Juris Doctor (J.D.) Program
Full-time J.D. ProgramAt Penn State Dickinson, you will encounter a dynamic and comprehensive three-year course of study that reinforces in-class instruction with valuable opportunities for hands-on experiences, advanced skills training and international study.
The J.D. curriculum is organized into integrated sequences of required and elective courses designed to develop analytical skills and teach the fundamental body of knowledge required by beginning lawyers. You will build competence in the skills needed for your professional success, whether you choose to pursue a career in the emerging fields of internet or biotechnology law or in traditional areas of corporate law or trial advocacy. Your Penn State Dickinson education will give you the advantage when embarking on your future.
Ordinarily, it is expected that all full-time J.D. students will maintain full-time resident status during their six semesters at Penn State Dickinson. The first-year curriculum and certain second-year courses are required. Students may then choose from nearly 100 elective courses available to both our J.D. and master of laws (LL.M.) candidates.
Part-time, Daytime J.D. Program
Penn State Dickinson implemented a part-time, daytime J.D. program beginning in fall 2006. The program is designed for students who are able to attend classes in the daytime and who are interested in completing law school in four to seven years. Students in the part-time program may take as few as six credits or as many as eleven credits per semester.
For more information, contact the Admissions Office at dsladmit@psu.edu.
"Being able to attend an established Big
Ten institution, while at the same time enjoying
the benefits of a small school, is one of the great
advantages of Penn State Dickinson. This school
has prepared me well for a future legal career,
and I've had a great time every step of the way."
— Aaron Jones, 2004 Graduate
