Dual Degree Program Maintains Its Prominence

One of many opportunities the School of Law offers to earn dual degrees in various fields, the HR program is popular among students and employers alike. One aspect that makes it so appealing is that students completing the program have a variety of options upon graduation. In addition to law practice options, such as labor and employment law, they can become specialists in human resources, an increasingly important area in the business world. In addition, “A lot of graduates have become involved in investment banking, finance, sales, and marketing. They’ve found the degree to be very versatile,” said Phyllis Burkhard, Director of Career Services.

Torsha Hicks, a 2002 graduate of the law school’s human resources dual degree program, was recruited out of USC to work as a human resources generalist for Target Corporation in New York. “The great thing about having the law degree and the MHR is that I have so much flexibility in what I can do. It’s a good combination,” Hicks said. She helps to run a full-service human resources department for 800 to 1,000 employees. A key aspect of her job is managing performance, and doing so within the bounds of labor laws.

“It amazes me every day how my experiences in law school, such as clerking for law firms, have fit so well with my human resources job.” Hicks said, “I think the dual degree program at USC is one of the best in the country. Those graduating from the program are commanding some highly sought after jobs and being hired by large Fortune 500 companies. It’s definitely a competitive and successful program.” ■