Get in touch: (800) 551-3410
Reviewed by:
Former Head of Pre-Law Office, Northeastern University, & Admissions Officer, Brown University
Reviewed: 3/15/24
Are you considering earning a law degree but require the adaptability of an online program? Your search ends here!
In our technology-driven era, the educational landscape is rapidly evolving, with law schools following suit. Traditional on-campus classes are increasingly being supplemented or replaced by more flexible and convenient online alternatives.
This trend has prompted a significant increase in the number of online programs. To help you in making a well-informed choice regarding your legal education, we have compiled a list of the leading law schools with online programs.
We've curated a list of the country’s top law schools with online programs. Each school provides both a high-quality education and the flexibility to accommodate your busy schedule.
The UCLA School of Law's online Master of Legal Studies (MLS) program is a comprehensive platform that empowers professionals with an in-depth understanding of the U.S. legal system, without the necessity of pursuing a full law degree. It equips students with a profound grasp of legal principles across various sectors.
The program's vibrant and diverse nature fosters collaboration, opening avenues for students to create meaningful professional relationships and expand their legal knowledge base. It also provides a broad range of specializations, allowing students to align their academic pursuits with their individual career goals.
The use of advanced teaching methodologies ensures a thorough and rewarding educational experience. In light of the program's multifaceted approach, graduates find themselves well-equipped to tackle complex legal scenarios in their professional careers.
Georgetown University Law Center, which is recognized as a beacon of legal education, provides top-notch online programs, including the distinguished Executive LL.M. in Taxation and Securities & Financial Regulation.
These programs, delivered by a roster of eminent and experienced faculty members, guarantee flexibility to cater to the varied needs of working professionals in the taxation and financial regulation sectors. A meticulously designed curriculum fosters profound intellectual engagement and bolsters practical skills.
Notably, the program cultivates an environment conducive to networking, building a thriving learning community and fostering opportunities for future professional collaborations. Students often find the balance of rigorous academics and real-world applications instrumental in their professional development.
USC Gould School of Law's online law program delivers a thorough understanding of the U.S. legal system, designed with a specific emphasis on the requirements of international professionals.
The curriculum is a seamless blend of live classes and self-paced coursework that allows students to adjust the learning experience to their lifestyle and obligations, thereby facilitating a truly personalized learning trajectory.
The program also affords students the opportunity to delve into a wide array of legal areas, offering a comprehensive understanding that can be applied in various professional contexts.
The provision for optional on-campus experiences enables students to immerse themselves in USC's vibrant community, creating lasting memories and extending their professional network. This holistic approach enriches the student's learning experience and prepares them for diverse legal environments.
Demonstrating a steadfast commitment to offering accessible and high-quality legal education, WashU's online Master of Legal Studies (MLS) provides individuals from non-legal backgrounds with a solid understanding of U.S. law using a captivating and interactive online platform.
The program, painstakingly designed by seasoned faculty, enables a comprehensive understanding of the law, empowering professionals to confidently navigate various legal challenges. Students enjoy the flexibility to explore areas of law that resonate with their professional interests, thanks to a wide array of electives.
Furthermore, the program encourages a vibrant and dynamic learning community, amplifying students' educational experiences through stimulating discussions and debates. The program thus equips students with the tools necessary to handle real-world legal scenarios adeptly.
The UF Levin College of Law, renowned for its top-tier online LL.M. programs in Taxation and International Taxation, provides an exhaustive exploration of tax law.
These programs integrate a comprehensive curriculum with state-of-the-art learning technologies and have been engineered to empower students to excel in the intricate and rapidly-evolving field of tax law.
These programs also facilitate an immersive learning experience, promoting interaction and collaboration among students. These programs also grant students access to a vibrant network of legal professionals, which serves as a springboard for mentorship opportunities and professional guidance.
The potent blend of theoretical learning and real-world application makes these programs a desirable choice for aspiring tax law professionals.
Boston University Law School's online LL.M. in Taxation program imparts a profound understanding of taxation law to professionals, equipping them with the requisite knowledge and skills to thrive in this complex field.
Through a hybrid model of live online classes and self-paced content, the program ensures that graduates are well-prepared to navigate the nuances of tax law confidently. The curriculum, developed and delivered by seasoned professionals, remains relevant, up-to-date, and practical.
Moreover, graduates benefit from the robust professional network established by BU Law, facilitating opportunities for collaboration, mentorship, and career growth. BU Law's commitment to creating a holistic learning experience is evidenced by their combination of rigorous academics and supportive community.
At Pepperdine's Caruso School of Law, the online Master of Legal Studies (MLS) program presents a rigorous curriculum that delves into crucial aspects of law. Interactive classes and 24/7 access to course materials enable graduates to confidently navigate the legal facets of their professions.
The program's online format offers the flexibility to balance academics with personal and professional commitments while ensuring the quality of education remains uncompromised.
Furthermore, the program aligns with Pepperdine's mission of promoting ethical legal practice, emphasizing a culture of public service and commitment to justice. This creates a learning experience that is not just academically enriching but also socially responsible.
The Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law at Arizona State University delivers a range of online programs, each meticulously crafted to provide flexible yet comprehensive legal education.
The dynamic programs engage students with a demanding curriculum taught by a distinguished faculty who are acknowledged leaders in their respective disciplines. This model assures that graduates are thoroughly prepared to initiate or advance their legal careers.
The interactive nature of the online programs encourages the development of sturdy professional bonds among students and faculty, fostering an enriching learning community that persists even beyond graduation. This engagement model proves instrumental in honing the students' legal acumen while developing their interpersonal skills.
Loyola's online LL.M. in Health Law program is celebrated for delivering a comprehensive understanding of health law, policy, and regulation. The interactive program introduces diverse coursework thoughtfully curated to provide a thorough grasp of the multifaceted field of health law.
Through this program, graduates are equipped with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills to effectively navigate health law, whether in practice or in a policy-making capacity.
Beyond academics, Loyola fosters a culture of service and ethical practice, ensuring that graduates emerge as well-rounded professionals dedicated to enhancing the health law landscape. This distinctive combination of academics and ethics sets Loyola graduates apart in the realm of health law.
The online Master of Jurisprudence in Intellectual Property, Information & Communications Law program at Michigan State University is tailored specifically for professionals active in technology-related fields.
This interactive program equips students with a deep understanding of industry-specific legal aspects, preparing graduates to navigate legal complexities confidently.
The program's focus on intellectual property law in the context of technology and communications endows students with a specialized skill set, making them invaluable resources in their respective industries.
Additionally, the online format encourages a global learning community, bringing together diverse perspectives and experiences to enhance the learning process. The blend of specialized curriculum and interactive learning environment prepares graduates to excel in their professional lives.
Overall, law schools with online programs are a convenient option for students who need a more flexible approach to their legal education.
The worth of an online law degree can depend on a variety of factors, including an individual's career goals, personal circumstances, and the quality of the program.
For those who are looking to deepen their understanding of the law, advance in their current career, or pivot into a new field that involves legal knowledge, an online program can be extremely valuable.
The flexibility of online learning allows individuals to balance their studies with other responsibilities, such as work or family, making it an ideal option for many working professionals or those with non-traditional schedules.
From a quality perspective, many accredited and well-regarded law schools with online programs are rigorous and comprehensive, taught by the same faculty who teach on-campus courses. These programs often offer interactive and engaging learning experiences, fostering critical thinking and a deep understanding of the law.
Graduates can gain a strong foundation in legal principles and practices, enhancing their professional versatility and marketability. However, it's important to note that currently, the American Bar Association does not accredit fully online Juris Doctor (JD) programs, so those who wish to practice law as attorneys should consider this factor.
Ultimately, the worth of an online law degree is subjective and depends on how well it aligns with an individual's educational and professional goals.
Let's take a look at some more ABA-approved law schools offering online J.D. programs.
The following section is dedicated to addressing common inquiries about online law schools, providing you with valuable information and insights into this increasingly popular method of legal education.
Yes, you can. The University of Florida Levin College of Law offers highly-rated online law degrees. However, keep in mind that these are typically LL.M. programs, not JD programs.
Yes, you can. Schools like UCLA and USC offer online law programs. However, while California does allow graduates of non-ABA accredited schools to take the bar exam, this is not the norm nationally.
Yes, an online degree can be beneficial, particularly for individuals needing flexibility due to other commitments. These programs can enhance critical thinking and understanding of legal principles, useful in various professions.
However, it's crucial to check the program's accreditation and local legal licensing rules, as online degrees may not meet all requirements for legal practice. The degree's value is also dependent on how effectively it's leveraged, such as through networking and gaining work experience.
Law schools with online programs offer a flexible and accessible approach to legal education, but their effectiveness depends on the student's career goals and the program's quality. These schools provide comprehensive and interactive online curricula, closely mirroring on-campus experiences.
However, if you aim to practice law, it's important to understand the potential limitations of these degrees. Thorough research and consultation with education and career advisors are recommended before enrollment.
Ultimately, online programs provide individuals with the opportunity to enhance their legal knowledge, develop specialized skills, and advance their careers in various sectors. The flexibility of online learning allows professionals to balance their personal and professional commitments while gaining valuable legal expertise.
