Flexible, fully online Juris Doctor expands access to justice

March 04, 2025 · 2 min read · By ASU Online

Arizona State University’s online part-time Juris Doctor will accept applications in summer 2025 and welcome its first cohort in January 2026.

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Earn your online JD degree from anywhere in the country

The Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law at ASU is accredited by the American Bar Association. The part-time and online modality of its JD aims to prepare working professionals passionate about bringing justice to their community for impactful careers as judges, city and county attorneys, public defenders, nonprofit counsel or in private law in rural and underserved communities.

Get details on the program and request more information.

 

An initiative to serve rural communities and legal deserts

According to the State Bar of Arizona, the vast majority of lawyers in the state practice in the Phoenix and Tucson metropolitan areas, leaving more than a million residents with limited access to legal professionals. ASU’s Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law recognizes the critical shortage of legal professionals in many underserved communities in Arizona and across the country. With the launch of this part-time and online modality for its JD program, the school aims to help increase the number of lawyers in these areas, thus increasing access to legal services in underserved communities.

“Our goal is to equip these community members with the tools and knowledge to provide essential legal services where they are needed most,” said Stacy Leeds, the Willard H. Pedrick Dean and Regents and Foundation Professor of Law. “By empowering these individuals to serve their neighbors and advocate for justice within their own communities, we aim to create a sustainable solution to the shortage of legal support in rural communities nationwide, ensuring that access to justice is no longer determined by geography.”

 

What you can expect from this program

Thanks to the online modality of this program, you’ll have access to a top-tier legal education without disrupting your existing work in your community. And the online format will allow you to experience an innovative approach to your legal education.

You’ll have the same coursework and learn from the same highly regarded faculty who teach on campus. You’ll be able to take electives related to public interest, public service and rural advocacy. Additionally, you can gain practical experience through cutting-edge virtual learning experiences and internship opportunities.

 

Request more information

Applications for the online JD will open in summer 2025, and the first cohort will start in January 2026. Get details on the program and request more information.


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