10 Best Hybrid Law School Programs: ABA-Approved JD

Hybrid law school programs offer a flexible path to earning a Juris Doctor (JD) without putting your life or career on hold. These degree programs combine online learning with occasional in-person sessions, making them a great fit for working professionals.

As hybrid degrees become more common across disciplines, law schools are expanding their options, too. Whether you're just starting on your legal career or returning to school later in life, the right program is out there. Keep reading to explore top American Bar Association (ABA)-approved options.

What Is a Hybrid Law Program?

A hybrid law program combines online coursework with required in-person components, such as residencies or on-campus intensives. These programs offer flexibility for working law students while maintaining the academic rigor of a traditional JD degree. The American Bar Association approves hybrid formats to ensure they meet professional accreditation standards.

Are There Any Fully Online Law Schools?

Yes, as of this year, Southwestern Law School offers the first fully online Juris Doctor degree program accredited by the American Bar Association. While most ABA-approved programs still follow a hybrid format with in-person requirements, Southwestern's program marks a significant shift toward greater flexibility in legal education.

Top 10 Hybrid Online JD Degrees

Below are 10 ABA-approved hybrid JD degrees that combine online learning with on-campus requirements for a flexible legal education.

1. Loyola University Chicago School of Law

Loyola's weekend JD is a part-time hybrid program that mixes on-campus classes every other weekend with a rigorous online JD curriculum � all taught by experienced faculty in downtown Chicago. Students meet Saturdays all day and Sundays half-day.

• Estimated tuition cost: $21,085
• Accreditation: ABA-accredited

2. University of New Hampshire

UNH's Franklin Pierce School of Law offers a mostly online hybrid JD program that includes asynchronous and synchronous coursework combined with short in-person immersion sessions. It emphasizes intellectual property, technology, and information law and is tailored for mid-career professionals.

• Estimated tuition cost: $36,000
• Accreditation: ABA-accredited

3. Vermont Law and Graduate School

This online hybrid JD degree is a part-time program delivered through mostly online synchronous and asynchronous classes, with three short in-person residencies in Vermont during the first, sixth, and final semesters.

• Estimated tuition cost: $45,240
• Accreditation: ABA-accredited

4. Northeastern University

Northeastern offers a four-year part-time JD program that combines primarily online coursework � live classes twice weekly and asynchronous modules � with six on-campus four-day ''Law On Campus'' intensives throughout the program. It includes Northeastern's signature co-op experiential learning.

• Estimated tuition cost: $48,761
• Accreditation: ABA-accredited

5. Seton Hall University

Seton Hall University's School of Law offers a part-time weekend program where JD students attend in-person classes on alternating weekends and complete the remainder of coursework online through self-directed activities and remote interaction with faculty.

• Estimated tuition cost: $55,460
• Accreditation: ABA-accredited

6. Seattle University School of Law

Seattle University offers a rigorous part-time Juris Doctor program that delivers most coursework online through asynchronous modules and weekly live virtual classes. The course requires a few in-person weekend sessions each fall and spring semester over the three-and-a-half-year program. It combines bar-focused online learning with immersive on-campus experiences to support student success.

• Estimated tuition cost: $56,721
• Accreditation: ABA-accredited

7. University of Denver

The University of Denver offers a part-time JD program delivered in a hybrid format. Approximately one-third of the curriculum is online, while students attend on-campus classes on alternating weekends. Typically, students attend classes eight weekends per semester and additional weekends for exams.

• Estimated tuition cost: $61,398
• Accreditation: ABA-accredited

8. Southwestern Law School

Southwestern Law School offers the nation's first fully online, ABA-accredited Juris Doctor program with asynchronous coursework and optional live Zoom sessions. It's available in both full-time and part-time formats.

• Estimated tuition cost: $63,160 for full-time and $42,124 for part-time
• Accreditation: ABA-accredited

9. Syracuse University College of Law

This hybrid program blends real-time online classes, self-paced instruction, six in-person residencies, and experiential externships. Classes are taught by the same faculty as the on-campus JD program.

• Estimated tuition cost: $65,528
• Accreditation: ABA-accredited

10. Cleveland State University College of Law

Cleveland State University offers a part-time online JD program that combines synchronous and asynchronous coursework with six required in-person weekend residencies. Students can complete the 90-credit program in as little as three years and five months while maintaining flexibility and access to real-world learning opportunities.

• Estimated tuition cost: $106,087.50
• Accreditation: ABA-accredited

FAQs About Hybrid Law Schools

Do you have questions about hybrid law schools? Here are some quick answers to help you better understand what's involved in these programs.

Are Hybrid JD Programs ABA-Accredited?

Yes, many hybrid JD programs are ABA-accredited. These programs meet the same rigorous academic and professional standards as traditional law degrees. While formats vary, accredited hybrid programs must include in-person components and follow ABA guidelines to ensure eligibility for the bar exam in most states. Always verify accreditation before applying.

What Is the Easiest Law School Program?

There's no truly ''easy'' law school program, but some schools may be more accessible than others. Students looking for less competitive admissions may consider law schools with high acceptance rates, which often offer supportive learning environments. However, all accredited programs require significant commitment, critical thinking, and academic discipline to succeed.

What Are the Requirements for a Hybrid JD Program?

Requirements for hybrid JD programs vary by school but the application process typically includes supplying proof of your bachelor's degree, submitting letters of recommendation, and providing a personal statement. While most still require the LSAT, some law schools that don't require LSAT scores accept the GRE or offer LSAT waivers. Check each program's admission criteria for specifics.

How Long Does It Take To Complete a Hybrid JD?

Most hybrid JD programs take between three and four years to complete, depending on whether students enroll full-time or part-time. Programs like those at Southwestern, Seattle University, and Cleveland State offer flexible pacing, allowing students to balance their legal studies with work and personal responsibilities while still earning a degree in a reasonable timeframe.

How Much Does a Hybrid Law Program Cost?

Hybrid JD programs vary in cost, but many fall below national averages. While traditional private law schools can cost around $148,000 in total, several affordable online JD programs offer tuition in the $45,000 to $65,000 range. These programs maintain academic rigor and provide quality legal training at a lower price point. Scholarships provide additional support to students.

Discover More Online Law Degrees

Explore more hybrid and online degree options featured on Learn.org. You can find flexible, high-quality programs that fit your goals and schedule.