Earning an online bachelor’s in legal studies degree opens the door to a multitude of rewarding career opportunities. This program equips students with a comprehensive understanding of legal principles, critical thinking skills, and ethical practices, preparing them for roles such as paralegals, legal assistants, compliance officers, and more.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, paralegals and legal assistants earn an average annual salary of approximately $60,970, while compliance officers can expect to make around $75,670 per year.
Typically, completing an online bachelor’s in legal studies takes about four years, though some programs offer accelerated paths. The cost of obtaining this degree varies, but according to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average annual tuition for a bachelor’s degree ranges from around $8,000 for in-state students at public institutions to $38,000 at private institutions.
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How we rank schools
Our list features the best online Legal Studies degree programs at top colleges nationwide. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution — either public or private — with a high standard of academic quality for post-secondary institutions.
We evaluated each school’s program on tuition costs, admission, retention and graduation rates, faculty, reputation, and the student resources provided for online students. We collected data from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics, individual school and program websites, school admissions counselors, and other data sources. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100 based on the following criterion:
Academic Quality:
- Admission rate versus enrollment rate
- Retention rate of students who return after year one
- Accreditation status (regional and programmatic)
- Nonprofit status, both private and public institutions
Graduation Rate
- Overall graduation rate
- Total number of currently enrolled students, including diversity metrics
- Student-to-faculty ratio
Cost and ROI
- In-state and out-of-state per-credit tuition rates and fees
- Required credits to graduate
- Earning potential after graduation
- Availability of federal student loans, scholarships, and other financial aid options
Student Resources
- Available student services for online-only and hybrid programs
- On-campus amenities like tutoring centers and the number of libraries
Read more about our ranking methodology.
Best 33 Accredited Online Bachelor’s in Legal Studies Programs
FiltersInstitution Type
Status
- Intelligent Score
- Alphabetically By University Name
- Acceptance Rate
- Enrollment
- In-state Graduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Graduate Tuition
- In-state Undergraduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Undergraduate Tuition
SUNY Canton
Intelligent Score: 99.39In-state: $7,070
Out-of-state: $16,980
In-state: $11,310
Out-of-state: $11,310
SAT: 860-1060
ACT: N/A
$556 per credit
Online, Classroom
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
124-127 credits
University of Pittsburgh
Intelligent Score: 92.92In-state: $18,628
Out-of-state: $32,656
In-state: $23,530
Out-of-state: $23,530
SAT: 1243-1420
ACT: 28-32
In-State: $776 per credit
Out-of-State: $1,360 per credit
Hybrid
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
120 credits
Webster University
Intelligent Score: 92.21In-state: $28,500
Out-of-state: $28,500
In-state: $13,500
Out-of-state: $13,500
SAT: 1078-1260
ACT: 20-27
$725 per credit
Online
Higher Learning Commission
120 credits
Bellevue University
Intelligent Score: 92.07In-state: $7,176
Out-of-state: $7,176
In-state: $10,710
Out-of-state: $10,710
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
University of Central Florida
Intelligent Score: 91.84In-state: $4,478
Out-of-state: $19,810
In-state: $6,916
Out-of-state: $6,916
SAT: 1160-1340
ACT: 25-30
In-State: $179.19 per credit
Out-of-State: $715.8 per credit
Online
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
120 credits
Keiser University
Intelligent Score: 91.78In-state: $19,808
Out-of-state: $19,808
In-state: $27,162
Out-of-state: $27,162
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$161 per credit
Online, On-campus, Hybrid
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
120 credits
Dominican University
Intelligent Score: 91.42In-state: $34,950
Out-of-state: $34,950
In-state: $20,400
Out-of-state: $20,400
SAT: 960-1160
ACT: 19-24
Liberty University
Intelligent Score: 90.95In-state: $14,791
Out-of-state: $14,791
In-state: $7,935
Out-of-state: $7,935
SAT: 1040-1250
ACT: 21-29
$390 per credit
Online
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
120 credits
California University of Pennsylvania
Intelligent Score: 90.84In-state: $7,716
Out-of-state: $11,574
In-state: $9,288
Out-of-state: $9,288
SAT: 920-1120
ACT: 17-23
$328 per credit
Online
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
120 credits
University of Maryland Global Campus
Intelligent Score: 89.9In-state: $8,824
Out-of-state: $34,936
In-state: $13,158
Out-of-state: $13,158
SAT: 1270-1480
ACT: 30-34
Resident: $306 per credit
Non-resident: $499 per credit
Online
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
120 credits
Umass Global
Intelligent Score: 88.99In-state: $15,791
Out-of-state: $35,779
In-state: $14,014
Out-of-state: $14,014
SAT: 1200-1390
ACT: 27-32
$500 per credt
Online, Hybrid
WSCUC Senior College and University Commission
120 credits
Peirce College
Intelligent Score: 87.55In-state: $25,034
Out-of-state: $25,034
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: Not Required
ACT: Not Required
$600 per credit
Online
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
121 credits
Penn State World Campus
Intelligent Score: 86.13In-state: $15,025
Out-of-state: $24,413
In-state: $22,464
Out-of-state: $22,464
SAT: 1070-1300
ACT: 24-29
$576 per credit
Online
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
123 credits
Stevenson University
Intelligent Score: 86.03In-state: $35,204
Out-of-state: $35,204
In-state: $8,340
Out-of-state: $8,340
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$450 per credit
Online
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
120 credits
William Woods University
Intelligent Score: 85.23In-state: $25,000
Out-of-state: $25,000
In-state: $6,750
Out-of-state: $6,750
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
Resident: $25,750 per semester
Non-resident: $25,750 per semester
Online
Higher Learning Center
42 semester hours
Wilmington University
Intelligent Score: 84.55In-state: $11,430
Out-of-state: $11,430
In-state: $8,784
Out-of-state: $8,784
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$381 per credit
Online, On-campus
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
120 credits
Florida Gulf Coast University
Intelligent Score: 82.34In-state: $4,191
Out-of-state: $22,328
In-state: $6,974
Out-of-state: $6,974
SAT: 1060-1210
ACT: 21-25
Resident: $203.94 per credit
Non-resident: $838.73 per credit
Online
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
120 credits
Berkeley College
Intelligent Score: 79.46In-state: $50,152
Out-of-state: $50,152
In-state: $40,975
Out-of-state: $40,975
SAT: 1290-1530
ACT: 27-35
$870 per credit
Online, On-campus
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
120 credits
How to Choose an Online Bachelor’s in Legal Studies Degree Program
Choose your area of study
Start by identifying your interests and career aspirations — whether you’re drawn to criminal law, corporate law, environmental law, or another specialty. Research each specialization’s job market, potential salaries, and growth opportunities using resources like the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Occupational Outlook Handbook. Next, evaluate program offerings, ensuring they include courses and internships that match your interests. Consider talking to academic advisors and industry professionals to gain insights. This ensures your studies are relevant, increasing your chances of career success post-graduation.
Research schools and programs
Compile a list of potential institutions, avoiding those that do not have regional or national accreditation. Investigate each program’s curriculum to ensure it covers essential legal topics and offers specializations aligning with your career goals. Check faculty credentials to ensure experienced professionals will be guiding your education. Additionally, explore student resources such as career services, internship opportunities, and online learning support. Reviewing tuition costs and financial aid options is also important. Reading reviews and testimonials can provide insights into student satisfaction and program quality.
Prepare for tests and applications
Research the admission requirements for each potential school, including whether they require standardized tests like the SAT or ACT. Use study guides, practice tests, or prep courses to improve your test performance, if necessary. Write a compelling personal statement, obtaining letters of recommendation and highlighting relevant experiences. Make sure you thoroughly proof all materials, as a single typo could reflect poorly on your application. Tailor your application to each program, showcasing your passion for legal studies and long-term career goals. Meeting deadlines and organizing application materials meticulously is also vital.
Select your program
Compare the curricula of each program you’re considering to ensure they cover key areas such as criminal law, civil litigation, and legal research. Look for programs that offer specializations aligning with your interests. Check accreditation status to ensure the program meets high educational standards. Evaluate the flexibility of the program, considering whether it accommodates your schedule and learning pace, especially if you have other personal or professional commitments. Investigate support services, including academic advising, career counseling, and technical support. Consider the cost and available financial aid options.
Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
Estimate the total cost of the program, including tuition, fees, and materials. Note that online programs may include a technology fee. Research financial aid options such as scholarships, grants, and student loans. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility for federal assistance. You may also want to explore state aid programs and institutional scholarships offered by the schools you’re considering. Some employers offer tuition reimbursement programs, so check if this benefit is available to you.
What Can You Expect From an Online Bachelor’s in Legal Studies Degree Program?
This degree program provides a comprehensive foundation in the legal field, preparing students for a range of careers in law and related sectors. Prospective students can expect to take courses covering key areas such as criminal law, civil litigation, legal research and writing, ethics, and constitutional law. The curriculum is designed to enhance critical thinking and analytical skills and give students a deep understanding of the legal system.
Typically, the program takes about four years to complete if attending full-time, but some institutions offer accelerated paths that can shorten this duration. Part-time options are also available for those balancing work and study, which may extend the program beyond four years.
While the coursework is primarily online, some programs may have additional requirements, such as in-person labs, residencies, or internships, to provide practical, hands-on experience. Students should also be prepared to engage in interactive online discussions, complete extensive reading and writing assignments, and collaborate on group projects. Access to a reliable internet connection and strong time-management skills are essential for success in an online learning environment.
Potential courses you’ll take in an online bachelor’s in legal studies degree program
- Introduction to Law. Provides an overview of the legal system, including the structure and function of courts, the role of lawyers, and the process of legal reasoning. Students will learn the basics of legal terminology and the different branches of law.
- Criminal Law. Explores the principles and practices of criminal law, including the nature of crimes, defenses, and the criminal justice process. Topics include the study of major crimes, criminal liability, and constitutional protections.
- Civil Litigation. Covers the procedures and strategies involved in civil lawsuits, from initial filings to trial and appeal. Students will learn about the stages of litigation, discovery processes, and trial advocacy skills.
- Legal Research and Writing. Focuses on developing essential skills for legal professionals, teaching students how to conduct thorough legal research using various resources and databases. Students will also learn to write clear and persuasive legal documents, such as briefs, memos, and motions.
- Ethics and Professional Responsibility. Examines the ethical obligations and professional responsibilities of legal practitioners. Students will explore topics such as client confidentiality, conflict of interest, and the rules of professional conduct, preparing them to navigate ethical dilemmas in their careers.
Online Bachelor’s in Legal Studies Degree Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to an online bachelor's in legal studies degree program?
Begin by reviewing specific admission requirements for your chosen program. Typically, you’ll need to submit an online application, high school transcripts, and standardized test scores (SAT or ACT). Prepare a personal statement outlining your interest in legal studies and career goals. Obtain letters of recommendation from teachers or professionals who can attest to your qualifications. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to explore financial aid options. Talk to an admissions counselor to be sure the program is a good fit for you and that you are handling your application correctly.
How much does an online bachelor's in legal studies degree cost?
The cost of earning an online degree varies widely depending on the institution and whether you attend full-time or part-time. On average, tuition for online bachelor’s degrees ranges from approximately $8,000 per year at public institutions to $35,000 or more at private universities. Additional costs may include fees for technology, online resources, and textbooks. Compared to traditional in-person programs, online programs are likely to save students money on commuting and housing expenses, and tuition rates can be comparable or slightly lower.
How long does it take to earn an online bachelor's in legal studies degree?
Earning an online bachelor’s typically takes around four years of full-time study, equivalent to 120 credits. Part-time enrollment can extend this timeline. Many online programs offer flexibility, allowing students to progress at their own pace and potentially earn their degree in less time through accelerated courses or credit transfer policies. In comparison, traditional on-campus programs may follow a similar timeline but generally work through a cohort model that will control the pace of study. It’s essential to review program specifics, such as required credits and graduation requirements, as these factors can influence the overall time to degree completion.