Best Online Law School Degrees

Completing a law degree online can mean a flexible schedule, affordable tuition, an interesting course selection, and satisfactory preparation for the bar exam.
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Updated April 6, 2023

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Online Law School Degrees

Enrolling in online law school allows learners to earn a degree while continuing their career. The best online law schools consider applicants with an undergraduate degree from an accredited school. Other application requirements include the LSAT or a university entrance exam.

Graduates who pass their state's bar exam qualify to work as an attorney. Professionals can specialize in areas such as education, bankruptcy, or financial services.

This page explains what to expect from law school online. Read on to learn about costs and common courses. The embedded links provide information about online education and the law field.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Law School

How many years does it take to get a law degree?

Students can complete online law school in 3-4 years. Part-time learners need four years since they take fewer credits each semester.

What can you do with a law degree?

Law programs train enrollees to work as attorneys. However, graduates can pursue many careers. Some lawyers provide legal aid services or advise elected officials. Others teach at colleges or universities.

Can you go to law school online?

Yes. Many schools offer law programs online. However, these institutions may not possess programmatic accreditation from the American Bar Association. Most states do not allow graduates from these schools to sit for the bar exam.

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Online Law School Programs

Explore our featured online programs and find the right match for you today.

Best Online Law Schools

See our rankings methodology page.

#1 Best Online Law School Degrees

University of California-Berkeley

  • Berkeley, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Students can pursue an online degree that ranks highly among programs. Learners receive the advanced training employers expect from highly skilled professionals. A terminal degree like a doctorate is the next stop for some legal professionals.

The school’s online format is a big draw for students who need to effectively manage their time. This flexibility gives enrollees more control over their schedules and makes it easier to juggle multiple priorities. Support from faculty and the community plays an integral role in students' academic development.

The school typically requires that master’s degree-seekers hold a bachelor’s degree to apply. The institution accepts around 16% of all who apply, though different programs have different averages. If accepted, students in California can expect to pay around $11,442 per year before applying grants, loans, and scholarships.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,442
Out-of-state
$41,196
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,442
Out-of-state
$26,544
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
16%
Students Enrolled
43,185
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
5% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#2 Best Online Law School Degrees

Florida State University

  • Tallahassee, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The JD at Florida State University is a top-ranked degree designed for online students. Learners receive the advanced training employers expect from highly skilled professionals. The program gives graduates the credential they need to pursue a terminal degree like a doctorate.

This program offers a format conducive to effective time-management that many learners need. The program is built to accommodate busy students such as those who work and have pressing family obligations. Enrollees also like the fact that faculty serve as mentors, and they study in an environment that sees each learner’s potential.

The application requirements include a bachelor’s degree, unless the program states otherwise. The data from this school show a 36% admission rate, but expect some variances across programs. Once accepted, enrollees can explore financial aid options to help pay for tuition, which stands at around $9,684 per year for Florida residents.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,640
Out-of-state
$19,084
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,684
Out-of-state
$24,116
Retention Rate
93%
Acceptance Rate
36%
Students Enrolled
42,450
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
47% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#3 Best Online Law School Degrees

University of Central Florida

  • Orlando, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

University of Central Florida enrolls students in one of the nation’s best programs for online degree-seekers. The program prepares learners for high-level career opportunities not always available to those who hold a bachelor’s alone. Those who complete the degree can also choose to pursue a terminal degree, such as a Ph.D.

This program offers a format conducive to effective time-management that many learners need. Students do not need to sacrifice other important aspects of their lives such as work and family to earn this degree. Enrollees also like the fact that faculty serve as mentors, and they study in an environment that sees each learner’s potential.

The school typically requires that master’s degree-seekers hold a bachelor’s degree to apply. About 44% of applicants get accepted to this school on average, but applicants may find that programs have different averages. Financial aid options such as loans and scholarships can help students pay for tuition, which is $6,916 per year for Florida residents.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,478
Out-of-state
$19,810
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,916
Out-of-state
$25,759
Retention Rate
91%
Acceptance Rate
44%
Students Enrolled
69,402
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
59% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#4 Best Online Law School Degrees

Georgetown University

  • Washington, DC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Georgetown University enrolls students in one of the nation’s best programs for online degree-seekers. Learners receive the advanced training employers expect from highly skilled professionals. Those who complete the degree can also choose to pursue a terminal degree, such as a Ph.D.

Busy learners are drawn to the school because of the online format. Students report being able to continue their careers and engage in family life without sacrificing a master’s degree. Enrollees enjoy a student-focused environment whether they study remotely or on campus.

School application requirements for a master’s include a bachelor’s degree and transcripts. The acceptance rate is 14% at this school, but expect some differences across programs. Financial aid options such as loans and scholarships can help students pay for tuition, which is $51,336 per year for District of Columbia residents.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$55,440
Out-of-state
$55,440
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$51,336
Out-of-state
$51,336
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
14%
Students Enrolled
19,593
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
15% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#5 Best Online Law School Degrees

Liberty University

  • Lynchburg, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Liberty University has a reputation for developing rigorous online graduate programs. One of these options is the master's degree for degree-holders with a bachelor’s in law or a related field. The graduate program provides advanced training in a format friendly to those who work or must manage other obligations.

The benefits of a 17-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio that master's degree-seekers enjoy include individualized attention, more room to collaborate, and faculty mentorship opportunities. Learners complete a strong curriculum in law delivered by faculty with industry expertise. By far the biggest benefit of this master’s is preparation for career advancement in this field and related ones, along with the foundational knowledge for a Ph.D.

The tuition rate stands at $7,980 per year for Virginia residents, and $7,980 for out-of-state learners. The price of tuition drops if learners qualify for grants and scholarships, which many do at the institution. They may also be directed to financial aid, used by about 57% of the school’s enrollees, as a means to fund their education.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$15,417
Out-of-state
$15,417
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,980
Out-of-state
$7,980
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
51%
Students Enrolled
85,586
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
92% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Why Get a Law Degree?

Earning a law degree can lead to a high-paying career in a growing field. Lawyers earn a median annual salary of $126,930, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This figure exceeds the median annual pay of $41,950 for all occupations. The BLS projects jobs for lawyers to grow 9% from 2020-2030.

Online law programs provide many benefits, including convenience and flexibility. Some programs run asynchronously, allowing enrollees to complete coursework around their job. Law school online programs also allow students to attend the most affordable program without relocating. However, learners should only apply to out-of-state schools if they plan to practice there.

How Much Does a Law Degree Cost?

The best online law schools charge a per-credit tuition rate. This rate ensures all learners pay the same for their education, regardless of their enrollment status. However, public universities may charge out-of-state learners significantly more. Total semester tuition varies depending on course load.

Students can complete the FAFSA to determine their financial aid eligibility. Learners may qualify for federal grants. The government also offers low-interest loans. Subsidized federal loans do not begin incurring interest until after borrowers graduate. Some schools offer institutional grants and loans. Learners can also apply for scholarships, which do not require repayment.

Additional Online Student Fees

Online learners may need to buy a new computer or upgrade their internet. Students should also budget for books and class materials. Some online law schools charge a graduation fee.

Many online law school graduates take the bar exam and apply for a license. This process involves multiple fees. As of November 2021, law school graduates in California can expect to pay $5,800 to earn a law license. This cost increases if candidates do not pass the exam on the first try.

How Much Do Law Majors Make?

Top-earning lawyers earn more than $208,000 a year, according to the BLS. However, salaries vary by employer and location. Professionals working for a federal government agency make more than $150,000. Local and state governments pay less. Lawyers in the District of Columbia, California, and New York earn significantly more than their peers in other states.

Lawyers can increase their salary potential by passing many states' bar exams. They can also take more continuing education courses than their license requires for renewal. Private-sector attorneys can earn more by becoming a partner in their firm.

Courses in Law

Students can enroll full time or part time at the best online law schools. Some programs feature a cohort learning model. A cohort takes courses together throughout the program, encouraging professional relationships. Some programs allow students to customize their education through electives. Schools may not offer all law electives online.

See below for common online law school courses. Keep in mind that course names and descriptions vary by institution. Academic requirements and learning outcomes also may differ. Students can contact their prospective schools' admissions departments for more information.

Career and Salary Outlook for Law Majors

The best online law schools prepare students to work as lawyers, arbitrators, and judges. Attaining one of these jobs may require significant professional experience. See below for a generalized overview of these careers. Responsibilities vary by job title and employer. Click the embedded links for more details about each career.

Career Salary Outlook
CareerMedian Annual SalaryProjected Growth Rate (2018-2028)
Lawyers$126,9309%
Arbitrators, Mediators, and Conciliators$66,13010%
Judges or Hearing Officers$124,2003%

Source: BLS

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