| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Law & Legal Studies | |
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Law & Legal Studies | |
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
Location: San Diego, California, USA
Founded: Originally in 1969 (as Western State University College of Law; became Thomas Jefferson School of Law in 1995)
Type: Private, independent law school
Accreditation:
Currently not accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA)
It is accredited by the State Bar of California's Committee of Bar Examiners (CBE)
TJSL offers several law-related academic programs:
Juris Doctor (J.D.) – The main law degree, available in full-time and part-time formats
LL.M. (Master of Laws) – For international students and practicing lawyers
Online Graduate Programs – Including an online LL.M. and M.S.L. (Master of Science of Law)
California: Graduates are eligible to sit for the California Bar Exam
Other States: Since it's not ABA-accredited, graduates may not qualify to take the bar exam in most other U.S. states without additional steps or experience
Known for focusing on diverse, non-traditional students
Offers flexible online and evening programs, appealing to working adults
The school faced financial and accreditation challenges in the past, including losing ABA accreditation in 2019
Still operates under California accreditation, which allows it to legally confer J.D. degrees in the state
The J.D. is the main professional degree for those intending to practice law.
Flexible Scheduling: Full-time and part-time options available
Curriculum includes:
Civil Procedure
Contracts
Constitutional Law
Criminal Law & Procedure
Property Law
Torts
Legal Writing and Research
Professional Responsibility
Electives in areas like Intellectual Property, Business Law, Criminal Law, Family Law, and more
Graduates are eligible to take the California Bar Exam
An advanced law degree for:
U.S. attorneys seeking specialization
International law graduates wanting to study U.S. law
Tracks/Focus areas:
American Legal Studies (especially for foreign lawyers)
Practice areas like Business Law, Criminal Law, Intellectual Property
Completion of this program can help foreign-trained lawyers qualify for the California Bar Exam
Designed for professionals who want legal knowledge without becoming a practicing attorney
Typically for business professionals, entrepreneurs, compliance officers, etc.
Can be completed 100% online
Areas of concentration may include:
Compliance
Financial Services Law
Intellectual Property
Cybersecurity & Data Privacy
TJSL has expanded online offerings in recent years:
Online LL.M. and M.S.L. programs
Flexible and designed for working professionals
Entirely remote, asynchronous options
Real-world experience in legal clinics and externships with courts, law firms, and nonprofits
Examples:
Veterans Legal Assistance Clinic
Criminal Defense Clinic
Small Business Law Center
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Juris Doctor (J.D.) – Full-Time |
3 years |
~$38,700 |
|
Juris Doctor (J.D.) – Part-Time |
4 years |
~$29,000 – $32,000 |
|
LL.M. (Master of Laws) |
1 year (full-time) |
~$19,500 |
|
M.S.L. (Master of Science of Law) |
1 year (full-time, online) |
~$16,800 |
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
LL.M. in American Legal Studies |
1 year (full-time) |
~$19,500 |
|
LL.M. in Practice Area Concentration* |
1 year (full-time) |
~$19,500 |
|
M.S.L. (Master of Science of Law) – Online |
1 year (full-time, online) |
~$16,800 |
Thomas Jefferson School of Law in San Diego, California, welcomes international students, especially at the graduate level. It offers flexible learning options, online programs, and bar-exam-eligible pathways.
Program Name |
Description |
|---|---|
|
LL.M. in American Legal Studies |
For foreign-trained lawyers to learn U.S. law and become eligible for the California Bar Exam |
|
LL.M. with Practice Area Concentration |
Specialize in areas like Business Law, Intellectual Property, or Criminal Law |
|
M.S.L. (Master of Science of Law) |
For non-lawyers seeking legal knowledge relevant to their career (available online) |
|
Juris Doctor (J.D.) |
International students with a bachelor’s degree (equivalent) can apply. Bar-exam eligible in California |
LL.M. – 1 year (full-time)
M.S.L. – 1 year (full-time or part-time, online)
J.D. – 3 years (full-time), 4 years (part-time)
California Bar Exam Eligibility (LL.M. & J.D. graduates)
Online options available for M.S.L. and LL.M. (especially useful for students who wish to study remotely)
Located in downtown San Diego, a vibrant coastal city
Support services for international students: academic advising, immigration support, and career counseling
Recognized first degree in law (for LL.M.)
Bachelor’s degree in any field (for M.S.L.)
English proficiency (TOEFL iBT ~80+ or IELTS 6.5+)
Transcripts and credential evaluation (e.g., through WES or LSAC)
Statement of purpose, resume/CV, and letters of recommendation
TJSL is authorized to issue Form I-20 for the F-1 student visa
Designated school officials (DSOs) assist students with:
Visa application process
Maintaining visa status
Optional Practical Training (OPT) options after graduation
TJSL offers admissions primarily for its graduate-level law programs: Juris Doctor (J.D.), Master of Laws (LL.M.), and Master of Science of Law (M.S.L.).
Program |
Who It’s For |
|---|---|
|
J.D. |
Aspiring U.S. or international lawyers (California bar-eligible) |
|
LL.M. |
Foreign-trained lawyers or U.S. attorneys seeking specialization |
|
M.S.L. |
Non-lawyers who want legal knowledge (business, HR, tech, etc.) |
Bachelor’s degree (any major)
LSAT or GRE scores (Check with TJSL if GRE is accepted for your cycle)
Transcripts
Personal statement
Resume/CV
Letters of recommendation (usually 1–2)
Application through LSAC.org
First degree in law (e.g., LL.B. or equivalent)
Transcripts (translated & evaluated for international degrees)
English proficiency: TOEFL iBT 80+ / IELTS 6.5+
Resume/CV
Statement of purpose
Letters of recommendation
Bachelor’s degree in any field
No LSAT/GRE required
Resume & personal statement
English proficiency (for international students)
Program |
How to Apply |
|---|---|
|
J.D. |
Via |
|
LL.M. & M.S.L. |
Directly through the or via email admissions |
Application Deadlines:
TJSL has rolling admissions, meaning applications are accepted year-round until spaces are filled.
Fee is usually around $35–$50, depending on the program
Some programs may waive the fee during certain application cycles
Typical processing time: 2–6 weeks
Admitted students receive:
Admission letter
Visa documentation info (for international students)
Instructions for enrollment and tuition payment
Once admitted, TJSL will issue Form I-20
Use this to apply for your F-1 Student Visa at a U.S. Embassy/Consulate
Merit-based scholarships available for qualified applicants
U.S. students may apply for federal student loans
Some aid options available for international students, including payment plans
TJSL operates on a rolling admissions basis, meaning applications are accepted year-round until programs are full. However, there are typically three main intakes each year:
Semester |
Intake Month |
Application Deadline (Recommended) |
|---|---|---|
|
Fall Semester |
August |
June – July |
|
Spring Semester |
January |
November – December |
|
Summer Semester |
May |
March – April |
International students are advised to apply early to allow time for visa processing.
Requirement |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Educational Background |
Bachelor’s degree (in any field) from an accredited institution |
|
Test Scores |
LSAT required (via LSAC) |
|
GPA |
No minimum, but competitive applicants usually have 2.5+ GPA |
|
English Proficiency (Intl.) |
TOEFL iBT 80+ or IELTS 6.5+ (if applicable) |
|
Other |
Personal statement, resume, and 1–2 letters of recommendation |
Requirement |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Educational Background |
First law degree (LL.B. or equivalent) from a recognized institution |
|
Bar Exam Eligibility |
LL.M. in American Legal Studies may help international lawyers qualify for the California Bar |
|
English Proficiency (Intl.) |
TOEFL iBT 80+ or IELTS 6.5+ |
|
Other |
Resume, personal statement, letters of recommendation |
Requirement |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Educational Background |
Bachelor’s degree in any field |
|
LSAT/GRE Required? |
Not required |
|
English Proficiency (Intl.) |
TOEFL iBT 80+ or IELTS 6.5+ |
|
Other |
Resume, personal statement |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Coverage / Amount |
Type |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Merit-Based Scholarship |
High GPA or LSAT (J.D. applicants) |
Partial tuition (amount varies) |
Automatic/Considered at admission |
|
Dean’s Scholarship |
Exceptional academic record or professional background |
Up to 50% tuition |
Competitive (J.D./LL.M./M.S.L.) |
|
Need-Based Grant |
Demonstrated financial need |
(usually partial tuition aid) |
Requires FAFSA (U.S. citizens) |
|
Diversity Scholarship |
Underrepresented groups in legal profession |
N/A |
Competitive |
|
International Student Scholarship |
Outstanding international applicants (LL.M. or M.S.L.) |
Partial tuition discount |
Case-by-case |
|
Alumni Referral Scholarship |
Referred by a TJSL alumnus |
One-time tuition credit |
Confirmed via alumni contact |
|
Veterans Benefits / Yellow Ribbon |
U.S. Military veterans (Post-9/11 GI Bill eligible) |
Up to full tuition (based on eligibility) |
External/VA-administered |
Facility Type |
Details |
Estimated Cost (USD/Month) |
|---|---|---|
|
Campus Location |
Downtown San Diego, California (Urban, walkable, near courthouses, transit, and housing) |
– |
|
On-Campus Housing |
No on-campus housing available |
– |
|
Off-Campus Housing (Apartments) |
Nearby studio or 1-bedroom apartments within walking distance or via public transit |
$1,500 – $2,200 |
|
Shared Housing / Roommates |
Shared apartments with other students (2–4 bedroom units) |
$800 – $1,200 per student |
|
Student Housing Services |
Assistance with finding housing through referrals, listings, and student forums |
Included with enrollment |
|
Furnished Options |
Available via private rentals or extended-stay options near campus |
+$100 – $300 extra/month |
|
Utilities (Internet, etc.) |
Not included in rent; varies by building |
$100 – $200 |
|
Temporary Housing (Short-Term) |
Nearby hotels, Airbnb, or extended stays for visiting students or short-term stays |
$100 – $180 per night |
Facility |
Description |
|---|---|
|
Law Library |
Extensive digital and physical legal research resources |
|
Tech Access |
Free Wi-Fi, computer labs, printing facilities |
|
Courtroom |
Mock trial courtroom for practical training |
|
Student Lounge |
Common areas for study, meetings, and socializing |
|
Café / Dining |
No dining hall, but cafes, food courts, and restaurants are nearby downtown |
|
Parking |
Paid parking available in nearby garages or street lots |
Student life at TJSL is centered around a focused, career-oriented legal education. The school has a smaller, more intimate student body, which creates a tight-knit community. Professors are accessible, and the school places a strong emphasis on practical skills through clinics, externships, and hands-on learning.
Courses are rigorous, but the schedule is flexible — with options for full-time, part-time, evening, and even online classes. This flexibility makes it a popular choice for working professionals and non-traditional students.
TJSL is known for its diverse student body, welcoming students from various cultural, ethnic, and professional backgrounds, including international students. There's a strong sense of inclusivity and mutual support, both inside and outside the classroom.
There are several active student organizations and law societies that help students connect, network, and get involved beyond academics. Some of these include:
Student Bar Association (SBA)
Black Law Students Association (BLSA)
International Law Society
Criminal Law Society
Women's Law Association
Veteran Law Students Association
These groups host panels, mixers, guest lectures, volunteer activities, and mock trials — all of which enrich the law school experience.
Being located in downtown San Diego is a huge bonus. Students are close to legal hubs, government offices, and top law firms — making it easy to access internships, externships, and networking events.
Outside of school, San Diego offers beaches, parks, nightlife, art, and an overall laid-back coastal vibe. Many students enjoy weekend trips to places like La Jolla, Coronado, or even quick visits to Los Angeles or Mexico.
TJSL has a dedicated Career Services Office that helps students with:
Resume building
Interview coaching
Job and internship placement
Bar prep support
Networking opportunities with alumni and legal professionals
The school promotes student wellness through counseling services, mental health workshops, and bar exam stress management resources. The academic support team also offers tutoring and mentoring programs, especially helpful for first-year students and bar exam prep.
TJSL has a Career Services Office dedicated to helping students and alumni with:
Resume & cover letter preparation
Mock interviews & networking workshops
Job search assistance
Internship and externship placements
Bar exam preparation support
Career counseling and mentorship
Due to its non-ABA accreditation, TJSL has more limited placement in large national firms, but it remains a viable path for those intending to practice within California, especially in:
Small to mid-size law firms
Public interest organizations
Government agencies
Criminal defense and prosecution
Solo practice or legal consulting
Corporate or compliance roles (especially for M.S.L. grads)
Bar Exam Eligibility: Graduates are eligible for the California Bar Exam
Bar Passage Support: TJSL offers personalized bar prep programs
Bar Passage Rate: Historically lower than national average (around 30–50%), though it varies by year
Graduates who pass the California bar often find roles in:
Family law
Criminal law
Immigration law
Personal injury law
Public defense
LL.M. graduates (especially international students) may pursue:
Legal internships
Government or NGO legal work
In-house counsel roles in multinational companies
Teaching or further academic study
M.S.L. graduates typically use their legal knowledge in:
Business
Compliance
Real estate
Finance
Healthcare and tech sectors
Most job placements are in California, especially:
San Diego
Los Angeles
San Francisco
Other Southern California regions
Because TJSL is not ABA-accredited, employment options outside of California may be more limited unless students meet bar or experience requirements in other states.
TJSL also connects students with a network of alumni practicing throughout California and beyond. Students can participate in:
Law school career fairs
On-campus interviews
Legal networking events
Local bar association events
While Thomas Jefferson School of Law may not have placement stats as strong as top-tier or ABA-accredited law schools, it serves a unique niche for students seeking a legal career in California, with practical training, flexible options, and solid career support.
The acceptance rate at Thomas Jefferson School of Law is generally high, estimated to be around 60% to 80%, depending on the admission cycle.
Open and inclusive admissions policy – TJSL is known for giving opportunities to a diverse range of students, including non-traditional and international applicants.
The school evaluates applicants holistically, considering:
Undergraduate GPA
LSAT score (for J.D. applicants)
Personal statement
Work experience
Letters of recommendation
For LL.M. and M.S.L. programs, the acceptance rate is often even higher due to less restrictive entry requirements (no LSAT needed).
More accessible than highly competitive, ABA-accredited law schools
Offers a chance for students with modest academic records or career changers to pursue legal education
Still requires strong personal statements and a clear career plan to stand out
Address:
Thomas Jefferson School of Law
701 B Street, Suite 110
San Diego, California 92101
United States
The campus is located in the heart of downtown San Diego, one of California’s largest and most vibrant coastal cities.
It’s close to:
Federal and state courthouses
Major law firms and government offices
Public transportation (trolley & bus lines)
Cafés, restaurants, and student housing options
Being downtown provides easy access to internships, clerkships, and legal networking events.
The San Diego area offers a great quality of life, with beaches, cultural events, parks, and entertainment all nearby.
The urban setting makes it ideal for law students looking to build professional connections while enjoying everything Southern California has to offer.
