Juris Doctor/Master of Accountancy Dual-Degree Program
The University of Idaho’s Juris Doctor (J.D.) and Master of Accountancy dual-degree program takes a forward-looking approach to the rapidly evolving and increasingly intersectional worlds of business law and corporate finance. To pursue a career along this path, general legal education is often just the beginning, and professionals are expected to be well-versed in finance-specific topics and industry best practices and make well-informed, compliant decisions. Higher-level accountants, meanwhile, stand out from the pack by realizing where their skills directly overlap with and benefit from an understanding of the law.
Considering demand in both fields, this dual-degree program strives to graduate lawyers with an accounting specialization who are prepared to practice and lead in a global marketplace expecting interdisciplinary skills. Ideal for individuals interested in practicing law in the context of business, this program allows you to earn both degrees in as few as six semesters while gaining the qualifications essential for taking the Bar Exam and Uniform Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exams following graduation.
Careers in Accounting and Business Law
How do you envision yourself influencing the world? This dual law and accounting degree program sets you up for a number of career paths, including:
- advancing your existing accounting career with a higher level of legal knowledge and CPA license;
- bringing your legal skills to a position in taxation or corporate finance;
- tax and business law;
- corporate lawyer and controller or
- legal and tax consulting.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates 4% growth for lawyers and accountants and auditors across all industries and sectors between 2019 and 2029.
Structure of the J.D./Master of Accountancy Program
You’ll begin your studies in this dual-degree program in the College of Law, which has maintained American Bar Association (ABA) accreditation since 1925. Graduates leave U of I ready to make an impact in legal, business and public service sectors.
As you gain a firm footing in general legal concepts during your first year, you’ll apply to the College of Business and Economics’ Master of Accountancy program and start taking concurrent course loads during your second year. Certain course credits satisfy requirements for both degrees, allowing many students to complete their J.D. and M.Acct. in roughly three years’ time and acquire a more specialized perspective of business and corporate law.
The Juris Doctor (J.D.) Program (90 Semester Hours)
University of Idaho’s College of Law has built a reputation for offering one of the most affordable J.D. programs in the United States. Courses offered in Moscow and Boise strengthen students’ practical and legal writing skills necessary for securing a full-time legal position in business, government or private practice.
A case method approach for curriculum will help you glean key insights from real-world decisions made by appellate courts, while classroom discussions solidify your conceptual understanding. Experiential learning is required, including an internship, pro bono service and a semester in practice, and you’ll find additional opportunities in clinics and externships.
Adding focus to your career, the College of Law will encourage you to select a specialization in business, intellectual property, environmental or Native American law. The law and accounting dual master’s program grows your business competencies while helping you distinguish yourself professionally. Learn more about the J.D. program, including its objectives, methods and curriculum.
The Master of Accountancy Program (30 Semester Hours)
The Master of Accountancy prioritizes flexibility in relation to your career and personal goals and incorporates hands-on learning, all while positioning you to complete the 150-hour requirement to take the CPA exam. In total, 12 credits from the Master of Accountancy count toward the J.D.
The MAcc stands on a versatile foundation of auditing, financial and management accounting and tax expertise, preparing you for an advanced accounting career. You'll select from several electives in corporate accounting management and controllership, fiscal management, accounting information systems analysis and design and taxation to specialize their knowledge even further and examine the role of accounting in global business. At the same time, participating in case studies and research allows you to apply your knowledge outside of a classroom setting. Learn more about the Master of Accountancy degree program.
Admissions to the Dual J.D. and Master of Accountancy Program
When you choose to venture down this concurrent degree path at the University of Idaho, you must apply to the College of Law and College of Business and Economics separately. Admission into this course of study is contingent on fulfilling requirements for the J.D. and Master of Accountancy and being accepted into both programs. This includes GPAs and test scores, in addition to all other requested documentation. Due to the format, you’ll apply to the College of Law first before completing an application for the Master of Accountancy program.
To begin, review all requirements for the Juris Doctor program, and anticipate applying to the Master of Accountancy by ensuring you have all documentation and information ready.
Direct Your Career with a Dual J.D./Master of Accountancy Degree from U of I
If you see yourself working in business law or leading an accounting department, realize your aspirations with a dual J.D./Master of Accountancy degree from the University of Idaho. To learn more about this program of study, reach out to the College of Law Admissions office today by email or by phone at 208-885-2300, or fill out a request for information today.