Juris Doctor/Master of Divinity Joint Degree

Program Overview

The Juris Doctor/Master of Divinity Joint Degree program at Duquesne University and Pittsburgh Theological Seminary allows students to earn both degrees in five years. The program combines law and theology studies, preparing graduates for careers in legal aid, social justice advocacy, counseling, and other fields where law and ministry intersect. Students complete 15 credit hours per semester, with a total of 90 credit hours for the Juris Doctor degree and 72 credit hours for the Master of Divinity degree.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• The Juris Doctor/Master of Divinity Joint Degree program offered by the Thomas R. Kline School of Law of Duquesne University and the Pittsburgh Theological Seminary enables students to earn both degrees in five years instead of the usual six.
• The program allows students to pursue a full course of study in both theology and law, with certain courses taken in each school being used as electives in the other.
• The program is designed for students interested in careers that combine law and ministry, such as legal aid, advocacy for social justice, or counseling.

Outline:

• The program consists of 15 credit hours of coursework per semester, with a total of 90 credit hours required for the Juris Doctor degree and 72 credit hours required for the Master of Divinity degree.
• Students begin their studies in the Thomas R. Kline School of Law and must complete the first year of law school before enrolling in the Master of Divinity program.
• The program allows students to take up to three credit hours of a Thomas R. Kline School of Law clinical course as an elective in the Master of Divinity program.
• Students are required to provide the Thomas R. Kline School of Law Registrar with a copy of their graduate elective course schedule.

Assessment:

• The program uses a variety of assessment methods, including:
• Exams
• Papers
• Presentations
• Projects
• Students are also required to complete a thesis or dissertation in their final year of study.

Teaching:

• The program is taught by a team of experienced faculty members from both the Thomas R. Kline School of Law and the Pittsburgh Theological Seminary.
• The faculty use a variety of teaching methods, including:
• Lectures
• Discussions
• Simulations
• Case studies
• The program also provides students with opportunities to participate in clinical experiences, such as internships and externships.

Careers:

• Graduates of the program are prepared for careers in a variety of fields, including:
• Legal aid
• Advocacy for social justice
• Counseling
• Pastoral care
• Law enforcement
• Government
• Non-profit organizations