Does Flex mean I can customize my learning?
Flex JD is not about customizing the learning experience. It is a part-time, hybrid-online JD program designed for professionals and those balancing work or personal commitments, structured to allow them to complete a law degree while continuing to manage those responsibilities.
How many hours a week should I dedicate to the program?
30 hours minimum. That includes live Zoom classes, readings, asynchronous components, and class preparation. It is just as rigorous as full-time.
How much time do I spend in virtual classes?
Three to four hours per week. Classes typically take place three nights per week at or after 6:00 p.m. Pacific time.
How do I gain hands-on experience during the program?
Flex students can participate in externships starting in spring of their second year. Our Externship office will help you locate opportunities.
What if my schedule doesn’t allow me to participate in an externship?
There are courses in the Flex curriculum that allow students to meet the experiential learning requirement.
Can I graduate early?
The Flex curriculum is thoroughly structured, and students typically take between 10-11 credits each semester with their cohort. To get the additional credits needed to graduate early, you must attend in-person classes.
Can I take longer than 3.5 years to complete the program?
Although we strongly recommend following the prescribed curriculum, Flex JD students can reduce the number of credits they are taking in a semester. However, they must work with the Assistant Director of the Flex JD program to create an academic plan that ensures graduation in a timely manner.
What is the in-person component?
Flex students must come to campus five weekends each academic year for a full day of class on Saturdays and half day on Sundays. The in-person dates for 2026-2027 are:
- August 20, 21, 22, 2026 | in-person orientation and first day of class. (This schedule only applies to incoming 2026 Flex students.)
- September 26, 27, 2026
- October 31, November 1, 2026
- January 23, 24, 2027
- March 13, 14, 2027
What electives can I take during the program?
The curriculum is thoroughly structured and focused on bar-tested materials. As students enter their upperclassmen years, they are invited to share their elective interests through a poll, helping inform which courses could potentially be offered.
What kind of academic support exists?
All Flex students have access to academic support through the Assistant Director of Flex JD for planning and advising. Additionally, students may connect with the Academic Excellence Team and schedule virtual meetings with professors for further assistance.
