The Top 10 Part-Time JD Programs

Are you dreaming of attending a part-time law school to achieve your career goals while balancing work, family, or other responsibilities? Part-time JD programs offer the ideal solution, enabling students to earn a prestigious law degree while maintaining their existing commitments. These programs are designed with flexibility in mind, providing evening classes, weekend schedules, and online options to accommodate working professionals and part-time students alike.

In this article, we explore the top 10 part-time JD programs available today. We’ll discuss what part-time programs entail, their benefits, tips for selecting the right program, and how they stack up across different regions. Whether you’re managing family obligations, seeking maximum scheduling flexibility, or looking for innovative elective courses, there’s a program that suits your goals.

What is a Part-Time JD Program?

A part-time JD program is designed for individuals who cannot commit to the intensive schedule of a full-time program. These programs allow part-time students to pursue their legal education over an extended period, typically four years, while managing work, family obligations, or other commitments. Many part-time programs include evening classes or weekend schedules to accommodate diverse needs, offering the same rigorous curriculum as full-time programs.

For working professionals, part-time JD programs provide a practical path to achieving a law degree without compromising current career or family priorities. Evening courses, summer classes, and elective courses ensure students can customize their schedules, creating more flexibility while maintaining a comprehensive legal education.

Read: Part-Time Vs. Full-Time JD Programs

Advantages of Pursuing a Part-Time JD Program

Part-time JD programs provide a unique opportunity for students to achieve their academic and career goals while maintaining their current responsibilities. These programs come with numerous benefits that make them an attractive choice for working professionals and part-time students alike.

Flexibility for a Balanced Life

Many part-time evening programs are tailored for part-time evening students, enabling them to attend classes after their workday ends. These programs often offer weekend or evening courses to accommodate busy schedules. This flexibility allows students to balance their professional and academic responsibilities effectively, ensuring they can pursue their legal education without compromising their careers or personal lives.

Financial Sustainability Through Continued Employment

One of the most significant advantages of part-time JD programs is the ability to continue working while studying. This helps students manage tuition, living expenses, and other financial commitments. Additionally, financial aid options are often available, ensuring that part-time students can access support to reduce their financial burden while pursuing a law degree.

Gaining Practical Experience While Studying

Part-time JD programs allow students to apply the legal concepts they learn in the classroom directly to their jobs, enriching their understanding of the law in real-world contexts. Many programs also include externship opportunities and moot court participation, offering hands-on experience that prepares students for legal practice. These experiences enhance both academic learning and professional development.

Building a Strong Professional Network

Part-time students have access to valuable networking opportunities through participation in student organizations, law review student activities, and legal writing programs. These avenues help build connections with peers, professors, and legal professionals. Networking through these platforms can lead to mentorship, internships, and career opportunities, giving students an edge in the competitive legal field.

How to Choose the Right Part-Time Program

Choosing the right part-time JD program can be a daunting task, but there are several factors to consider. When selecting a part-time JD program, consider the following:

• Ensure the program is ABA-accredited for career credibility.
• Look for schedules that suit your needs, such as part-time day programs or part-time evening programs.
• Research required courses, first-year courses, and elective options like civil procedure or additional classes for specialized training.
• Investigate support services for evening students, including access to student government, associate deans, or campus resources.
• A convenient campus can minimize commute times, while online options offer even more flexibility.

Top Part-Time Law School JD Programs by Region

East Coast

The East Coast offers a wealth of prestigious part-time JD programs for students seeking flexibility and academic excellence. The Georgetown University Law Center in Washington, D.C., stands out with its robust part-time evening program, which is well-connected to government and policy work. This makes it an ideal choice for students interested in pursuing careers in public service or lawmaking.

In New York, the Fordham University School of Law provides an exceptional program tailored for evening students. It offers a balanced approach for those managing both professional and academic commitments, supported by strong faculty and resources. Another standout institution is the Vermont Law School in South Royalton, Vermont, which is renowned for its focus on environmental law. Students interested in environmental policy and sustainable practices will find this program particularly appealing.

West Coast

The West Coast features several flexible part-time JD programs designed to accommodate working professionals. Loyola Law School in Los Angeles is a leader in providing part-time legal education, offering evening courses and personalized support for its students. Its program is ideal for professionals seeking to balance work, life, and education while earning a JD.

The University of California-Berkeley is another top-ranked institution that offers a part-time JD program. Berkeley’s reputation for academic excellence extends to its flexible programs, which allow students to tailor their schedules without sacrificing the quality of their legal education.

Midwest

In the Midwest, the Northwestern University School of Law in Chicago offers an exceptional part-time JD program that combines a rigorous curriculum with flexible scheduling options. Students benefit from Northwestern’s distinguished faculty and resources while pursuing their degree on a timeline that suits their needs.

The Michigan State University College of Law is another excellent option, particularly for part-time students seeking strong faculty support and a collaborative learning environment. This program highlights its ability to meet the needs of working professionals while delivering a comprehensive legal education.

South

The South is home to several top-ranked part-time JD programs that cater to diverse student needs. The University of Texas at Austin School of Law is celebrated for its rigorous curriculum, expert faculty, and reputation for academic excellence. This program is an excellent choice for students looking for a challenging yet rewarding part-time JD experience.

In North Carolina, the Wake Forest University School of Law offers a unique part-time JD program known for its small class sizes and hands-on opportunities. Students benefit from personalized attention from faculty and access to clinics and externships, which provide invaluable practical experience.

Are Online Part-Time JD Programs Worth it?

Online part-time JD programs offer the same curriculum as traditional programs but provide the flexibility of studying from anywhere. However, it's essential to note that online programs are not for everyone, and they require a lot of self-discipline and time management skills. Additionally, online programs may not have the same prestige or recognition as traditional programs, which could impact your career prospects.

On the other hand, online part-time JD programs can be a great option for those who have other commitments, such as a full-time job or family responsibilities. These programs allow students to balance their studies with their other obligations, making it easier to pursue a law degree without sacrificing their personal or professional lives. Additionally, online programs often have lower tuition costs and fewer expenses associated with commuting and housing, making them a more affordable option for many students.

How Long Does It Take to Complete a Part-Time JD Program?

Part-time JD programs usually take four years to complete, compared to three years for full-time programs. However, some programs may require an additional semester or year to complete, depending on your schedule and course load.

It's important to note that while part-time programs may take longer to complete, they offer more flexibility for students who are working or have other commitments. Additionally, part-time students may have the opportunity to gain practical experience through internships or externships while completing their degree, which can be a valuable asset when entering the job market.

Tips for Balancing Work and Study While Pursuing a Part-Time JD Program

Managing a part-time JD program alongside work and personal commitments can be demanding, but with the right strategies, it’s entirely achievable. These practical tips will help you stay on track, maintain balance, and succeed in your legal studies:

1. Create a schedule and stick to it – Developing a consistent schedule is crucial for managing your time effectively. Allocate specific blocks for work, evenings or day classes, study sessions, and personal time. Use tools like planners or digital calendars to outline your daily tasks and deadlines. Most importantly, adhere to your schedule to create a sense of routine and discipline.
2. Stay organized and prioritize tasks – Keeping track of assignments, deadlines, and obligations is essential. Break larger tasks into manageable steps and prioritize them based on urgency and importance. Tools like task management apps (e.g., Trello or Asana) can help you organize your responsibilities and ensure you never miss critical deadlines.
3. Communicate with your employer – If you’re working while pursuing your degree, transparency with your employer is key. Discuss your study commitments and explore options like flexible hours or remote work. Many employers are supportive of employees seeking to further their education, especially if it enhances their professional value.
4. Seek support from family and friends – Let your family and friends know about your commitments and goals. Their understanding and support can make a significant difference during busy or stressful periods. Whether it’s help with household responsibilities or moral encouragement, a strong support system is invaluable.
5. Use technology to stay organized – Leverage technology to streamline your workload. Use apps like Evernote or Notion for note-taking, Google Calendar for scheduling, and cloud storage for easy access to documents. Additionally, consider tools like Grammarly to improve your legal writing assignments and productivity apps to minimize distractions.
6. Take breaks and maintain a healthy work-life balance – While staying productive is important, overworking can lead to burnout. Schedule regular breaks to recharge and maintain your mental and physical well-being. Engage in activities that help you relax, such as exercise, meditation, or spending time with loved ones. Remember, balance is key to sustaining your focus and achieving long-term success.

Find the Right JD Program for You

In conclusion, part-time JD programs offer an excellent option for students who want to pursue their legal education while continuing to work. The top 10 part-time JD programs discussed in this article provide a rigorous curriculum, flexible schedules, and numerous career opportunities. When choosing a program, it's essential to consider factors such as accreditation, location, cost, curriculum, and your personal goals and aspirations. With the right mindset, time management skills, and support, you can successfully balance work and study to achieve your career goals.

If you're still uncertain about how to navigate the application process or select the best program for your needs, working with an expert law admissions coach can be a game-changer. These experts specialize in guiding prospective law students through every step of the admissions journey, from crafting compelling personal statements to strengthening your overall application.

FAQs

For effective strategies on how to put together a strong application, see these resources:

• Acceptance Rates & Class Profiles of the T14 Law Schools
• Writing an Effective Addendum for Law School: A Comprehensive Guide
• Crafting a Winning Diversity Statement for Law School: Essential Tips
• How to Get Into Law School: Advice From an Expert
• How to Answer the "Why Law School?" Essay Question

FAQs

What is the best degree to get after JD?

• A Doctor of Juridical Science degree is considered the highest level of a law degree and is designed for professionals who are looking to gain an advanced legal education after earning their JD and LLM.

How many part-time law schools are there in the US?

• This year, U.S. News ranked 68 accredited law schools offering part-time programs. For a program to be considered in the part-time law rankings, it initially had to have at least 20 part-time students enrolled in fall 2022.

What is the shortest time for law school?

• Then you may want to consider an accelerated JD program. These allow you to obtain your law degree in a shorter amount of time, usually 2-3 years instead of the traditional 3-4 years

What type of lawyer makes the most money?

• Patent Attorneys.
• Intellectual Property (IP) Attorneys.
• Trial Lawyers.
• Tax Attorneys.
• Corporate Lawyers.

What is the easiest law degree to get?

• The easiest law degree for most students is a Master's in Legal Studies degree.

What field of law is most in demand?

• Some of the most universally in-demand legal specialties include intellectual property law, family law, immigration law, real estate law, and corporate law. Other quickly growing areas of law also include intellectual property law, data privacy and cybersecurity law, litigation, and labor and employment law.

What type of lawyer is the most successful?

• The highest-paid lawyers typically specialize in fields such as corporate law, intellectual property, tax law, medical malpractice, and entertainment law. These areas command higher salaries due to the complexity, demand, and financial stakes involved.