Program Overview

Introduction to the J.D./M.S.W. Program

The Juris Doctor/Master of Social Work dual degree is awarded after completion of a four-year integrated course of study. This eliminates approximately one year of study, while meeting all accreditation requirements of the American Bar Association and Council on Social Work Education.

Program Structure and Requirements

Upon completion of the dual degree, students have earned a total of 135 credit hours (as opposed to 153 credit hours if the degrees are earned separately). A total of 12 hours credit earned in the M.S.W. program count toward completion of the J.D. degree. A total of 6 hours credit earned in the J.D. program count toward completion of the M.S.W. degree. In order to receive dual credit, minimum grade standards for each program must be met.

Academic Standards and Termination

Students who do not maintain the academic or ethical standards of either degree program may be terminated from the dual degree program. Students in good standing in one degree program but not the other may be allowed to continue in the program in which they have good standing and must meet the degree requirements of that program.

Completion and Degree Conferral

If for any reason a student admitted to the dual degree program does not complete the M.S.W. degree, the student cannot count the 12 hours of M.S.W. courses toward the J.D. degree. If for any reason a student admitted to the dual degree program does not complete the J.D. degree, the elective policy for the School of Social Work applies. Each degree will be conferred when the student has met all the requirements of that degree.

Admission Eligibility and Requirements

To be eligible for admission to the J.D./M.S.W. Dual Degree Program, students must apply separately and be admitted to the master's program at the School of Social Work, to the juris doctor program at the School of Law, and to the joint program. As such, applicants must meet all of the requirements for admission to each program. Upon application to the J.D./M.S.W. dual degree, the applicant shall provide a statement of intent for admission that includes a brief explanation of the reasons for pursuing this dual degree program as well as goals upon completion of the program.

Special Considerations for Existing Students

Should a student enter one program and later become aware of the availability of the joint program, the student must be admitted to both programs and to the joint program during his or her first year of class work in the program of original enrollment.