JD MPA: Paths for Completion

The timeline below shows two options for completing the concurrent Master of Public Administration (MPA) at San Diego State University (SDSU) and the Juris Doctor (JD) at the University of San Diego (USD) School of Law. This program lets you earn both degrees in about four years, combining hands-on public administration training with a strong legal education. You can start at either SDSU or USD, depending on your goals and timing. Each path outlines key steps—from applications and LSAT preparation to coursework and capstone completion—so you can plan ahead and stay on track to graduate with both degrees by Spring 2030.

*These are recommended timelines.  They are designed to optimize admission and completion of both degrees.  Before considering the JDMPA option, please meet with the designated representatives from the SDSU School of Public Affairs and USD School of Law

Path 1: Start at SDSU in Fall 2026 (1+3 Model)

If you begin the concurrent program at San Diego State University (SDSU), you’ll start by completing the core courses of the Master of Public Administration (MPA) program before transitioning into the University of San Diego (USD) School of Law. This path allows you to build a strong foundation in public service, management, and policy before diving into the legal curriculum. During your first year at SDSU, you’ll also prepare for and take the LSAT, then apply to USD Law for admission the following year. Once admitted, you’ll complete three years at USD—continuing your law studies while wrapping up your SDSU capstone or thesis project—culminating in the completion of both your JD and MPA by Spring 2030.

  • Between October 1 - February 1: Apply to SDSU MPA (no LSAT required)
  • Between March and October:  Prepare for LSAT.
  • By October 1: Take LSAT (may need to take more than once)

  • Complete 18 units at SDSU
  • Between September and December 1: Submit USD Law application with LSAT score for early consideration.

OR

  • By February 1: Submit USD Law application with LSAT score for regular admission priority consideration.
  • By April 1:  Notify SDSU if you were accepted to USD Law and plan to attend

  • Start at USD Law. Core JD curriculum.

  • Continue JD coursework and electives.

  • Complete JD electives.
  • Finish SDSU Capstone (6 units).
  • Graduate with JD + MPA (Spring 2030)!

Path 2: Start at USD in 2026 (1+1+2 Model)

If you choose to begin at the University of San Diego (USD) School of Law), you’ll spend your first year completing the core JD curriculum before applying to the SDSU Master of Public Administration (MPA) program. After your foundational law year, you’ll take a year at SDSU to complete the MPA core courses, then return to USD for your final two years of law school. During your last year, you’ll finish both your law electives and your SDSU capstone or thesis, earning your JD and MPA together by Spring 2030. This route is ideal if you want to immerse yourself in legal studies right away while still gaining the leadership and policy expertise offered through SDSU’s MPA program.

  • Between March 2025 and October 2025:  Prepare for and take the LSAT.
  • By October: Have a final LSAT score to submit for your application to law school.
  • Between September and December 1: Submit USD Law application with LSAT score for early consideration. 
  • Summer:  Prepare SDSU MPA application materials

  • Core JD courses at USD.
  • Between October 1 - February 1: Apply to SDSU MPA

  • MPA core courses at SDSU

  • Return to USD Law. Continue JD electives.

  • Finish JD electives.
  • Complete SDSU Capstone (6 units).
  • Graduate with JD + MPA (Spring 2030)!

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