We all know that getting a law degree takes a lot of time. And yes, obviously, it is an expensive course to take. Most people have trouble making the choice because of this. But, there is a perfect solution: an online law degree!
Yes, that’s right! You see, the way we perceive education has changed a lot since the pandemic of 2020. Now, if you need a degree, you can simply look it up on the internet and enroll for one.
Legal education is not very different. But there are several things that you need to keep in mind when you choose this medium of getting a degree. Because let me tell you, not every law school offers this blessing!
So, if you want to have an online law degree but don’t know what path you should take, I have you covered! Therefore, keep on reading this blog till the end…
Does Online Law Degree Work?
Getting a law degree online is not really very different from getting one offline. Therefore, the concept of online law degree programs looks easier to most.
It is, sometimes, because it does not require you to attend 5-hour long classes for four years to acquire it.
Instead, you can continue with your everyday duties and responsibilities and get the degree as soon as you pass the necessary exams.
However, in terms of curriculum, both online law degrees and their offline counterparts are the same.
In fact, an online law student will have to put in some extra hard work, as most employment opportunities prefer offline grads.
Best Online Law Degree Courses in the USA
When it comes to getting a law degree online, let me tell you that it is not a very new option. Previously, people used to call it correspondence education or distance education!
You must have heard about the American Samoa Law School. Yes, the fictional law school in the Breaking Bad franchise. If you remember, there were a few things that Jimmy had mentioned while talking about his acceptance in the school.
And that was the ABA accreditation.
So, that means you cannot simply choose a school to get your online law degree. There are a few ones that will let you actually become a licensed lawyer. And, what are these? Let me tell you!
Here are some of the best online law degree schools that the ABA approves of:
- Albany Law School
- Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law (Arizona State University)
- Case Western Reserve University School of Law
- Cleveland State University Law College
- University of Dayton School of Law
- School of Law (University of Detroit Mercy)
- Seattle University Law School
- Law School of Northeastern University
- Vermont Law School
Please know that this is not the entire list. There are several other law schools that are accredited by the American Bar Association.
Steps To Get A Law Degree Online
If you want to get into law school online, you can start thinking of a good pre-law degree.
Moreover, if you have not gotten your bachelor’s degree yet, a pre-law degree might be the best choice for you. There are universities in the US that offer an online pre-law degree.
An online bachelor’s degree will take you four years to complete. Additionally, there is a chance that you will complete the degree in two years. For this, you will need an associate degree and then transfer the credits to this one.
Finding the Online Pre-Law Degree
If you get a Bachelor of Arts in Legal Studies, the law degree course becomes easier for you. It allows you to start working in an entry-level legal role. This way, you can keep studying part-time to complete your law degree.
Thus, if you pick a Bachelor’s in pre-law, you will be learning English, math, economics, or other subjects on the side with a major in pre-law.
You can pick a specific area of study to help with a legal job. Here are some options:
- Political Science
- History
- Economics
- Government
- Philosophy
If you want to become a lawyer later on, it’s important to choose a Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies program that’s approved by the American Bar Association (ABA). Moreover, this rule applies to both online and in-person programs.
Do Your Research
While getting your Bachelor’s degree, you could stay on top of things and research law schools.
Look for law schools that offer an online program. Moreover, it is important that the University/law school is accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA).
It should also bear recognition from the State Bar Association. Beware of schools that are not affiliated with that degree, online or offline, which won’t allow you to practice law.
Remember, your online law degree should be valid to facilitate bar admission.
Know About Your LSAT
Once you have found your law school of choice, be sure to review its requirements. For example, review the admission requirements for the program.
For example, most Universities that offer law degrees online require you to have a bachelor’s degree. Moreover, they may require a good LSAT (Law School scores) and other prerequisites.
Carefully go through all prerequisites and check them off your list before applying to your chosen programs. You will ideally have to take the LSAT (Law School Admission Test). Moreover, the LSAT consists of multiple-choice questions.
The test will contain questions from the following sections.
1. Logical Reasoning: This section will assess your ability to analyze, evaluate, and draw inferences from arguments.
2. Analytical Reasoning: The questions here will test your ability to understand and work with complex relationships and structures.
3. Reading Comprehension: This section is very important as it will test your reading and understanding skills.
4. Writing Test: In this section, you must write an essay where you pick if you are for or against a given notion. Moreover, you will argue and state the reasons for your choice. The law schools will review this essay as a part of your application.
But what about the LSAT Score?
The average LSAT score is typically around 150. Your score on the LSAT will determine which program you get into. Remember, a high score will ensure your admission to most online law degree programs.
Once you have your LSAT score, you will have to submit applications to the online law degree programs that you have an interest in.
Moreover, along with the application, send in the necessary documentation. This may include transcripts, letters of recommendation, and personal statements.
Law School Acceptance
Once acceptance is complete, your journey begins. Moreover, be sure to complete all online courses.
Since the law degree is already virtual, be sure to reach out and actively participate. Take part in discussions and complete assignments on time.
Additionally, be sure to avoid distractions and keep regularity in your coursework. An online law degree is just as demanding as an offline one.
Remember, while pursuing your online law degree, try getting as much practical experience as possible. Look for internships to broaden your legal knowledge.
Your Legal Guide: Making the Right Choice
Now that we have come to the end of this article, let’s have a quick rehash.
A law degree online comes with a lot of flexibility and self-discipline. No one can save you but yourself.
By now, I am sure you understand the process of getting a law degree. Now as a concluding statement, let us find out the good and the bads of a law degree.
Additionally, online law degree programs offer flexibility. Only you decide the terms of when and where you study.
It leaves you with plenty of time to cater to other commitments. An online law program will also cost less than an offline one.
You will have savings from all the commuting and housing expenses. Finally, an online law program allows you to set your own pace. Moreover, you will be taking on only what you can handle.
Now, coming on to the challenges, online law students may have fewer networking opportunities.
Remember, many face backlogs as compared to their offline peers. Many states have strict requirements that recognize offline law degrees only. Thus, an online degree can pose a challenge by limiting bar exam eligibility.
Online learning requires self-discipline and time management. It is up to the student what they choose to do with their time and independence.
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