The University of Miami School of Law and the Frost School of Music have launched a new joint degree program in law and music business—the first of its kind in the country—that will enable students to earn a J.D. and a Master of Music in Music Business and Entertainment Industries. The degree will give future entertainment attorneys a thorough understanding of the music industry.

In this specialization, students not only learn the essentials of law but also the common practices of the music business. Students can complete both degrees in less time while studying at a top law school and one of the best music schools in the country. And, as one of the four top music cities in the United States and the center for the Latin American divisions of all major music companies, Miami offers exceptional internship and work opportunities.

“We are very excited to offer this unique opportunity to aspiring entertainment attorneys,” says Frost School assistant professor Serona Elton. “Our joint program enables a student to integrate a strong legal foundation with an in-depth understanding of the business practices of the music industry. Our graduates will be well prepared to enter this rapidly changing field, where a working knowledge of both legal and business aspects will serve them well.”

All of the J.D. and M.M. program requirements must be fulfilled. The program allows for nine law credits to count toward the M.M. degree and six music business credits to count toward the J.D. degree, saving the student as many as 15 credits between the two programs. With intensive study, a student has the opportunity to complete both degrees in three years, including two summers of coursework.

The application deadline for the program is April 1. Questions about the J.D. program should be directed to the UM Law’s Dean of Students Office at 305-284-4551, while questions about the M.M. program should be directed to Serona Elton in the Frost School of Music at 305-284-9856 or selton@miami.edu.