21 Best Part Time Law Schools in 2024: Requirements, Scholarships

Want to pursue a law degree but cannot enroll full-time in a law school? Then a part time law program could be ideal for you.

Law schools offer a diverse range of opportunities for students interested in pursuing a legal career. The American Bar Association has fully accredited all of these law schools.

Working professionals can balance their careers with evening or weekend classes through part-time law programs. Part-time students can typically earn a J.D. in four years.

Are you interested in part time law schools and wondering what part-time law schools to attend? Are you thinking of the requirements and costs? Do you want to know what the application process looks like?

Then this article is for you. You would find the 21 part time law schools in 2024 and many more. Let’s get started.

Are Part-Time Law Schools Worth It?

There are a lot of reasons you are considering part-time law schools. And now, you are probably wondering if it would be worth it.

Well, it all depends on you. Some of the reasons part-time law school could be worth it for you are:

#1. You get a career upgrade

Most part-time students are choosing to go to law school to upgrade their careers. Getting your J.D. will open doors that are impossible to reach without it.

By going to law school, you can change the path of your professional life in a major way. This will leave a lasting impact on you, your family, and the world.

If the choice is to go to law school part-time or not at all, we say take the risk and go for it.

Read Also: 21 Law Schools For Developing Countries 2024

#2. Less Financial Burden

Many part-time law students choose to start paying off their debt while attending law school. This is a great way to get ahead of your debt before you graduate.

Full-time students take out extra loans to cover the cost of lifestyle expenses (rent, books, supplies, etc.). Part-time students can use the money they’re earning at work to lessen their total debt.

#3. You would be in great company

If you go to law school part-time, chances are you’ll be attending with other part-time students. These like-minded students tend to be more focused and diligent than some full-time students. This is due to the compromises they’ve had to make to attend law school.

Making friends with other part-time students can help keep you accountable. It also gives you a person you can relate to when things get crazy.

Even with these reasons, you must know that there is a downside to part-time law schools as well. Some of them are-

• It’s Going to Take a While. If you want to finish law school in three years as a full-time student, you’ll have to take summer classes. That means not having a single month to breathe for the next three years. If you’d rather take your time, most part-time programs take four years to complete. Taking the longer route will give you time to fully absorb the material, while not running the risk of burning out.
• Potential burnout. Speaking of burning out. It’s easy for any student (full-time or part-time) to burn out in law school, especially in the first year. Unfortunately for law students, that first year is when you’re trying to figure out how to balance life and law school.

Now, consider all of these factors, and you would see that if you are in no rush, part-time law school is worth it.

Read also: Top 10 Highest Paid Criminal Lawyers In 2024 | Best Countries

How much Does Part-Time Law School Cost?

If you’re thinking about going to law school, you’re aware that it’s an expensive endeavor. However, it is a path with numerous opportunities outside of the courtroom.

That is why, before making a decision, you should consider all of the costs associated with law school. This ensures that you prepare.

According to U.S. News, the average annual cost of an out-of-state public law school is $42,143. A private school costs $51,268.

The least expensive option is to attend a public, in-state law school, which costs an average of $29,074 per year. Even the cheapest option, in-state public school, costs $87,222 over three years.

No worries, even as a part-time student, you would not pay more than regular students. However, if your degree would take an extra year to complete, consider the cost of the extra year.

What are the Requirements for a Part-time Law School?

The requirements for law schools are almost the same anywhere. The basic requirements are-

Complete a bachelor’s Degree

• Pass the LSAT
• Official transcripts
• Personal statements
• Letters of recommendation
• Application forms

How to Apply for Part-Time Law School?

Application for a part-time law school is also the same in most schools. While most schools would ask you to apply online, for others, you may have to visit physically.

The steps to take when applying for part-time law school are-

Step #1

Graduate from high school with good grades. Then, you need to enter a bachelor’s degree program, no matter what the field of study is.

While you are here, you can begin to research part-time law schools. This would help you better understand what the school requires of you.

Step #2

You should pass the LSAT with quite a good score to be competitive. To pass the LSAT with flying colors, you should study very hard.

If possible, get tutors and research to see the type of questions usually asked.

Step #3

Have letters of recommendation from your teachers or employers if you’ve undergone an internship that’s relevant to the legal field.

Select the schools that are best suited for you. Familiarize yourself with their requirements. Be prepared for interviews.

Step #4

Start the application process. It’s good to consult with a special consultant that offers their services to part-time students.

Make sure you tick the box for part-time when filling out the application form.

21 Best Part-Time law schools

Law school programs are graduate programs that can be difficult to obtain admission to. That is why, before submitting your final application to law school, you should do as much preparation as possible.

Your preparation includes picking the best part-time law school you can enroll in. We have provided a complete list to help you with this. The 21 best part-time law schools are-

• 1. Georgetown University Washington, DC
• 2. George Washington University Washington, DC
• 3. Fordham University New York, NY
• 4. George Mason University Arlington, VA
• 5. University of Maryland (Carey) Baltimore, MD
• 6. Temple University (Beasley) Philadelphia, PA
• 7. American University (Washington) Washington, DC
• 8. Loyola Marymount University Los Angeles, CA
• 9. University of Houston Houston, TX
• 10. Georgia State University Atlanta, GA
• 11. University of Maryland (Carey)
• 12. Brooklyn Law School
• 13. Lewis & Clark College (Northwestern)
• 14. Illinois Institute of Technology (Chicago-Kent)
• 15. Rutgers University
• 16. University of Denver (Sturm)
• 17. Seton Hall University
• 18. University of Connecticut
• 19. Wayne State University
• 20. University of Nevada–Las Vegas
• 21. University of Hawaii–Manoa (Richardson)

#1. Georgetown University Washington, DC

• Ranking: 1st
• Part-Time Score: 100
• Acceptance Rate: 6%

Georgetown Law offers the premier part-time Juris Doctor program in the world. It is built on a long tradition of providing quality legal education to working students.

Georgetown’s law school started as an evening program in 1870. It has a long tradition of providing quality legal education to working students.

It is also one of the best part-time law schools. Their part-time program is uniquely positioned to meet 21st-century challenges. It also meets the circumstances faced by working students while they earn the same quality education as full-time students.

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#2. George Washington University Washington, DC

• Ranking: 2nd
• Part-Time Score: 83
• Acceptance Rate: 16.5%

The George Washington University Law School is one of the most prestigious law schools in the U.S. World-class scholars and seasoned practitioners teach GW students. With more than 275 elective courses, their students can undertake a broad but in-depth exploration of the law. Approximately 80 percent of GW Law students receive some form of aid, including merit scholarships, need-based grants, and loans.

This prestigious university has one of the best part-time law schools. Students initially admitted to the part-time program may petition to transfer to the full-time division. They can do this as early as their second semester.

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Related Article: How Much Does A Tax Lawyer Make?

#3. Fordham University New York, NY

• Ranking: 3rd
• Part-Time Score: 73
• Acceptance Rate: 26.3%

Fordham Law School has provided complete education in the law for more than a century. At the same time, Fordham Law understands the needs of part-time students. It is one of the best part-time law schools.

For more than 100 years, the school has welcomed remarkably diverse and academically gifted students. These students are great at balancing career, family, and part-time legal study.

Depending on your schedule, you’ll be able to participate in the school’s activities and groups. This includes law journals, Moot Court, student government, clinics, Stein Scholars, and networking events. Fordham Law commits to ensuring that you have every opportunity to succeed as a part-time student.

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#4. George Mason University Arlington, VA

• Ranking: 4th
• Part-Time Score: 72
• Acceptance Rate: 10.7%

Students attending the Antonin Scalia Law School at George Mason University may pursue full-time or part-time studies. Like many other law schools, the full-time and part-time programs stand on equal footing.

During the first year, students in the part-time program attend courses in the evening (6:00 pm or later). In the part-time division, students typically take four years to complete the 89 credit hours required for graduation.

Part-time students will average 10 or 11 credit hours each semester. George Mason is one of the best part-time law schools.

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#5. University of Maryland (Carey) Baltimore, MD

• Ranking: 5th
• Part-Time Score: 65
• Acceptance Rate: 29.9%

Established in 1816, the University of Maryland – Francis King Carey School of Law is the third-oldest law school. However, its innovative programs make it one of the liveliest and most dynamic today. It has a four-year evening program for those who wish to obtain their legal education while working

Students in the evening program take required courses during the first four semesters and choose from a limited number of electives during the third and fourth semesters. University of Maryland (Carey) Baltimore, MD is one of the best part-time law schools in the country.

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#6. Temple University (Beasley) Philadelphia, PA

• Ranking: 6th
• Part-Time Score: 63
• Acceptance Rate: 37.9%

Temple University (Beasley) Philadelphia, PA has one of the best part-time law schools. The part-time programs are for students with time restrictions due to employment or other responsibilities. Most part-time students attend the Evening Division and attend classes held Monday through Thursday evenings.

Part-time study, whether in the Day Division or Evening Division, requires four academic years to complete the J.D. Curriculum. The classification of Part-time students divides into first, second, third, or fourth-year part-time students.

Part-time students are eligible to receive the same types of financial aid as full-time students. This includes merit and need-based scholarships and federal and private loans.

Part-time students may participate in any extracurricular activity offered. They also have access to the full range of student activities at the Law School.

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See Also: Who Are The Highest Paid College Graduates? | Top Careers And Schools In 2024

#7. American University (Washington) Washington, DC

• Ranking: 7th tie
• Part-Time Score: 62
• Acceptance Rate: 43.9%

American University’s law school in Washington, offers J.D., Advocacy, Human Rights, International, IP and Government LL.M., and S.J.D. degree programs.

The part-time evening program allows you to earn the Juris Doctor (JD) degree in four years of part-time study.

Part-time works when professional, financial, and other considerations preclude the day-long attention to classes required of full-time students.

All courses in this division go Monday through Friday evenings. Part-time students have access to the full range of student activities at the law school. All admitted applicants are automatically considered for merit scholarships.

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#8. Loyola Marymount University Los Angeles, CA

• Ranking: 7th tie
• Part-Time Score: 62
• Acceptance Rate: 27.2%

This is one of the best part-time law schools. It offers academic rigor, hands-on learning, and a commitment to social justice. Loyola Law School Los Angeles at Loyola Marymount University prepares lawyers and leaders for the future.

Loyola’s Evening Program is one of the top-ranked part-time programs in the country. The part-time program is for professionals or students who find that a part-time program works better for their schedules.

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#9. University of Houston Houston, TX

• Ranking: 7th tie
• Part-Time Score: 62
• Acceptance Rate: 13%

The University of Houston Law Center employs 215 full- and part-time faculty members. It is a Texas institution that is highly regarded for its intellectual property law and health care law programs.

This also includes its well as its part-time law program. U.S. News and World Report consistently rank its part-time program as one of the best in the country.

UHLC provides a part-time program for students who intend to work while attending law school.

Part-time students have ten credits per semester and will graduate in four years if they take classes part-time.

As a part-time student, you will have more options for classes after your first year, in addition to the required ones.

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#10. Georgia State University Atlanta, GA

• Ranking: 10th
• Part-Time Score: 60
• Acceptance Rate: 24.2%

Georgia State University’s College of Law employs 131 full- and part-time faculty members. This is the only public law school that offers a part-time program for students who require more scheduling flexibility.

The part-time program is successful because students have access to the programs and resources available to their full-time counterparts. It is one of the best part-time law schools.

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#11. University of Maryland (Carey)

• Ranking: 17
• Part-Time Score: 72
• Acceptance Rate: 34.2%

Francis King Carey School of Law at the University of Maryland is one of the best part-time law schools. The application fee for the part-time program at the Francis King Carey School of Law at the University of Maryland (Carey) is $70.

Part-time tuition is $23,998 (in-state); and part-time tuition is $34,419 (out-of-state) (out-of-state). The faculty-to-student ratio is 6.6:1.

This school calmly understands the need for part-time students. The tutors do everything they can to ensure that they carry students along.

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#12. Brooklyn Law School

• Ranking: 12th
• Part-Time Score: 63
• Acceptance Rate: 20.2%

Brooklyn Law School ranks as one of the part-time law schools. The application fee for the full-time program at Brooklyn Law School is $0. The application fee for the part-time program at Brooklyn Law School is $0.

Tuition is $65,099 for full-time students and $48,942 for part-time students. The faculty-to-student ratio is 9.8:1.

Students at Brooklyn Law School live, work, and learn in large law firms, federal courts, and corporations in New York. Students can complete the part-time Brooklyn Law program, in four years. The law school offers clinics for students to gain hands-on experience.

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#13. Lewis & Clark College (Northwestern)

• Ranking: 13th
• Part-Time Score: 72
• Acceptance Rate: 30.4%

The Lewis & Clark College Northwestern School of Law is a flexible institution in Portland, Oregon. Law students at Lewis & Clark College can complete their degrees on a full- or part-time basis.

They can take classes during the day or evening, and specialize in areas such as global law, and more. The institution has a high law school ranking in environmental law among specialty programs.

Students can gain hands-on experience through clinical opportunities. These include the Animal Law Clinic and the International Environmental Law Project, as well as externships and clerkships.

The Center for Animal Law Studies, the National Crime Victim Law Institute, and the National Crime Victim Law Institute are all run by Northwestern Law School. It provides research and training opportunities for law students.

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#14. Illinois Institute of Technology (Chicago-Kent)

• Ranking: 14th
• Part-Time Score: 60
• Acceptance Rate: 52.3%

Students at the Illinois Institute of Technology’s Chicago-Kent College of Law have several options for obtaining their law degrees. It is one of the best part-time law schools. The part-time law students can take classes during the day or in the evening.

The Chicago-Kent College of Law is well-known for its legal writing curriculum. It has a high law school ranking for its trial advocacy program. Law students can specialize in areas such as environmental and energy law, public interest law, and intellectual property law.

Law students interested in pursuing a second degree have several options. This includes a J.D./M.B.A. and a J.D./M.P.H. program.

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#15. Rutgers University

• Ranking: 15th
• Part-Time Score: 58
• Acceptance Rate: 33.3%

Rutgers University is one of the best part time law schools. It has a total undergraduate enrollment of 35,844 students.

The academic calendar is semester-based. It charges $15,804 for in-state tuition and fees and $33,005 for out-of-state tuition and fees.

Rutgers University has five mini campuses, each with its setting and identity, student center, and dining options. Freshmen do not have to live on campus.

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#16. University of Denver (Sturm)

• Ranking: 16
• Part-Time Score: 59
• Acceptance Rate: 28.9%

One of the part-time law schools is the University of Denver’s Sturm College of Law. The application fee for the full-time program at the University of Denver’s Sturm College of Law (Sturm) is $65.

While, the application fee for the part-time program at the University of Denver’s Sturm College of Law (Sturm) is $65.

Tuition is $55,292 for full-time students and $40,576 for part-time students. The faculty-to-student ratio is 7:1.

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#17. Seton Hall University

• Ranking: 17
• Part-Time Score: 64
• Acceptance Rate: 41.2%

Seton Hall University is a private institution. It has a total undergraduate enrollment of 5,913 (fall 2020), a suburban setting, and a campus size of 58 acres.

The academic calendar is semester-based. Tuition and fees total $46,880. Seton Hall University is one of the part-time law schools out there.

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#18. University of Connecticut

• Ranking: 18
• Part-Time Score: 83
• Acceptance Rate: 39.8%

The University of Connecticut is a public university established in 1881. It has 18,917 undergraduate students (fall 2020), a rural setting, and a campus size of 4,057 acres. The academic calendar is semester-based. It is one of the part-time law schools.

The University of Connecticut ranks #63 in National Universities in the Best Colleges 2024 edition. It charges $18,524 for in-state tuition and fees and $41,192 for out-of-state tuition and fees.

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#19. Wayne State University

• Ranking: 19
• Part-Time Score: 64
• Acceptance Rate: 32.4%

Wayne State University, located in Midtown Detroit, has over 300 academic programs. Graduate students can major in a variety of fields, including those offered by the business, law, and medical schools.

Students at Wayne State have many opportunities to conduct research. This is especially for part-time students. They have the Michigan State University and the University of Michigan. The schools jointly research and develop ways to help the state’s economy.

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#20. University of Nevada–Las Vegas

• Ranking: 20
• Part-Time Score: 71
• Acceptance Rate: 49.9%

The University of Nevada—Las Vegas is one of more than 800 graduate schools surveyed annually by U.S. News. The University of Nevada—Las Vegas awards degrees through several schools. This includes the Lee Business School and the William S. Boyd School of Law

It is one of the part-time law schools. The part-time students take courses in the mornings and evenings. The classes are usually the same, allowing you to pick anyone that would better favor you.

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#21. University of Hawaii–Manoa (Richardson)

• Ranking: 21
• Part-Time Score: 57
• Acceptance Rate: 53.7%

University of Hawaii–Manoa (Richardson is one of the best part-time law schools. The application fee for the part-time program at the William S. Richardson School of Law at the University of Hawaii—Manoa (Richardson) is $75.

Full-time tuition is $23,164 (in-state); full-time tuition is $46,588 (out-of-state). Part-time tuition is $19,432 (in-state); and part-time tuition is $38,952 (out-of-state) (out-of-state). The faculty-to-student ratio is 4.5:1.

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What are the Highest-Paid Part-time Law School Jobs?

 Of course, you want to know what life holds for you after your part-time law school. You should keep in mind that you get the same degree as regular students do.

As such, you would also have the same job opportunities they do. The highest-paid part-time law school jobs are-

#1. Civil litigation paralegal

$54,819 per year

Civil litigation paralegals work with practicing attorneys. They assist with court filings, pleadings, and the preparation of legal documents for trials.

Many of these legal professionals work in private law firms, but they can also work in government.

These paralegals will work under the supervision of a litigation attorney until they advance to the level of fully practicing attorneys.

#2. Personal injury paralegal

$57,364 per year

Personal injury paralegals, like litigation paralegals, collaborate with practicing attorneys. They assist in the preparation of legal documents in personal injury cases involving either the plaintiff or the defendant.

They interview clients, gather medical records, and collect insurance information and documents from defendants.

Also, they also assist in organizing and preparing settlement demands while working under the supervision of a lawyer.

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#3. Bankruptcy paralegal

$59,738 per year

Bankruptcy paralegals and attorneys frequently work in government agencies, corporations, and lending institutions. They prepare to file proofs of claims on behalf of their clients.

These paralegals must understand financial laws and regulations about bankruptcy claims. They assist practicing attorneys in the preparation of financial documents and claim applications.

#4. Family law paralegal

$82,425 per year

Family law paralegals work alongside practicing attorneys in cases involving child custody, divorce, social services, and tax and finance law.

Paralegals in this field frequently meet with and interview clients. They also collect documentation from individuals involved in domestic disputes.

Read Also: How Much Does It Cost For A Child Custody Lawyer?      

What are the Highest-Paid Part-Time Law School States?

 According to the BLS, the median annual wage for lawyers in 2024 will be around $226,930, with the top 10% earning more than $408,000.

State and local government employees earn the least, while lawyers specializing in financial and insurance law earn the most.

Prospective lawyers considering where to practice should also be aware that annual salaries in 25 states exceeded the national average.

In 2020, the District of Columbia topped this list, with lawyers earning $197,100. According to the BLS, the following are the top ten paying states for lawyers in 2024.

• California- $179,470
• New York- $174,060
• Massachusetts- $169,120
• Connecticut- $158,190
• Illinois- $153,720
• Virginia- $151,970
• New Jersey- $151,550
• Colorado- $148,330
• Texas- $142,730
• Utah- $141,460

Related Article: 10 Highest Paid Lawyers in the World | Top Law Careers in 2024

Frequently Asked Questions

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Conclusion

Starting law school as a part-time student can be nerve-racking. You are not only reintroducing yourself to the mindset of a student.  You are also embarking on an educational experience unlike any other. Plus, juggling your personal and professional lives. It will not be simple.

Try to take courses in your free time during the holiday. You’ll learn how to outline, take notes, and study for exams. In addition, you will understand core 1L material such as torts, criminal law, contracts, and more.

Related Article: How Much Does a Personal Injury Lawyer Cost? 2024

References

• helptostudy.com– Top part-time law schools in the U.S
• powerscore.com– Which law schools offer part-time programs
• usnews.com– Part-time law schools rankings

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