Dual J.D./M.B.A. Program – Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

• • What is the dual J.D./M.B.A. program?

    The dual degree program is a partnership between Mitchell Hamline School of Law and Hamline University’s School of Business. It allows students to earn both a Juris Doctor (J.D.) and a Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) in a streamlined, integrated format.

  • Why should I consider a dual J.D./M.B.A.?

    The program is designed for students who want to combine legal training with business, leadership, and management skills. It’s especially valuable for those with entrepreneurial ambitions, interdisciplinary interests, or existing careers they wish to build upon. Whether you’re aiming for corporate law, nonprofit leadership, compliance, or business ownership, the program supports a range of professional goals.

  • How does the credit sharing work?

    You complete all J.D. requirements and transfer 12 of your J.D. credits to count toward the M.B.A. These 12 credits fulfill the M.B.A.’s elective requirements, so you only need to complete 36 additional business credits to earn the M.B.A.

  • How long does it take to complete the program?

    Most students can complete both degrees in about four years—compared to the five years it would typically take to earn them separately. That means a full year’s worth of time and M.B.A. tuition saved.

  • Can Blended Learning students participate?

    Yes. The M.B.A. program offers hybrid and online options, making it accessible to Mitchell Hamline’s Blended Learning students as well as those in traditional formats.

  • Does this program count toward the Law and Business Certificate?

    Yes. All M.B.A. coursework counts toward the Center for Law and Business (C-LAB) Certificate, allowing students to earn both the certificate and the dual degree with maximum efficiency.

  • What makes Hamline University’s M.B.A. program unique?

    Hamline’s M.B.A. program emphasizes applied, real-world learning and leadership development. Students are introduced to the internationally recognized Belbin methodology, which helps them build leadership strengths and manage teams effectively—skills they can use from day one and throughout their careers.

  • What is the learning environment like at Hamline?

    Hamline University—Minnesota’s first university—is known for small class sizes, supportive faculty, and a collaborative academic culture. Like Mitchell Hamline, it offers a student-centered experience without the cutthroat atmosphere sometimes found in other graduate programs.

  • Are scholarships available?

    Yes, Hamline University offers scholarship opportunities for students enrolled in the M.B.A. program.

  • What is the learning environment like at Hamline?

    Hamline University—Minnesota’s first university—is known for small class sizes, supportive faculty, and a collaborative academic culture. Like Mitchell Hamline, it offers a student-centered experience without the cutthroat atmosphere sometimes found in other graduate programs.

  • How do I apply?

    You will need to apply separately to the M.B.A. program at Hamline University, after you have been admitted and have started at Mitchell Hamline School of Law.  At Mitchell Hamline, contact the C-LAB Director as well as the Vice-Dean of Academic Affairs to inform them of your intention and to answer any questions you may have.