Question: How long will it take to graduate from law school?
How long your program will take depends on a few things:
- Whether you're a full-time or part-time student;
- Whether you attend summer school;
- Whether you pursue a straight JD or a joint degree.
Answer:
Full-Time vs. Part-Time Programs
If you are enrolled in a typical full-time program in the US, your degree will most likely take three years, consisting of two semesters (fall and spring, usually) each year, with summers between the first and second and second and third years typically spent working for area law firms as a clerk.
However, many law schools now also offer part-time programs, in recognition of the fact that many older students cannot afford to take three full years off from work to pursue their legal education, but must continue to work at least part-time to support a family or for other reasons. Such programs usually take four years and may include evening classes to assist the working student in juggling employment and class responsibilities.
Summer School
Usually, law schools will offer both required and certain elective courses during two intensive summer sessions. By foregoing full-time employment during the interim summers, a motivated student may be able to shave off a full semester from the traditional three-year full-time program if she or he takes a full load in each available session.
JD vs. Joint Degree Programs
While the majority of law school students seek only a Jurisdoctorate (JD, the traditional professional law degree in the US), some elect to acquire an additional Masters degree simultaneously. Several schools offer such programs, typically in combinations such as JD/Masters of Business Administration or JD/Masters of International Business. Most of these programs require full-time participation and take four years.
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