Many people have doubts regarding the worth of online degrees. Some students are concerned about not being treated the same as students with a regular degree. But there’s no need to worry about that because statistics show that since 2020, 98% of universities have moved their classes online.
If you’re skeptical about enrolling in an online law school, we will provide you with vital information to help you decide whether an online law degree is the best option. To do so, we must first comprehend what a law degree entails.
What Is a Law Degree?
A law degree is an academic credential offered to those who have completed legal studies. Such a degree usually prepares students for legal employment. In this article, we will explore the curriculum, skills, and career options that a law degree offers.
Law degree curriculum
The first year of your studies will focus primarily on courses such as civil procedure, contracts, criminal law, property, torts, and constitutional law that teach the fundamentals of the legal system. Having understood the main concepts of law, you will be able to choose your focus area for the next two years. You may want to enroll in courses that prepare you for the bar exam.
Additionally, most law schools require students to take additional classes or complete writing requirements, research papers, and minor writing projects before graduation.
Law degree skills and qualifications
Law is a vast subject that impacts every part of our life. While you are not expected to know everything when studying law, your desire to learn and research skills come in handy to find the answers.
Furthermore, whether communicating orally or in writing, you will be able to present arguments and ideas clearly, logically, and compellingly. Other skills you gain from law school, which you can implement no matter the career path, include critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and leadership.
Law degree career options
A law degree will provide you with various skills that will assist you in finding jobs in different fields, whether legal or non-legal. Anything that requires you to use your legal knowledge and skills could be a possible job option. Here is a list of career paths you can pursue with a law degree:
- Lawyer
- Law professor
- Judge
- Contracts manager
- Investigations manager
- Mediator
- Chief financial officer (CFO)
- Human resources manager
- Management consultant
- Policy analyst
Can You Get a Law Degree Online?
If you want to pursue a law degree but quitting your current job or changing locations is impossible, then an online law degree can be perfect.
There are a lot of misconceptions about online degrees, and questions such as can you get an online law degree, or are online law schools legit come naturally. So let’s try to answer these questions.
How long does it take to get an online law degree?
How long it takes to get an online law degree depends on the state and university you choose to attend. Generally, getting an online law degree can take anywhere between 3 to 5 years. The duration of your studies also depends on your dedication and personal time.
Online programs structure
Whether the program is delivered on-campus or online, the curriculum is usually the same or similar. You’ll take core courses in legal writing, legal procedures, and negotiation methods.
Some universities also allow you to study part-time, which is perfect if you have other obligations. Depending on your aims and career aspirations, you can further your education by choosing a law degree specialization.
Are online law schools legit?
It is important to remember that only a few states allow students with an online law degree to take the bar exam and practice law. As a result, you must find a program approved by the American Bar Association (ABA) and live in a state that recognizes the degree.
Once you find an approved program, there is little to no difference between online and on-campus opportunities. Another thing worth mentioning is that employers are aware of the qualities needed to pass an online course. When they realize you obtained your degree online, they will associate you with attributes like self-motivation, good time management, and a genuine commitment to personal and professional development. Altogether, in the end, it will help you land any job.
Online Law School Benefits
Online learning is becoming increasingly popular, and this is not accidental. Life can be very hectic, and many decisions are made based on convenience.
One of the reasons online learning has gained this reputation is due to its numerous benefits. Read on to find out more.
Lower costs
Yes, online learning can be less expensive than on-campus learning, and here is why. Firstly, some online legal degree programs offer learning materials, online books, and legal journal subscriptions through websites where these products can be purchased at a discount.
Moreover, there is no need to relocate, which can save you a lot of money, especially if the law school you’re contemplating is in a much more expensive metropolitan area. This means that you do not need to change your lifestyle and adapt to a new culture, so it is very flexible in that sense and not only.
Similar curriculum with more flexibility
Flexibility is the factor that characterizes online learning. With many lectures being recorded, you can access these learning materials anytime and study at your own pace. This will also allow you to create your own schedule, which will not interfere with other responsibilities such as family, kids, or work.
As a result, you will learn from the same materials as you would in-campus, but without changing other aspects of your life.
Less career interruptions
Suppose you decide to get a law degree online. In that case, you do not have to think about taking a year off work to further your education, and you won’t have to worry about missing out on possible promotions or seeking new employment after graduation.
However, if you want to change your career path, you can find entry-level positions in various legal fields. Careers in law firms, regulatory offices, nonprofit groups, and government agencies will all be possible for you.
Wrapping Up
Considering its many benefits, an online law degree program can be the ideal choice for your future education. Hopefully, we were able to help you answer some of the uncertainties you may have regarding online law school. So what are you waiting for? Check out some of the best law schools in Switzerland, and start planning your law career.
