
Two-Year J.D. Program
Finish your J.D. faster
See how you can save time and money by getting your law degree in just two years.
Finish your J.D. faster
See how you can save time and money by getting your law degree in just two years.
How it works
Pursuing a law degree doesn't have to be a daunting task. If you are considering starting a new career as a lawyer, or are facing the challenge of balancing your studies with the demands of family life, we have the answer: Our Two-Year J.D. Program.
The program allows you to begin law school in May and graduate with a degree conferral two years later. This means you save money, graduate sooner and can become employed faster with less disruption in the pursuit of your legal career.
Two-Year J.D. Schedule
Begin classes in May 2022 and graduate in May 2024:
1st semester (May–Aug.): | 14 credits |
2nd semester: | 15 credits |
3rd semester: | 15-18 credits |
Summer term: | 7-15 credits* |
4th semester: | 15-18 credits |
5th semester: | 15-18 credits |
*The more credits taken during the summer term, the fewer semesters needed of 18 credit hours.
Benefits
Same Curriculum — Just Faster
As a student in our Two-Year J.D. Program, you'll take the same courses as those earning their degree in three years. You also have the same opportunities to participate in experiential-learning programs, including our required Externship Program and Law Clinic, which allow you to work with real clients with real legal needs and receive essential hands-on training. You can also take advantage of extracurricular activities such as Law Review, Moot Court and participate in student service and academic organizations.
Save Time and Money
By completing law school in two years, you can save on a year of living expenses and borrowing costs.
More Attention
The summer class is smaller so you'll receive our faculty’s undivided attention and focus, and experience the kind of lively and stimulating classroom discussions only a small class can offer.
2½-Year Program (with Fall Start)
You can graduate in two and half years, at a pace slightly quicker than our traditional three-year program. This means you can begin classes in August 2022 and complete law school in December 2024.Two-Year J.D. Journey
How the University of Dayton's Two-Year J.D. program helped one student move forward after one of the biggest challenges of her life.
Two-Year J.D. Journey
How the University of Dayton's Two-Year J.D. program helped one student move forward after one of the biggest challenges of her life.