Dual Degree: J.D./M.S.F.
Combine a study in law with a study in management with the Vanderbilt J.D./M.S. Finance.
Overview
The Vanderbilt J.D./M.S.F. certifies advanced training and expertise that is highly valued by law firms and their business clients, but rare among graduating law students entering careers in corporate and business law. Corporate law practice requires not only a deep understanding of the legal and regulatory environment in which businesses operate, but also mastery of increasingly complex financial transactions and instruments prevalent in 21st century business and finance, and the J.D./M.S.F. provides immediate advantages in the legal employment market.
Select Vanderbilt J.D. students can earn a master's in finance without increasing their time in school. The first two academic years (four semesters) are completed at the law school, followed by one semester of intensive study at Owen Graduate School of Management, and a final (sixth) semester mixing law and business courses while enrolled in the law school. Completing requirements for both degrees in three years requires careful planning and close coordination with program administrators.
Dual degree applicants complete both the Law application and the MS Finance application. Vanderbilt’s dual degree partners have their own admission and application policies, procedures, and deadlines that may differ from those of the Vanderbilt J.D. program.
Entering first-year J.D. students who were admitted to the M.S.F. program prior to enrolling will have their places at Owen reserved for their third year. Other Vanderbilt J.D. students may apply to the Owen M.S.F. program during their first or third semester at the law school, and if admitted, may complete the dual degree program without extending their time in law school beyond three academic years.
Funding
Meet Our J.D./M.S.F. Students
JD/MSF '24
Timoteo L’Esperance
"The J.D./M.S.F. gave me a great opportunity to gain a better understanding my future clients and their needs and priorities."
JD/MSF '23
Kendall Kilberger
“I enjoyed the contrast between my law and finance classes. In law classes, you learn together but work alone, while business school is all group work, and each week a marathon."
JD/MSF '22
Luke Kessel
“The J.D./M.S.F. program was ideal for me because I didn’t have a finance background. Owen helped me understand the needs and motivations of my future clients.”