What to Expect from an Online Law Degree

Online degrees are becoming increasingly popular amongst working adults. While Business and Education were once the leading majors for online education, now even law school can be finished completely online.

However, most online law schools have yet to prove themselves, and some aren't taken very seriously, so don't go into the experience with unrealistic expectations. If you want to obtain a law degree, and online schooling is your only option, here are a few suggestions on finding the right school.

Check ABA accreditation

Although, as of yet, the American Bar Association (ABA), does not accredit online law programs, ABA accreditation is necessary if law school graduates want to take the bar exam, which is required before practicing law.

California is the only state which allows graduates from online law schools to take the bar, although there are still other requirements that need to be met. Check the website for the American Bar Association (http://www.abanet.org/) for specifics.

After working as a lawyer for a few years, it can be possible to start practicing law in certain other states. However, obtaining an online law degree for States other than California, as of now, is virtually pointless. Also, there are specific requirements set by the Committee of Bar Examiners of the State Bar of California, which students have to meet before taking the exam. Research is key.

Cost

Find out exactly how much tuition is before paying an application fee, and make sure to have a clear idea of all costs including any access fees, texts, technology fees, and other required purchases.

It's also important to research the school's refund policy in case you can't complete a semester. For students balancing work, family, and other obligations with the degree, it is often impossible to finish the program, despite their flexibility. Know this in advance to avoid any hassle later.

Support

Look for schools that offer additional services for their students, including tutors, academic advisors, career counseling, job placement, online library and education resources, writing centers, and technical support. Tech support is crucial, as a system failure can easily compromise online learning.

Learn about the instructors

Find about about your instructors in advance and ask about their experience - either real-world or academic - and make sure they are worthy of educating you. Search them online and see what they've accomplished. It is important that they have the knowledge necessary to do the job. It should be vital to have practicing or retired lawyers teaching all law school classes.

Evaluate the school

It would also help to evaluate the history of the school. Schools develop their reputations based on the quality of their students and graduation rates, in addition to the education they provide. For the most part, the longer the school has existed, the better. This might be difficult, since online law degrees are relatively new, but do the best you can. Read reviews of the school, and search for student feedback on their experience. These are easily accessible online by typing in the name of the school and 'reviews' in the search bar. This will help you get a better sense of how students feel about their education at the school and the experiences they went through there.

Think about your long term goals

Once you've practiced law in California for a few years, with the online degree, there is the possibility of working as a lawyer in other states. Some states will allow lawyers to take their bar exams after five to seven years of practicing law in California. There is also the option of enrolling in a Master of Science in Law program accredited by the ABA. These programs can be completed in about two years and will help you qualify to take the bar exam in states other than California. It may also be possible practice law in federal courts in other States with these degrees.

Consider the disadvantages

Earning an online law degree can seem like a fantastic option for working adults. But, bear in mind that you will probably only be able to practice law in a single state for several years. Any decent law firm will know that your online law degree is not accredited by the ABA. So don't expect to be a contender for a glamorous or high paying job. There is the possibility of working your way up to one, but the chance is you won't until online law degrees become more common.