What each degree is for
A J.D. is the entry requirement for practicing law, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics lists it as the entry education for lawyers. An MBA is a business degree with no licensing exam attached. Lawyers advise on rules, risk and disputes. MBA graduates usually manage people, budgets and strategy. Some careers open to both, such as deal work, compliance, real estate, government and startups.
Side by side
The details vary by school, so treat these as typical, and check each program.
- Time: J.D. three years full time; MBA commonly two years full time; a JD/MBA about four years at many schools instead of five.
- Tests: law schools accept the LSAT, and many accept the GRE; business schools generally want the GMAT or GRE.
- License: a J.D. leads to a bar exam. An MBA does not require one.
- Work experience: many MBA programs prefer or expect a few years of work first. Law schools admit many applicants straight from college.
- Career start: law graduates typically start at a firm, in government or public interest. MBA graduates typically start in a management, finance or consulting role.
How to decide
Start from the job, not the degree. If the job title says attorney, counsel or prosecutor, you need the J.D. If it says manager, analyst, consultant or founder, an MBA or work experience fits. If you are drawn to the overlap, look at roles at the intersection and ask people in them which degree they used and whether they would repeat it.
When the joint degree fits
A JD/MBA suits a small group with a clear plan that needs both, such as private equity, corporate development, real estate development or a general counsel path. It costs an added year of tuition and time. Our guide to joint-degree programs covers how to apply, since most programs need separate admission to each school.
Common questions
Is a JD or an MBA better?+
Neither is better in general. A J.D. is required to practice law and takes about 3 years, while an MBA suits management, finance and consulting and commonly takes 2 years.
How long does a JD/MBA take?+
Many programs take about 4 years instead of the 5 needed to earn the degrees separately, though structures vary by school.
Which tests do I need for a JD and an MBA?+
Law schools accept the LSAT and many accept the GRE. Business schools generally require the GMAT or GRE.
What to do next
- 1
Write the job you want and whether it requires a license.
- 2
Talk to two people who hold each degree.
- 3
Compare tests, timeline and net cost for each.