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#JD Programs - School of Law - University of San Diego

The degree of juris doctor is the basic professional degree offered by the USD School of Law. The law school shapes its curriculum to meet the diverse career goals and intellectual interests of its students within the traditional educational preparation for the practice of law. Students who wish to emphasize or specialize in a particular area of law can choose electives from a broad range of courses. The law school also offers clinical and internship programs to give law students who have completed their first year an opportunity to earn academic credit while gaining practical experience.

Three years of full-time study or four years of evening study are generally required to complete the JD degree. Upon recommendation of the dean and the faculty, the JD degree is conferred upon law students who have successfully completed all academic, graduation and residency requirements.

Full-Time Program

This program is designed for students who are prepared to devote their entire time to the study of law. A law student who pursues this program cannot be employed full-time. The rules of the American Bar Association and the USD School of Law stipulate that a full-time student may not be employed more than 20 hours per week. This program generally requires three full academic years in residence. In general, classes are scheduled Monday through Friday.

Part-Time Program

This program is designed primarily for law students who are employed and cannot attend day classes. Four years of evening study are generally required to complete the degree. In general, classes are scheduled Monday through Thursday evenings beginning at 5:30 p.m. Additional classes may be scheduled as needed. After completing the first year of the part-time program, students may take day classes or request to transfer to full-time status.