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The field of law is home to many types of legal professions. Lawyers are well known. But there are dozens of others: mediators, paralegals, and attorneys, among others.
A bachelor's in law or legal studies provides the base for many of these professions. But it's more than a foundation — a bachelor's in law can also be a precursor to attending law school, and the beginning of many years of exposure to law and legal topics.
Online law degrees are widely available, making it more flexible and convenient for students to complete their education while managing other responsibilities. Explore the rest of this page to find out more about online law degrees, costs and career outcomes.
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Top 10 Online Bachelor's in Law Programs
We use trusted sources like
Peterson's Data and
the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
#1 Best Online Bachelor’s in Law Programs
University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $179
Out-of-State | $716
Credits to Graduate: 120
The University of Central Florida's BA or BS in legal studies can prepare learners for law school or careers like legal analyst, contract specialist, and court reporter. Positioned at the intersection of law, business, and technology, this degree includes courses such as legal writing, law and the legal system, and legal research.
All full-time faculty hold degrees from American Bar Association-accredited law schools. First-year applicants should provide transcripts or GED certificates along with SAT or ACT scores and a $30 application fee.
#2 Best Online Bachelor’s in Law Programs
National University
San Diego, CA - 4 years
- Online
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $370
Out-of-State | $370
Credits to Graduate: 180
National University's bachelor of arts in pre-law studies teaches students about complex legal issues and helps prepare them for law school or legal careers. Courses include analytical reasoning, the art of negotiation, and alternative dispute resolution. The program concludes with a capstone.
Each course lasts four weeks, and enrollment is open year-round. Accepted students are eligible for the Key Grant Scholarship, which pays $625 per course, covering up to $7,500 toward tuition.
#3 Best Online Bachelor’s in Law Programs
Northeastern State University
Tahlequah, OK - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $221
Out-of-State | $525
Credits to Graduate: 124
Northeastern State University's legal studies BS includes courses such as legal analysis, electronic legal research and writing, and a capstone about law office operations and ethics. Enrollees also complete 18 credits of elective classes in subjects like litigation, law and commerce, and general practice.
To graduate, students must attain a 2.5 GPA or better in all major courses. The degree requires learners to complete at least 30 credits at NSU, allowing attendees to transfer credits from other institutions or prior associate degrees.
#4 Best Online Bachelor’s in Law Programs
The Pennsylvania State University
University Park, PA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $632-$678
Out-of-State | $632-$678
Credits to Graduate: 123
The Pennsylvania State University's bachelor of arts in law and society helps learners develop skills in rhetoric, writing, and legal analysis using an integrated philosophical, historical, and social science framework. Enrollees take classes like American constitutional law, law of labor-management relations, and the history of work in America.
While completing this degree, students can also earn an associate in multidisciplinary studies. The curriculum can prepare graduates for law school or careers as legal assistants, business leaders, or law enforcement officers.
#5 Best Online Bachelor’s in Law Programs
Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Semester:
In-State | $11,468 (full time)
Out-of-State | $11,468 (full time)
Credits to Graduate: 120
Keiser University's legal studies BA offers two concentrations: a general track and a law office management specialization. The general degree serves aspiring law students and legal-related professionals. The law office management program prepares graduates for paralegal and office management roles.
Courses include advanced civil litigation, constitutional law, and legal drafting. Students also complete a three-credit legal capstone project. Applicants should hold a high school diploma or GED certificate. New classes begin monthly.
#6 Best Online Bachelor’s in Law Programs
University of Maryland Global Campus
Adelphi, MD - 4 years
- Online
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $318
Out-of-State | $499
Credits to Graduate: 120
The University of Maryland Global Campus's online legal studies bachelor's degree develops students' skills in fact identification and analysis, legal research and writing, and field-related digital competence. The program explores developing legal documents, analyzing information, social justice principles, and using legal resources.
Courses include torts, domestic relations, criminal law and procedures, and a legal studies capstone. The degree runs fully online, but learners can also complete some classes on campus. Transfer students can bring in up to 90 credits.
#7 Best Online Bachelor’s in Law Programs
Bellevue University
Bellevue, NE - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $449
Out-of-State | $449
Credits to Graduate: 127
Bellevue University's bachelor of science in legal studies teaches enrollees to write, analyze legal concepts, apply legal ethics, and relate legal principles to social consequences. Courses include the American criminal and civil legal systems, the rule and role of law in matters of life and death, and legal applications for contemporary American business and social organizations.
Applicants with an associate degree or at least 60 transfer credits can complete the program in an accelerated cohort format. In this delivery method, students take one class at a time with the same group of peers until they complete the program, which helps facilitate a learning and collaboration network.
#8 Best Online Bachelor’s in Law Programs
SUNY College of Technology at Canton
Canton, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $295
Out-of-State | $353
Credits to Graduate: 124-127
SUNY College of Technology at Canton's legal studies BS gears its online education for transfer students, recent high school graduates, and working professionals. Enrollees study topics like civil litigation; constitutional law; real property law; and wills, trusts, and estates.
The university also offers a 3+3 program where learners can earn their bachelor's degree and a law degree from the University of Buffalo in six years. Applicants send SAT or ACT scores and proof of an appropriate background in high school math and English.
#9 Best Online Bachelor’s in Law Programs
Hodges University
Fort Myers, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $595
Out-of-State | $595
Credits to Graduate: 120
Hodges University's online bachelor's in legal studies equips pre-law students with an educational background in legal theory and practice. Courses include e-litigation and litigation support, identity politics and the legal system, and advanced constitutional law. Learners can enroll part time or full time, and new courses begin monthly.
Faculty have career experience as lawyers. The program is designed to prepare graduates for law school or graduate degrees in criminal justice, political science, and related fields. Applicants need to complete an admissions interview by phone or in person.
#10 Best Online Bachelor’s in Law Programs
University of Massachusetts Global
Irvine, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $500
Out-of-State | $500
Credits to Graduate: 120
The University of Massachusetts Global's BA in legal studies offers three tracks: a general concentration, a paralegal specialization, and a business law track. Regardless of concentration, enrollees take core courses like white collar crime, ethics in a legal environment, and constitutional governance.
The degree culminates with a legal studies capstone. Applicants with fewer than 12 transferable credits should hold a high school diploma or GED certificate. Other transfer students need a minimum 2.0 GPA on previous coursework.
How We Rank Schools
Accredited Schools Online uses a custom ranking system to evaluate schools on their quality, affordability, and reputation.
We rank schools using factors like graduation rate, admission rate, tuition costs, financial aid, and program offerings. All our ranked schools hold institutional accreditation.
Learn more about how we create school rankings on our methodology page.
Why Get a Law Degree Online?
- Online law degrees offer greater flexibility and convenience for students.
- Learning formats online help learners balance studies and other commitments.
- Students can save on commuting costs and on-campus fees.
- Online programs are widely available, increasing the chances of finding one that matches your career goals and personal interests.
Did You Know...
Law and legal studies is the seventh least-expensive online bachelor's degree out of 21 listed in the National Center for Education Statistics database.
Bachelor's in Legal Studies Coursework
Bachelor's in law or legal studies programs include core coursework in law, legal research, and legal analysis. Enrollees may customize their degree with a specialization. Options include international law and business law. A business law concentration covers contract laws that govern commercial exchange.
Bachelor's in law degrees require 120 credits total, including about 60 credits of general education coursework. See below for three common courses in bachelor's in law programs.
-
Legal Research Methods: This course prepares enrollees to find and analyze legal sources. Students practice using qualitative and quantitative methods for choosing and researching legal topics. Degree-seekers learn how to analyze legal problems and frame legal arguments. Online law degrees may require capstone research projects. -
Intellectual Property Law: Many schools offer this course as an elective. Learners examine policies and laws related to patenting and copyrighting original intellectual work. Enrollees study how businesses and individuals can use the law to protect their trade secrets and trademarks. -
Business Legal Ethics: Many bachelor's in law students take at least one course in legal ethics. Enrollees study environmental sustainability and international business labor laws. This course also covers social responsibility and equal opportunity employment. Students explore constitutional law and business formation.
How Much Does an Online Law Degree Cost?
The average annual tuition and fees of online bachelor's in law and legal studies is $10,121, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Law and legal studies was the seventh least-expensive out of 21 online bachelor's degrees in the NCES database.
The total cost of an online program may be less expensive than a campus-based program. Online programs typically do not charge fees associated with on-campus education, such as living accommodations, transportation and campus fees. However, they may face higher technology costs.
Tuition costs increase at the graduate level at law schools. According to data collected by the American Bar Association (ABA) in 2023, the average annual cost of tuition and fees for full-time, in-state law school students was $30,364. The average cost for full-time, out-of-state law school students was $38,959.
Financial Aid for Law Majors
Students have access to a variety of financial aid options, including federal loans, scholarships, and grants to help make their online law education more affordable. Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a crucial step to receiving financial aid.
FAFSA determines each student's eligibility for need-based aid. But, the cost of an online law degree can vary based on individual financial situations and the amount of financial aid received.
In addition to federal financial aid, some law schools and organizations offer Loan Repayment Assistance Programs (LRAPs) for graduates working in public interest or government positions. Other options include work-study programs, need-based grants offered by states, fellowships and school-based scholarships.
Accreditation of Online Law Degrees
Institutional accreditation is an important factor to consider when choosing an online law degree.
Institutional accreditation ensures a school meets educational standards and successfully prepares students for their careers. The U.S. Department of Education limits federal financial aid (such as Pell grants and federal student loans) to students enrolled in accredited institutions. Many graduate and law schools admit only students who graduated from an accredited college or university. Before enrolling in an online law degree program, check that the school is accredited.
At the undergraduate level, the American Bar Association does not "accredit" legal studies programs, though they do "approve" them. ABA approval means the program meets the standard for legal education and ensures students are ready to enter the legal profession.
Enrolling in a bachelor's program with ABA approval is not a typical education requirement for undergraduate-level legal positions, such as paralegals. Most law school admissions do not require it either.
The ABA only accredits law schools (e.g., J.D. programs). Attending an ABA-accredited law school is a requirement in most states, for those who wish to sit for the bar exam.
Admission Requirements for Bachelor's in Law Programs
To be admitted into an online bachelor's in law program, students typically need proof of high school graduation or its equivalent with a minimum GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale. Some schools may also require entrance exams (e.g., ACT or SAT) or higher GPAs.
Transfer students may need to have earned at least 24 credit hours with a minimum GPA of 2.0 from an accredited institution. They may also need to submit official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended.
Admission offices may review applicants individually if they do meet certain requirements. Not all online programs are available to residents of all U.S. states, so it's important to check with an admissions representative for more information.
Career and Salary Outlook for Law Majors
Law majors have many career options, including roles as paralegals, court clerks, court reporters, probation officers, journalists, and investment bankers. To become a lawyer or judge, further education and advanced law degrees are necessary.
Legal occupations earned a median annual wage of $95,170 in May 2022, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The wage is more than two times higher than the median for all occupations, $46,310.
The reason the legal profession's median wage is so much larger than the national wage is education. Those working in the legal field often hold a doctoral (e.g. Juris Doctor) or professional degree, which commands a higher salary..
| Job Title | Median Annual Salar | Projected Job Growth (2022-32) |
|---|---|---|
| Paralegal or legal assistant | $59,200 | 4% |
| Legal secretary or administrative assistant | $48,780 | -22% |
| Court, municipal, or license clerk | $44,140 | 3% |
| Court reporter or simultaneous captioner | $63,560 | 3% |
| Arbitrator, mediator, or conciliator | $64,030 | 5% |
| Probation officer or correctional treatment specialist | $59,860 | 3% |
| Human resources specialist | $69,160 | 6% |
| Compliance officer | 71,690 | N/A |
How to Become a Lawyer
Lawyers complete about seven years of postsecondary study. Learners can begin by earning a bachelor's degree in law or legal studies from an accredited school.
Students may also major in related disciplines such as social science, political science, criminal justice, or history. Graduates then complete the LSAT and apply to law school. Most lawyers complete a three-year JD program accredited by the American Bar Association.
JD programs usually include internships or clerkships that prepare students for law careers. Professionals with a JD qualify to take the bar exam. This state licensure exam permits lawyers to practice law.
Lawyers must pass a background check. They must also complete continuing education hours every 1-3 years to keep their professional license current.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Law Degrees
Are online law degrees worth it?
The value of an online law degree depends on your career goals and personal situation. While useful for professionals who need legal knowledge in fields like HR or compliance, these degrees don't qualify you to practice law. However, online law degrees can be the foundation for law school.
What does it mean to be a pre-law student?
A pre-law student is someone who is preparing for law school. Pre-law students typically focus on developing key skills and acquiring knowledge in legal studies. This includes critical thinking, writing, and understanding law and policy.
Law schools do not require any specific major, though students may prefer to choose areas they're interested in and will help them develop law-related skills and knowledge.
Do law schools accept online bachelor's degrees?
Law schools generally accept any bachelor's degree, online or not. The key is that the school is legitimate and has programmatic or institutional accreditation. Though, it may depend on the law school. Some law schools with more competitive admission standards may prefer applicants with a traditional degree.
Can you be a lawyer without going to law school?
Legal apprenticeships or law clerk programs in states like Maine and Washington can help you become a lawyer without attending law school. These legal apprenticeships last several years and provide educational and practical experience needed to be eligible to take the bar exam.
However, you may need to meet specific state requirements, such as supervision by a practicing attorney for a set duration. New York also offers this path but requires some law school education in addition to the apprenticeship.
Is a legal studies degree hard?
It depends on your strengths and weaknesses as a student. Legal studies is reading and writing intensive. If you struggle in these areas, legal studies may be a more difficult major for you.