Loyola University > School of Law > Academics > Degree Programs > Juris Doctor > Weekend JD
Weekend JD
Imagine a part-time JD program that fits into your busy schedule.
A program combining on-campus classes with one of the leading providers of online legal education in the country. A program that features nationally renowned professors in a world-class city. Now, imagine that program meeting just every other weekend. This is Loyola’s Weekend (part-time) JD program—thoughtfully designed to turn your law school ambitions into reality.
Our commitment to you
Upon graduation with a JD degree from Loyola, you will possess the following knowledge, skills, and professional values necessary for your professional success:
Knowledge
You will be proficient in substantive and procedural law, including the influence of the administrative state, political institutions, and other academic disciplines.
Skills
You will be able to:
- Utilize skills derived from participation in supervised live-client experiences, externships, or litigation and transactional practice simulations, such as interviewing, counseling, negotiation, mediation, fact development and analysis, problem solving, design thinking, trial practice, document drafting, and collaborative work
- Determine your clients' needs and objectives
- Determine relevant facts and understand their relevance to your client's legal position
- Conduct legal research
- Analyze and apply relevant legal principles
- Find solutions to legal problems
- Communicate legal concepts clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing
Professional Values
You will have a solid foundation that will prepare you to use your knowledge and skills to promote truth, justice, and the rule of law. You will be able to:
- Integrate professional values
- Exercise ethically responsible judgment in your legal practice and your work within the legal system
- Understand the rules, ethics, and values of the legal profession, such as honesty, civility and work-ethic
- Know the significance of a commitment to your clients and to the legal system
- Understand the importance of using your knowledge and skills in the service to those less fortunate
and in need of legal assistance
By the numbers
16
WEEKENDS SPENT ON CAMPUS DURING THE ACADEMIC YEAR
#18
LOYOLA'S PART-TIME PROGRAM IS RANKED #18 IN THE COUNTRY BY U.S. NEWS & WORLD REPORT
89%
OF LOYOLA JD GRADUATES ARE EMPLOYED WITHIN 10 MONTHS OF GRADUATION
* For more information on employment data see our Consumer Information (ABA Required Disclosures)
Curriculum
The core Weekend JD curriculum blends classroom instruction with online learning. In-person classes meet approximately every other weekend: Saturdays from 9:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. and Sundays from 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. All online course components are offered through Sakai, a highly interactive, collaborative online learning environment.
First Year Fall Semester
Legal Writing (2 credits)
Legal Writing I focuses on analyzing and applying legal authorities to particular fact situations. Through a series of legal memoranda writing assignments, students develop their analytical and writing skills.
Civil Procedure (4 credits)
Civil Procedure provides an introduction to and analysis of the concepts and doctrines that govern the procedure followed in civil litigation.
Torts (4 credits)
Torts introduces the substantive law governing compensation for injuries to property and to the person, including negligence, malpractice, intentional wrongs, strict and products liability, and invasions of personal integrity.
Professional Identity Formation (1 credits)
Professional Identity Formation prepares students to be accomplished and ethical leaders in the legal profession and the larger community. Course objectives include recognition and elimination of personal bias and creating awareness of how diversity and inclusion of others is critical to professional development and success in the practice of law.
First Year Spring Semester
Legal Writing II (2 credits)
Legal Writing II builds on the basic writing, analysis, and research skills learned in Legal Writing I and introduces persuasive writing skills.
Contracts (4 credits)
Contracts provides an analysis of the formation, transfer, and termination of contract rights and duties, and the legal and equitable remedies available upon breach of contract.
Criminal Law (3 credits)
Criminal Law utilizes primarily statutes to examine principles that apply to many crimes, explaining the elements of specific crimes, and explores theories of punishment.
Semester 3
Legal Writing III (2 credits)
Legal Writing III focuses on persuasive written and oral communication skills which are necessary for critical analysis and the competent representation of all clients.
Property (4 credits)
Property is the study of interests in land and personal property, emphasizing the modern law of donative transfers, estates and future interests, co-tenancy, conveyancing, and land title assurance.
Elective Courses (2-6 credits)
Students can choose an elective from nearly two dozen courses, which are offered on a rotating basis.
Semester 4
Constitutional Law (4 credits)
Constitutional Law is an introduction to the United States Constitution. Subjects include the role of the United States Supreme Court, federalism, and separation of powers.
Elective Courses (4-8 credits)
Students can choose an elective from nearly two dozen courses, which are offered on a rotating basis.
Semester 5
Elective Courses (8-12 credits)
Students can choose an elective from nearly two dozen courses, which are offered on a rotating basis.
Semester 6
Elective Courses (8-12 credits)
Students can choose an elective from nearly two dozen courses, which are offered on a rotating basis.
Semester 7
Elective Courses (8-12 credits)
Students can choose an elective from nearly two dozen courses, which are offered on a rotating basis.
Semester 8
Elective Coursework (8-12 credits)
Flexible Course Options
In addition to an array of electives, many flexible course options will be available, including summer coursework, independent study, intersession courses, and fully online courses (as many as 28-credit hours of fully online coursework).
Degree Requirements
To earn a JD degree, you must complete 86 credit hours of coursework. A minimum of 6 credit hours of experiential learning are required. Your first four semesters provide a strong, structured foundation. During the next two years you will tailor your courses, experiential learning, and course delivery to meet your goals and interests. Visit our Registrar for a complete list of degree requirements, academic calendars, and registration process. You may access full course descriptions through our student information system through guest access.
Admission
Juris Doctor (JD) applicants are required to take the Law School Admission Test (LSAT). LSAT registration can be completed through the LSAC website.
- October 1: Application for admission opens
- March 1: Priority application deadline
- March 15: Specialized scholarship and fellowship deadline
- May 1: Final application deadline
Outcomes
Graduates of the School of Law’s Weekend JD program have achieved remarkable success serving in government agencies, as state and federal judges, and as trial lawyers across the country. Students enrolled in the Weekend JD program will receive the same extraordinary opportunity to benefit from a quality legal education at Loyola.

David Grady
“The technology Loyola utilizes allows students to study at times that fit their busy schedules.”

Alexandrya Black
“As a wife and mother with a full-time career, attending law school did not seem possible for me, but Loyola’s Weekend JD program opened an exciting door.”

Ebru Basaran-Shull
“This program gives me the opportunity to have a JD degree, continue on with my career, and maintain balance in my personal life.”
Meet some of our exceptional faculty
Weekend JD program courses will be taught by members of Loyola’s full-time faculty, who are accomplished scholars and nationally recognized leaders in their fields.

John Dehn
“Many students come to Loyola for its social justice focus—to do something larger than themselves and make the world a better place.”

Sarah Waldeck
“Students take the mission statement very seriously. They’re going to take their individual talents and set the world on fire.”

Blanche Bong Cook
“I really believe there’s a critical mass of people at Loyola who’ve been through deep-seated self-reflection and are extremely serious about making this business of social justice work.”
Tuition and Fees
The School of Law and Loyola's Office of Financial Aid are committed to helping students secure the necessary financial resources to make their legal education at Loyola affordable.
FAQs
How do I register for the LSAT?
LSAT registration can be completed on the Law School Admission Council's (LSAC) website . You will need to create an LSAC.org account. The exam is offered several times a year and your score is active for five years with LSAC.
Will I have access to Career Services?
Yes, you will have access to a full range of career resources provide by Loyola’s outstanding Office of Career Services.
Is it easier to be admitted into the Weekend JD program than the Full-time Day division?
The admission requirements are the same for both divisions.
What are the LSAT/GPA ranges for admission to Loyola?
You can also review our 2022 class profile here.
How will the online component of each course be structured?
Each course is divided into learning modules. You will work through all courses simultaneously on a suggested study pace. The curriculum is accessible 24-7, giving you the ability to schedule your studies at a time and place convenient to you. And you'll use a cutting-edge online learning management system to complete assignments, listen to lectures, and communicate with your professors.
For students traveling to campus from out of state, what lodging options are available?
Students can reside at Baumhart Hall, a fully furnished apartment-style dorm, located across the street from the Corboy Law Center and steps from CTA bus and El stops. Or, we will supply you with additional assistance in securing accommodations in a variety of hotels near campus.
What are the requirements for admission to the bar?
In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. You are encouraged to determine the specific requirements by contacting any jurisdiction in which you intend to seek admission. The National Conference of Bar Examiners offers contact information for all relevant agencies.