JD / MPA Villanova University Charles Widger School of Law

Villanova’s Charles Widger School of Law and the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences jointly offer the JD/MPA Program, which enables students who are enrolled in the JD program to simultaneously earn an MPA degree, all within three years.

This dual degree program is designed for students who are interested in careers in public service and an interdisciplinary education that examines the relationship between law, public administration and management. In addition to the JD degree requirements, JD/MPA students are exposed to the theoretical aspects of public administration and organizations, as well as financial and human capital management, data analysis and leadership.

The JD/MPA degree provides graduates with the values, roles, skills and practices that will help them become competent legal professionals who are also ethical, intelligent, inclusive and creative public service leaders. Pursuing a JD/MPA degree sets graduates apart and gives them an advantage when pursuing careers in competitive federal, state or local government agencies, nonprofit or quasi-governmental organizations and the private sector.