Accredited Online Law Degrees

The law influences nearly every aspect of society—from business and healthcare to criminal justice and public policy. While many associate legal careers primarily with courtroom attorneys, the legal field encompasses a broad range of professionals who help individuals and organizations navigate complex legal systems.

An online law degree or legal studies program can equip you with the legal expertise needed for careers in legal support, compliance, mediation, and beyond. Whether your goal is to practice law or work alongside legal professionals, this field offers flexible, impactful career opportunities for online students and ambitious professionals alike.

Ready to find your program? Browse over 260 online law degree listings below.

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What Is a Law Degree?

A law degree provides foundational knowledge of legal systems, regulations, and the practical application of laws in real-world contexts.

Depending on your career objectives, law degrees may include:

• Pre-law or legal studies bachelor’s degrees
• Paralegal or legal assistant certificate programs
• Master’s degrees in law (LLM or similar specialized expertise)
• Juris Doctor (JD) programs for licensed attorneys

It’s important to note that most fully online programs do not lead directly to becoming a licensed attorney, as the American Bar Association (ABA) enforces strict accreditation standards for online legal education and bar exam eligibility.

• Criminal Justice, Safety & Law Degrees Category

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What Can You Do With a Law Degree Online?

Legal education opens doors to a variety of careers, both inside and outside the courtroom.

Common career paths for graduates of online law degree programs include:

• Lawyer or attorney (upon completion of an ABA-accredited online JD program and passing the bar exam)
• Paralegal or legal assistant
• Mediator or arbitrator
• Compliance specialist
• Legal consultant

Many professionals also apply their legal knowledge in business, healthcare, government, and nonprofit sectors, expanding access to justice and enhancing public service.

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Career Paths in Law

Legal careers vary widely depending on your education level and area of specialization.

Examples include:

• Lawyers (Attorneys)
  Represent clients, provide legal advice, and may practice law in various specialties such as business law, employment law, or constitutional law. Lawyers earn an average salary of around $120,000 annually.
• Paralegals and Legal Assistants
  Support legal teams with research, documentation, and legal writing, earning approximately $50,000 annually.
• Arbitrators and Mediators
  Facilitate dispute resolution outside courts, with typical earnings near $60,000 annually.
• Judges and Hearing Officers
  Oversee legal proceedings and make decisions, earning more than $90,000 annually.

Each role plays a vital part in the legal system and offers unique opportunities for professional development.

Job Outlook and Salary Expectations

Legal careers offer strong earning potential and steady demand.

• Lawyers consistently rank among the highest-paid legal professionals.
• Paralegal roles are growing rapidly, with employment projected to increase by about 15%.
• Careers in mediation and arbitration are also expanding due to the growing need for alternative dispute resolution.

Demand is fueled by the ongoing need for legal services across diverse industries and sectors.

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Why Choose a Law Degree Online?

A law degree is ideal for individuals passionate about advocacy, critical analysis, and problem-solving.

Key benefits of pursuing a law degree online include:

• Versatile career opportunities across industries and sectors
• Strong earning potential in many legal and related roles
• Ability to specialize in fields such as criminal law, business law, employment law, or environmental law
• Access to a top-tier legal education from accredited online JD programs
• Flexibility to balance studies with work and personal commitments, especially for out-of-state students and international students

What You’ll Learn in an Online Law Program

Online law degree programs focus on legal theory, research, writing, and practical applications.

Common coursework includes:

• Constitutional law
• Legal research and writing
• Criminal and civil law
• Ethics and professional responsibility
• Contracts and regulatory law

Many programs also offer specialized courses in international law, employment law, and public policy, enhancing your specialized expertise and professional development.

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Is an Online Law Degree Right for You?

This field suits individuals who enjoy critical thinking, effective communication, and working with complex information.

You may be a good fit if you:

• Have strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Communicate clearly in writing and speaking
• Are self-motivated and adept at online learning
• Enjoy debating, researching, and advocating

Education Path and Degree Options

Legal education offers multiple pathways, including:

• Bachelor’s degrees in legal studies or pre-law
• Paralegal certificates or associate degrees
• Master’s degrees in law for specialized knowledge
• Juris Doctor (JD) programs, including accredited online JD programs, for becoming a licensed attorney

Some states allow alternative pathways to the bar exam, but requirements vary significantly; it’s essential to verify bar exam eligibility when choosing an online JD program.

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Certifications and Career Advancement

Certifications can boost your qualifications, especially for legal support roles.

Options include:

• Paralegal certifications
• Specialized certifications in compliance, mediation, or employment law
• State bar admission (for attorneys)

Continuing education and participation in student organizations, networking events, and academic counseling enhance your career prospects and professional growth.

How to Choose the Right Online Law Program

When selecting an online law degree or online JD program, consider:

• Whether your goal is to become a licensed attorney or work in a legal support role
• Accreditation status, especially ABA accreditation, to ensure bar exam eligibility
• Curriculum offerings and opportunities for specialized expertise
• Flexibility and support services available for online students, including academic counseling and career resources
• Opportunities to complete externships, pro bono activities, and participate in student organizations and networking events

GetEducated has several ranking reports for law-related degrees:

• Master's degree in legal studies ranking report
• Master's of laws ranking report

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Cost of Online Law Degrees

Costs vary depending on the program type and institution.

• Bachelor’s degrees typically range from $30,000 to $50,000
• Law school (JD) programs, including online JD programs, often have higher tuition but may offer cost savings in living expenses, board, and transportation
• Financial aid options, scholarships, and flexible payment plans may be available for online students, including out-of-state students

Carefully evaluate both tuition costs and career outcomes before enrolling.

Compare Accredited Online Law Programs

Find programs tailored to your goals with resources like GetEducated.

You can:

• Compare accredited online degrees and online JD programs
• Review tuition, curriculum, and program features
• Explore specialization options in areas such as employment law and business law
• Find flexible programs designed for ambitious professionals balancing work and study

Browse programs below to get started.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can you become a lawyer with an online law degree?

In most cases, yes—but only if you complete an ABA-accredited online JD program and pass the bar exam. Some states have specific requirements or alternative pathways, so verify bar exam eligibility with the National Conference of Bar Examiners.

What is the difference between a law degree and legal studies?

A law degree (JD) prepares you to become a licensed attorney, while legal studies programs offer foundational legal knowledge for careers in legal support, compliance, or business roles.

What jobs can you get with an online law degree?

You can pursue roles such as paralegal, legal assistant, mediator, compliance specialist, or legal consultant. Graduates of accredited online JD programs may become practicing attorneys.

Is a law degree worth it if you don’t want to be a lawyer?

Absolutely. Legal knowledge is valuable across industries, including business, healthcare, government, and nonprofit sectors.

How long does it take to complete a law degree?

A bachelor’s degree usually takes about four years. A JD program, including many online JD programs, typically requires three years of full-time study, though part-time options may extend this.

How much do legal professionals make?

Salaries vary widely—from approximately $50,000 for paralegals to over $120,000 for attorneys—depending on experience, specialization, and location.

Do you need certification to work in legal support roles?

Certification is not always mandatory but can improve job prospects and demonstrate expertise, especially for paralegals and compliance specialists.

Can you specialize within law without becoming a lawyer?

Yes. Many professionals specialize in areas like compliance, contracts, mediation, or employment law without becoming licensed attorneys.