ABOUT THE COLLEGES OF LAW

50 YEARS, ONE PURPOSE: INNOVATING LEGAL EDUCATION

“The Colleges of Law opened a door for me I never thought possible. Knowing I had professors and administrators that would go to bat for me meant a lot.” – Gabriella Navarro-Busch, J.D. ’93, Immigration attorney

In 1969, The Colleges of Law became innovators by making quality legal education more accessible to anyone who possessed the passion, bravery, and intellectual rigor to pursue a legal degree—regardless of social standing or professional background.

50 years later, times have changed but the mission remains.

Today, our courses are delivered at night (J.D. program) or through a blended format (Hybrid J.D. program), making quality legal education accessible for modern students—those with hectic work schedules, families, and other commitments. Our accommodating professors and staff work hard to provide the support and resources students need to have a successful and rewarding law school experience.

STEP INTO THE PROFESSION THE MINUTE YOU STEP INTO THE CLASSROOM

“When my students are done, they know how to draft a patent application, legally defend a trademark agreement, and navigate the complex U.S. patent and trademark office’s policies and procedures.” – Erica Bristol, Professor and Intellectual property lawyer

Students at The Colleges of Law are taught by professors who are active contributors to the legal profession—practicing judges, lawyers, and elected officials who often come straight from these positions to teach in The Colleges of Law classrooms. With their support and expertise, students develop the practical and theoretical skills necessary to succeed in today’s legal field.

With a degree from The Colleges of Law, our graduates join a network of accomplished, competent, and community-oriented professionals from all walks of life. Many have enjoyed successful careers in the legal profession. Others have applied their degrees from The Colleges of Law to fields like journalism, real estate, health care administration, government and corporate relations, social services, marketing, public relations, and more. One thing they all have in common?

They credit the Colleges of Law with preparing them for professional achievement.

DISCOVER A CLEAR PATHWAY TO YOUR FUTURE—WITHOUT DETOURING INTO DEBT

High tuition rates may actually diminish career paths for law school graduates because there are limited options that will lead to timely payback of debt. At The Colleges of Law, reasonable tuition rates and scholarship opportunities reflect our commitment to providing making legal education accessible through affordable degree programs that can prepare you for a wide range of career opportunities (and less post-graduation stress.)

Learn More About Financing Your Education

WE BELIEVE IN DEMOCRATIZING THE LAW WITHIN AND BEYOND THE CLASSROOM

COL graduates have a direct impact on the community every day. I watch them contribute in ways both big and small. I am proud that COL produces graduates who feel compelled to give back to our local community.” – Craig Smith, Full-time faculty, Former deputy district attorney and juvenile court judge.

We believe that the legal profession should reflect the diversity of the clients and communities it serves. Our student body brings to campus a wide range of skills, ideas, and beliefs. Learning and working together in a collaborative environment that emphasizes discussion and debate as well as hands-on experience and local engagement, you will develop strong relationships with each fellow students and members of the local community.

In addition to a deep intellectual and practical grasp of the law, graduates from The Colleges of Law are instilled with the cultural competence that comes from studying with a cohort from different backgrounds and perspectives. This prepares you to enter the legal profession as an engaged, civically minded guardian of the rule of law, honor-bound to advocate not only for your clients, but for the communities in which you live and work, and for the justice system as a whole.

Diversity Supports Equal Justice for All

The State Bar of California recognizes The Colleges of Law for our efforts to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion in our organization and has selected our school to receive the DEI Leadership Gold Seal.

Expanding access and affordability to a broader range of people allows a wider demographic to access legal education more easily, leading to increased representation inside and outside the courtroom.

FAQs

Is The Colleges of Law accredited?
Yes, both campuses have been accredited for more than 30 years by the Committee of Bar Examiners of the State Bar of California. We are now accredited by the Bar Examiners as one law school with two campuses. The Colleges of Law is institutionally accredited by the Western Association of Schools & Colleges Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

The Colleges of Law is not accredited by the American Bar Association.

What is the composition of the student body?
Men and women of all ages, backgrounds, and life experiences attend The Colleges of Law. Our students range in age from their 20s to their 60s, with an average age of about 35. The ratio of men/women students is about 50/50. Our student body reflects widely-diverse undergraduate majors and current employment fields.