Juris Doctor

The J.D. is a 90 semester-hour program.

Students in the full-time program normally complete the J.D. in three years.

Students in the part-time program normally complete the J.D. in four years.


After orientation, students may exercise a one-time transfer option between the part-time and full-time programs at the end of the spring semester. Should you desire to transfer programs before orientation, you must submit a written request to the Office of Admissions before June 1 explaining why you are now seeking enrollment in a different program. Your revised application will be submitted to the Admissions Committee and considered for admission based on the program requirements.

Students enrolled in the full-time J.D. program may obtain a joint-degree in business, communication, counseling or government, earning both degrees in significantly less time than would be required if the two degrees were pursued separately.

Degree Requirements

  • The J.D. degree requires a minimum of 90 credit hours; joint degrees students must earn a minimum of 83 credit hours.
  • Candidates for the degree must complete the program with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.00 on a 4.00 scale.
  • All degree requirements for full-time students must be met within five calendar years from the date of entry into the School of Law.
  • Part-time students have a maximum of six years to complete their degree requirements. Exceptions to the time limit are granted only in extraordinary circumstances (e.g., unexpected active duty service in the United States military).
  • Candidates for the J.D. degree must meet the residency, unit, grade and course requirements in effect at the time of their admission. Students who withdraw and later re-enter the law school will be bound by the requirements in effect at the time of their readmission. A waiver of certain new or changed requirements may be granted for good cause shown.

The nature, content and number of units awarded for courses are subject to change without notice. The curriculum is set forth on the linked pages. Elective courses are offered according to faculty availability and student enrollment.

Click here to view a list of learning outcomes for our J.D. program.