For aspiring lawyers balancing full-time careers, family commitments, or other responsibilities, the dream of earning a law degree doesn’t have to be put on hold. Accredited part-time law programs offer a flexible path to achieving your legal ambitions without sacrificing your current lifestyle. These programs are steadily gaining popularity, providing similar, rigorous education as their full-time counterparts, but tailored to meet the unique needs of working professionals and non-traditional students.
Whether you’re a non-traditional student, a working professional looking to pivot into a new career, or a traditional law school applicant exploring your options, part-time law school might be the right fit for you. Here’s what you need to know about the best-accredited part-time law programs, their benefits, and what to consider before enrolling.
Table of Contents
- What is a Part-time Law Program?
- Why Choose a Part-time Law School Program?
- The Downsides of Part-time Law School Programs
- Top 10 Part-time Law Programs in the U.S.
- How to Choose the Right Part-time Law School Program for You
- Is Part-Time Law School Worth It?
What is a Part-time Law Program?
A part-time law school allows students to pursue a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree at a slower pace, typically over four to five years instead of the traditional three years. Classes are often held during evenings or weekends, making it feasible for students who are juggling work and other personal responsibilities. Unfortunately, not all law schools have a part-time option. It’s important to remember that you should always opt to attend an accredited law school and part-time law schools are no exception.
Further Reading
💻 Access our free Pre-Law Journey for Non-traditional Students Masterclass
Why Choose a Part-time Law School Program?
Part-time law programs offer similar benefits to traditional full-time programs, with some added advantages specifically for non-traditional students and working professionals. Here are some benefits that make these programs stand out.
1. Flexibility to Balance Work and Studies
Part-time law programs are typically structured with evening or weekend classes, accommodating those with full-time jobs or family commitments. With the flexible schedule, you can pursue a legal career without sacrificing your personal life or totally upending your income.
2. Lowered Financial Strain
A part-time law school schedule includes fewer classes per semester compared to a full-time program. This reduced course load means your tuition costs per semester will likely be lower. And since part-time programs are generally longer than full-time programs, your costs could spread out more. Additionally, maintaining a full-time job allows you to keep a steady income, which could reduce the need to rely heavily on student loans.
3. Better Chances of Admission
Part-time law school programs were designed with working professionals in mind. Many of these applicants have been out of school for years and are trying to change careers. As such, admission committees might place less emphasis on things like GPA. Instead, your professional experience, letters of recommendation, and strong LSAT score will carry a heavier weight in the process.
Sign up to get expert tips and exclusive invites to free LSAT classes and law school admissions workshops!
The Downsides of Part-time Law School Programs
While part-time law programs come with a wealth of benefits, it’s equally important to weigh the drawbacks to determine whether it’s the right choice for you.
1. Longer Time Commitment
Part-time programs typically take four to five years to complete (potentially shorter if your law school offers summer classes). Traditional full-time law school programs are only three years. This means that you will have a longer time commitment and may need to balance your studies with work and other obligations for longer.
2. Reduced Campus Experience
Part-time law students often miss out on daytime networking opportunities, career fairs, extracurricular activities, and campus life experiences that full-time students enjoy. This can limit your opportunities to build relationships with classmates and professors, participate in student organizations, and attend events that can enhance your law school experience. Additionally, part-time students may also not be able to secure summer clerkships or internships—which are crucial for postgrad employment—due to their full-time job responsibilities or summer classes.
3. Limited Course Options
Part-time programs may have a limited course selection compared to full-time programs. This may hinder your ability to specialize in a certain area of law or take electives that interest you. Additionally, some courses may only be offered during the day when part-time students are working, making it difficult to fit into their schedules.
4. Potential for Burnout
Balancing law school with work and other responsibilities can be physically and mentally taxing. While flexibility is a benefit, balancing work, school, and personal life can become overwhelming, especially during exam periods or when professional demands increase.
5. Less Financial Aid
Part-time law programs may offer fewer financial aid options or scholarships compared to full-time tracks. This may make it more challenging to afford tuition and other expenses associated with law school. Furthermore, part-time students may not be eligible for certain grants or loans that are only available to full-time students.
Top 10 Part-time Law Programs in the U.S.
1. Georgetown University
2. George Washington University
3. Fordham University
4. University of Maryland (Carey)
5. (tie) American University (Washington)
5. (tie) University of Houston Law Center
7. (tie) University of Connecticut
7. (tie) University of San Diego
9. (tie) George Mason University
9. (tie) Temple University (Beasley)
1. Georgetown University Law Center
U.S. News Best Part-time Law Program Ranking: #1
Tuition: $2,950/credit (part-time)
Average GPA: 3.73
Median LSAT Score: 168
Bar Passage Rate: 90.5% (all programs)
Georgetown Law School’s evening program is one of the most prestigious part-time law school programs in the country. It offers unparalleled access to internships in government and public policy due to its location in the nation’s capital.
2. George Washington University Law School
U.S. News Best Part-time Program Ranking: #2
Tuition: $58,508 (part-time)
Average GPA: 3.78
Median LSAT Score: 168
Bar Passage Rate: 86.1% (all programs)
Known for its evening program, George Washington Law provides students with access to specialized legal tracks, including intellectual property law and international law. GW Law students enrolled in the part-time program can request a transfer to the full-time program as early as their second semester.
3. Fordham University School of Law
U.S. News Best Part-time Law Program Ranking: #3
Tuition: $56,970 (part-time)
Average GPA: 3.61
Median LSAT Score: 164
Bar Passage Rate: 87.8% (all programs)
Fordham Law offers tons of flexible options, including evening classes Monday through Thursday, optional Saturday classes, hybrid courses, condensed seven-week courses, and a two-week January term.
4. University of Maryland Carey School of Law
U.S. News Best Part-time Law Program Ranking: #4
Tuition: $25,817 (in-state part-time); $36,984 (out-of-state part-time)
Average GPA: 3.73
Median LSAT Score: 163
Bar Passage Rate: 74.9% (all programs)
The University of Maryland Carey School of Law’s Part-Time Evening Program allows students to earn their J.D. in four years while working full-time. Part-time students enjoy the same rigorous coursework, faculty mentorship, and select activities as their full-time counterparts.
5. American University (Washington) College of Law
U.S. News Best Part-time Law Program Ranking: #5 (tie)
Tuition: $47,720 (part-time)
Average GPA: 3.6
Median LSAT Score: 161
Bar Passage Rate: 74.9% (all programs)
Part-time law students at American University are fully immersed in a wide range of extracurricular activities, including moot court, mock trial, honor societies, law journals, and law briefs, as well as participation in nationally ranked clinics. The program is designed to support part-time students in achieving success both academically and professionally.
5. University of Houston Law Center
U.S. News Best Part-time Law Program Ranking: #5 (tie)
Tuition: $26,000 (in-state part-time); $36,080 (out-of-state part-time)
Average GPA: 3.79
Median LSAT Score: 159
Bar Passage Rate: 86% (all programs)
A typical evening student at the University of Houston Law Center completes their J.D. in four years, meeting for classes from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm, Monday through Thursday.
7. University of Connecticut School of Law
U.S. News Best Part-time Law Program Ranking: #7 (tie)
Tuition: $22,334 (in-state part-time); and part-time: $43,994 (out-of-state part-time)
Average GPA: 3.63
Median LSAT Score: 159
Bar Passage Rate: 81% (all programs)
Students in the University of Connecticut School of Law evening program can complete their J.D. in four years while enrolling in clinics scheduled for their convenience.
7. University of San Diego School of Law
U.S. News Best Part-time Law Program Ranking: #7 (tie)
Tuition: $48,281 (part-time)
Average GPA: 3.5
Median LSAT Score: 164
Bar Passage Rate: 78.8% (all programs)
The University of San Diego’s part-time law school program typically requires four years of evening study to earn a J.D. Classes are generally held Monday through Thursday evenings, starting at 5:30 pm. After completing the first year, students have the option to enroll in daytime classes or request a transfer to the full-time program.
9. George Mason University Antonin Scalia Law School
U.S. News Best Part-time Program Ranking: #9 (tie)
Tuition: $20,822 (in-state part-time); $32,918 (out-of-state part-time)
Average GPA: 3.67
Median LSAT Score: 168
Bar Passage Rate: 87.4% (all programs)
George Mason University Law School’s Flex-JD program offers a flexible, part-time path to earning a J.D. degree in four years. The program blends remote, hybrid, and in-person learning. During the first two years, students are only required to attend on-campus classes two evenings per week.
9. Temple University Beasley School of Law
U.S. News Best Part-time Law Program Ranking: #9 (tie)
Tuition: $26,581 (in-state part-time); $39,577 (out-of-state part-time)
Average GPA: 3.54
Median LSAT Score: 160
Bar Passage Rate: 85.2%
Temple University School of Law provides both Day and Evening part-time law school programs for those pursuing a J.D. degree. Whether you choose the Day or Evening Division, the part-time curriculum is designed to be completed over four academic years.
How to Choose the Right Part-time Law School Program for You
When deciding on a part-time law program, ask yourself:
- Does the program offer the specialization or focus that aligns with my career goals?
- Can I realistically balance my current responsibilities with the program’s time demands?
- What networking opportunities and support systems does the school offer for part-time students?
- How does the program’s cost fit into my budget?
Researching accredited law school programs and speaking to alumni or current students can provide valuable insights to help you make an informed decision.
Is Part-Time Law School Worth It?
For aspiring lawyers seeking flexibility, a quality education, and the chance to balance other commitments, part-time law programs can be an excellent solution. If you’re ready to start your part-time law school exploration, begin by researching accredited schools and factoring in your personal and professional goals. A part-time program could be your perfect bridge to a fulfilling legal career.
Whether you’re applying to a part-time law school program, a traditional law school, or both, don’t forget about the LSAT! A competitive LSAT score can open doors to various law school options, including top law schools and scholarship opportunities. Blueprint LSAT students increase their LSAT scores by 15 points on average. We have the LSAT prep course that fits your learning style: a flexible Self-Paced Course, the best instructors guiding you in a Live Course or 170+ Course, and comprehensive private LSAT tutoring.
Start today and get access to tons of LSAT prep resources when you create a free Blueprint LSAT account!
