increasingly interconnected legal, economic and social landscape between the United States and Mexico.
