Concurrent Law Programs
In addition to offering the standard J.D. program, the Knudson School of Law has partnered with other academic departments to offer concurrent degree programs. Explore these options to see how you can earn your J.D. concurrently with a degree in business administration, adult and higher education, English, history, professional accountancy, public administration, psychology, administration, sustainability or environmental law and policy.
Follow Your Unique Interests
At the completion of 1L year, eligible students may apply to participate in one of the nine concurrent degree programs that operate in conjunction with other master’s degree programs at the University of South Dakota, or in the dual degree program that we offer in partnership with Vermont Law School.
The following programs may have unique requirements or application processes. For more information, contact the corresponding academic departments or reach out to gradadmissions@usd.edu. Learn more about applying to the graduate school.
Degrees & Offerings
Concurrent Accountancy, Law (M.Acc./J.D.)
Concurrent ProgramThe Master of Accountancy concurrent degree program provides specialized training in accounting and related fields for those who wish to prepare for a career in public accounting, industry, government service or accounting education.
Concurrent Business Administration, Law (MBA/J.D.)
Concurrent ProgramThe MBA program prepares you to adapt to changing environments, make decisions and develop leadership ability and social responsibility in business, and use analytical skills. A J.D. combined with an MBA can benefit your career in business law, corporate counsel, banking or health care administration.
Concurrent Adult and Higher Education, Law (M.A./J.D.)
Concurrent ProgramThe Master of Arts in adult and higher education helps you develop expertise in the fields of adult education, higher education and administration. Graduates may go on to work in areas such as a university General Counsel's office, upper-level university administration, nonprofit organizations or legislative bodies requiring experts in the field of higher education.
Concurrent English, Law (M.A./J.D.)
Concurrent ProgramThe concurrent degree with an M.A. in English uses the English specialties of exposition, argumentation and critical analysis of literature to give law students the skills to properly research, prepare and present briefs. With interdisciplinary training in both English and law, you will be better prepared for careers in both government agencies and private industry.
Concurrent History, Law (M.A./J.D.)
Concurrent ProgramHistorians with legal training are exceedingly rare. There is an increasing number of career opportunities in public service for those who have this interdisciplinary background blending law and history. These include employment in areas like national and state government agencies, energy, environment, civil rights and Indian law.
Concurrent Public Administration, Law (MPA/J.D.)
Concurrent ProgramThe Master of Public Administration concurrent degree program provides you with a wide range of professional opportunities. Our graduates serve at all levels of government and nonprofit organizations in the United States and abroad.
Concurrent Psychology, Law (M.A./J.D.)
Concurrent ProgramSince both psychology and law deal with human behavior, the concurrent J.D. and Master of Arts program in law and psychology provides a unique opportunity for those interested in incorporating psychology into their legal training. With training in both law and clinical psychology (non-certified), you will be exceptionally qualified to work in the areas of professional ethics, individual rights, community relations, family law and child advocacy. Lawyers with backgrounds in social psychology are especially skilled in constitutional law, testimony and technical areas such as jury selection. There are also other opportunities in fields such as personnel selection, industrial relations, product safety and environmental issues.
Concurrent Administration, Law (M.S./J.D.)
Concurrent ProgramOur Master of Science in administration degree is a cross-disciplinary program which prepares you for administrative roles in public service-oriented organizations. You'll learn to lead organizations, solve problems and consider the ethical and legal implications of decisions. The program benefits mid-career professionals working in a variety of settings, including government agencies, nonprofit and service organizations, health care, education and private sector organizations that provide public services.
Concurrent Sustainability, Law (M.S./J.D.)
Concurrent ProgramSustainability is an emerging field that seeks to address many of society's complex and interdisciplinary issues. The Master of Science in sustainability program emphasizes experiential learning where we find solutions to real-world environmental, social and economic problems. The concept of sustainability encompasses a wide range of topics and endeavors, including ecosystems, energy, natural resources, economic development, population, food security, industry and conflict resolution.
Dual Degree Law, Environmental Law and Policy (J.D./MELP)
Concurrent ProgramAs a student in the USD Knudson School of Law, you have a unique opportunity to receive a master’s degree, concurrent with the law degree, at Vermont Law School. You may earn a J.D. as you also pursue a Master of Environmental Law and Policy.
Program Details
Graduate
College
Contact
Faculty & Staff
Neil Fulton
Wendy Hess
Justin Huston
Sean Kammer
Allen Madison
Michael McKey
Tyler Moore
Tamara Nash
Laura Rose
Thomas Simmons
Marilyn Trefz
Ann Tweedy
Susan Benton
Cheryl Maloney
Teresa Carlisle
Tracy Hummel
Heather McDonald
Katey Ulrich
Your High-Quality Law Education
The Knudson School of Law offers a robust curriculum, real-world learning opportunities and personalized attention from faculty. Explore our website to learn more about your academic experience as a law student at USD.
