2025 Online J.D. Program Application Closed

NOTE: The 2025 Application for Online J.D. program is now closed. St. Mary’s Law will resume the application cycle for 2026 Fall Admission around mid-September 2025.

Online J.D. Program

Welcome to St. Mary’s Law, where we lead with tradition and innovation.

This is a limited enrollment, part-time program.

We understand that not all students have the time to enroll in law school full-time or the ability to attend classes on campus. For students with considerably more outside responsibilities, the St. Mary’s University School of Law is proud to offer the first fully online J.D. program accredited by the American Bar Association in the nation.

Our renowned faculty, which consists of legal experts in specialties from business law to international law, receives extensive training in online education and pedagogy, and all professors are fully certified to teach online.

As an online student at St. Mary’s Law, you will have access to the same opportunities and resources as a full-time student, including career counseling and advice through the Office of Career Strategy, academic advising from the Office of Law Success, and student services from the Office of Law Student Affairs.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (click to expand)

How will classes be taught?

The online J.D. program will consist of 50% synchronous and 50% asynchronous teaching methods for the first-year curriculum. Upper-level courses may be offered as a combination of synchronous and asynchronous methods, or fully asynchronous with heightened requirements for student interaction and stricter enrollment caps.

How will the online J.D. prepare me for the bar exam?

St. Mary’s Law has a robust, data-driven bar preparation program that is individually tailored to each student. In addition to providing extensive coaching and custom bar study schedules, our instructors work with each student to understand what approach works best for them. Online students will also have 100% access to all of our bar coaching resources. Students can expect to receive a personal bar study coach who will check in with them, set up one-on-one meetings over Zoom and help them assess their progress.

Can I decide to move from the online program to the full-time program?

After completing the first-year curriculum online, online J.D. students may opt to continue in the in-person full-time program.

Can international students apply for the online J.D.?

International students are not automatically excluded from admission to the online J.D. program; however, the program is unlikely to meet the unique needs of international students given differences in time zones and synchronous class meeting times. Rather, the program’s intent is to expand access to legal education in South Texas, and to offer opportunities nationally to those who would find it difficult to pursue a traditional in-person J.D.

Can I participate in campus events and extracurricular activities?

Online students are invited to visit campus and participate in any on-campus activities or meet with faculty and staff for assistance, at any time during their degree program. Online students will also be able to complete externships, pro bono activities and non-clinic experiential learning in the online environment. Faculty and staff will be fully available to online students through virtual office hours, email, and individual Zoom meetings. Our faculty prides itself on an open-door policy that we are eager to extend to our online cohort.

Can I participate in Registered Student Organizations?

One hallmark of the St. Mary’s J.D. experience is getting involved on campus. As an online student, you will have the opportunity to choose from more than 30 active registered student organizations, which promote a variety of interests and practice areas. Online students can even start their own student organizations and are encouraged to do so.

Is there anything I cannot do as an online student?

Not every elective course in the course directory will be offered in an online format every semester. However, students will have significant advance notice of elective availability for each upcoming semester, and will receive course advising that maximizes their educational opportunities based on interest and career goals.

Will I have to attend orientation as an online student?

To welcome all incoming J.D. students to St. Mary’s, the law school hosts a three-day, in-person Orientation program. This program introduces students to our Marianist tradition, the practice of law, the skills needed to be successful in law school and allows for opportunities to meet classmates and professors. Highlights include a mock law school class, a practice law school exam, chances to mingle with alumni and a class service project. Online students are strongly encouraged to attend this Orientation in person, and will receive information about lodging, timing and the experience as the date approaches. Online students are also encouraged to participate in our innovative First Generation Student Boot Camp, which provides several days of skills training for students entering law school as the first lawyer in their family.

Will I need to attend in-person sessions as part of my online education?

No, although there will be activities such as Orientation, that you will be strongly encouraged to attend in person.

Where can I view tuition information about the online J.D. program?

Online J.D. students will pay the current part-time tuition rate, which can be viewed in the Tuition and Fees webpage. St. Mary’s is proud to offer an online J.D. that provides the same quality teaching, student services and community that are hallmarks of our in-person degree. As such, online J.D. students should expect an engaging and informative classroom experience and an open “virtual” door to our online-certified faculty. Additionally, online students will have the opportunity to take advantage of our career and academic counseling, pro bono opportunities, networking events and more. And, the online degree comes with a significant cost savings in living expenses, board and transportation.

Learn more about Tuition and Fees

Curriculum for Online Students

As an online student, you will take a planned curriculum designed to teach you the foundations of substantive law and the applications of legal writing and analysis. You will always have the option of taking an in-person course, but it is not required for completion of the degree. To ensure that our online students receive a quality educational experience, our online cohort will be capped at 25 students.

View the Course Schedule for more information on the courses.

Students in a classroom taking notes on a laptop

First Term

Contracts I (2 hours)
Civ. Pro. (4 hours)
Legal Communication, Analysis & Professionalism (LCAP) (3 hours)

Second Term

Contracts II (2 hours)
Property (4 hours)
LCAP II (3 hours)

Third Term

Criminal Law (2 or 3 hours)
Professional Responsibility (3 hours)

Fourth Term

Torts (4 hours)
Constitutional Law (4 hours)

Fifth Term (Start of Second-Year Curriculum)

Business Associations (3 hours)
Family Law (3 hours)
Elective

Sixth Term

Evidence (3 or 4 hours)
Elective

Seventh Term

Con Crim Pro. (3 hours)
Wills, Estates & Trusts (4 hours)
Elective

Eighth Term

Conflicts of Law (3 hours)
Sales (2 hours)
Elective

Ninth Term (Start of Third-Year Curriculum)

Secured Transactions (3 hours)
Electives

Tenth Term

Mortgages (3 hours)
Electives

Eleventh Term

Electives

VIEW THE COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

Accreditation

The St. Mary’s Law online J.D. program is approved by the American Bar Association. Applicants should confirm the legal education requirements for the jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission to the bar, and can find information for each jurisdiction through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.

St. Mary’s Law is accredited by the ABA, but jurisdictions may have restrictions regarding online degree programs. Graduates of the St. Mary’s Law online J.D. program are eligible to sit for the Texas Bar Exam, which includes the Uniform Bar Exam, according to the Texas Supreme Court and the Texas Board of Law Examiners.

Academic Requirements

Applicants may apply to either the full-time day program or the part-time online program, but not to both. Admission and graduation standards are the same for both J.D. programs.

A candidate for the J.D. program must earn a minimum of 90 credit hours in order to graduate. Additionally, J.D. students must have a cumulative GPA of 2.3 or higher to graduate. Other curricular and academic requirements will apply. Requirements are set forth in the St. Mary’s School of Law Student Handbook.

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LL.M. in American Legal Studies

Earning a graduate law degree in English from a U.S. institution can give you a comparative perspective on practicing law in your own country as well as enhance your job opportunities. You will also gain insights into the workings of common law structure and procedures as well as American legal traditions and doctrine. Candidates will also be challenged through active classroom learning and the Socratic method. If you have an LL.B. and plan to establish eligibility to sit for a state bar exam this program is right for you and can provide the insights and networking opportunities to help you succeed professionally.

The LL.M. in American Legal Studies is a degree for internationally trained lawyers. American trained lawyers are not eligible.

This degree satisfies the U.S. legal education requirement for the LL.M. graduate to sit for the Texas, California or New York Bar exams. Some jurisdictions require additional components, such as pro bono service, and each candidate is responsible for determining those requirements as set by each state.

The American Legal Studies concentration is now available through online course curriculum.

Contact Assistant Dean Jennifer Stevenson, J.D., for more information.

Why an LL.M.?

Twenty-four credit hours are required to earn the LL.M. in American Legal Studies. Students have two years to complete the degree, but can complete the program in two semesters of full-time study. Candidates for the bar are strongly encouraged to investigate the requirements for the bar and to enroll in the courses that will be tested.

Two unique features of the program offered by St. Mary’s Law include:

Access to bar prep courses, which must be taken outside of the 24-credit-hour requirement
Access to online course content for self-prep purposes

LL.M. versus J.D.

The LL.M. degree in American Legal Studies is a nine-month program with global credibility. It is open to students who have finished a law degree either in the United States or in a foreign country.

LL.M. stands for Legum Magister, which is more commonly called Master of Laws. It contains two “L”s due to its Latin origins, where the second “L” makes the first “L” plural.
J.D. programs are the standard degree typically earned to sit for a bar exam to become a practicing lawyer. J.D. programs typically span three years of full-time study.

International Students

International students must study on a full-time basis. Foreign nationals who must maintain student visa eligibility must enroll in a minimum of 10 credit hours per semester during the regular academic year (Fall and Spring). Ten hours is also considered full time for purposes of financial aid eligibility.

The School of Law is a member of the International Association of Law Schools and the International Academy of Comparative Law (Académie Internationale de Droit Comparé).

American Legal Studies LL.M. Courses

Required Courses

Introduction to the American Legal System
Legal Research and Writing
Professional Responsibility (Required for the bar)
Two courses from the following list:
- Civil Procedure
- Contracts
- Criminal Law
- Property
- Torts
- Constitutional Law

Other courses and seminars offered in the LL.M. program in American Legal Studies include:

Evidence
Sales/Secured Transactions
Oil and Gas
Deceptive Trade Practices
Immigration Law
Business Associations
Patent and Copyright Law

Online American Legal Studies LL.M. Program

Core curriculum overview

The St. Mary’s University School of Law offers a robust curriculum tailored to equip students with a deep understanding of American legal principles. As part of the program, students will engage in the following foundational courses:

● Introduction to the American Legal System: A comprehensive overview of the structure, function, and foundational principles of the U.S. legal framework.

● Legal Research and Writing (LRW): Practical training in legal analysis, writing, and research techniques essential for professional success.

● Torts: Exploration of civil liability, negligence, and intentional misconduct within the legal context.

● Contracts: Detailed examination of contractual relationships

● Professional Responsibility: ethical obligations within the legal profession.

● Constitutional Law: In-depth study of constitutional principles and targeted preparation for the bar examination.

● Property Law: Analysis of property rights, ownership structures, and land use regulations.

● Criminal Law: Offers an in-depth study of the principles and procedures of criminal law, focusing on offenses, defenses, and the criminal justice system.

● Bar Preparation: Designed to help students succeed in the bar exam (free for graduates).

Why choose our online LL.M.?

Our Online LL.M. in American Legal Studies is designed for ambitious legal professionals and international students aiming to expand their expertise in U.S. law. Delivered 100% synchronously, the program fosters real-time interaction and a vibrant learning community.

Key highlights include:

● Interactive Learning: Participate in live sessions, weekly discussions, and collaborative activities with peers and professors.

● Personalized Support: Access faculty through virtual office hours, one-on-one meetings, and comprehensive academic resources.

● Flexibility: Study from anywhere while engaging in a rigorous curriculum tailored for working professionals.

Join a community of learners.

At St. Mary’s Law, we cultivate a supportive and inclusive academic environment. Whether online or on campus, students benefit from:

● Access to renowned faculty with expertise in diverse legal fields.

● A dedicated Office of Career Strategy offering tailored career advice.

● Networking opportunities with an international cohort of legal professionals.

This program not only prepares you for professional success but also connects you with a global legal network, ensuring your education transcends borders. Learn more and take the next step in your legal journey today!

LAW SCHOOL COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

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More details online:

LL.M. Frequently Asked Questions

For more information, please email stmullm@stmarytx.edu or complete the form:

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Applying to the LL.M.

See details about admission requirements and how to apply:

Apply for 2025

Public and Private Scholarships

Contact

Professional portrait of Jennifer Stevenson in dark jacket and blouse

Jennifer Stevenson, Assistant Dean for International Programs

Joint Degree Programs

The Evening J.D. Program for Part-time Students is just one of your options. See the main J.D. Program page for details about the overall program and other available options.

Interested in applying or visiting?

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Students can earn credit toward the selected master’s degree by satisfying the requirements for doctor of jurisprudence. These programs allow students at St. Mary’s to complement their training in the law with advanced study in another discipline.

The first year of academic work for a law student pursuing a joint degree consists entirely of law courses. During the second and third year, law and master’s degree courses are taken. Depending on the specific requirements of the master’s degree program, a student ordinarily can earn both a law degree and a master’s degree in three or four years.

An interested applicant must gain admission to both the Law School and Graduate Studies, which make separate admissions decisions. Application to Graduate Studies may be made after the student begins law school.

Following are brief descriptions of the joint-degree programs offered by St. Mary’s University.

J.D. / MBA

Doctor of Jurisprudence (J.D.)
Greehey Master of Business Administration (MBA)

Gain the technical, analytical, leadership and other business skills to advance your career with an accredited online MBA degree that is recognized and respected all over the world. Federal, state and corporate taxation, estate planning, banking and finance, accounting and corporate management are but a few of the areas in which law and business overlap. Students who wish to serve as counsel to corporations, or specialize in business and commercial law, would benefit from an advanced degree in business.

Learn business the same way you will lead it: across platforms, formats and locations.

Among the courses offered in the Greehey MBA program are Taxation for Corporations, Estate and Gift Taxation, Multinational Management, Advanced Managerial Accounting, International Banking and Financial Management, and Investment and Portfolio Analysis. Professor Mark W. Cochran is the J.D./M.B.A. adviser.

Learn more about J.D./MBA

J.D. / M.A. in International Relations

Doctor of Jurisprudence (J.D.)
Master of Arts in International Relations (M.A.)

Due to the internationalization of relations among the countries of the world, the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), and the globalization of the world’s economy, there is an increased need for lawyers who have an international perspective on the practice of law.

Among the courses offered in the International Relations program are Ethical Issues in International Relations, International Law and Treaties, International Political Economy, Human Rights, and Border Security and Immigration Policy.

Learn more about J.D./MAIR

J.D. / M.P.A.

Doctor of Jurisprudence (J.D.)
Master of Arts in Public Administration (M.P.A.)

Controversies concerning the utilization of natural resources, land use (zoning, planning, and economic development), labor relations, the administration of justice, and civil rights all illustrate the importance of law in the public sector. Associate Professor Emily Fowler Hartigan is the J.D./M.P.A. adviser.

Among the courses offered in the master’s in Public Administration program are Social Responsibility and Business Environment, Financial Policies, Management and Organization Development, Organizational Behavior, and Urban Political Institutions and Processes.

Learn more about J.D./M.P.A.

J.D. / M.A. in Theology

Doctor of Jurisprudence (J.D.)
Master of Arts in Theology (M.A.)

The program is especially suited for students who wish to pursue a legal career as a form of ministry. Professor Michael S. Ariens is the J.D./M.A. adviser.

Among the courses offered in the master’s of Theology program are Foundational Moral Theology Ethics, Ecology and Christian Ethics, Dynamics of Spiritual Life, Marriage and the Family, Theology of Human Sexuality, and Principles of Theological Method.

Learn more about Theology

J.D. / M.A. in English Literature and Language

Doctor of Jurisprudence (J.D.)
Master of Arts in English Literature and Language (M.A.)

The St. Mary’s School of Law and College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences offer a joint program of study leading to the degrees of Doctor of Jurisprudence (J.D.) and Master of Arts in English Literature and Language. The joint degree program allows a student to complete the requirements for both degrees in three to four years.

Admission to the joint program requires application to both Schools, although application to the Graduate Studies at St. Mary’s need not be made until the student begins law school. Upon successful application to both programs, students work with the graduate program director and the law school to coordinate student scheduling for completion of both degree programs.

Learn more about ELL

LL.M. in International and Comparative Law

The LL.M. in International and Comparative Law is a post-J.D. degree designed for American-trained lawyers who have already obtained a law degree and who will benefit from specialized training in international and comparative law. International students who have a foundation in American Jurisprudence are also welcome to apply.

An LL.M. degree in International and Comparative Law will improve your marketability to firms engaging in international policymaking or who represent clients with international interest. The program also gives the students opportunity to specialize in a field.

International Students

The School of Law is a member of the International Association of Law Schools and the International Academy of Comparative Law (Académie Internationale de Droit Comparé).

The International and Comparative Law concentration is now also available through online course curriculum.

Contact Assistant Dean Jennifer Stevenson, J.D., for more information.

LL.M. Courses

Students are required to take courses in both public international law and comparative law.

Courses taken in fulfillment of J.D. requirement may not be repeated.

Public International Law
Comparative Law
Thesis and Research (Foreign-trained are exempt)

Other courses and seminars offered in the LL.M. program in International and Comparative Law include:

International Cyber Warfare
International Human Rights
Human Trafficking
International and Domestic Health Care Law
International White Collar Crime
International Law of the Sea
Import/Export Law
Immigration Law
International Arbitration
International Law of Stolen Art
International Litigation

Comparative Law
International Business Transactions
International Organizations
Doing Business with Mexico
International Alternative Dispute Resolution and Tribunals
European Union Law
Legal Spanish and the Mexican Legal System

LL.M. COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

Degree requirements

American lawyers today work in a global environment. Study in comparative and international law will better prepare them to be competent and effective lawyers.

-Robert H. Hu

View Faculty Bio

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Curious which Law Certificate is right for you? Questions about the admission process or the program? Our team will answer any questions and help you through the process when you’re ready.

For more information, please email stmullm@stmarytx.edu or complete the form:

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Applying to the LL.M.

See details about admission requirements and how to apply:

Apply for 2025

Public and Private Scholarships

Contact

Jennifer Stevenson, Assistant Dean for International Programs

Master of Jurisprudence –
Territorial Law Concentration

The Territorial Law Concentration is just one of your options. See the main Master of Jurisprudence page for details about the overall program and other available options.

Territorial Law Concentration (available online)

Nearly four million people live in the U.S. Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands and American Samoa. Although part of the United States, these five territories and their residents do not enjoy the same constitutional and statutory rights as Americans who live in the fifty states.

At the same time, each territory has developed its own distinct law and institutions with the United States legal framework, with renewed pushes for greater self-determination, equality and economic development.

While applicants from all backgrounds are welcome, the program is particularly well-suited for those who intend to or currently do business in the territories.

The M.Jur. will consist of 30 credit hours that can be completed on-campus, fully online or through a combination of courses and externships.

The M.Jur. concentration in Territorial Law is designed to provide students with insight into territorial laws and legal systems, human rights, economic development and constitutional law.

-Anthony Ciolli