Gavin Howe
Studying law from home is possible through online courses and books. Online courses are designed for people who have to balance their jobs, home life, and education. They offer flexibility and allow students to learn at their own pace. Several universities offer online LLB (Hons) Law degrees, which can be taken after an introductory foundation year. While self-teaching can provide a basic understanding of law, it does not qualify an individual to practice law. To become a lawyer, one must follow the traditional route of obtaining a law degree and completing several years of supervised practice at a law firm.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Online law degrees | LLB (Hons) Online Law Degree |
| Online law courses | Free and paid short courses, in-depth programs, or full postgraduate degrees |
| Self-taught law | Yes, but it won't qualify you to be a lawyer |
| Law degree requirements | Varies by country, but typically requires a Bachelor of Law (LLB) or Juris Doctor (JD) |
| Law school requirements | Academic transcripts, LSAT score, personal statement, and reference letters |
| Law school duration | Typically 3-4 years |
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What You'll Learn
Online law degrees
FutureLearn offers free online law courses, including short courses, in-depth programs, and full postgraduate degrees. These courses cover a range of topics, such as the history and development of migration control, human rights, legal ethics, and forensic science. FutureLearn also provides the opportunity to network with other learners and challenge perspectives on legal topics.
St. Mary's Law offers an online J.D. program that is fully accredited by the American Bar Association. This program provides the same quality of teaching, student services, and community as their in-person degree. Online students have access to career and academic counselling, pro bono opportunities, networking events, and more. The curriculum is designed to teach the foundations of substantive law, along with legal writing and analysis.
Additionally, several law schools in the United States have been approved by the American Bar Association to offer hybrid or fully online J.D. programs. These include Albany Law School, Arizona State University Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law, Case Western Reserve University School of Law, and Cleveland State University College of Law, among others. These programs offer flexibility and the opportunity to earn a significant portion of the required credit hours through distance education courses.
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Law apprenticeships
The first step in landing a law apprenticeship is to decide on the type of law you want to pursue. For instance, if you are interested in child and family law, you can search for law firm apprenticeships that offer relevant work experience.
During a law apprenticeship, you will learn the basics of the role, including how to use database systems and technology, and how your mentor handles cases and organizes documents. After gaining proficiency in these areas, your mentor may assign you some independent work. You will also get first-hand experience in the legal world, learning about how to interact with clients and best practices for lawyers.
Some notable figures who became lawyers through apprenticeships include Strom Thurmond, Rush Limbaugh, Thomas Jefferson, and Abraham Lincoln. More recently, Kim Kardashian has also gained attention for pursuing this path.
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Law as a second degree
While it is possible to teach yourself the basics of law, it is important to note that this will not qualify you to practice law or become a lawyer. If you are considering a career change to law, you can pursue a second degree in law, which can be completed through online courses or at a traditional campus university.
Online Law Degrees
Online law degrees, such as the LLB (Hons) Online Law Degree offered by the University of Law, provide a flexible study programme that can be tailored to fit around your other commitments. The University of Law also offers an additional foundation year on campus, which focuses on developing the key skills required to study at a degree level. Online courses are typically designed for those who need to balance their job, home life, and education. They offer shorter, more intensive terms and self-directed immersive online learning, allowing students freedom in terms of when, where, and how they study.
Traditional Campus Degrees
If you are considering a second degree at a traditional campus university, it is important to note that law degrees are typically three or four years long. In Canada, for example, the first-level common law degree, the Juris Doctor or JD, is a three-year undergraduate degree program that requires prior undergraduate education for entry. Similarly, in the United States, becoming a lawyer typically takes seven years of full-time study after high school, including four years of undergraduate study followed by three years of law school.
Transferable Skills
Pursuing a second degree in law can provide you with transferable skills that can be beneficial for various careers, such as politics, business, or journalism. A law degree can equip you with practical skills and a focus on future employability, enhancing your understanding of various legal fields.
Alternative Pathways
It is worth noting that there are alternative pathways to becoming a lawyer besides the traditional route of obtaining a law degree. For example, in California, Virginia, Vermont, Washington, and New York, aspiring lawyers can pursue apprenticeships or a combination of law school and apprenticeship to study for the bar without attending law school. These alternative routes can make legal education more accessible and affordable to a diverse population.
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Law school entrance requirements
While there are some options to study law online, such as the LLB Bachelor of Laws at the University of London, which can be studied from anywhere in the world, law school typically requires physical attendance. Law school entrance requirements can vary, but there are several common prerequisites and considerations to keep in mind.
Firstly, most law schools require applicants to take the Law School Admissions Test (LSAT). The LSAT assesses reading comprehension, analytical and reasoning skills, argumentation, and writing skills. A good LSAT score can significantly strengthen your application, and it is recommended to prepare for the exam well in advance.
Secondly, a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university is typically required for law school. While law schools generally do not mandate a specific major, certain subjects are considered traditional preparation for law school, including English, political science, history, economics, and philosophy. Maintaining a high grade point average (GPA) is crucial, as both your GPA and LSAT scores are essential components of your application.
Additionally, extracurricular activities and work experience can set your application apart. Law schools seek well-rounded candidates with diverse backgrounds. Joining established organisations, showcasing community service, and highlighting leadership positions can be advantageous. Real-world experience and exposure to the law are also highly valued by admissions teams.
Furthermore, letters of recommendation play a significant role in elevating your application. Strong letters from professors or work supervisors who can speak to your academic, personal, or professional achievements with candour and detail are highly beneficial.
Finally, a well-crafted personal statement is essential. This is your opportunity to showcase why you are a good fit for the law school and how your experiences align with their programme. It is important to customise your application to reflect the specific law school you are applying to, including aligning your career goals and interests with the school's offerings.
While these are general guidelines, it is important to research the specific requirements of your desired law schools, as they can vary. Additionally, consider factors such as location, cost of living, and financial obligations when applying to law school.
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Self-taught law
While it is possible to teach yourself the basics of law, self-study alone will not qualify you to practice law. If you want to become a lawyer, you must follow the traditional route of studying for a law degree and gaining practical experience. However, if you are interested in improving your knowledge of the law, there are many online courses and books that can help you teach yourself the basics.
Online courses are a great way to learn about the law, as they offer flexibility and allow you to balance your education with other commitments. You can find short online courses, in-depth programs, or even full postgraduate degrees that can provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the law. These courses can cover a range of topics, from legal ethics to forensic science, and can help you develop valuable skills such as communication, digital literacy, and legal research.
In addition to online courses, reading introductory law books or taking courses in areas that interest you can give you a solid foundation in legal concepts. You can explore different fields of law, such as contract law, constitutional law, or corporate law, and gain a basic understanding of the legal system. However, it is important to note that self-teaching will not equip you with the qualifications needed to become a practicing lawyer.
To become a lawyer, the specific requirements vary depending on your location. In the United States, it typically takes seven years of full-time study after high school, including an undergraduate degree and a Juris Doctor (JD) from a law school accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA). Most law schools require applicants to take the Law School Admission Test (LSAT), which assesses aptitude for legal studies rather than factual knowledge. After completing your education, you will need to pass intense exams and gain practical experience through internships or apprenticeships to become a licensed lawyer.
While the path to becoming a lawyer is challenging and time-consuming, it is possible to gain a basic understanding of the law through self-teaching. Online courses and introductory books can provide you with valuable legal knowledge and skills that can be beneficial in various careers, including politics, business, or journalism. However, if you aspire to practice law, you must be prepared to commit to the traditional route of legal education and training.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can study law at home. There are many online courses available that can be taken at home, including free short courses, in-depth programs, and full postgraduate degrees.
The requirements to become a practising lawyer vary by country. In the US, most states require a Juris Doctor (JD) degree from a law school accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA). In Canada, a JD or Bachelor of Laws from a recognised law school is required, followed by a period of articling, a bar admission course, and an exam. In Australia, a Bachelor of Law (LLB) or a JD is required, followed by 18 to 24 months of supervised practice. While you can study law at home, you may still need to complete other in-person requirements to become a practising lawyer.
Studying law at home offers flexibility, allowing students to balance their education with other commitments such as work and home life. Online courses also provide the benefit of expertise, experience, and a focus on employability.
The University of Law offers an online LLB (Hons) Law Degree. FutureLearn also offers a range of online law courses, including free short courses and full postgraduate degrees.
