Juris Doctor / Master of Dispute Resolution (JD/MDR)
A Master's in Dispute Resolution (MDR) degree from the Straus Institute at Pepperdine Caruso School of Law will complement the curriculum for your Juris Doctor (JD) degree and equip you with timely skills in problem solving and conflict management.
| Program for Pepperdine Students |
|---|
| Pepperdine JD Electives (14 units) |
| Summer Program (12 units) |
| Winter Intensive 1 (2 units) |
| Total: 32 units |
About the MDR Degree
The MDR degree requires the completion of 32 units
As Pepperdine Caruso JD students:
- You may count 14 units toward both your JD and MDR degrees at Pepperdine
- Thus, you would only need 18 additional units in dispute resolution to complete the MDR
JD/MDR students generally earn these 18 units by:
- Taking 8-10 dispute resolution units in one summer, and
- Taking dispute resolution units during Straus' Winter Intensive, and/or
- By taking extra courses during your 2L or 3L years
Summer Unit Guidelines
The summer courses would count toward MDR only
- The ABA prohibits law schools from granting units towards your JD for any coursework prior to your matriculation in the JD program in the fall
- This means that any units you take during the summer cannot count towards your JD degree, but they CAN count toward the 18 units you would need for the MDR
- Therefore, you should only participate in the summer dispute resolution courses if you want to earn the MDR
Apply Now
You must be apply to and be admitted into the JD program prior to applying for a joint degree. The application process for newly-admitted JD students requires:
- Master of Dispute Resolution Application; and
- Brief personal statement (1-2 pages double spaced) indicating your interest in the dispute resolution program
- Current resume/CV
- Transcripts and letters of recommendation will be pulled from your JD application
We are here to answer your questions. Contact us at 310.506.4655 or dracademics@pepperdine.edu.