The Juris Doctor at Chapman Law

Gain a deep understanding of legal professionalism in a distinctive, experiential degree program taught by nationally and internationally recognized experts, providing the groundwork for a lifetime of legal service.

Why Get A JD at Chapman University?

Specialized Certificate Programs

Our focused certificate programs help you dive deep into a specialized field of law as you earn your JD. With a pre-selected curriculum of core courses and electives, these certificates help distinguish you in the job market and highlight your expertise to future employers.

Real-World Practice

Through advocacy competitions, legal clinics, and externships, you’ll gain hands-on experience under the guidance of practicing attorneys. You’ll have opportunities to work in courts, public interest organizations, government agencies, law firms, and corporate legal departments to build the experience you need to be job-ready.

Career Support

Your career starts the moment you join our school, and our career support continues long after graduation. From day one, our Career Services Office provides coaching, development and guidance to help you explore opportunities across law firms, business, government, public interest, judicial clerkships and education.

Bar Exam Preparation

Passing the bar is a major milestone, and we’re here to make sure you’re ready. Our Bar Exam Preparation program has a proven track record, with a 94.96% ultimate bar passage rate for the Class of 2023. Our expert faculty, alumni and peers come together to give you the support you need to succeed.

Academic Support

With one of the smallest class sizes in the nation, our faculty is accessible and actively involved in student life. Everything you need to succeed academically and professionally is available through our Academic Achievement program, including one-on-one mentoring, workshops to support your transition from undergraduate to law school, essay-writing help in 1L courses and guidance from advanced students.

Networking Opportunities

Our Career Services Office will help you make valuable connections with industry, employers and alumni. We provide complimentary membership to the Orange County Bar Association, connecting you directly with fellow students and experienced attorneys at bar association events and school-sponsored networking mixers.

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In the American Bar Association's 2025 Competition Championships

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"Best Law Schools for Practical Training" in California - PreLaw Magazine

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Best Law Schools in the nation, U.S. News & World Report, 2025

Explore Your Path

Whether you’re focused on traditional law practice or combining law with other passions, the Fowler School of Law offers an education of distinction designed to fit your goals.

JD

Our Juris Doctor program provides a rigorous legal education paired with hands-on experience, preparing you to become a skilled, practice-ready lawyer.

JD/MFA

This four-year dual-degree program equips you for a career advocating for clients in the entertainment industry. You’ll gain the essential expertise needed to navigate contracts, protect intellectual property and pursue a career as an entertainment attorney, producer or studio executive.

JD/MBA

Prepared to lead at the intersection of law and business? This four-year dual-degree program provides the expertise to navigate corporate, financial and legal complexities, preparing you to make the strategic and legal decisions that drive organizations forward.

Duration

Completed in three years full-time.

The dual-degree options such as JD/MBA and JD/MFA also typically taking four years.

Application deadline(s)

Rolling Admissions
Applications open in September and are reviewed on a rolling basis as they are completed
Priority Deadline for Scholarship Consideration: April 15
Final Application Deadline (Extended): July 15

Format

In-person classes held on our Orange campus.

Start semesters

Spring: Mid January
Summer: Early June
Fall: Mid August

Scholarships Available

Scholarships are available and are awarded to qualifying students upon admission. Chapman scholarships are typically renewed through strong academic performance.

Learn From Leaders in Law

Ready to launch your career in the legal profession? With hands-on experience, dedicated faculty and exceptional career support, you’ll be prepared to pass the bar and make an impact from day one. Fill out the form to connect with our team and receive more information on application requirements and upcoming information sessions.

Hear from our Students/Alumni

Jodee Storm Sullivan

JD '24

I was drawn to the Fowler School of Law by the Entertainment Certificate because it allowed me to take classes specializing in entertainment and sports law. From learning about intellectual property to drafting contracts specifically for the entertainment industry, I gained valuable skills that allowed me to have an impact on day one of my work in the industry.

Matthew Goethals

JD '20

Spending the summer in Cambridge was one of the best decisions I ever made during law school. The combination of interesting classes, endless travel options, and a great group of people add up to an amazing experience. Learning about English and European law is fascinating and made me feel more informed about what is going on in the world.

Samantha Bigonger

JD '12

Chapman's Bar Prep Program gets each participant prepared and ultimately more comfortable with taking the biggest examination of their lives.

Silgai Mohmand

JD '21

I chose Chapman because of the positive atmosphere. For me, having a supportive and open-minded school was important. I also loved the emphasis on the practice-oriented learning because I wanted to leave law school feeling ready to enter the workplace. Chapman offered all these things for me. As soon as I walked in, I felt at home.

Faculty Spotlights

Our distinguished faculty bring research expertise and a commitment to mentorship, guiding students to connect theory with real-world impact.

Dr. Richard Redding

Professor, Associate Dean for Academic Affairs

Expertise: Juvenile Offenders, Mentally III Offenders; Legal Education; Use of Social Science in Law and Public Policy; Scientific Evidence

Dr. Deepa Badrinarayana

Professor, Associate Dean for Research and Faculty Development

Expertise: Torts; Environmental Law; Comparative and International Law; India’s Legal System;

Lan Cao

Professor; Betty Hutton Williams Professor of International Economic Law

Expertise: International Business; International Trade; Corporate Law; Economic Development; Rule of Law

Dr. Thomas Campbell

Professor, Doy and Dee Henley Distinguished Professor of Jurisprudence

Expertise: Antitrust; Federal Trade Commission; Separation of Powers; Economics and the Law; Politics

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Career Outcomes

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the program tuition?

Full-time (12 – 16 credits): $65,020 per annum
Overload Charge (over 16 credits): $2,165 per credit

Student Bar Association Fee: $75

Are financial aid or scholarships offered?

Yes, Chapman’s Fowler School of Law provides various financial aid options, including scholarships and federal student aid. Fill out the form to connect with our team and learn which options are available to you.

What is the best "pre-law" curriculum for law school?

There is no single pre-law program that best prepares students for law school. Programs that require you to think logically, analyze issues, propose possible resolutions, and develop strong writing skills will be of benefit to students in their legal studies.

Does Chapman allow students to work while in law school?

During your first year of law school we strongly advise against work. After the first year, many students balance law school, work, internships, etc. We do understand that circumstances may require a student to work; however, students should work as few hours as possible.

How accessible are the law professors at Chapman?

Where is Chapman University located?

Chapman University is located in the City of Orange, California, near historic Old Towne Orange. Our beautiful campus is centrally located in Orange County, a short distance from the 5, 55, 22, and 91 freeways.