Pursuing a law degree is a major commitment—both in time and money. For working professionals or individuals with family responsibilities, a part-time law program offers the flexibility needed to achieve their career goals without pausing their lives. In the United States, many prestigious law schools offer ABA-accredited part-time JD programs designed to balance work, study, and personal commitments.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best law schools with part-time programs in the USA, their unique offerings, admission requirements, tuition details, and tips for choosing the right one for your goals.
Why Choose a Part-Time Law Program?
Before we dive into the schools, it’s essential to understand why many students prefer part-time legal education.
1. Work-Study Balance
Part-time programs allow students to continue working full-time or part-time while pursuing their Juris Doctor (JD) degree. This helps them gain practical experience and maintain financial stability.
2. Extended Duration
Unlike the traditional three-year full-time program, most part-time law programs take four years to complete. This slower pace helps reduce academic pressure.
3. Evening and Weekend Classes
Many part-time programs offer evening or weekend courses, making them ideal for working professionals who cannot attend daytime classes.
4. Equal Recognition
Graduates of part-time programs earn the same JD degree as full-time students. Employers and the Bar recognize both equally, ensuring no disadvantage in career prospects.
Top Law Schools with Part-Time JD Programs in the USA (2025)
Here’s a detailed look at some of the leading U.S. law schools offering part-time or evening JD programs.
1. Georgetown University Law Center (Washington, D.C.)
Program Type: Evening Part-Time JD
Duration: 4 years
Ranking: Top 15 (U.S. News 2025)
Georgetown Law’s part-time program is among the most prestigious in the nation. Students attend evening classes, typically four nights per week, allowing them to work during the day. The curriculum mirrors the full-time program, ensuring equal academic rigor.
Key Features:
- Access to over 500 elective courses
- Networking opportunities in D.C. law firms and government agencies
- Strong focus on international and constitutional law
Estimated Tuition (2025): Around $2,500 per credit hour
2. George Washington University Law School (Washington, D.C.)
Program Type: Evening Part-Time JD
Duration: 4 years
GW Law offers flexibility for working professionals in the heart of the nation’s capital. The program features the same faculty and courses as the full-time track.
Key Features:
- Classes held in the evenings (Monday–Thursday)
- Strong alumni network in government and public policy
- Excellent externship programs in D.C. agencies
Estimated Annual Tuition: $46,000–$48,000
3. Fordham University School of Law (New York, NY)
Program Type: Part-Time Evening JD
Duration: 4 years
Located in Manhattan, Fordham Law’s evening division is ideal for professionals in New York City. The school emphasizes ethics, global law, and real-world legal practice.
Key Features:
- Evening classes from 6:00–9:00 p.m.
- Small class sizes for personalized attention
- Strong connections with NYC law firms
Estimated Annual Tuition: $48,000
4. Loyola Law School (Los Angeles, CA)
Program Type: Day and Evening Part-Time JD Options
Duration: 4 years
Loyola Law School offers one of the most flexible part-time JD programs in California, allowing students to choose between daytime or evening schedules.
Key Features:
- Choice between daytime or evening courses
- Accessible faculty with industry experience
- Opportunities in entertainment and corporate law
Estimated Annual Tuition: $45,000
5. American University Washington College of Law (Washington, D.C.)
Program Type: Evening Part-Time JD
Duration: 4 years
American University’s part-time program is designed for students who want to study while maintaining full-time employment.
Key Features:
- Classes scheduled during evenings and weekends
- Focus on international and human rights law
- Strong emphasis on experiential learning
Estimated Annual Tuition: $44,000
6. Temple University Beasley School of Law (Philadelphia, PA)
Program Type: Evening Part-Time JD
Duration: 4 years
Temple Law has one of the most respected part-time programs on the East Coast, offering affordable tuition and flexible schedules.
Key Features:
- Hybrid evening and weekend classes
- Focus on trial advocacy and litigation
- Affordable tuition compared to top-tier schools
Estimated Annual Tuition: $30,000–$35,000
7. University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law (Baltimore, MD)
Program Type: Evening Part-Time JD
Duration: 4 years
Maryland Carey Law offers a rigorous program for professionals in the D.C.–Baltimore corridor.
Key Features:
- Evening classes two to three times per week
- Strong clinical programs in health law and environmental law
- Extensive alumni connections in government sectors
Estimated Annual Tuition: $32,000 (in-state) / $48,000 (out-of-state)
8. Chicago-Kent College of Law (Illinois Institute of Technology)
Program Type: Part-Time Evening JD
Duration: 4 years
Located in Chicago’s downtown legal district, this program provides access to numerous law firms and legal institutions.
Key Features:
- Flexible evening schedule
- Focus on technology and intellectual property law
- Hybrid learning options
Estimated Annual Tuition: $40,000
9. University of Denver Sturm College of Law (Colorado)
Program Type: Weekend Part-Time JD
Duration: 4 years
This program caters to working adults with classes held on weekends and occasional evenings.
Key Features:
- Weekend-focused schedule
- Online learning components for flexibility
- Strong focus on environmental and corporate law
Estimated Annual Tuition: $41,000
10. University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law (Sacramento, CA)
Program Type: Evening and Hybrid Part-Time JD
Duration: 4 years
McGeorge’s hybrid program combines online and in-person learning, making it one of the most flexible options on the West Coast.
Key Features:
- Evening and weekend classes
- Hybrid online/in-person courses
- Focus on public policy and government law
Estimated Annual Tuition: $38,000
Comparison Table: Top Part-Time Law Schools in the USA (2025)
| Law School | Location | Program Type | Duration | Approx. Tuition (per year) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Georgetown University Law Center | Washington, D.C. | Evening | 4 years | $2,500/credit |
| George Washington University Law School | Washington, D.C. | Evening | 4 years | $47,000 |
| Fordham University School of Law | New York, NY | Evening | 4 years | $48,000 |
| Loyola Law School | Los Angeles, CA | Day/Evening | 4 years | $45,000 |
| American University WCL | Washington, D.C. | Evening | 4 years | $44,000 |
| Temple University Beasley School of Law | Philadelphia, PA | Evening | 4 years | $32,000 |
| University of Maryland Carey Law | Baltimore, MD | Evening | 4 years | $32K–$48K |
| Chicago-Kent College of Law | Chicago, IL | Evening | 4 years | $40,000 |
| University of Denver Sturm College of Law | Denver, CO | Weekend | 4 years | $41,000 |
| McGeorge School of Law | Sacramento, CA | Hybrid/Evening | 4 years | $38,000 |
Admission Requirements for Part-Time Law Programs
While admission criteria vary across schools, most part-time JD programs require:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Bachelor’s Degree | A 4-year undergraduate degree from an accredited institution |
| LSAT or GRE Scores | Most law schools require LSAT; some accept GRE |
| Letters of Recommendation | Typically 2–3 from academic or professional sources |
| Personal Statement | A compelling essay outlining career goals and motivation |
| Work Experience | Many part-time applicants have several years of professional experience |
Advantages and Drawbacks of Part-Time Law Programs
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Flexibility to work while studying | Takes longer to complete (4 years vs. 3 years) |
| Opportunity to gain professional experience | Limited participation in day events or internships |
| Same JD degree as full-time students | Heavier schedule balancing work and study |
| Networking with professionals from diverse industries | Higher total tuition over four years |
Tips for Choosing the Right Part-Time Law School
- Check ABA Accreditation – Ensure the program is approved by the American Bar Association (ABA).
- Evaluate Flexibility – Look for hybrid or weekend options if you have an unpredictable work schedule.
- Compare Tuition and Financial Aid – Consider schools with scholarships for part-time students.
- Review Career Services – Strong alumni and placement support are crucial for post-graduation success.
- Location Matters – Choose a school near major legal hubs for internship and networking opportunities.
Career Opportunities After a Part-Time JD
Graduates of part-time programs are eligible for the Bar Exam in all U.S. states and can pursue careers as:
- Attorneys in private practice
- Corporate counsel
- Government or policy advisors
- Judges or legal analysts
- Compliance officers and consultants
Part-time graduates often bring valuable work experience that complements their legal training, making them attractive candidates for top firms and corporations.
Conclusion
Part-time law programs in the USA are designed for ambitious professionals who seek flexibility without compromising quality. Whether you’re aiming for a career in corporate law, public service, or advocacy, schools like Georgetown, Fordham, Loyola, and Temple offer exceptional pathways to success.
Choosing the right program depends on your career goals, schedule, and location—but with today’s flexible part-time options, earning a law degree has never been more achievable.