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Journalism and Mass Communications & Law, M.M.C. & J.D.

Joseph F. Rice School of Law
College of Information and Communications

Prepare to defend the First Amendment, represent major media companies, teach or perform legal analysis in communications. Join a dual degree program of two complementary and distinct curriculums to gain powerful skills in media and law.

Earning dual media and law degrees is a forward-thinking choice for students interested in a rapidly evolving industry. Offered through the School of Law and College of Information and Communications, the combination degree program prepares you to represent and manage strategic communications for many types of clients using the tools and language of the legal system.

Program Highlights

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    Advanced Knowledge

    Graduate not only with the legal knowledge but with the capacity to analyze and advise on communications decisions.

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    Leadership Trajectory

    Combining law and media degrees opens doors for leadership roles in media and communications.

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    Expanded Network

    Take advantage of two great networks and the ability to differentiate yourself in a competitive job market.

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    Cost Effective

    Earn two prestigious degrees in less time while also enjoying a cost savings thanks to shared credits between programs.

What You’ll Study

Prepare for careers that combine professional legal knowledge with advanced communications principles and strategies. Study mass communication methods, marketing, public relations, media economics and media law. Perform legal research, analysis and writing. Practice court procedures, and work a professional communications practicum in a media organization.

Building Skills

Gain the professional and personal intelligence it takes to have a successful career.

  • Advocacy

    Promoting or defending a cause or issue often using awareness, education and policy change

    Legal Knowledge

    Interpreting and applying laws and regulations to specific situations or issues

    Analytical Reasoning

    Breaking down complex problems or situations to identify patterns, connections and solutions

  • Legal Writing

    Creating clear, concise and persuasive legal documents, such as contracts, briefs or pleadings

    Communication

    Exchanging information and ideas through speaking, writing or other means of expression

    Critical Thinking

    Analyzing and evaluating information to make informed decisions or judgments

Using your degree

Make your college experience the foundation for a successful future.

Potential Careers

  • Attorney
  • Communications Director
  • Public Relations Executive
  • Communications Strategist
  • Communications Analyst
  • Professor

Workplace Settings

  • Media
  • Technology
  • Business
  • Government
  • Law Practice
  • Legal Services

I loved the School of Law's proximity to the capitol but also how it is just a short drive to the beach or mountains. The school also offers a tremendous number of extracurricular activities to get plugged in with, and being involved has always been very important to me.

Melissa Byars
Portrait of Melissa Byars

Is USC Right For You?

There are many reasons we could be your ideal university. There's the award-winning academics, the globally modeled student life, and abundance of study abroad and experiential learning options. Take a closer look at what USC could mean for you.

Degree content is provided for informational purposes only. The Academic Bulletin is the source of record for all degree information.
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