Cheapest Law Schools Online 2024
Explore Top Online Law Programs: Affordable Options for Your Legal Journey
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With legislation and common law precedents becoming more complex every day, many people find it more and more necessary to have legal guidance whether it be for running a business, notarizing documents, navigating lawsuits, and even surviving criminal proceedings.
This demand shows no signs of waning, and there will always be a need for legal counsel and representation.
To help you take your first steps in preparing and learning to provide these services, EdSmart has prepared a list of our top 28 schools for online law programs. Armed with the information we've worked to provide, we hope you can find success and fulfilling employment in the legal field.
Popular Online Master's in Law Degree Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.EDsmart assesses pre-med colleges based on data that covers four main areas:
- Cost (average net price)
- Academic quality (graduation rate)
- Student satisfaction (retention rate)
- Salary After Attending (the median earnings of former students who received federal financial aid, at 10 years after entering the school)
All data was gathered from the U.S. Dept of Education websites College Scorecard and College Navigator.
This ranking aims to help students assess the affordability and value of top pre-med schools so they can make informed decisions about which college to attend.
Cheapest Law Schools Online 2023
1. University of Nebraska
In State Tuiton+Fees: $7,751
Retention Rate: 83%
Graduation Rate: 66%
Salary After Attending: $52,360
Nebraska Law is a place where all students are welcomed, and diverse backgrounds, ideas, and perspectives are embraced to develop dynamic leaders. With a career-focused education, all students are provided with a high-quality legal education, working alongside faculty who all want to do the same. They are personally invested in teaching the next generation of lawyers the skills they need for their careers and future. As a law student at the University of Nebraska, you’ll have the opportunity to pursue the concentration of your choice. The areas of focus to choose from include business transactions, intellectual property, litigation, and small firm practice. The U.S. News and World Report ranked the UN College of Law #78 in Best Law Schools.
2. Liberty University
In State Tuiton+Fees: $8,360
Retention Rate: 81%
Graduation Rate: 34%
Salary After Attending: $42,394
Legal education and experience are just two of the significant things you’ll receive at Liberty Law. They also offer the skills, knowledge, and abilities that will help you make a lasting difference in society. Niche.com ranked Liberty University with a grade rating of A- and the college ranked #5 in Best College Campuses in America. If you are looking for law school success, look no further than Liberty Universities' graduate program to make your degree both practical and relevant. Choose from 12 specializations in law including Criminal Justice, Business Law, Family and Juvenile Law, Constitutional Law, and International Law.
3. University of Arkansas
In State Tuiton+Fees: $9,018
Retention Rate: 84%
Graduation Rate: 63%
Salary After Attending: $51,702
With a competitive J.D., coupled with an advanced LLM degree program, the University of Arkansas School of Law is the perfect institution for any student looking to succeed. U.S. News and World Report ranked the law school #86 in Best Law Schools. With rigorous coursework and a high level of inclusiveness, they provide a supportive environment to help students develop themselves intellectually. Popular opportunities include pro bono work, externships, and live client clinics. The faculty at the University of Arkansas School of Law are nationally recognized scholars.
4. The University of Alabama
In State Tuiton+Fees: $11,470
Retention Rate: 87%
Graduation Rate: 68%
Salary After Attending: $52,751
The University of Alabama School of Law has a long-standing reputation for producing successful attorneys. The UA School of Law ranks #25 in Best Law Schools by the U.S. News and World Report. Alabama Law provides top-notch education as proven by its high bar passage and employment rates. The environment is open, offering a diverse education culture. The low student-to-faculty ratio, coupled with a rich curriculum makes the school an attractive study spot for students. You get to learn from teachers who are skilled as well as leading researchers and scholars.
5. Grand Canyon University
In State Tuiton+Fees: $11,538
Retention Rate: 71%
Graduation Rate: 37%
Salary After Attending: $39,783
GCU is a private Christian school that unites the values of the Christian worldview into all aspects of education. The Bachelor of Arts in Government with an Emphasis in Legal Studies degree provides insight into how powerful servant leadership can be. The application of Christian ethics to the decision-making process as it relates to law is an area of interest to many students. In this program, you’ll explore theories and case studies on this topic. Niche.com ranked Grand Canyon University #3 in the Best Colleges in Arizona.
6. Florida State University
In State Tuiton+Fees: $11,553
Retention Rate: 94%
Graduation Rate: 80%
Salary After Attending: $53,449
Florida State University College of Law is located in the capital city of the third most populated American state – Tallahassee. With Florida Supreme Court and the Florida Capitol within walking distance from campus, you can see why a legal career in this location could be so rewarding. Being in Tallahassee really opens up a lot of doors for legal careers. One of the most important aspects is that FSU Law students get to participate in legal cases across the U.S. and take part in global exchanges. They offer graduates plenty of experience and make sure they're prepared for any career path! U.S. News and World Report ranked Florida State University’s College of Law #47 in Best Law Schools.
7. Arizona State University
In State Tuiton+Fees: $12,608
Retention Rate: 87%
Graduation Rate: 64%
Salary After Attending: $55,749
Arizona State University is a public law school in Phoenix, Arizona. The law school offers a required curriculum the first year followed by mostly electives in the following years. The student-to-faculty ratio is 5.4:1 which creates a very interpersonal atmosphere of learning. Arizona State Universitys Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law ranks #30 in Best Law Schools according to the U.S. News and World Report. Law students at the University can get crucial hands-on experience in patent, immigration and tribal law by participating in 10 different clinics. There are also about 30 student organizations that law students can join; some of these dedicated to pro bono service (as well as other important aspects of the legal profession).
8. University of Arizona
In State Tuiton+Fees: $13,460
Retention Rate: 84%
Graduation Rate: 64%
Salary After Attending: $55,205
The James E. Rogers College of Law at UA offers many degree programs, including an undergraduate program and doctoral degrees. They let students complete a law degree at any stage of their education while also considering other majors. U.S. News and World Report ranked UA’s College of Law #45 in Best Law Schools and Niche.com gave the school a grade rating of A-. With distinguished faculty, clever students and alumni that excel in law, business and justice, the school is proud of what they have created. They’re not done though: they are always examining how they can continue to be excellent.
9. University of Vermont
In State Tuiton+Fees: $14,580
Retention Rate: 86%
Graduation Rate: 76%
Salary After Attending: $58,245
At the Vermont Law School, courses are designed so that students can easily see how what they're learning translates into real-life applications. U.S. News and World Report ranked VLS #142 in Best Law Schools. One of VLS' many strengths is the variety of different academic programs offered. The school provides a solid foundation in law with an area of specialization, which often includes practical and real-world experience. At Vermont Law School you’ll pinpoint your expertise by practicing in Legal Clinics and working in an externship with professionals.
10. Regent University
In State Tuiton+Fees: $17,190
Retention Rate: 77%
Graduation Rate: 30%
Salary After Attending: $41,712
Regent University School of Law is one of the nation's most affordable and respected law schools. With the J.D., M.A., and LL.M., you'll have your choice of which path to follow for your legal training: to become a practicing lawyer, an educator, or a leader in the field of law-related fields such as law enforcement and public service. According to U.S. News and World Report Regent University School of Law tied at #142 in Best Law Schools. 95% of law students from Regent University are employed within 10 months of graduating from the university.
11. University of Illinois
In State Tuiton+Fees: $17,823
Retention Rate: 93%
Graduation Rate: 86%
Salary After Attending: $71,539
The University of Illinois College of Law is a public law school with a diverse student body. The University of Illinois College of Law is located in Champaign, Illinois not too far from Chicago. The school offers a range of programs, including the traditional three-year Juris Doctor degree and the two-year Master of Laws (LL.M.) degree in various areas of law, such as Business Law and Intellectual Property Law. The University of Illinois College of Law offers a hands-on learning environment for students. All courses provide students with the opportunity to work in various fields and learn from experienced professionals. U.S. News and World Report ranked UI’s College of Law #35 in Best Law Schools.
12. Michigan State University
In State Tuiton+Fees: $19,714
Retention Rate: 91%
Graduation Rate: 81%
Salary After Attending: $61,101
MSU Law provides a great education and prepares students for their future in the legal field. As a top-ranking law school, they have a world-class faculty and program offerings to help students succeed. U.S. News and World Report ranked MSU Law #91 in Best Law Schools. Spartan lawyers graduate with a solid set of skills that will help you provide your clients with the best representation possible. With an MSU Law degree, you're trained in all types of law, allowing you to work as a lawyer in any profession. You'll find MSU grads serving their clients in every legal field imaginable- from private firms to Fortune 100 companies to government agencies at home and abroad.
13. Loyola University Chicago
In State Tuiton+Fees: $19,894
Retention Rate: 85%
Graduation Rate: 73%
Salary After Attending: $63,232
Loyola University Chicago School of Law is an institution known for its emphasis on academic excellence and service to the community. Loyola University Chicago School of Law is committed to teaching understanding of law, institutions and systems of injustice. Their goal is not just to produce lawyers, but also people dedicated to transformation and intersectionality. The school of law at Loyola University in Chicago has a student-to-faculty ratio of 6.2:1. The law school was ranked by U.S. News and World Report as #9 in Part-Time Law and #73 in Best Law Schools.
14. Villanova University
Score: 100.0
In State Tuiton+Fees: $21,199
Retention Rate: 96%
Graduation Rate: 89%
Salary After Attending: $90,613
Villanova Law offers an education based on academic rigor, practical hands-on experience and a strong business foundation. Villanova's graduates are trained for diverse and rewarding careers in the law. With so many different interests, you're bound to find a program that will suit you at Villanova Law. Whether it be international law, corporate law, intellectual property or public interest law- the nationally recognized faculty will prepare you for a successful future. Villanova Law has ranked highly nationally, U.S. News and World Report ranked the school #56 in Best Law Schools.
15. Samford University
In State Tuiton+Fees: $21,575
Retention Rate: 88%
Graduation Rate: 70%
Salary After Attending: $53,223
Samford University is one of the best universities when it comes to legal education. Students graduating with Cumberland in their degree are fully qualified for a broad range of careers. The curriculum provides students with a wide variety of skill-sets, including the ability to become proficient in all areas of law, including corporate law, trial advocacy, health law, environmental law and public interest law. In the 2023 edition of U.S. News and World Report, Samford University’s Cumberland School of Law was ranked #10 in the nation for Trial Advocacy.
16. Nova Southeastern University
In State Tuiton+Fees: $22,790
Retention Rate: 81%
Graduation Rate: 47%
Salary After Attending: $53,201
NSU Shepard Broad College of Law offers state-of-the-art courses for law students, who wish to become paralegals, lawyers and courses for those who are already practicing in the field. With these skills, you will be a step ahead of the competition and have an edge over other professionals in the field. The NSU Law School is committed to providing the knowledge, skills, and values that are needed to become a trusted, competent lawyer. They not only offer traditional teaching methods, but also innovative programs in order to help you develop your legal knowledge and make the process easy. Graduates are well-equipped for the transition between classroom to courtroom.
17. University of Tulsa
In State Tuiton+Fees: $25,182
Retention Rate: 85%
Graduation Rate: 70%
Salary After Attending: $54,632
The University of Tulsa College of Law provides an academically rigorous, professionally impactful JD program. This includes several placement opportunities and other professional development seminars. With a TU Law degree, you will be on the right path to pursue a rewarding legal career. Not only are they one of the top law schools in the Unites States, but their graduates also rank among the top 20 in bar passage. The schools low tuition costs even make us an affordable option when compared to public and private universities alike. The University of Tulsa College of Law is a leading institution in academia and the faculty are some of the best in the field of law.
18. Seton Hall University
In State Tuiton+Fees: $26,018
Retention Rate: 83%
Graduation Rate: 70%
Salary After Attending: $68,441
Seton Hall University Law School is one of the oldest law schools in the United States. The school was founded in 1856, and it is located in downtown Newark, New Jersey. The law school offers a traditional three-year full-time J.D. degree program, as well as a part-time evening program for working professionals seeking to study law on a part-time basis. The Seton Hall University Law School faculty is made up of professors who are experts in their field. They are committed to providing students with the best possible education and have a dedication to student success.
19. Hofstra University
In State Tuiton+Fees: $28,180
Retention Rate: 82%
Graduation Rate: 63%
Salary After Attending: $65,439
The Maurice A. Deane School of Law is committed to preparing, challenging and inspiring its students to innovate in the world by advancing important ideas through academia, the legal profession, and society. Hofstra Law has been around for 50 years and offers a robust education for a variety of careers. Supporting more than 12,000 students, the school includes extensive theoretical and practical courses to yield substantial professionals. Launch your legal career today with their JD program or one of their other graduate law programs, such as their online program in Health Law and Policy. You could also earn a Paralegal Certificate or an LLM degree in American Legal Studies.
20. George Washington University
In State Tuiton+Fees: $32,904
Retention Rate: 90%
Graduation Rate: 81%
Salary After Attending: $80,606
The George Washington University Law School is one of the oldest law schools in DC and has been around since 1865. They’re accredited by the American Bar Association and are charter members of the Association of American Law Schools. At GW Law, academics is not restricted to coursework alone, there's also a focus on teamwork. Every field of law is explored and students are able to find their niche. GW Law offers five academic degrees, including The Juris Doctor (JD), The Master of Laws (LLM), and the Doctor of Juridical Science (SJD).
21. Drexel University
In State Tuiton+Fees: $37,074
Retention Rate: 88%
Graduation Rate: 68%
Salary After Attending: $76,378
Drexel University has been helping learners for 125 years, and it is considered a global leader in experiential education. Building on that tradition, the Kline School of Law is a traditionally innovative University, wholeheartedly embracing entrepreneurship. Like other law schools, they are on the forefront of adapting to new technology and giving students the opportunity to think creatively. Drexel University’s Kline School of Law co-ops, clinics, pro bono service opportunities and nationally ranked Trial Advocacy program offer each student a unique opportunity to gain experience in the legal field before you graduate.
22. Pepperdine University
In State Tuiton+Fees: $37,420
Retention Rate: 88%
Graduation Rate: 84%
Salary After Attending: $72,035
With its roots at the Pepperdine University, one of the top-tier universities in the United States, Caruso School of Law aims to be a world-class institution. And it seems to have opened up on this goal too since it integrates Christian students with legal skills at equally high levels. Pepperdine Caruso Law offers a strong legal education with an emphasis on society as a whole. In addition to the schools courses, they offer experiential learning, mentorship, and continuing education to prepare practitioners for their careers. U.S. News and World Report ranked Pepperdine University Caruso School of Law #52 in Best Law Schools.
23. New York University
In State Tuiton+Fees: $38,206
Retention Rate: 92%
Graduation Rate: 84%
Salary After Attending: $76,040
NYU Law is one of the most prestigious and dynamic institutions in the world. They are ranked among the best law schools, with over 100 faculty members, 300 courses, and have over 80 student groups for all sorts of different interests. The Law School has always been a leader in introducing changes, which redefine how law is learned and make graduates the best prepared individuals to enter the world of legal practice. NYU Law offers the most comprehensive range of law and business offerings in legal education. The Mitchell Jacobson Leadership Program in Law and Business teaches students how to pursue careers in law while simultaneously pursuing a background in business. U.S. News and World Report ranked NYU Law #7 in Best Law Schools.
24. Wake Forest University
In State Tuiton+Fees: $39,240
Retention Rate: 94%
Graduation Rate: 89%
Salary After Attending: $74,968
The mission of Wake Forest Law is to create knowledge and educate students in order to meet the legal needs of a world which is changing at an accelerated pace. They are committed to narrowing the justice gap by providing a rigorous, innovative, and high-quality legal education that prepares leaders who will be confident in their own skin and reflective of our increasingly diverse society. The student-to-faculty ratio at Wake Forest Law is 7.5:1 and the institution ranked #37 in Best Law Schools according to U.S. News and World Report.
25. Emory University
In State Tuiton+Fees: $45,684
Retention Rate: 94%
Graduation Rate: 92%
Salary After Attending: $72,364
Emory University College of Law is a private law school located in Atlanta, Georgia. It is the oldest law school in Georgia and one of the top law schools in the United States. The school offers a full-time Juris Doctor degree program and is home to several professional law degree programs, including Master of Laws (LLM) degrees in various fields, Doctorate in Jurisprudence (JSD) degrees in three areas of concentration, and Masters of Studies in Law (MSL) degrees. The Emory Law School curriculum is always changing to the needs of the legal profession, and how that relates to various careers within society.
26. Washington University in St Louis
In State Tuiton+Fees: $58,288
Retention Rate: 96%
Graduation Rate: 94%
Salary After Attending: $82,732
Washington University in St. Louis School of Law offers a variety of integrative courses that focus on substantive law and application skills. This prepares students for both legal reasoning and practices, allowing the opportunity for diverse careers. WashULaw is home to a competitive JD program, but it also has the resources for students to pursue joint degrees with other graduate schools on campus, as well as advanced degree programs. WashULaw was ranked #16 in Best Law Schools by U.S. News and World Report and has a student-to-faculty ratio of 4.5:1.
27. Boston University
In State Tuiton+Fees: $59,418
Retention Rate: 93%
Graduation Rate: 87%
Salary After Attending: $75,642
Boston University School of Law has been in operation since 1872 and is one of the top law schools in the country with an excellent historical record. The faculty are recognized for their excellent teaching, groundbreaking scholarship, and transformative mentoring. With more than 25,000 alumni residing in all 50 states and more than 100 countries across the globe, students at this esteemed university build a vast professional network that contributes to their success. The student-to-faculty ratio is 6.3:1 and U.S. News and World Report ranked Boston University School of Law #17 in Best Law Schools.
28. University of Southern California
In State Tuiton+Fees: $61,396
Retention Rate: 94%
Graduation Rate: 93%
Salary After Attending: $83,426
USC Gould has been a top-ranked law school since its inception, with a strong reputation and history of academic excellence. It is located on the beautiful 229-acre USC University Park Campus 25 miles south of downtown Los Angeles. The University of Southern California College of Law offers a variety of programs and degrees to students, including the Juris Doctorate, Master of Laws, and Master of Legal Studies. USC College of Law provides an unparalleled educational experience for students who want to pursue careers in law, public service, and many other fields that contribute to society. Students are exposed to lectures from distinguished faculty members, who are experts in their field and have extensive experience practicing law.
