Attending law school is a commitment, no matter how you look at it. If you have competing responsibilities and are unable to be a full-time law student, you may face additional challenges in pursuing your degree.
Fortunately, it is possible to earn your law degree while managing work and other commitments. Many law schools offer part-time programs as alternatives to the traditional full-time J.D. path. Part-time law programs may include evening and weekend classes, online and low-residency programs, and other flexible options. Here, we weigh the pros and cons to help you decide if being a part-time law student aligns with your personal and professional goals.
Pros
Flexible Scheduling. One of the primary advantages of part-time law school is its flexibility. Many law schools are willing to tailor their curriculum to accommodate students’ needs. If you are willing to take summer courses for an accelerated path, you may still be able to finish a J.D. program in three years. If you are seeking a lighter course load, you may be able to stretch your program over five years or more.
It’s best to carefully consider what workload you can manage and look for programs that fit your schedule. Don’t hesitate to reach out to admissions offices for information about options for part-time scheduling.
Greater Selectivity. Part-time law programs are generally easier to get into than full-time programs. Since these programs often cater to applicants already in the workforce, they may place less emphasis on undergraduate grades or LSAT scores.
Less Financial Burden. Going to school part-time can be a way to reduce your immediate educational debt. Because part-time programs tend to take longer to complete, the financial burden of your legal education is spread out over a longer time frame.
Moreover, working during law school — even part-time — can help offset tuition and other expenses and allow you to start paying off your debt while in school. This is a great way to get ahead of your debt before you graduate.
Where full-time students take out extra loans to cover the cost of rent, books, and other expenses, as a part-time student you’ll be able to use the money you’re earning from your job to lessen your burden.
New Career Prospects. Whether you are choosing to go to law school to advance in your current field or switch careers entirely, getting your J.D. will open doors that might not otherwise be possible. By going to law school, you can change the path of your professional life in a way that will leave a lasting impact on you and others. The world needs good lawyers.
Cons
Reduced Access to Scholarships. While part-time programs offer financial flexibility, they may come with a downside. As a part-time student, you may not be eligible for academic scholarships to help lower your educational costs. Spending more time in school and less in full-time employment can increase the overall cost of your legal education.
Fewer Opportunities. You may take different classes than full-time law students or find yourself on campus on a wholly different schedule. Although some networking and career-building events will exist, there will be certain opportunities that may not be made available to you. That includes joining student organizations, attending clinics, participating in moot court competitions, and getting on law review or other academic honors. You may also have reduced access to on-campus interviews, Career Services office hours, and other employment resources.
Most significantly, your commitment to summer work and/or classes may inhibit your ability to secure summer clerkships and legal internships, which serve as an important steppingstone to post-graduate employment. Instead, you’ll have to rely on your grades and your ability to network with students and professors to get ahead.
Potential Burnout. It’s easy for any student, full-time or part-time, to burn out in law school. By extending the time period for your studies, you risk the potential for greater fatigue and stress.
Avoid burning out by creating a solid support system and prioritizing self-care to keep you motivated. It’s always good to remind yourself of the light at the end of the tunnel, and your family and friends can help you do that.
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