Public Administration and Law, M.P.A. & J.D.
Program Overview
Public Administration and Law, M.P.A. & J.D.
McCausland College of Arts and Sciences
Joseph F. Rice School of Law
Expand your insights beyond the legal foundations of public policy and become an expert in the complexities of writing, interpreting, and implementing laws as public policy.
Offered through the School of Law and the Department of Political Science in the College of Arts and Sciences, this dual-degree program prepares you to work at all levels of government and in nonprofit organizations or the private sector. Both schools are known for developing graduates who go on to shape policies nationally and internationally.
Program Highlights
- Dual Coursework
Complete your J.D. and M.P.A. in fewer total credit hours than it would take to earn both degrees independently.
- Career Options
Explore many career options in the public and private sectors as well as at all levels of government.
- Grow Your Network
Strengthen your professional network with alumni connections in both the legal and public administration fields.
- Make an Impact
Graduate prepared to lead in a variety of settings in an ever-changing public affairs landscape.
What You’ll Study
With an innovative and rigorous curriculum, this dual-degree program in public administration and law is designed for highly motivated students who have a passion to serve others and the desire to contribute to policymaking through a public service perspective. Graduates will be equipped to practice law in large private, governmental or nonprofit organizations.
Building Skills
Gain the professional and personal intelligence it takes to have a successful career.
- Advocacy
Promoting or defending a cause or issue often using awareness, education and policy change
- Policy Analysis
Evaluating policies for effectiveness and impact, identify areas for improvement, and inform decision-making
- Planning and Strategy
Developing and implementing a comprehensive and effective approach to achieve specific goals
- Legal Knowledge
Interpreting and applying laws and regulations to specific situations or issues
- Problem Solving
Identifying, analyzing and resolving problems or challenges using creative and effective strategies
- Administration
Overseeing operations, managing resources and implementing policies for efficient and effective organizational functioning
Using your degree
Make your college experience the foundation for a successful future.
Potential Careers
- Lawyer
- Director
- Policy or Regulatory Analyst
- Advocate
- Politician
- Government Affairs Advisor
Workplace Settings
- Law
- Government Agencies
- Nonprofit Organizations
- Private Practice
- Politics
- Business
Related Degrees
- International Business and Law, I.M.B.A. & J.D.
- Journalism and Mass Communications & Law, M.M.C. & J.D.
- Accountancy and Law, M.A.C.C. & J.D.
- Business Administration and Sport and Entertainment Management, M.B.A. & M.S.E.M.
- Economics and Law, M.A. & J.D.
- Health Services Policy and Management and Law, M.H.A. & J.D.
- Human Resources and Law, M.H.R. & J.D.
- English and Library and Information, M.A. & M.L.I.S.
- Social Work and Law, M.S.W. & J.D.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
This dual-degree program in Public Administration and Law (M.P.A. & J.D.) is offered jointly by the Joseph F. Rice School of Law and the Department of Political Science in the College of Arts and Sciences. It aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills to excel in public service, government, and related fields. The program emphasizes the intersection of law and public policy, preparing graduates to analyze, interpret, and implement laws effectively.
Careers:
Graduates of this program are well-prepared for a variety of careers in the public and private sectors, including:
- Lawyer
- Director
- Policy or Regulatory Analyst
- Advocate
- Politician
- Government Affairs Advisor Potential workplaces include:
- Law firms
- Government agencies
- Nonprofit organizations
- Private practice
- Politics
- Business
Other:
- The program is designed for highly motivated students with a passion for public service and a desire to contribute to policymaking.
- Graduates will be equipped to practice law in large private, governmental, or nonprofit organizations.
- The program emphasizes the development of professional and personal intelligence, including skills in advocacy, policy analysis, planning and strategy, legal knowledge, problem-solving, and administration.
Overview:
The University of South Carolina is a public research university with a rich history spanning over 200 years. It is known for its commitment to academic excellence, fostering a welcoming community of scholars and leaders, and providing a diverse range of academic programs.
Services Offered:
The university offers a wide array of services to its students, including:
Academic Support:
Provides resources and assistance to help students succeed in their studies.Career Prep:
Offers guidance and support for students seeking internships, jobs, and career development.Study Abroad:
Facilitates opportunities for students to gain international experience and broaden their horizons.Dining:
Provides various dining options on campus, catering to diverse tastes and dietary needs.Clubs and Organizations:
Offers a vibrant student life with numerous clubs and organizations for students to join and pursue their interests.Sports and Outdoors:
Provides opportunities for students to engage in sports and outdoor activities, promoting a healthy and active lifestyle.Arts and Entertainment:
Offers a variety of cultural events, performances, and entertainment options for students to enjoy.Inclusive Excellence:
Promotes a welcoming and inclusive environment for all students, regardless of their background or identity.University 101:
Provides resources and information for new students to navigate campus life and academic expectations.My USC Experience:
Offers a platform for students to connect with each other, engage in events, and access resources.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Students at the University of South Carolina can expect a vibrant and engaging campus experience. The university boasts a welcoming community, numerous clubs and organizations, diverse dining options, and opportunities for sports, arts, and entertainment. The campus is also home to a variety of traditions and events that create a sense of belonging and shared experience.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Academic Excellence:
The university is recognized for its high-quality academic programs and its commitment to research.Diverse Programs:
Offers over 350 bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees, as well as certificates and specialties.Welcoming Community:
Provides a supportive and inclusive environment for students from all backgrounds.Unrivaled Experience:
Offers a unique blend of academic rigor, student life, and opportunities for personal growth.Strong Alumni Network:
Provides graduates with a network of support and connections for their future careers.Academic Programs:
The University of South Carolina is home to 15 colleges and schools, offering a wide range of academic programs. Some of the key academic strengths include:
Arts and Sciences:
Offers a broad range of disciplines, including humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences.Business:
The Darla Moore School of Business is renowned for its strong programs in finance, marketing, and management.Engineering and Computing:
Offers programs in various engineering disciplines, computer science, and information technology.Medicine:
The university has two medical schools, one in Columbia and one in Greenville, offering programs in medicine, nursing, and pharmacy.Law:
The Joseph F. Rice School of Law is known for its strong legal education and its commitment to public service.Other:
The university is committed to providing a safe and secure environment for its students. It offers various resources and services to support student safety and well-being, including a campus police department, emergency alert system, and counseling services.
