JD Programs

All programs have an intellectually demanding curriculum that prepares each student for the legal profession, whether as a practicing attorney, member of the judiciary or other public official. It is also excellent preparation for careers in government, business and education.

Courses in all programs are taught by the law school’s full-time faculty along with distinguished scholars visiting from prestigious American and foreign law faculties. Instruction in specialized courses is sometimes provided by prominent members of the judiciary or practicing bar who bring their expertise to enrich the learning environment.

Full-Time JD Program

The course of study in the full-time JD program requires three years of professional training. Students take designated courses in the first year, and an average of 14 units per semester during the remaining two years to complete the 86 units required for the Juris Doctor degree. Required courses are usually offered during a five-day week, Monday through Friday, between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. Elective courses are offered during both day and evening hours.

Class preparation, library research, legal writing, and participation in student activities require substantially all of the student’s energies. It is not feasible to undertake this and simultaneously engage in significant part-time employment. Accrediting standards prohibit full-time students from working more than 20 hours per week while they are attending school.

Part-Time JD Program

Prospective students not able to devote full-time to the study of law may participate in the part-time program which is usually completed after four years in residence. Part-time students must carry the designated courses during the first and second years, and then a minimum of eight units each semester thereafter to complete the 86 units required for the JD degree. Generally, courses are scheduled during evening hours, 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., Monday through Thursday evenings. However, students may occasionally be required to attend Friday evening or Saturday sessions. Elective courses are available to part-time students during both day and evening hours.

Part-time students who successfully complete the first year may accelerate their graduation by one semester or may transfer to the full-time division and complete the degree requirements after three years in residence. Either option requires attendance during summer sessions.

Concurrent JD/MBA Program

The law school and USF’s School of Business and Management offer a jointly-sponsored full-time concurrent degree program in which a student earns both JD and MBA degrees.
The program is both time and cost efficient since it permits the concurrent degree candidate to complete the combined course of study in three and one/half to four years. Credits earned in specific courses are applied toward both degrees.

Students must complete the first year of the program exclusively in the law school. First-year law students, not previously accepted by the School of Business and Management, may apply for admission to the program during their first year

A student seeking admission to the concurrent program must meet the entrance requirements of both programs. The School of Law seeks students with strong academic backgrounds, exceptional Law School Admission Test scores, and solid recommendations. Admission to the School of Business and Management is limited to highly qualified applicants with good Graduate Management Admission Test scores in addition to excellent academic backgrounds.