MBA Programs in Law
Tuition, ROI, Graduate Salary, GMAT Requirements
10 Best Ranked | Interactive Table | Salaries | Tuition | ROI | GMAT | Alumni Networking | How We Rank
$51,294
Average Tuition – Law MBA Programs
$91,955
Average Starting Salary – Law MBA Programs
587
Average GMAT Scores – Law MBA Programs
142%
Average ROI – Finance MBA Programs
Executive Summary for MBA Programs in Law MBA Programs
The ranking team at MBAGuide.org, evaluated 52 Law MBA programs. Here is a summary of our comprehensive findings. Explore the details about the Law MBA, compare schools, find states and cities where the degree is offered.
- Comprehensive comparisons, data and analysis – MBAGuide conducted an in-depth analysis of 52 AACSB-accredited campus MBA programs in Law to find the top programs in the country.
- Ranking metrics you care about – such as average starting salaries, tuition fees, return on investment (ROI), GMAT scores, alumni networks, student-to-faculty ratios, and more with no paywall.
- Detailed school profiles of Law MBA programs their strengths, faculty expertise, alumni networks to help align your program choice
Best 10 MBA Programs in Law
Indiana University Bloomington/Indianapolis
Kelley School of Business
Location:
- Bloomington
,
- IN
Control: Public
Academic Year: Semester
Accredited: AACSB
Accreditation: Business and Accounting
Facebook, Linkedin and TwitterDegree Level(s):
- Doctoral
- ·
- E-MBA
- ·
- Master
- ·
- MBA
- ·
- Undergraduate
Offered As:
- Campus
- ·
- Distance Education
- ·
- Full-Time
- ·
- Online
- Accounting
- Corporate Finance
- Data Analytics
- Finance
- General Business
- Global Management
- Healthcare Administration
- Information Systems
- International Business
- Law
- Management
- Other
- Taxation
- Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
- Better than State Average: GMAT
- Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio
Brigham Young University
Marriott School of Management
Location:
- Provo
,
- UT
Control: Private
Academic Year: Semester
Accredited: AACSB
Accreditation: Business and Accounting
Facebook, Linkedin and TwitterDegree Level(s):
- E-MBA
- ·
- Master
- ·
- MBA
- ·
- Undergraduate
Offered As:
- Campus
- ·
- Evenings
- ·
- Full-Time
- ·
- Off Campus
- ·
- Part-Time
- ·
- Weekends
- Accounting
- Corporate Finance
- Entrepreneurship
- Finance
- General Business
- Human Resources
- Information Systems
- Law
- Manufacturing
- Marketing
- Other
- Public Administration
- Science and Technology
- Supply Chain
- Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
- Better than State Average: GMAT
- Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio
Michigan State University
The Eli Broad College of Business
Location:
- East Lansing
,
- MI
Control: Public
Academic Year: Semester
Accredited: AACSB
Accreditation: Business and Accounting
Facebook, Linkedin and TwitterDegree Level(s):
- Doctoral
- ·
- E-MBA
- ·
- Master
- ·
- MBA
- ·
- Undergraduate
Offered As:
- 1-Year
- ·
- Campus
- ·
- Distance Education
- ·
- Evenings
- ·
- Full-Time
- ·
- Off Campus
- ·
- Online
- ·
- Part-Time
- ·
- Weekends
- Accounting
- Corporate Finance
- Data Analytics
- Finance
- General Business
- Healthcare Administration
- Hospitality Management
- Human Resources
- Information Systems
- Law
- Management
- Marketing
- Operations Management
- Organizational Behavior
- Other
- Supply Chain
- Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
- Better than State Average: GMAT
- Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio
The University of Georgia
Terry College of Business
Location:
- Athens
,
- GA
Control: Public
Academic Year: Semester
Accredited: AACSB
Accreditation: Business and Accounting
Facebook, Linkedin and TwitterDegree Level(s):
- Doctoral
- ·
- E-MBA
- ·
- Master
- ·
- MBA
- ·
- Undergraduate
Offered As:
- Campus
- ·
- Distance Education
- ·
- Evenings
- ·
- Full-Time
- ·
- Off Campus
- ·
- Online
- ·
- Part-Time
- ·
- Weekends
- Accounting
- Actuarial Science
- Arts
- Corporate Finance
- Data Analytics
- Entrepreneurship
- Finance
- General Business
- Global Management
- Human Resources
- Information Systems
- Insurance
- International Business
- Law
- Leadership
- Management
- Marketing
- Real Estate
- Science and Technology
- Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
- Better than State Average: GMAT
- Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio
University of Virginia-McIntire
McIntire School of Commerce
Location:
- Charlottesville
,
- VA
Control: Public
Academic Year: Semester
Accredited: AACSB
Accreditation: Business and Accounting
Facebook, Linkedin and TwitterDegree Level(s):
- Doctoral
- ·
- E-MBA
- ·
- Master
- ·
- MBA
- ·
- Undergraduate
Offered As:
- Campus
- ·
- Distance Education
- ·
- Evenings
- ·
- Full-Time
- ·
- Off Campus
- ·
- Part-Time
- ·
- Partnership
- ·
- Weekends
- Accounting
- Corporate Finance
- Data Analytics
- Entrepreneurship
- Finance
- General Business
- Global Management
- Healthcare Administration
- Information Systems
- International Business
- Law
- Management
- Marketing
- Organizational Behavior
- Other
- Public Administration
- Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
- Better than State Average: GMAT
- Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio
University of St. Thomas-Minnesota
Opus College of Business
Location:
- Minneapolis
,
- MN
Control: Private
Academic Year: Semester
Accredited: AACSB
Accreditation: Business
Facebook, Linkedin and TwitterDegree Level(s):
- E-MBA
- ·
- Master
- ·
- MBA
- ·
- Undergraduate
Offered As:
- Campus
- ·
- Distance Education
- ·
- Evenings
- ·
- Full-Time
- ·
- Online
- ·
- Part-Time
- ·
- Weekends
- Accounting
- Communications
- Corporate Finance
- Data Analytics
- E-Commerce
- Entrepreneurship
- Finance
- General Business
- Global Management
- Healthcare Administration
- Human Resources
- Insurance
- International Business
- Law
- Management
- Marketing
- Operations Management
- Real Estate
- Supply Chain
- Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
- Better than State Average: GMAT
- Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio
American University
Kogod School of Business
Location:
- Washington
,
- DC
Control: Private
Academic Year: Semester
Accredited: AACSB
Accreditation: Business
Facebook, Linkedin and TwitterDegree Level(s):
- Master
- ·
- MBA
- ·
- Undergraduate
Offered As:
- Campus
- ·
- Distance Education
- ·
- Full-Time
- ·
- Online
- ·
- Part-Time
- Accounting
- Arts
- Corporate Finance
- Cybersecurity
- Data Analytics
- Entrepreneurship
- Ethics
- Finance
- General Business
- Global Management
- Information Systems
- Insurance
- International Business
- Law
- Management
- Marketing
- Other
- Real Estate
- Taxation
- Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
- Better than State Average: GMAT
- Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio
Boston University
Questrom School of Business
Location:
- Boston
,
- MA
Control: Private
Academic Year: Semester
Accredited: AACSB
Accreditation: Business
Facebook, Linkedin and TwitterDegree Level(s):
- Doctoral
- ·
- Master
- ·
- MBA
- ·
- Undergraduate
Offered As:
- 1-Year
- ·
- Campus
- ·
- Evenings
- ·
- Full-Time
- ·
- Online
- ·
- Part-Time
- ·
- Partnership
- ·
- Weekends
- Corporate Finance
- Data Analytics
- Economics
- Energy
- Engineering
- Finance
- General Business
- Global Management
- Healthcare Administration
- Information Systems
- Insurance
- International Business
- Law
- Management
- Manufacturing
- Marketing
- Nonprofit
- Other
- Quantitative Methods
- Science and Technology
- Supply Chain
- Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
- Better than State Average: GMAT
- Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio
Fordham University
Gabelli School of Business
Location:
- Bronx
,
- NY
Control: Private
Academic Year: Semester
Accredited: AACSB
Accreditation: Business
Facebook, Linkedin and TwitterDegree Level(s):
- Doctoral
- ·
- E-MBA
- ·
- Master
- ·
- MBA
- ·
- Undergraduate
Offered As:
- 1-Year
- ·
- Campus
- ·
- Evenings
- ·
- Full-Time
- ·
- Online
- ·
- Part-Time
- ·
- Partnership
- ·
- Weekends
- Accounting
- Communications
- Corporate Finance
- Data Analytics
- Finance
- General Business
- Global Management
- Information Systems
- International Business
- Law
- Management
- Marketing
- Statistics
- Taxation
- Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
- Better than State Average: GMAT
- Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio
Vanderbilt University
Owen Graduate School of Management
Location:
- Nashville
,
- TN
Control: Private
Academic Year: Semester
Accredited: AACSB
Accreditation: Business
Facebook, Linkedin and TwitterDegree Level(s):
- E-MBA
- ·
- Master
- ·
- MBA
Offered As:
- 1-Year
- ·
- Campus
- ·
- Evenings
- ·
- Full-Time
- ·
- Partnership
- ·
- Weekends
- Accounting
- Corporate Finance
- Energy
- Entrepreneurship
- Finance
- Global Management
- Healthcare Administration
- International Business
- Law
- Management
- Marketing
- Operations Management
- Organizational Behavior
- Real Estate
- Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
- Better than State Average: GMAT
- Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio
Interactive Table of the Best Ranked MBA Programs in Law
Easily sort the interactive table below to find the best Law MBA programs by Rank, School Name, ROI, Tuition, Average Starting Salary, and Campus or Online to find and to compare MBA programs in Law. Click on any school for a comprehensive school profile.
Rank | University | ROI | In State Tuition | Avg. Starting Salary | State | Online |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Indiana University Bloomington/Indianapolis | 124.00% | $29,573 | $136,352 | IN | Yes |
2 | Brigham Young University | 104.00% | $58,544 | $119,281 | UT | No |
3 | Michigan State University | 246.00% | $34,564 | $119,539 | MI | Yes |
4 | The University of Georgia | 294.00% | $30,606 | $120,510 | GA | Yes |
5 | University of Virginia-McIntire | 4.00% | $151,200 | $157,090 | VA | No |
6 | University of St. Thomas-Minnesota | 67.00% | $61,596 | $102,900 | MN | Yes |
7 | American University | 8.00% | $98,282 | $105,666 | DC | Yes |
8 | Boston University | -3.00% | $124,248 | $120,884 | MA | Yes |
9 | Fordham University | 28.00% | $99,497 | $127,511 | NY | Yes |
10 | Vanderbilt University | 7.00% | $131,000 | $139,711 | TN | No |
11 | Northeastern University | -2.00% | $102,582 | $100,063 | MA | Yes |
12 | Santa Clara University | 45.00% | $83,860 | $122,000 | CA | Yes |
13 | Temple University | 60.00% | $60,000 | $95,989 | PA | Yes |
14 | The Ohio State University | 1.00% | $106,123 | $106,779 | OH | Yes |
15 | Villanova University | 95.00% | $60,000 | $116,800 | PA | Yes |
16 | Hofstra University | 87.00% | $58,960 | $110,500 | NY | Yes |
17 | University of Miami | 19.00% | $92,290 | $109,555 | FL | Yes |
18 | University of Nebraska-Lincoln | 185.00% | $32,400 | $92,300 | NE | Yes |
19 | Loyola University Chicago | 21.00% | $73,375 | $89,000 | IL | No |
20 | University of Oklahoma | 146.00% | $33,306 | $81,793 | OK | Yes |
21 | University of Missouri-Kansas City | 256.00% | $21,618 | $76,900 | MO | No |
22 | The University of Tulsa | 62.00% | $51,516 | $83,700 | OK | Yes |
23 | Drexel University | 47.00% | $59,241 | $87,061 | PA | Yes |
24 | University of Richmond | 11.00% | $72,000 | $79,683 | VA | No |
25 | University of Baltimore | 120.00% | $35,128 | $77,400 | MD | Yes |
26 | Chapman University | -22.00% | $97,750 | $76,368 | CA | No |
27 | Seton Hall University | 36.00% | $57,225 | $78,081 | NJ | Yes |
28 | California State University, Los Angeles | 349.00% | $22,052 | $99,100 | CA | No |
29 | Seattle University | 64.00% | $53,130 | $87,000 | WA | Yes |
30 | Central Michigan University | 246.00% | $27,300 | $94,350 | MI | Yes |
31 | University of the District of Columbia | 225.00% | $30,765 | $100,000 | DC | No |
32 | Dominican University of California | 220.00% | $35,310 | $113,000 | CA | Yes |
33 | The University of Akron | 244.00% | $17,872 | $61,400 | OH | Yes |
34 | University of Detroit Mercy | 160.00% | $28,050 | $72,900 | MI | Yes |
35 | California State University, Fullerton | 83.00% | $44,550 | $81,500 | CA | Yes |
36 | Western Michigan University | 223.00% | $29,377 | $95,000 | MI | Yes |
37 | Mercer University-Macon and Atlanta Campuses | 154.00% | $32,460 | $82,485 | GA | Yes |
38 | University of Nebraska at Omaha | 410.00% | $17,493 | $89,200 | NE | Yes |
39 | Cleveland State University | 274.00% | $17,209 | $64,319 | OH | Yes |
40 | State University of New York at Oswego | 173.00% | $22,860 | $62,400 | NY | Yes |
41 | Bradley University | 61.00% | $35,740 | $57,450 | IL | No |
42 | California State University, Northridge | 151.00% | $30,897 | $77,400 | CA | No |
43 | Nova Southeastern University | 105.00% | $44,351 | $90,756 | FL | Yes |
44 | Drake University | 208.00% | $25,848 | $79,500 | IA | Yes |
45 | Ohio University | 131.00% | $21,438 | $49,598 | OH | Yes |
46 | St. Mary's University | 55.00% | $37,061 | $57,600 | TX | No |
47 | Western New England University | 112.00% | $36,000 | $76,300 | MA | Yes |
48 | Western Carolina University | 216.00% | $13,967 | $44,100 | NC | Yes |
49 | Mississippi College | 464.00% | $12,000 | $67,650 | MS | Yes |
50 | Louisiana State University Shreveport | 263.00% | $12,474 | $45,300 | LA | Yes |
An MBA program in Law will cost you between $12,000.00 to $151,200.00.
- Number of Programs Offering Law MBAs: 52
- Average GMAT Score for Law MBA Programs: 587
- Average In-State Tuition for Law MBA Programs: $51,293.76
- Average Graduate Salary for Law MBA Programs: $91,955
- Average ROI for Law MBA Programs: 142%
Compare Law MBA Program Averages vs Campus
Averages | MBA Programs | Online MBA Programs |
---|---|---|
Number of Programs | 52 | 40 |
Average Starting Salary | $91,955 | $91,286 |
Average MBA Tuition | $51,294 | $47,439 |
Average ROI | 142% | 154% |
Average GMAT Scores | 587 | 583 |
Average Full-Time MBA Faculty | 95 | 102 |
Average MBA Student Faculty Ratio | 16:1 | 17:1 |
Faculty with Doctorate | 84% | 84% |
Average Full-Time MBA Enrollment | 365 | 412 |
Average Part-Time MBA Enrollment | 322 | 349 |
Average % of MBA Students from U.S. | 84% | 84% |
Read about our ranking methodology.
What is the Average MBA Salary for Law Graduates?
Though it’s not the only factor, compensation is an important consideration for individuals considering obtaining an MBA degree. Salaries for graduates with master’s degrees in Law can be significantly higher than those of graduates with only a bachelor’s degree. In addition, advance salary projections from the US Department of Labor show that average MBA salaries are expected to increase by 13.5% each year through the year 2028 with an annual need of 99,000 new managers needed each year.
MBA salaries differs wildly depending on the program you chose, the industry you enter and the experience you have. After earning an MBA from Western Carolina University, the average MBA graduate annual salary is $44,100 . A degree from University of Virginia-McIntire, will provide an annual salary of $157,090.
Average MBA starting salary for graduates from accredited programs is $91,955 with the lowest of starting of $44,100 and the highest reported starting salary of $157,090.
Average Graduate Salaries for In-Person Law MBA Programs
- Average Law: $91,955
- Lowest Law: $44,100
- Highest Law: $157,090
10 Highest Salaries for In-Person MBA Graduates in Law
- University of Virginia-McIntire - $157,090.00
- Vanderbilt University - $139,711.00
- Indiana University Bloomington/Indianapolis - $136,352.00
- Fordham University - $127,511.00
- Santa Clara University - $122,000.00
- Boston University - $120,884.00
- The University of Georgia - $120,510.00
- Michigan State University - $119,539.00
- Brigham Young University - $119,281.00
- Villanova University - $116,800.00
10 Lowest Salaries for In-Person MBA Graduates in Law
- Western Carolina University - $44,100.00
- Louisiana State University Shreveport - $45,300.00
- Ohio University - $49,598.00
- Bradley University - $57,450.00
- St. Mary's University - $57,600.00
- The University of Akron - $61,400.00
- State University of New York at Oswego - $62,400.00
- Cleveland State University - $64,319.00
- Mississippi College - $67,650.00
- University of Detroit Mercy - $72,900.00
Average Salary for Graduate of MBA Programs in Law Programs – Interactive Table
Easily sort the interactive table below to find the best Law MBA programs by Starting Salary, and Campus or Online to find and to compare MBA programs in Law. Click on any school for a comprehensive school profile.
Rank | University | Avg. Starting Salary | In State Tuition | ROI | State | Online |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Western Carolina University | $44,100 | $13,967 | 216.00% | NC | Yes |
2 | Louisiana State University Shreveport | $45,300 | $12,474 | 263.00% | LA | Yes |
3 | Ohio University | $49,598 | $21,438 | 131.00% | OH | Yes |
4 | Bradley University | $57,450 | $35,740 | 61.00% | IL | No |
5 | St. Mary's University | $57,600 | $37,061 | 55.00% | TX | No |
6 | The University of Akron | $61,400 | $17,872 | 244.00% | OH | Yes |
7 | State University of New York at Oswego | $62,400 | $22,860 | 173.00% | NY | Yes |
8 | Cleveland State University | $64,319 | $17,209 | 274.00% | OH | Yes |
9 | Mississippi College | $67,650 | $12,000 | 464.00% | MS | Yes |
10 | University of Detroit Mercy | $72,900 | $28,050 | 160.00% | MI | Yes |
11 | Western New England University | $76,300 | $36,000 | 112.00% | MA | Yes |
12 | Chapman University | $76,368 | $97,750 | -22.00% | CA | No |
13 | University of Missouri-Kansas City | $76,900 | $21,618 | 256.00% | MO | No |
14 | University of Baltimore | $77,400 | $35,128 | 120.00% | MD | Yes |
14 | California State University, Northridge | $77,400 | $30,897 | 151.00% | CA | No |
16 | Seton Hall University | $78,081 | $57,225 | 36.00% | NJ | Yes |
17 | Drake University | $79,500 | $25,848 | 208.00% | IA | Yes |
18 | University of Richmond | $79,683 | $72,000 | 11.00% | VA | No |
19 | California State University, Fullerton | $81,500 | $44,550 | 83.00% | CA | Yes |
20 | University of Oklahoma | $81,793 | $33,306 | 146.00% | OK | Yes |
21 | Mercer University-Macon and Atlanta Campuses | $82,485 | $32,460 | 154.00% | GA | Yes |
22 | The University of Tulsa | $83,700 | $51,516 | 62.00% | OK | Yes |
23 | Seattle University | $87,000 | $53,130 | 64.00% | WA | Yes |
24 | Drexel University | $87,061 | $59,241 | 47.00% | PA | Yes |
25 | Loyola University Chicago | $89,000 | $73,375 | 21.00% | IL | No |
26 | University of Nebraska at Omaha | $89,200 | $17,493 | 410.00% | NE | Yes |
27 | Nova Southeastern University | $90,756 | $44,351 | 105.00% | FL | Yes |
28 | University of Nebraska-Lincoln | $92,300 | $32,400 | 185.00% | NE | Yes |
29 | Central Michigan University | $94,350 | $27,300 | 246.00% | MI | Yes |
30 | Western Michigan University | $95,000 | $29,377 | 223.00% | MI | Yes |
31 | Temple University | $95,989 | $60,000 | 60.00% | PA | Yes |
32 | California State University, Los Angeles | $99,100 | $22,052 | 349.00% | CA | No |
33 | University of the District of Columbia | $100,000 | $30,765 | 225.00% | DC | No |
34 | Northeastern University | $100,063 | $102,582 | -2.00% | MA | Yes |
35 | University of St. Thomas-Minnesota | $102,900 | $61,596 | 67.00% | MN | Yes |
36 | American University | $105,666 | $98,282 | 8.00% | DC | Yes |
37 | The Ohio State University | $106,779 | $106,123 | 1.00% | OH | Yes |
38 | University of Miami | $109,555 | $92,290 | 19.00% | FL | Yes |
39 | Hofstra University | $110,500 | $58,960 | 87.00% | NY | Yes |
40 | Dominican University of California | $113,000 | $35,310 | 220.00% | CA | Yes |
41 | Villanova University | $116,800 | $60,000 | 95.00% | PA | Yes |
42 | Brigham Young University | $119,281 | $58,544 | 104.00% | UT | No |
43 | Michigan State University | $119,539 | $34,564 | 246.00% | MI | Yes |
44 | The University of Georgia | $120,510 | $30,606 | 294.00% | GA | Yes |
45 | Boston University | $120,884 | $124,248 | -3.00% | MA | Yes |
46 | Santa Clara University | $122,000 | $83,860 | 45.00% | CA | Yes |
47 | Fordham University | $127,511 | $99,497 | 28.00% | NY | Yes |
48 | Indiana University Bloomington/Indianapolis | $136,352 | $29,573 | 124.00% | IN | Yes |
49 | Vanderbilt University | $139,711 | $131,000 | 7.00% | TN | No |
50 | University of Virginia-McIntire | $157,090 | $151,200 | 4.00% | VA | No |
What is the Average In-Person MBA Tuition for Law Programs?
If you plan on attending an MBA program, it’s best to start thinking about fiscal responsibility. A prospective B-Student needs to weigh their tuition options. An AACSB-accredited MBA program can pave the way for a great starting salary or career advancement. An MBA program can provide the flexibility of completing a program while being employed in your respective career.
The average in-state tuition for an MBA in Law is $51,293.76 compared to an average campus program Law is $51,293.76 .
The lowest AACSB tuition rate at $12,000.00 from Mississippi College.
The highest AACSB tuition rate is $151,200.00 from University of Virginia-McIntire.
Average Tuition for In-Person MBA Programs in Law
- Average: $51,293.76
- Lowest: $12,000.00 from Mississippi College
- Highest: $151,200.00 from University of Virginia-McIntire
10 Most Affordable MBA Programs in Law
- Mississippi College - $12,000.00
- Louisiana State University Shreveport - $12,474.00
- Western Carolina University - $13,967.00
- Cleveland State University - $17,209.00
- University of Nebraska at Omaha - $17,493.00
- The University of Akron - $17,872.00
- Ohio University - $21,438.00
- University of Missouri-Kansas City - $21,618.00
- California State University, Los Angeles - $22,052.00
- State University of New York at Oswego - $22,860.00
10 Most Expensive MBA Programs in Law
- University of Virginia-McIntire - $151,200.00
- Vanderbilt University - $131,000.00
- Boston University - $124,248.00
- The Ohio State University - $106,123.00
- Northeastern University - $102,582.00
- Fordham University - $99,497.00
- American University - $98,282.00
- Chapman University - $97,750.00
- University of Miami - $92,290.00
- Santa Clara University - $83,860.00
Interactive Table – Tuition for MBA Programs in Law Programs
Easily sort the interactive table below to find the best Law MBA programs by Tuition to find and to compare MBA programs in Law. Click on any school for a comprehensive school profile.
Rank | University | In State Tuition | Avg. Starting Salary | ROI | State | Online |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Mississippi College | $12,000 | $67,650 | 464.00% | MS | Yes |
2 | Louisiana State University Shreveport | $12,474 | $45,300 | 263.00% | LA | Yes |
3 | Western Carolina University | $13,967 | $44,100 | 216.00% | NC | Yes |
4 | Cleveland State University | $17,209 | $64,319 | 274.00% | OH | Yes |
5 | University of Nebraska at Omaha | $17,493 | $89,200 | 410.00% | NE | Yes |
6 | The University of Akron | $17,872 | $61,400 | 244.00% | OH | Yes |
7 | Ohio University | $21,438 | $49,598 | 131.00% | OH | Yes |
8 | University of Missouri-Kansas City | $21,618 | $76,900 | 256.00% | MO | No |
9 | California State University, Los Angeles | $22,052 | $99,100 | 349.00% | CA | No |
10 | State University of New York at Oswego | $22,860 | $62,400 | 173.00% | NY | Yes |
11 | Drake University | $25,848 | $79,500 | 208.00% | IA | Yes |
12 | Central Michigan University | $27,300 | $94,350 | 246.00% | MI | Yes |
13 | University of Detroit Mercy | $28,050 | $72,900 | 160.00% | MI | Yes |
14 | Western Michigan University | $29,377 | $95,000 | 223.00% | MI | Yes |
15 | Indiana University Bloomington/Indianapolis | $29,573 | $136,352 | 124.00% | IN | Yes |
16 | The University of Georgia | $30,606 | $120,510 | 294.00% | GA | Yes |
17 | University of the District of Columbia | $30,765 | $100,000 | 225.00% | DC | No |
18 | California State University, Northridge | $30,897 | $77,400 | 151.00% | CA | No |
19 | University of Nebraska-Lincoln | $32,400 | $92,300 | 185.00% | NE | Yes |
20 | Mercer University-Macon and Atlanta Campuses | $32,460 | $82,485 | 154.00% | GA | Yes |
21 | University of Oklahoma | $33,306 | $81,793 | 146.00% | OK | Yes |
22 | Michigan State University | $34,564 | $119,539 | 246.00% | MI | Yes |
23 | University of Baltimore | $35,128 | $77,400 | 120.00% | MD | Yes |
24 | Dominican University of California | $35,310 | $113,000 | 220.00% | CA | Yes |
25 | Bradley University | $35,740 | $57,450 | 61.00% | IL | No |
26 | Western New England University | $36,000 | $76,300 | 112.00% | MA | Yes |
27 | St. Mary's University | $37,061 | $57,600 | 55.00% | TX | No |
28 | Nova Southeastern University | $44,351 | $90,756 | 105.00% | FL | Yes |
29 | California State University, Fullerton | $44,550 | $81,500 | 83.00% | CA | Yes |
30 | The University of Tulsa | $51,516 | $83,700 | 62.00% | OK | Yes |
31 | Seattle University | $53,130 | $87,000 | 64.00% | WA | Yes |
32 | Seton Hall University | $57,225 | $78,081 | 36.00% | NJ | Yes |
33 | Brigham Young University | $58,544 | $119,281 | 104.00% | UT | No |
34 | Hofstra University | $58,960 | $110,500 | 87.00% | NY | Yes |
35 | Drexel University | $59,241 | $87,061 | 47.00% | PA | Yes |
36 | Temple University | $60,000 | $95,989 | 60.00% | PA | Yes |
36 | Villanova University | $60,000 | $116,800 | 95.00% | PA | Yes |
38 | University of St. Thomas-Minnesota | $61,596 | $102,900 | 67.00% | MN | Yes |
39 | University of Richmond | $72,000 | $79,683 | 11.00% | VA | No |
40 | Loyola University Chicago | $73,375 | $89,000 | 21.00% | IL | No |
41 | Santa Clara University | $83,860 | $122,000 | 45.00% | CA | Yes |
42 | University of Miami | $92,290 | $109,555 | 19.00% | FL | Yes |
43 | Chapman University | $97,750 | $76,368 | -22.00% | CA | No |
44 | American University | $98,282 | $105,666 | 8.00% | DC | Yes |
45 | Fordham University | $99,497 | $127,511 | 28.00% | NY | Yes |
46 | Northeastern University | $102,582 | $100,063 | -2.00% | MA | Yes |
47 | The Ohio State University | $106,123 | $106,779 | 1.00% | OH | Yes |
48 | Boston University | $124,248 | $120,884 | -3.00% | MA | Yes |
49 | Vanderbilt University | $131,000 | $139,711 | 7.00% | TN | No |
50 | University of Virginia-McIntire | $151,200 | $157,090 | 4.00% | VA | No |
What is the Average ROI for MBA Programs in Law?
Choosing an MBA program requires more than a glance at the school’s reputation or curriculum. The return on investment (ROI) should take center stage in your evaluation. This measurement reveals the potential value derived from your tuition investment, putting key factors such as starting salary and career progression under the microscope.
By scrutinizing the ROI, you’re not just making a decision—you’re making an informed one. This approach will ensure the selection of an MBA program that provides the most bang for your buck. Checking the ROI might not be an afterthought; it could be the game-changer in your MBA journey.
For MBA programs in across the U.S., the ROI ranges from -22% to 588%.The lowest MBA ROI of -22% is from the program at Chapman University.The highest MBA ROI of 588% is offered by Mississippi College.On average, MBA programs across the U.S. have an ROI of 186%.
Interactive Table – ROI for MBA Programs in Law Programs
Easily sort the interactive table below to find the best Law MBA programs by ROI to find and to compare MBA programs in Law. Click on any school for a comprehensive school profile.
Rank | University | ROI | In State Tuition | Avg. Starting Salary | State | Online |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Mississippi College | 464.00% | $12,000 | $67,650 | MS | Yes |
2 | University of Nebraska at Omaha | 410.00% | $17,493 | $89,200 | NE | Yes |
3 | California State University, Los Angeles | 349.00% | $22,052 | $99,100 | CA | No |
4 | The University of Georgia | 294.00% | $30,606 | $120,510 | GA | Yes |
5 | Cleveland State University | 274.00% | $17,209 | $64,319 | OH | Yes |
6 | Louisiana State University Shreveport | 263.00% | $12,474 | $45,300 | LA | Yes |
7 | University of Missouri-Kansas City | 256.00% | $21,618 | $76,900 | MO | No |
8 | Michigan State University | 246.00% | $34,564 | $119,539 | MI | Yes |
8 | Central Michigan University | 246.00% | $27,300 | $94,350 | MI | Yes |
10 | The University of Akron | 244.00% | $17,872 | $61,400 | OH | Yes |
11 | University of the District of Columbia | 225.00% | $30,765 | $100,000 | DC | No |
12 | Western Michigan University | 223.00% | $29,377 | $95,000 | MI | Yes |
13 | Dominican University of California | 220.00% | $35,310 | $113,000 | CA | Yes |
14 | Western Carolina University | 216.00% | $13,967 | $44,100 | NC | Yes |
15 | Drake University | 208.00% | $25,848 | $79,500 | IA | Yes |
16 | University of Nebraska-Lincoln | 185.00% | $32,400 | $92,300 | NE | Yes |
17 | State University of New York at Oswego | 173.00% | $22,860 | $62,400 | NY | Yes |
18 | University of Detroit Mercy | 160.00% | $28,050 | $72,900 | MI | Yes |
19 | Mercer University-Macon and Atlanta Campuses | 154.00% | $32,460 | $82,485 | GA | Yes |
20 | California State University, Northridge | 151.00% | $30,897 | $77,400 | CA | No |
21 | University of Oklahoma | 146.00% | $33,306 | $81,793 | OK | Yes |
22 | Ohio University | 131.00% | $21,438 | $49,598 | OH | Yes |
23 | Indiana University Bloomington/Indianapolis | 124.00% | $29,573 | $136,352 | IN | Yes |
24 | University of Baltimore | 120.00% | $35,128 | $77,400 | MD | Yes |
25 | Western New England University | 112.00% | $36,000 | $76,300 | MA | Yes |
26 | Nova Southeastern University | 105.00% | $44,351 | $90,756 | FL | Yes |
27 | Brigham Young University | 104.00% | $58,544 | $119,281 | UT | No |
28 | Villanova University | 95.00% | $60,000 | $116,800 | PA | Yes |
29 | Hofstra University | 87.00% | $58,960 | $110,500 | NY | Yes |
30 | California State University, Fullerton | 83.00% | $44,550 | $81,500 | CA | Yes |
31 | University of St. Thomas-Minnesota | 67.00% | $61,596 | $102,900 | MN | Yes |
32 | Seattle University | 64.00% | $53,130 | $87,000 | WA | Yes |
33 | The University of Tulsa | 62.00% | $51,516 | $83,700 | OK | Yes |
34 | Bradley University | 61.00% | $35,740 | $57,450 | IL | No |
35 | Temple University | 60.00% | $60,000 | $95,989 | PA | Yes |
36 | St. Mary's University | 55.00% | $37,061 | $57,600 | TX | No |
37 | Drexel University | 47.00% | $59,241 | $87,061 | PA | Yes |
38 | Santa Clara University | 45.00% | $83,860 | $122,000 | CA | Yes |
39 | Seton Hall University | 36.00% | $57,225 | $78,081 | NJ | Yes |
40 | Fordham University | 28.00% | $99,497 | $127,511 | NY | Yes |
41 | Loyola University Chicago | 21.00% | $73,375 | $89,000 | IL | No |
42 | University of Miami | 19.00% | $92,290 | $109,555 | FL | Yes |
43 | University of Richmond | 11.00% | $72,000 | $79,683 | VA | No |
44 | American University | 8.00% | $98,282 | $105,666 | DC | Yes |
45 | Vanderbilt University | 7.00% | $131,000 | $139,711 | TN | No |
46 | University of Virginia-McIntire | 4.00% | $151,200 | $157,090 | VA | No |
47 | The Ohio State University | 1.00% | $106,123 | $106,779 | OH | Yes |
ROI for MBA Programs
- Average: 186%
- Lowest: -22%
- Highest: 588%
10 Highest ROI for MBA Programs in Law
- Mississippi College - 464.00%
- University of Nebraska at Omaha - 410.00%
- California State University, Los Angeles - 349.00%
- The University of Georgia - 294.00%
- Cleveland State University - 274.00%
- Louisiana State University Shreveport - 263.00%
- University of Missouri-Kansas City - 256.00%
- Michigan State University - 246.00%
- Central Michigan University - 246.00%
- The University of Akron - 244.00%
10 Lowest ROI for MBA Programs in Law
- The Ohio State University - 1.00%
- University of Virginia-McIntire - 4.00%
- Vanderbilt University - 7.00%
- American University - 8.00%
- University of Richmond - 11.00%
- University of Miami - 19.00%
- Loyola University Chicago - 21.00%
- Fordham University - 28.00%
- Seton Hall University - 36.00%
- Santa Clara University - 45.00%
What is the Average GMAT Score Needed for an MBA Program in Law?
The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is a standardized examination used by MBA schools to assess their applicant pool. The test is strategically designed to measure an applicant’s analytical, verbal, writing and mathematical skills. The GMAT is used as a predictor of success in MBA programs and tests one’s ability to successfully handle the advanced quantitative and qualitative study of business and management.
Even though some B-Schools may not require a GMAT Scores, there’s a good chance that a highly-competitive MBA program does require the GMAT. With that being said, average GMAT Scores for in-person MBA programs in Law is 587 with a highest of 720 and the lowest of 450
The average GMAT score needed for a Law MBA program from an institution is between 450 from Nova Southeastern University to 720 from University of Virginia-McIntire. The average GMAT scores for Law MBA programs is 587.
It’s important to note that not all MBA programs require a GMAT Score for admissions, but most reputable programs do. With that being said, if you have your eye on a list of competitive programs, it’s best to boost your GMAT Score accordingly. Outside of a solid GMAT Score, B-School admissions departments look at a candidate’s undergraduate GPA, professional experience, letters of recommendation, CV, and personal statement. A strong undergraduate performance may offset a sub-part GMAT Score. The average GMAT Score for on-campus MBA programs in Law is a 586.79 compared to an average MBA program score of 586.79. It is recommended that each B-School applicant take a GMAT diagnostic test in order to determine whether or not further study and/or a prep course is needed to boost your score.
Average GMAT Score for MBA Programs in Law
- Average: 587
- Lowest: 450
- Highest: 720
10 Lowest GMAT for MBA Programs in Law
- Nova Southeastern University - 450
- Western Carolina University - 470
- Western New England University - 493
- Western Michigan University - 494
- University of Nebraska at Omaha - 500
- Mississippi College - 506
- Drake University - 510
- St. Mary's University - 510
- Louisiana State University Shreveport - 513
- California State University, Northridge - 527
10 Highest GMAT for MBA Programs in Law
- University of Virginia-McIntire - 720
- Vanderbilt University - 687
- Indiana University Bloomington/Indianapolis - 685
- Boston University - 683
- University of St. Thomas-Minnesota - 680
- Michigan State University - 680
- Brigham Young University - 677
- The Ohio State University - 672
- The University of Georgia - 672
- American University - 668
No GMAT or GRE: Best MBA Programs in Law
More than 233 AACSB accredited MBA programs do not require their applicants to take GMAT exam. Many well-known programs such as the University of Michigan and the University of California, Los Angeles no longer require the exam. If you are unsure where you would like to take your program, then you should take the GMAT sooner rather than later so you don’t lose time meeting the score requirement of a program.
Alumni from Schools Offering an MBA in Law
There are pros and cons when considering the size of your MBA in Accounting program. Larger, more diverse student populations, may lend itself to greater networking and job placement opportunities; whereas smaller programs may provide for more meaningful interactions with fellow classmates.
The importance of networking, whether it’s by way of campus job fairs, student organization members, or faculty mentorship, should not be understated when considering an MBA program. The average MBA enrollment size has a direct impact on your studies, your job prospects, your ability to define your career goals and after graduation connections.
Every B-School has a strategy behind their enrollment sizes. If a prospective B-Student is looking for networking opportunities, wants to attend job fairs, and plans on joining student organizations, B-School enrollment size plays an important role in the decision making process. For the B-Student interested in the smaller cohort-style classroom experience and thrive with face-to-face collaboration with their professors, a manageable enrollment size is the preferred option.
For Law MBA programs, the range for full-time enrollment is between 8 and 1,590. For part-time enrollment, the range is between : 11.00 and : 4,558.00.
Average Enrollment for MBA Programs Offering an MBA in Law
- Lowest: 8 from University of Richmond
- Highest: 1,590 from Boston University
- Average: 365 from 52 MBA Programs.
10 MBA Programs with the Highest Enrollment (Alumni)
- Boston University - 1,590
- Louisiana State University Shreveport - 1,347
- Indiana University Bloomington/Indianapolis - 1,191
- Central Michigan University - 999
- Brigham Young University - 880
- Northeastern University - 864
- University of Miami - 710
- Fordham University - 672
- Michigan State University - 577
- Seattle University - 429
10 MBA Programs with the Smallest Enrollment (Alumni)
- University of Richmond - 8
- Bradley University - 21
- University of the District of Columbia - 29
- St. Mary's University - 33
- University of Detroit Mercy - 39
- Western Carolina University - 60
- Western Michigan University - 62
- University of Nebraska-Lincoln - 64
- University of Baltimore - 68
- Drake University - 69
Student / Faculty Ratio for MBA Programs in Law
For most students, their professors are the first exposure to the business world. They are normally practitioners in the field and have successful risen to the top of their respective careers. B-School Law Professors can guide you toward a specific concentration, provide the latest industry trends, and put you on the right track, career-wise. The Student/Faculty ratio is important to those interested in building a lasting relationship with their professor. To use them as a networking opportunity and an advisor.
Top 10 Concentrations Available from Schools Also Offering an Degree in Law?
Highly competitive B-Schools recruit part-time and full-time professors that are both academic and industry influencers. They are the subject matter experts in their respective concentrations. To meet the diverse needs of Law businesses, MBA programs here have risen to the challenge by offering you an array of more than 47 MBA concentrations including:
- Law: 51
- Accounting: 49
- General Business: 46
- Finance: 46
- Corporate Finance: 44
- Marketing: 43
- Management: 41
- Information Systems: 39
- Data Analytics: 38
- International Business: 37
Here are the top schools offering the widest variety of concentrations to choose from:
- David B. O’Maley College of Business: 30
- Nova Southeastern University: 25
- University of Cincinnati: 24
- Suffolk University: 23
- Drexel University: 23
- Temple University: 23
- Harvard University: 23
- Georgia State University: 22
- The Ohio State University: 22
- University of Baltimore: 22
The Importance of MBA Accreditation for MBA Programs
The importance of accreditation can’t be underestimated. For many, knowing your school is accredited by the AACSB and regionally accredited by the US Department of Education is enough assurance that you will receive a quality education, where credits are more likely to transfer, and you will be qualified for loans, grants, and scholarships.
AACSB accreditation is considered to be the gold standard in business school credentialing. Established to promote high-quality business education in the U.S., AACSB members developed a stringent accreditation process. Members are held accountable for following an established business education framework set forth by the AACSB. With that comes MBA degrees conferrals that are widely recognized by Fortune 500 companies. This results in lucrative job opportunities.
MBA Program Options Available for Law MBA Programs
Options for earning your Law MBA have never been more flexible. Law MBA programs have become adept at offering effective alternatives for you to earn your MBA, no matter your life situation or schedule.
There are 52 Law accredited MBA programs. 2 private and 23 public schools offering Law MBA programs.
Number of Award Earned for MBA Programs Offering an Law Degree
The ranking of MBA programs is certainly not an exact science and plenty of subjective reasoning and biases come into play. We offer insights into ranking as another way to evaluate a potential MBA program.
Of the 52 accredited MBA programs offered in Law, 44 of them have been recognized by at least one distinguished publication MBAGuide, PQ, US News, Forbes, BW, FT and Economist garnering an award as one of the best MBA programs in the country.
- Indiana University Bloomington/Indianapolis: 7
- Michigan State University: 7
- University of Virginia-McIntire: 7
- Vanderbilt University: 7
- The Ohio State University: 7
- Boston University: 7
- University of Miami: 6
- Temple University: 6
- The University of Georgia: 6
- Brigham Young University: 6
- Fordham University: 6
- Northeastern University: 5
- American University: 4
- Drexel University: 3
- The University of Akron: 1
- Bradley University: 1
- Drake University: 1
- Chapman University: 1
- California State University, Northridge: 1
- The University of Tulsa: 1
Publications and the number of awards granted for an MBA degree in Law :
- MBAGuide: 44
- US News: 13
- Forbes: 13
- BW: 12
- FT: 8
- Economist: 10
How We Rank the Best MBA Programs in Law
MBAGuide.org employs a comprehensive ranking methodology that combines quantitative data (80% of the score) with qualitative assessments (20%) to evaluate MBA programs. The quantitative component considers factors such as student-faculty ratio, tuition, enrollment, and post-graduation salaries, while the qualitative aspect incorporates editorial ratings and school reputation, providing a well-rounded view of each program’s quality and value.
Best MBA Programs by Concentration: Online and In-Person
- Accounting – Online | In-Person
- Actuarial Science – Online | In-Person
- Arts – Online | In-Person
- Business Administration – Online | In-Person
- Communications – Online | In-Person
- Consulting – Online | In-Person
- Corporate Finance – Online | In-Person
- Cybersecurity – Online | In-Person
- Data Analytics – Online | In-Person
- E-Commerce – Online | In-Person
- Economics – Online | In-Person
- Education – Online | In-Person
- Energy – Online | In-Person
- Engineering – Online | In-Person
- Entrepreneurship – Online | In-Person
- Ethics – Online | In-Person
- Finance – Online | In-Person
- Financial Management – Online | In-Person
- Global Management – Online | In-Person
- Healthcare Administration – Online | In-Person
- Hospitality Management – Online | In-Person
- Human Resources – Online | In-Person
- Information Systems – Online | In-Person
- Innovation Management – Online | In-Person
- Insurance – Online | In-Person
- International Business – Online | In-Person
- Law – JD MBA – Online | In-Person
- Leadership – Online | In-Person
- Management – Online | In-Person
- Manufacturing – Online | In-Person
- Marketing – Online | In-Person
- Non-Profit Management – Online | In-Person
- Operations Management – Online | In-Person
- Organizational Behavior – Online | In-Person
- Product Management – Online | In-Person
- Project Management – Online | In-Person
- Public Administration – Online | In-Person
- Quantitative Methods – Online | In-Person
- Real Estate – Online | In-Person
- Sports Management – Online | In-Person
- Statistics – Online | In-Person
- Supply Chain Management – Online | In-Person
- Sustainability Management – Online | In-Person
- Taxation – Online | In-Person
- Technology Management – Online | In-Person
JD-MBA Programs MBA
What is a Dual JD MBA Program?
Understanding the law is to understand how corporations, investors, shareholders, directors, employees, creditors, and other key stakeholders interact with one another. Holders of an MBA in Law or a dual JD-MBA credential have a distinct advantage in the corporate world mostly because they’ve combined the practicalities of a business education with the extensive knowledge of the law. This is a powerful combination that brings value to an organization.
Graduates of both law school and B-School will be heavily recruited by companies all over the world and stand to make six figures upon graduation from elite institutions. This is a powerful degree combination for those interested in C-level executive positions in Fortune 500 companies and at top-rated law firms. Partnership, at either a Fortune 500 CPA firm or an elite law firm, is certainly within reach for those carrying a dual JD-MBA degree.
As disruptive technology and rapid globalization add to the complexity of doing business, lawyers and business leaders alike must meet the challenges of an ever-changing, fast-paced industry. A joint JD-MBA Program is designed for highly motivated students who seek a comprehensive education in both law and business, and who wish to complete their law/business studies and enter the job market a year earlier than traditional joint-degree programs. This accelerated course of study provides the opportunity to earn degrees from both an institution’s law school and its business school. If you are a JD candidate seeking an MBA in law, this will add an additional year of study upon completion of your JD. If you are an MBA students seeking to complete your institution’s JD program, this will add an additional two years of study upon completion of your MBA.
Graduates from ABA-approved law schools will be able to sit for the bar exam in their state upon graduation. Graduates from an AACSB-accredited business school and hold the dual JD-MBA will be able to sit for the CPA exam if in fact all subject matter requirements are met in the accounting field. Passing both the Bar exam and the CPA exam positions students as elite industry professionals and will be highly sought after in both the business and legal communities.
Students benefit from powerful alumni networks in both law and business, which provide worldwide access to some of the top law firms and Fortune 500 companies in the industry.
Graduates of JD-MBA programs have pursued careers in law firms, entrepreneurship, in-house counsel for corporations, public accounting firms, nonprofit agencies and government institutions. JD-MBA graduates can concentration in contract law, real estate law, will and estates, mergers and acquisitions, intellectual property, investment banking, etc. In other words, the sky is the limit for a graduate holding both a JD-MBA dual degree from an accredited ABA-approved law school and an AACSB-accredited business school. In most circumstances, an institution that offers the dual JD-MBA credentials is accredited by both the ABA and the AACSB.
What is the Career Outlook for JD MBA Professionals?
In the ever-changing ultra-competitive business world, elite law firms and fortune 500 businesses covet students with both a J.D. and M.B.A. degree. Individuals interested in business law learn the many rules that regulate corporate America (e.g., mergers and acquisitions, contracts). In today’s high-tech world, an M.B.A. degree helps students understand the intricacies of business and enhances the practice of law; a J.D. helps students understand the laws governing business, putting intellectual clout behind decisions and ventures.
Both business and law have many intersecting principles that help contribute to furthering a graduate student’s industry knowledge. Using both the case study methodology in B-Schools and the Socratic method in law school, the prospective dual-degree student is equipped with the analytical skills to break down the most complex business contracts while searching the latest statues that govern business law.
According to BLS, employment of lawyers is projected to grow 9% through 2026, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Demand for legal work is expected to continue as individuals, businesses, and government agencies require legal services in many areas. Simply stated, there will be ample opportunity for graduates completing a JD-MBA program.
Average Salaries Among Business Lawyers
The median annual wage for lawyers is $118,160. The lowest 10% earned less than $56,910 and the highest 10% earned more than $208,000.
Corporate lawyers average $96,000 per year with total cash compensation varying between $62,000 and $193,000.
An entry-level corporate attorney with less than five years of experience can expect to earn an average salary of $90,000 compared to $111,000 for a corporate lawyer with mid-career experience (5 to 10 years). An experienced corporate attorney (10 to 20 years of experience) can expect to earn a salary of $157,000 compared to $194,000 for a corporate lawyer with greater than 20 years of experience.
Career Options for JD MBA Graduates
One of the major benefits of having a dual JD-MBA is that graduates can seamlessly switch careers compared to those without both credentials. There are many career options for dual JD-MBA graduates. Whether it ’s mergers and acquisitions, corporate law, entertainment and sports management, insurance and securities, or investment banking, public accounting, finance, and consulting, all industry sectors need employees that have a firm understanding of both corporate compliance and regulatory frameworks.
In addition to working in different industries, lawyers may specialize in particular legal fields. The following are examples of legal specializations:
- Criminal lawyers fall into two major categories. Prosecutors (District Attorneys) typically work for the government and file lawsuits against individuals or corporations accused of breaking the law. Public defense attorneys (Public Defenders) defend individuals who can’t afford representation in a court of law. They defend their client in civil and criminal cases.
- Government counselors represent administrative bodies and/or various branches of government. Their job is to write and interpret laws with the goal of setting up compliance and regulatory procedures. Simply put, these lawyers argue civil and criminal cases on behalf of the government.
- Corporate counselors, aka in-house counsels, are lawyers who work on behalf of corporations. They advise C-level executives about legal issues related to day-to-day business operations. These issues may involve patents, government regulations, employment agreements, contracts with other companies, property interests, taxes, intellectual property, investor contracts, or collective-bargaining agreements with unions.
- Public-interest lawyers provide legal services to protected classes of people that might otherwise not be able to afford legal representation. They generally handle civil cases, such as those having to do with leases, job discrimination, and wage disputes, rather than criminal cases. Human rights attorneys (civil law) and immigration lawyers fall into the category of public-interest lawyers. They usually represent underserved populations unable to equitably represent themselves in a court of law.
- Environmental lawyers deal with issues and regulations that are related to the environment. The Environmental Protection Agency and the legalize around the organization will generate most of the precedent for environmental lawyers. They may work for advocacy groups, waste disposal companies, or government agencies (EPA) to help ensure compliance with relevant laws. Most of the time, environmental lawyers are working to safeguard our planet from improper disposal of hazardous waste material, protecting our natural resources from industry, or simply drafting new compliance/regulations on the proper disposal of corporate byproducts.
- Real Estate lawyers can fall into the category of corporate counsel and are experts in all-things-property law. Whether it’s the purchase and/or sale of a home or representation in a land dispute, real estate lawyers have extensive knowledge of local, state, and federal housing regulations. From eminent domain to easements to HUD violations, there’s a real estate expert who understands property law will have plenty of opportunity in the business world.
- Tax lawyers handle a variety of federal and state tax issues for individuals and corporations. From internal audits to individual tax write offs, tax lawyers help navigate complex tax regulations so that clients pay the appropriate tax on items such as income, profits, and property. Tax lawyers are extremely knowledgeable on rules and regulations around IRS tax code and can help organizations protect their bottom line while paying the appropriate year-end taxes.
- Intellectual property lawyers deal with the laws related to proprietary inventions, company patents, industry trademarks, and creative works. This may include books, movies, inventions, and information disseminated over the internet. An intellectual property lawyer may advise a client about the rules surrounding a new modern furniture design patent prior to listing the item for sale over the internet. Intellectual property attorneys, if they pass the patent exam, are able to file the necessary patent paperwork in order to safeguard company research and development.
- Family lawyers legally represent family members in the matter of divorce, child custody and adoption. They usually represent one part of the family and help facilitate an expedient resolution to a family matter.
- Securities lawyers represent and advise corporations on legal issues arising from the buying and selling of company equity. Whether it’s Securities Exchange Commission (SEC) disclosure documents or the proper filing of an Initial Public Offering (IPO), securities lawyers are responsible for organizational compliance, the issuance of company stock, and highlighting the legal ramifications if certain rules and regulations aren’t followed with the SEC.
Which Qualities Make for a Successful JD-MBA Graduate?
Analytical Skills. Lawyers are natural problem solvers and need to strike the balance between representing their clients best interests and following the letter of the law. Whether it’s large volumes of legal precedent or the ability to navigate difficult legal terminology, a lawyer must be able to analyze a slew of information pertinent to his/her case.
Sector | Description |
---|---|
Interpersonal Skills | Building a trusting, yet the fiduciary relationship with clients is a difficult balancing act. Lawyers must have the best interests of a client in mind and at the same time, stay within the confines of the law. That means building a relationship with clients that may not align with one’s own moral code. Being able to have an open, yet confidential relationship will be paramount to representing a client effectively. |
Problem-solving Skills | An effective lawyer is one that advocates on behalf of his client. That includes making sure all legal matters are handled with due diligence, clients are given adequate legal representation, and matters are handled with due process of the law. In other words, lawyers have to be master problem-solvers – capable of handling not just the facts of the case but how to navigate the law to best benefit their client. |
Research Skills | In order to provide sound legal advice, lawyers must research all of the case law, legal precedent, and court opinions surrounding their particular specialization. This usually means hours of research into similar cases, dissenting opinions, and legalize around a particular subject matter. This is no easy task and usually takes countless hours of reading, notetaking, and briefing in order to ensure the best possible representation for their client. |
Communications Skills | Whether it’s drafting a lawsuit on behalf of a client or speaking in front of an appellate judge, lawyers have to consistently break down complex legalize into well-organized thoughts in order to properly represent their clients. |
Why is Business Law Important?
Managers and C-Level Executives must be knowledgeable on legal issues in business. While many think this area is reserved for lawyers, a well-rounded leader knows enough about the law to prevent potential legal issues. Avoiding legal problems during the course of business is usually the preferred (and least expensive) course of action. Business owners that are proactive with the legalize of their decision-making are usually far better off than those who are reactive. To run a successful business, leaders must know the legal requirements in their country, region, state and city. If it’s a multinational company, the complexity of law grows exponentially. This is why someone with a dual JD-MBA becomes invaluable to an organization.
Whether you are an executive of a multimillion-dollar international company or the co-founder of an e-commerce startup, it is important to understand basic legal issues of the business. In addition to navigating the initial corporate liability protection required to start a business, understanding the legalize around your company builds credibility amongst stakeholders. Investors and customers want the reassurance of dealing with a legitimate organization.
Leaders who understand how to protect themselves against lawsuits and know the business rules in their respective field will have a distinct advantage over the competition. Hiring a JD-MBA graduate will ensure that all business matters are handled with due diligence.
How Much Time Will a Dual JD-MBA Program Take?
Temple University Beasley School of Law and the Fox School of Business and Management, for example, cooperatively offer a 4-year dual degree program leading to both the Juris Doctor (J.D.) and the Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) degrees upon graduation. Candidates receive two separate degrees upon graduation: a J.D. from the Temple Law School and an M.B.A. from the Fox School of Business and Management. The graduation requirements from each school must be met separately. A JD-MBA student must complete all requirements for both degrees before either degree can be awarded.
What Licenses Are Required?
Law students, in order to practice law, must sit for the bar exam upon graduation if they want to practice. All ABA-approved law schools allow graduates to sit for the state bar exam in any of the 50 states in the U.S. To practice law in any state, a person must be admitted to the state’s bar under rules established by the jurisdiction’s highest court. The requirements vary by state and jurisdiction. For more details on individual state and jurisdiction requirements, visit the National Conference of Bar Examiners.
After passing the state bar exam, applicants undergo a character background check prior to being allowed to practice law in their respective state. Prior felony convictions, delinquent child support payments, academic disciplinary actions, are just some factors that may prevent an applicant from being admitted to the bar. Attorney’s who want to practice in more than one state have to sit for each state’s bar exam unless there is a reciprocity agreement between states.
For those who attended a non-ABA-accredited law school (most are in California), graduates must sit for the bar exam in the state where the school is located. Most of the time, there is a reciprocity agreement that states: once a law graduate passes the bar (in one state) and has a certain number of years as a practicing attorney in that state, he/she can sit for the bar in another state.
What Are Typical Classes for a Dual JD-MBA Degree?
Here are some of the courses that will serve both the J.D. and the M.B.A. curriculums:
- Corporate Law & Securities Regulation – This hybrid J.D. /M.B.A. course introduces graduate students to the process of forming a business entity and its dissolution. The course also analyzes the rights and responsibilities of stakeholders; the role the SEC plays in regulating investment activities; and the fiduciary responsibilities of parties in a contractual obligation. This course also explores the legalese around mergers and acquisitions.
- Social Entrepreneurship and the Law – This course examines the growing complexities of corporate social responsibility. The law plays a critical role in advancing social change. Companies interested in integrating a social strategy into their overall mission should consult an attorney to navigate the corporate waters to ensure regulatory compliance. The process of securing financing as a socially-driven company will be explored as well as impact investing, and social impact funding.
- Corporate Taxation – This MBA course examines the financial implications of forming and liquidating different types of business entities. What does this mean for a public company and its respective shareholders? Non-traditional business entities, like partnerships and subchapter S corps will be analyze from a tax perspective. Venture capital financing, private equity, and social impact investing are introduced as a way to showcase the corporate tax implications of starting certain business entities.
- Taxation of Property Transactions – This course serves as a hybrid between taxation and real estate law. By examining the federal income tax implications of property purchased, sold, and exchange, students will be able to understand the capital gain/loss with regard to one’s portfolio. This course introduces tax of deferred payment sales and how it impacts the accounting cycle.
- Global Commerce and Litigation – This is an upper-level survey course exploring the rules governing multinational corporations. Whether it’s international sales, import and export transactions, overseas investments, or international e-commerce sales, there is plenty of opportunity for litigation. This course requires contract law as a prerequisite for entry and focuses on the U.N. Convention on Contracts for the International Sales of Goods as the main governing body to render court decisions.
- Antitrust Law – This J.D. /M.B.A. course explores all aspects of antitrust law, with an introduction to the Sherman Antitrust Act – the foundation of all antitrust litigation. Case law, legal precedent, and the Socratic Method are used as classroom instruction to examine unilateral and collaborative business transactions.
- Commercial and Advanced Contract Law – The course focuses on the legalese around business transactions. This course goes beyond the formation of a binding contract (offer, acceptance, and consideration) and introduces the economics of contract law and how this differs from one industry to the next. From sports law contracts to intellectual property contract, students will have the opportunity to choose an industry of interest and explore the intricacies of contract formation.