J.D. Business Law Certificate

The Business Law Certificate Program allows students to receive recognition for successful completion of a rigorous course of study and advanced training in preparation for professional practice as legal advisors to businesses, to business-oriented NGOs, and to government entities. The curricular program requires students to develop a broad background in fundamental areas of law while also receiving advanced training in business practice and skills. Students completing the program will have breadth, expertise, and preparation for future growth. Students are allowed (but are not required) to exercise some freedom in focusing their training on either the “transaction” or “litigation” concentrations within business law.

The following are the requirements for the J.D. Business Law Certificate.


The application must be received no later than April 15, 2024, if students wish to be acknowledged in the graduation material. Students can also choose to submit the application for the Business Law Certificate after graduation but it must be received no later than July 1, 2024.

Download the Business Law Certificate application form (JD) 2023-24.



Core Courses

1. Completion of the following courses:

250 Business Association
255.5 Securities Regulation 

2. Completion of one of the following courses:

252.2 Antitrust
256.6F Bankruptcy Law
251.5 Corporate Finance
259A Income Tax I 
254.5 Insurance Law
249.2 Introduction to Financial Accounting
248.5 Mergers and Acquisitions 

Other Business Law Courses

Completion of at least six additional units categorized as “Business Law” in the Berkeley Law schedule of classes. Students may use a Required Course not utilized above towards this requirement.

Requests for a waiver or credit for courses not listed above should be sent to BCLB@law.berkeley.edu.

NOTE – If a waiver has been granted, attach a copy of the email from the Certificate Administrator granting the waiver.

Inquires about certificates requirements should be sent to BCLB@law.berkeley.edu.