Juris Doctor

The Juris Doctor, which requires 91 hours for completion, can be achieved in three years if attending full-time and four to five years if attending part-time. Both programs are identical in academic rigor. The courses offered are among the broadest range found in American legal education. Students may register for up to six hours of graduate courses or seminars in other departments with the University, such as the School of Business and Administration. Students are allowed ample latitude in directing their course of study.

The wide range of selections mandates that decisions about course selections are focused. Some factors to consider in making course selections are:

• Sequencing of Courses–The first-year required courses are the foundations. Certain courses are prerequisites to others. For example, Contracts must be taken before Commercial Transactions.
  
  
• Broad Exposure–A broad exposure to all facets of the law prepares students for the wide scope of the profession.
  
  
• Practical Skills–Practical instruction is vital for developing professional skills such as oral advocacy, writing and research.
  
  
• A Balanced Schedule–The course load each semester should balance subjects tested on the Bar, foundation courses.