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2023 Most Affordable Online Colleges for Law Degrees

By OnlineU Staff Writers | Updated 7/31/2023
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An online degree in law at the bachelor's level is designed to provide students with a foundational understanding of legal concepts. During the course of this online degree, students conduct legal research and writing while engaging in discussions surrounding the U.S. justice system. Practical skills for the courtroom are just as important as a student's theoretical and philosophical understanding of law. While becoming a lawyer requires a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, a bachelor's degree is enough education to work in legal environments as a paralegal or other legal support roles. 

You may also be interested in exploring other programs that can produce similar job outcomes, such as online degrees in criminal justice or law enforcement

View our methodology for more details about rankings or learn more about us.

Find an Online Degree:
All tuition numbers were manually collected and verified
Rank School Locations Annual Tuition
# 1 #1 Fort Hays State University Hays (KS) $6,806
# 2 #2 Western Carolina University Cullowhee (NC) $6,974
# 3 #3 Stevenson University Stevenson (MD) $8,438
# 4 #4 Abraham Lincoln University Los Angeles (CA) $8,640
# 5 #5 Peru State College Peru (NE) $8,970
# 6 #6 American Public University System Charles Town (WV) $11,150
# 7 #7 University of Massachusetts - Dartmouth North Dartmouth (MA) $11,760
# 8 #8 University of Cincinnati Cincinnati (OH) (and 1 other) $11,794
# 9 #9 Rowan University Glassboro (NJ) $12,220
# 10 #10 National Paralegal College Phoenix (AZ) $13,000
#1
#1
Annual Tuition: $6,806
Annual Tuition: $6,806
Annual Tuition: $6,806

Fort Hays State University (FHSU) is a medium-sized, public university offering either a Bachelor of Arts or Science in Political Science - Pre-Law. Overall, students generally take up to four years to complete this program on a full-time schedule. The 124-credit program focuses on training students for law school by providing a foundational understanding of the legal system and related issues. The curriculum includes 55 credits of general education, ten credits of modern language, two credits of free electives, and 25 credits of upper-division courses. These include 100% online classes, such as Introduction to Law, Constitutional Law, and American Civil Liberties. To graduate, students must also complete a political science seminar and an internship. Career opportunities for alumni include legal secretary, paralegal, and victim advocate.

FHSU's online courses may include both asynchronous and synchronous elements. They are delivered through the Blackboard learning management system. Other support services for distance learners include academic advising, career services, and individual counseling services. Additionally, some hands-on learning opportunities are available, including campus organizations or study abroad/travel options that vary in length, from a semester-long experience to a faculty-led field trip.

  • Financial Aid Recipients: 96%
  • Undergrad Online Enrollment: 4,411
  • Graduate Online Enrollment: 2,453
  • School Type: Nonprofit
  • School Accreditation: HLC
#2
#2
Annual Tuition: $6,974
Annual Tuition: $6,974
Annual Tuition: $6,974

A medium-sized, public university, Western Carolina University (WCU) offers an online Bachelor of Science or Arts in Business Administration and Law. This 120-credit program includes 42 credits of liberal studies, 36 credits of business core, 6-15 general electives, and 18 credits for the business law minor. In general, students are provided with a background in business, including its application and theory as well as a foundation in pre-law to prepare for law school. Law electives include International Business Law, Hospitality Law, Labor and Employment Law, and a business law internship. Students who want to complete their degree in eight semesters can follow a prescribed program; most students take 6-9 credits per semester.

WCU's online coursework is hosted on the Blackboard learning management system, which follows a blended synchronous and asynchronous format. Online students can also access tutoring support, library and technology resources, career services, and a distance orientation. Students may go on to explore careers in human resources or become a paralegal or compliance officer, to name a few options.

  • Financial Aid Recipients: 85%
  • Average SATs: 1020 -1200
  • Undergrad Online Enrollment: 1,691
  • Graduate Online Enrollment: 704
  • School Type: Nonprofit
  • School Accreditation: SACS COC
#3
#3

Stevenson University

Stevenson (MD)
Annual Tuition: $8,438
Annual Tuition: $8,438
Annual Tuition: $8,438

Stevenson University is a medium-sized, nonprofit institution with an online Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies. This program is delivered through Stevenson University Online, and it's meant for working adults who are interested in pursuing a paralegal or legal assistant role. The curriculum is focused on teaching important skills in investigative research, trial preparation, and litigation support. Courses are taught online in an eight-week session and include classes such as Contract Law, Legal Research and Writing, and American Government. An internship and legal studies capstone project is also required.

Up to 90 credits may be transferred from a four-year university as well as 30 credits from work experience. Students may take around four years to complete the entire program on a full-time schedule, depending on transferable credits. Stevenson University uses Blackboard to deliver online coursework to students. Distance learners also have access to a range of remote services, including academic advising, tutoring, and a transitional program for first-year students.

  • Financial Aid Recipients: 99%
  • Average SATs: 1010 -1190
  • Undergrad Online Enrollment: 241
  • Graduate Online Enrollment: 471
  • School Type: Nonprofit
  • School Accreditation: MSCHE
#4
#4

Abraham Lincoln University

Los Angeles (CA)
Annual Tuition: $8,640
Annual Tuition: $8,640
Annual Tuition: $8,640

Abraham Lincoln University (ALU) offers a fully online Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies. Students can complete this 120-credit program in 10 semesters. The curriculum requires 30 credits of general education and 45 credits of core courses — including Legal Research, Litigation and Trial Practice, Criminal Law, and a senior capstone class. Additionally, students must take 15 credits of elective courses that ideally focus on specific areas of interest. Graduates of the program are eligible to sit for the National Association for Legal Assistants (NALA) Certificate exam.

Online students utilize email to communicate with instructors and Microsoft Word to complete assignments. They can also access enrollment/academic advisors and electronic library resources. For military and veteran students, ALU offers several benefits: military tuition assistance, academic credit for prior military training and experience, and fee waivers for application and registration.

  • Financial Aid Recipients: 67%
  • Undergrad Online Enrollment: 54
  • Graduate Online Enrollment: 171
  • School Type: For-Profit
  • School Accreditation: DEAC
#5
#5

Peru State College

Peru (NE)
Annual Tuition: $8,970
Annual Tuition: $8,970
Annual Tuition: $8,970

Peru State College is a small, public institution in Peru, Nebraska offering a fully online Bachelor of Arts or Science in Criminal Justice - Legal Studies. This concentration is meant to prepare students for professional work in the legal system, courts, and public administration. Over the course of 120 credit hours, students learn the main components of the criminal justice system, along with helpful skills in communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving. All online coursework is taken through Blackboard. Core classes include Legal Environment and Contract Law, State and Local Government, and Ethics in Criminal Justice. An internship in criminal justice is also required, which entails 45 hours of hands-on work experience.

Most students take four years to complete this degree on a full-time schedule. However, the length of time may be shortened by transferring up to 90 relevant credits. As an online school, Peru State College offers plenty of resources for remote students, including career development, tutoring, and mentoring.

  • Financial Aid Recipients: 97%
  • Undergrad Online Enrollment: 616
  • Graduate Online Enrollment: 238
  • School Type: Nonprofit
  • School Accreditation: HLC
#6
#6
Annual Tuition: $11,150
Annual Tuition: $11,150
Annual Tuition: $11,150

The American Public University System (APUS) is a large series of universities operating as for-profit institutions. APU, specifically, offers an online Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies, which has a curriculum focused on teaching governance, civil and criminal processes, and the philosophy of justice. Overall, 120 credits are required to graduate, along with core classes in Legal Ethics, Constitutional Law, and Family Law. A Senior Seminar in Legal Studies is also required, as well as a Practical Legal Studies Applications project, which asks students to demonstrate their understanding of the legal system through a research-based essay. Upon graduation, students typically become paralegals and legal assistants unless they want to pursue higher education.

All online coursework is taken through Brightspace, which allows students to complete most of their coursework asynchronously. Through this learning platform, online students can access test scores, discussion forums, teacher assistance, and academic and career advising. Overall, this degree program may take students up to four years to complete on a full-time schedule.

  • Financial Aid Recipients: 100%
  • Undergrad Online Enrollment: 37,335
  • Graduate Online Enrollment: 7,914
  • School Type: For-Profit
  • School Accreditation: HLC
#7
#7
Annual Tuition: $11,760
Annual Tuition: $11,760
Annual Tuition: $11,760

University of Massachusetts - Dartmouth (UMass Dartmouth) is a medium-sized, public university with a robust political science degree that includes a concentration in pre-law. The Bachelor of Arts in Political Science - Pre-Law is a 120-credit program that emphasizes legal processes within the courts system both nationally and internationally. Online coursework is taken through myCourses, which features core classes in Public Policy in America, Constitutional Law, and Civil Liberties and Rights. Additionally, a 3-credit internship is required through an approved organization or employer.

Students at UMass Dartmouth usually finish this bachelor's program within four years while studying at a full-time pace. Online students have free online and in-person tutoring support as well as the opportunity to engage in one-on-one personal advising. Alumni may pursue careers in government, international associations, or nonprofit organizations.

  • Financial Aid Recipients: 98%
  • Average SATs: 990 -1190
  • Undergrad Online Enrollment: 695
  • Graduate Online Enrollment: 502
  • School Type: Nonprofit
  • School Accreditation: NECHE
#8
#8

University of Cincinnati

Cincinnati (OH) (and 1 other)
Annual Tuition: $11,794
Annual Tuition: $11,794
Annual Tuition: $11,794

The University of Cincinnati is a large, public university that offers an online Bachelor of Science in Law and Paralegal Studies through UC Online, which specializes in remote learning programs. This 100% online program includes core courses in Investigative Techniques and Evidence, Administrative Litigation, and Real Estate Law, as well as advanced research through writing assignments. Alumni of this program may become paralegals, as the curriculum helps students develop the legal skills they need to join the workforce immediately after graduation.

Overall, the degree requires that students complete 120 credit hours, which they may complete in four years at a full-time pace. UC Online utilizes the Canvas learning management system, where students can access their coursework, tests, and communicate directly with their teachers in a remote environment. Academic support is available for all online students.

  • Financial Aid Recipients: 75%
  • Average SATs: 1120 -1350
  • Undergrad Online Enrollment: 2,455
  • Graduate Online Enrollment: 3,731
  • School Type: Nonprofit
  • School Accreditation: HLC
#9
#9

Rowan University

Glassboro (NJ)
Annual Tuition: $12,220
Annual Tuition: $12,220
Annual Tuition: $12,220

Rowan University (Rowan) is a large, public institution focused on professional development. The Bachelor of Arts in Law and Justice online from Rowan is a four-year, 120-credit program. Students may study on a part- or full-time basis in order to maintain a working life while they advance their education. Coursework examines the criminal justice system by attempting to understand the consequences of crime within society. Students use their reading, writing, and logic skills to prepare for a career in pre-law. Graduates may decide to become corrections officers, paralegals, or court service administrators.

Students complete classes online through Canvas, which includes the following core requirements: Survey of Criminal Justice, Law and Human Rights, and Social Problems. A writing intensive that concentrates on law and justice is also required to graduate. Importantly, online students can take advantage of support services, such as success coaching and tutoring.

  • Financial Aid Recipients: 86%
  • Average SATs: 1040 -1270
  • Undergrad Online Enrollment: 570
  • Graduate Online Enrollment: 1,083
  • School Type: Nonprofit
  • School Accreditation: MSCHE
#10
#10
Annual Tuition: $13,000
Annual Tuition: $13,000
Annual Tuition: $13,000

National Paralegal College (NPC) is a small, for-profit institution focused on preparing graduates to work as paralegals. NPC's online Bachelor of Science In Legal Studies offers a foundational understanding of legal topics, with a focus on developing career-minded skills. To graduate, 120 credits are required, with core classes that include Torts and Personal Injury; Contracts; and Legal Research, Writing, and Civil Litigation. All coursework is delivered to students through NPC's internal learning management system, and it's 100% online. In other words, this program does not require any in-person learning or an internship.

Students may complete all coursework between three and seven years, depending on the amount of credits taken at a time. While enrolled, students can seek career assistance as well as guidance from a personal mentor, who can assist with time management and help explain coursework assignments. Upon graduation, students can seek paralegal employment at corporate legal departments, law firms, or nonprofit organizations.

  • Financial Aid Recipients: 83%
  • Undergrad Online Enrollment: 663
  • Graduate Online Enrollment: 107
  • School Type: For-Profit
  • School Accreditation: DEAC

Overview of Online Law Bachelor's Degrees

Studying law at the undergraduate level provides an excellent platform for several different career paths. As a graduate with an online degree in law, you'll be prepared to pursue a career in the legal profession or in public service, or you can continue your education and become a lawyer. 

As you progress through a program, you'll engage in a mix of theoretical and practical coursework. For instance, you might be tasked with analyzing real-life cases and writing legal briefs, which allows you to apply the legal theories and principles that you learn from lectures and readings. Other projects may involve research on evolving legal issues or debates, collaborative group work, and presentations. 

In general, the curriculum of a bachelor's program in law is designed to help you develop valuable, marketable skills. Among the essential technical skills you'll acquire are legal research, analysis, and writing. Additionally, you'll hone vital soft skills, including critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication.

Common Courses

Graduation requirements for a bachelor's in law degree typically involve the completion of 120 credit hours. Schools often require an internship, and some programs also culminate in a capstone project. 

Some of the core courses that you may find in an online law program include:

Constitutional Law

This course explores the fundamental principles outlined in the U.S. Constitution. Students will learn how the courts interpret these principles, as well as their impact on individual rights and governmental powers.

Criminal Law

Students will gain an understanding of the legal and societal implications of criminal behavior. This course covers the various components of a crime, its defenses, and the procedures followed in the criminal justice system.

Legal Writing and Research

In this course, students will learn how to research legal questions and write about them effectively. This includes drafting legal documents, such as contracts and legal briefs.

Civil Procedure

This course teaches students the processes followed in civil cases, including the stages of a lawsuit and the rules of evidence. It prepares students for the procedural aspects of legal practice.

Business Law

This course covers the legal aspects of business transactions and corporate governance. Students will learn about contracts, liability, and other legal issues related to running a business.

Ethics in Law

In this course, students explore the ethical responsibilities of legal professionals. Topics are likely to include professional conduct, confidentiality, and conflict of interest.

Find more bachelor's in law programs on our list of the 2023 Best Online Law Schools.

Funding an Online Law Degree

When it comes to paying for your degree, you may have several sources of funding available. You're likely to use some combination of savings, income, gifts, scholarships, grants, and loans. 

As you complete your bachelor's program, you may discover any number of ways to save money, including earning extra income from a full-time or part-time job. However, there are several key decisions you can make right up front that may help minimize the cost of the degree: 

Choose an online degree. One way to cut costs is to choose an online program like those at the most affordable law schools listed above. Many colleges charge lower tuition rates for online programs, so distance learning could reduce your annual tuition costs. Also, by attending college from home, you eliminate room and board and some transportation expenses. 

Go public, not private. The most current data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) indicate that publicly run colleges are typically less expensive than private law schools. Specifically, the average tuition and fees for bachelor's degrees at public schools was $9,375, as compared to $32,825 for private.

Reduce your living expenses. Going to college online allows you to live anywhere you choose. To minimize rent, food, and other living expenses while you're in school, consider relocating to a state with a lower cost of living. 

Start with community college. The first two years of a bachelor's program are usually filled with general education courses like political science and chemistry. Taking these courses at a community college — which average $3,501 a year, per the NCES — could save you thousands in tuition before you transfer to a four-year university. Community colleges are also convenient, and most offer online classes.

Financial Aid

Perhaps the most popular way to fund a bachelor's degree is through financial aid, which comes in many forms. Scholarships and grants are the best because they don't have to be paid back, but student loans can also be helpful. However, federal and private student loans must be repaid with interest. To calculate the total cost of the loan plus the interest, use a student loan repayment calculator

In general, funding from the federal and state governments and some funding from the schools themselves go to those students who can demonstrate financial need. There are also school-sponsored and private scholarships that may be awarded based on need, academic achievement, family heritage, or community service.

Regardless of whether you've decided to go to school on-campus or online, you can apply for aid if you're enrolled in an accredited bachelor's program. Applying for private scholarships usually requires individual applications, but applying for all other types of financial aid can be achieved with a single form — the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). If you're approved for aid, your school will send you a financial aid offer detailing the types and amounts of aid you may receive.

What Can You Do With an Online Law Degree?

Once you've earned an online law degree, you'll be qualified to pursue several different career paths.

Many graduates go on to work as legal assistants and paralegals in law firms, large corporations, and government agencies. In general, they assist lawyers by investigating cases, conducting legal research, and writing reports, among many other responsibilities. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), most employers require only an associate degree for these jobs, but a bachelor's may allow you to earn a higher salary. These legal professionals earn a median annual salary of $56,230, and demand is projected to grow by 14% through 2031.

Other graduates may decide to use their degrees while serving the public. For example, some may go into law enforcement, working as police officers or detectives with a median annual salary of $66,020. Another option is to work in social services, where they may be able to influence public policy and the law. Social and community service managers earn a median annual income of $74,000.

Of course, for many students, a law degree serves as the foundation for earning a Juris Doctor (JD), which is the terminal degree required to become a lawyer. The BLS notes that the median annual salary for lawyers is $127,990.

FAQs About Online Law Degrees

How Do I Choose a Bachelor's in Law?


Choosing a bachelor's in law program involves several factors. It's crucial to research the curriculum to see if the courses offered align with your areas of interest. Some degree programs may have a particular focus, such as corporate law or criminal justice, so be sure to choose one that's going to help you meet your career goals. 

The reputation of the institution and the program, as well as its accreditation status, are also important. Additionally, consider practical factors like the cost of tuition, availability of financial aid, the flexibility of the program, and the available support services for students.

What Are the Admission Requirements for Law Degrees?


Admission requirements for online law programs vary by institution. However, common requirements include a high school diploma or the equivalent, a satisfactory GPA of at least 2.0, and high standardized test scores on the SAT or ACT. 

When submitting your application, you may also be asked to provide a personal essay, a list of achievements, and one or more letters of recommendation.

Is a Law Degree Worth It?

Deciding whether an online law degree will be worth it needs to be based on your own goals and priorities. However, this degree is likely to pay off with a reasonably solid return on your financial investment. You'll be qualified for several different occupations with median salaries ranging from $56,230 to $74,000. What's more, you'll be doing intellectually stimulating work that may involve helping others.

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