A unique fast-track JD/MBA program jointly developed by the University of Southern California’s Gould School of Law and USC Marshall School of Business will open new pathways and opportunities for those aspiring to accelerate their access to successful C-suite careers and high-impact positions. As the first and only program of its kind on the West Coast, the new Accelerated JD/MBA Program is now accepting applications for the inaugural Fall 2026 cohort.
With the continued popularity of the four-year JD/MBA program, the time is right to establish a three-year accelerated program for those wishing to accomplish their goals expeditiously, says David Kirschner, USC Gould’s associate dean of admissions, financial aid and innovation, who was instrumental in the launch.
“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,” says USC Gould Dean Franita Tolson.
“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,” notes USC Marshall Dean Geoffrey Garrett.
The program calls for three full academic years: eight consecutive semesters, including summer terms, which will meet the needs of students who are motivated to earn both degrees on an abbreviated timeline and enable them to enter the workforce more quickly. Specialized coursework, an experiential learning requirement and mentorship opportunities are all part of the program, offered by USC’s nationally ranked law and business schools.
In addition to the rigorous coursework, what sets the program apart is a support system jointly offered by Gould and Marshall which is tailored to meet students’ specific needs.
“Students will have all the support mechanisms that both schools already provide, and additional support from structures we are building for the accelerated program,” Kirschner says.
Innovative and Interdisciplinary
With the shifting of workplace demands in a rapidly changing world, more and more students are looking for education that prepares them to be nimble and flexible by gaining knowledge across various fields of study.
“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,” says Kyle Mayer, vice dean of MBA Programs at USC Marshall.
The accelerated program provides a customizable curriculum in order to mirror the personalized experience that are hallmarks of USC’s JD and MBA programs.
As excitement about the new program continues to build momentum, Kirschner explains that he’s fielded numerous calls from prospective applicants — an indication of today’s evolving marketplace, where roles in large consulting and accounting firms are expanding.
“Collaboration within the USC academic community is a great opportunity for innovation that can help our students reach their goals,” Kirschner says.
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