Concord Law School is an online law degree program run by Kaplan University

Concord Law School is an accredited online law school that grants a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree entirely through distance learning. You attend classes and complete coursework from home using a computer and internet connection, rather than sitting in a physical classroom. The school is regionally accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission and is approved by the American Bar Association (ABA).

The program takes three years to complete if you attend full-time, or up to five years if you attend part-time while working or managing other obligations. Concord does not require the LSAT (Law School Admission Test) for entry, though you will need to meet other admission requirements. Graduates can sit for the bar exam in most states, though a few states have restrictions on online law degrees.

Key Takeaways

  • Concord Law School is an ABA-accredited online law school where you complete your entire J.D. degree from home.
  • The program takes three years full-time or up to five years part-time, and you do not need to take the LSAT to enroll.
  • Tuition and fees vary by enrollment status, and you may be responsible for bar exam fees and study materials beyond tuition.
  • Graduates can sit for the bar exam in most states, but some states restrict bar admission for online law school graduates.
  • You will need a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university to enroll.

Admission requirements and what you need to explore

To enroll at Concord Law School, you must hold a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university. You do not need to have taken the LSAT, which sets Concord apart from most traditional law schools. Instead, you will complete a writing sample and submit your undergraduate transcripts so the school can review your academic background.

The process process includes submitting your bachelor's degree transcript, a personal statement, and the writing sample. Concord also conducts a background check as part of the admission process. Unlike some law schools, Concord does not require letters of recommendation, though you may include them if you wish. The school reviews applications on a rolling basis, meaning decisions are made as applications arrive rather than all at once.

How the online coursework and class structure work

Concord uses an asynchronous learning model, which means you do not attend live classes at set times. Instead, you access recorded lectures, reading materials, and assignments whenever it fits your schedule. This format allows you to work through the material at your own pace within each semester, though you still have important date for submitting assignments and taking exams.

The curriculum covers the same core subjects as traditional law schools: constitutional law, contracts, criminal law, civil procedure, evidence, property, and torts. You also take electives in specialized areas like business law, intellectual property, and family law. Most courses include a final exam that tests your understanding of the material. Some courses use a combination of written assignments and exams to determine your grade.

You interact with professors and classmates through online discussion boards and email. While you are not in a physical classroom, you have access to academic support services, writing centers, and tutoring through the school's online platform.

Tuition, fees, and the total cost of the degree

Tuition at Concord Law School varies depending on whether you enroll full-time or part-time. The school charges tuition per credit hour rather than a flat semester fee. Full-time students typically pay more in total tuition per year than part-time students, but they complete the degree faster. You should contact Concord directly for current tuition rates, as costs change and may differ based on your enrollment status.

Beyond tuition, you will have additional expenses. Bar exam fees vary by state but typically range from several hundred to over one thousand dollars. Study materials for bar preparation, such as review courses and practice tests, are usually not included in tuition. Some students also budget for a computer upgrade or reliable internet service if needed. Financial aid in the form of federal student loans may be available to help cover costs.

Bar exam may be able to access and which states allow Concord graduates

Concord Law School is ABA-accredited, which means its graduates are generally may be able to access to sit for the bar exam. However, not all states treat online law degrees the same way. Most states allow Concord graduates to take the bar exam without restriction. A few states, including California, have additional requirements or restrictions for graduates of online law schools, so you should research your target state's bar rules before enrolling.

To sit for the bar exam, you must first graduate from Concord and then register with your state's bar authority. Each state has its own process process and fees. You will also need to pass a character and fitness review, which examines your background and conduct. After passing the bar exam, you are licensed to practice law in that state.

How Concord compares to traditional law schools

The main difference between Concord and traditional law schools is format: Concord is entirely online, while traditional schools hold in-person classes. This means Concord offers flexibility if you work full-time or have family responsibilities, but it also means you do not have the same networking opportunities or access to a physical law library and campus facilities.

Concord does not require the LSAT, whereas most traditional law schools do. This can make Concord more accessible if you struggle with standardized tests or prefer not to take the LSAT. However, traditional law schools often have higher bar passage rates and stronger job placement networks, particularly at top-ranked schools. Concord graduates may face more competition in the job market, especially in competitive legal markets, though many do find legal work after graduation.

Tuition at Concord is generally lower than at many traditional law schools, particularly private institutions. However, you should compare the total cost of attendance, including living expenses, when deciding between schools.

What happens after graduation and finding legal work

After you graduate from Concord, you must pass the bar exam in your state before you can practice law. Most graduates spend two to three months studying for the bar using bar review courses and practice materials. The bar exam itself typically takes two to three days and tests your knowledge of state and federal law.

Finding legal employment after law school depends on your grades, the state where you want to practice, and your networking efforts. Some Concord graduates work in law firms, government agencies, corporate legal departments, or solo practice. Others pursue careers in legal research, compliance, or related fields that do not require bar admission. Your law school may offer career services to help you search for positions, but much of the job search falls on you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to take the LSAT to enroll at Concord?

No. Concord does not require the LSAT. Instead, you submit a writing sample and your undergraduate transcripts. This makes the admission process different from most traditional law schools, which use LSAT scores as a major part of their decision.

Can I work full-time while attending Concord Law School?

Yes. Many Concord students work full-time because the program is asynchronous and does not require you to attend live classes at set times. You can complete coursework whenever it fits your schedule. However, law school is demanding, and balancing full-time work with full-time law school requires strong time management.

Will I be able to practice law in California if I graduate from Concord?

California has specific rules for online law school graduates. You should contact the California State Bar directly to understand the current requirements, as they may differ from other states. Some online law school graduates in California must meet additional conditions before sitting for the bar exam.

What is the bar passage rate for Concord Law School graduates?

Bar passage rates vary by state and change year to year. You can find this information on Concord's website or by contacting the school directly. Comparing bar passage rates across schools can help you understand how graduates perform on the bar exam in your target state.

How much does Concord Law School cost in total?

Total cost depends on whether you attend full-time or part-time and current tuition rates. Contact Concord directly for exact pricing. You should also budget for bar exam fees, bar review courses, and study materials, which are not included in tuition.