Curriculum & Requirements
The joint degree program is designed to be completed in eight semesters over four academic years instead of the five years required if pursued separately. Students can pursue both programs simultaneously. During the first year, students study at either Heinz College or Pitt Law, taking the standard first-year curriculum of the respective school. The second year involves full-time study at the other school. For the third and fourth years, students take courses at both schools. To graduate with both degrees, students must fulfill both schools’ degree requirements.
Heinz College and Pitt Law have different degree requirements. CMU’s courses are counted in units, and the University of Pittsburgh’s in credits. A 12-unit course is the equivalent of a 4-credit course. To fulfill Pitt Law’s program requirements, students must complete 88 credits, while Heinz College requires 198 units. Students in the joint degree program can transfer 30 units to the Heinz College degree after completing their JD degree and 14 credits to the JD degree after completing their Heinz College degree.
Students must register for at least one class per semester at Heinz College during years 3 and 4 to qualify for credit transfer between institutions.
Before selecting courses, students must meet with their Academic Advisors at both programs. In addition to the coursework for both programs, Heinz College students must complete a summer internship after their first year at Heinz College. The Professional Development Office can assist students in securing an internship.
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