A fast-track JD/MBA program jointly developed by University of Southern California, Gould School of Law and USC Marshall School of Business aims to give students a faster path to leadership roles across law, business and management.
The program, the first accelerated JD/MBA of its kind on the West Coast, is now accepting applications for its inaugural Fall 2026 cohort.
Designed to be completed in three academic years, the program spans eight consecutive semesters, including summers. Students earn both degrees on a shortened timeline while completing specialized coursework, an experiential learning requirement and a structured mentorship component.
“Students will have all the support mechanisms that both schools already provide, and additional support from structures we are building for the accelerated program,” said David Kirschner, associate dean for admissions, financial aid and innovation at USC Gould, who was instrumental in the launch.
The curriculum is customizable and structured to reflect the individualized nature of USC’s traditional JD and MBA programs, allowing students to tailor their studies to career goals that span legal, corporate and executive leadership.
“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 of career paths aligned with their interests,” said Kyle Mayer, vice dean of MBA programs at USC Marshall.
