What does the J.D. program cost?

Get more info on the current tuition and fee schedule for the J.D. program

What is the tuition payment cadence?

Students pay semester-by-semester as they advance through the program. Learn more about the financial aid process .

Is financial aid available at The Colleges of Law?

Yes. Students attending The Colleges of Law are eligible for Title IV financial aid.

Is the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) required for admission?

No. COL does, however, require the LSAT for candidates seeking admission as a “special student” or admission after a prior law school disqualification.

Can I be admitted without a bachelor’s degree?

While most students at The Colleges of Law have a bachelor’s degree, applicants with an A.A. or A.S. degree or at least 60 acceptable academic semester units are also admitted (so long as the applicants have a sufficiently high GPA or LSAT score).

What if I don’t have 60 undergraduate units?

“Special students” with fewer than 60 acceptable academic semester undergraduate units may be admitted if they meet other requirements.

From who should I obtain the required letter of recommendation for my application?

Because this is an academic program, we recommend that prospective students first seek a letter from someone who can speak to their academic abilities – a former professor or academic advisor. If not available – then another legal professional. Or both if possible.

What should I include in my personal statement?

Your personal statement is your opportunity to convey to the Admissions Committee anything that contributes to your suitability, motivation, and skills to pursue a law degree. This might include details about your life experience, employment or volunteer history, maturity, moral character, and ability to communicate.

When can I begin my law studies at the Colleges of Law?

Students are admitted to begin the program in the fall or spring semester. See our Academic Calendar for current start dates.

When are classes held?

Fall and Spring ClassesnnSanta Barbara Campusn6:30pm–9pm, Monday, Tuesday, and ThursdaynnVentura Campusn6:30pm–9pm, Monday, Wednesday, and ThursdaysnnSummer Classesn6:30pm–9:30pm, Monday–Thursday & some Saturdays (depending on electives)

What kind of instructor teach at The Colleges of Law?

Our faculty are attorneys, judges, and elected officials who bring their practical experience to the classroom. Many have taught at The Colleges of Law for as long as 10–30 years; each is an integral part of the legal community our graduates will be joining.

What is the average class size?

Classes in the first year of the curriculum at The Colleges of Law may have 30–65 members, while advanced courses and seminars usually have 10–45 students. The average class size is approximately 25 students—small enough so that each student receives personal attention and large enough to hear a wide range of viewpoints in discussion.

After I graduate, can I sit for the bar exam?

Yes. J.D. graduates are academically qualified to sit for the California Bar Examination.Learn tips on how to prepare for the California Bar .

What can I do before classes start to better prepare myself for law school?

While you do not need to pursue a particular undergraduate major to succeed in law school, the ability to write well is important. Some students find it helpful to brush up on English composition skills by taking a college-level course or reviewing self-study texts. Among our recommended titles: The Elements of Style by William Strunk and E.B. White Style: Ten Lessons in Clarity and Grace by Joseph M. Williams How to Succeed in Law School by Gary Munneke, J.D.

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Our Board of Trustees oversees crucial policy decisions in areas including academic affairs, institutional advancement, student services, and business and financial affairs.

TRUSTEES

CASEY SUMMAR, J.D.

Chair

Partner at The Law Firm for Non-Profits, P.C.
Independent Consultant at Summar Consulting
Adjunct Professor of Law at Vanderbilt University Law School
Santa Barbara