Students admitted to the full-time evening division typically complete law school in three years, similar to those in the full-time day division. Classes in the full-time evening division meet Monday through Thursday between 1:45 p.m. and 10 p.m. Full-time students may not work more than 20 hours per week per ABA Standards. Students are asked to sign a form indicating their commitment to this policy. The Full-time evening program is only available to those beginning in the Fall semester.
The School of Law combines traditional and innovative teaching methods to provide a dynamic, professional program. The J.D. curriculum is designed to develop students' analytical ability, communication skills, and understanding of the codes of professional responsibility and ethics that are central to the practice of law. The faculty utilizes a variety of teaching methods, including simulations and role-playing. Courses designed to develop and refine writing abilities are required. Seminars and advanced courses provide close interaction with faculty.
Required first-year courses that must be completed prior to taking upper-division courses:
- Civil Procedure* 5 credits [3 + 2]
- Contracts* 6 credits [3 + 3]
- Criminal Law 3 credits
- Legal Research & Writing 1, 2 6 credits [3 + 3]
- Property* 5 credits [3 + 2]
- Torts* 5 credits [3 + 2]
Total: 30 credits
Required Curriculum
Upper-division courses required for graduation:
- Bar Essay Writing 2 credits
- Bar Law Survey 4 credits
- Business Organizations 3 credits
- Commercial Law Overview 3 credits
- Constitutional Law 4 credits
- Criminal Procedure 3 credits
- Evidence 4 credits
- Florida Civil Practice 3 credits
- Skills Component 1-6 credits
Total: 27-32 credits
Total Required Courses: 57-62 credits
Electives
The remaining 28-33 credits of the curriculum can be chosen from a variety of electives.
*These subjects are covered over the course of two semesters, with credits assigned to each semester as indicated by the information in parentheses.
[Students must also complete an upper level writing requirement and perform no less than 40 hours of pro bono service].
Please note: Evidence is a prerequisite for many skills courses or clinical opportunities. Professional Responsibility is a prerequisite for all clinical opportunities.
The required course load in the full-time division is 13-16 credits per semester. The required course load in the extended division is 8-12 credits per semester.