In today’s digital age, earning a degree in law no longer requires attendance in a traditional on-campus setting. Accredited online law degrees have gained significant traction among students seeking flexibility, affordability, and global access to quality education. Coupled with scholarships and financial aid, these programs provide a compelling pathway for aspiring legal professionals who want to pursue their dream career without the financial burden or the limitations of location.
This article presents a comprehensive guide to accredited online law degree programs and the scholarships that make them more accessible in 2025.
Why Choose an Online Law Degree?
Pursuing a law degree online is an ideal solution for students balancing work, family, or geographical limitations. Here’s why more students are turning to this option:
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Flexibility: Study at your own pace, from anywhere in the world.
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Affordability: Reduced tuition and living costs compared to traditional programs.
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Accessibility: Join prestigious programs regardless of your location.
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Career Advancement: Ideal for working professionals seeking legal knowledge or credentials for career growth.
Types of Online Law Degrees
Before applying, it’s essential to understand the types of law degrees available online:
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Bachelor’s in Legal Studies or Law (LLB)
Often offered by universities in the UK and Europe, an online LLB can be a stepping stone to becoming a lawyer in certain jurisdictions. -
Master of Laws (LLM)
A postgraduate law degree focusing on a specialized legal area such as international law, environmental law, or corporate law. -
Juris Doctor (JD) – Primarily U.S.-based
Although most JD programs are campus-based, a few hybrid options now offer ABA-approved online components. -
Paralegal and Legal Assistant Certificates
Shorter programs for those seeking roles in law offices or corporations without becoming attorneys.
Accreditation: What to Look For
Ensuring that the program is properly accredited is crucial for the value of your degree and your eligibility for bar exams or further legal studies.
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U.S. Students: Look for schools accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA) or a recognized regional accreditor.
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UK Students: Ensure the program is recognized by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) or Bar Standards Board (BSB).
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International: Confirm recognition from your local legal education body or ministry of education.
Top Accredited Online Law Programs (2025)
Here are some reputable institutions offering accredited online or hybrid law programs:
1. University of London – Online LLB
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Accreditation: Recognized by the UK SRA and BSB
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Delivery: Fully online with global examination centers
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Duration: 3–6 years
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Scholarships Available: University of London scholarships and Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships
2. Florida State University – Online Juris Master
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Accreditation: Regionally accredited; not ABA-approved for bar exam
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Focus: Business Law, Health Care Regulation, Legal Risk Management
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Scholarships: Merit-based scholarships and tuition assistance for public sector employees
3. Northwestern California University School of Law
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Accreditation: Registered with California State Bar; not ABA-accredited
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Program: Juris Doctor (JD) online
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Bar Eligibility: California only
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Affordability: One of the lowest-cost JD programs
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Financial Aid: Monthly payment plans and need-based aid
4. University of Edinburgh – Online LLM
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Accreditation: Globally recognized, part of the Russell Group
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Specializations: International Law, Intellectual Property Law
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Scholarships: Edinburgh Global Online Learning Scholarships (full tuition)
5. University of Southern Queensland (Australia) – Online Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
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Accreditation: Recognized by the Legal Practitioners Admissions Board of Queensland
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Delivery: Fully online
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Scholarships: International Student Support Scholarships, Australia Awards
Scholarships for Online Law Degrees in 2025
Pursuing a law degree can be expensive, but numerous scholarships are available for online learners. Below are some options that cover tuition fees, living costs, or technology allowances:
1. Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships (UK)
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Eligibility: Students from low- and middle-income Commonwealth countries
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Covers: Full tuition fees
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Applicable Programs: Online Master’s degrees (including LLMs) offered by UK universities
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Deadline: Typically closes in October each year
2. University of London LLB Scholarships
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Eligibility: High-achieving international students
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Coverage: Partial to full tuition waivers
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Additional Aid: Exam fee discounts, alumni bursaries
3. Edinburgh Global Online Learning Scholarships
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Eligibility: Students from eligible developing countries
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Coverage: Full tuition for online Master’s degrees
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Program Focus: Development-related disciplines, including International Law
4. Scholarships from U.S. Online Law Schools
Many U.S. universities offer scholarships for online programs that aren’t ABA-approved for the bar but are valuable for business, health, and regulatory careers.
Examples include:
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Florida State University Juris Master scholarships
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Arizona State University Law LLM online scholarships
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Pepperdine Caruso School of Law – Master of Legal Studies scholarships
5. Private Foundations and Law Associations
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American Association for Paralegal Education (AAfPE) offers aid for paralegal and legal assistant students.
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Soros Foundation, Ford Foundation, and Open Society Foundations often fund legal studies for human rights and social justice.
How to Increase Your Scholarship Chances
Winning scholarships for online law degrees is competitive. Here are key strategies to stand out:
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Tailor Your Application
Customize your personal statement to reflect your passion for law and how the program aligns with your career goals. -
Highlight Your Achievements
Include academic records, work experience, volunteering, and leadership roles. -
Focus on Social Impact
Many scholarships prioritize applicants with a demonstrated commitment to public service, justice, or underserved communities. -
Apply Early
Many top scholarships operate on a first-come, first-served basis or have early deadlines. -
Secure Strong References
Choose referees who can vouch for your academic or professional capabilities.
Is an Online Law Degree Right for You?
An online law degree is an excellent fit for:
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Working professionals upgrading their legal knowledge
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International students unable to relocate
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Individuals focused on compliance, corporate law, or legal consulting
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Students in jurisdictions that allow online legal education for bar eligibility
However, students aiming to practice law in countries with strict accreditation rules (like the U.S. or Canada) should verify whether the online program qualifies them for bar exams or legal practice.