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JD Curriculum

Our curriculum at Thomas Jefferson School of Law provides the foundation you need for a successful legal career. It includes required classes covering each subject tested on the California Bar Exam and classes specifically focused on the skills needed to excel on two of the bar exam’s critical components.

The law school offers flexible opportunities to take class live (full- or part-time and during the day or in the evening). Or, take classes through our online JD program that enables students throughout the state to study on the same academic calendar.

To learn what classes you would take in your first semester and beyond, explore our JD Program of Study. For detailed information about individual classes, visit our course offerings.

More detailed information can be found in our JD Student Handbook.

Academic Specialties & Fellowships

The law school offers a wide array of electives geared towards popular practice areas including criminal law as well as intellectual property, sports, and entertainment law.

For students interested in focusing on these areas, the law school offers exciting, enriching fellowship programs.

“The non-profit clinic gave me a remarkable opportunity to work closely with and learn from a licensed tax attorney. Working in the clinic has provided insight into what to expect when working in a law firm atmosphere and using law firm systems. From tracking billable hours, managing client files, and communicating with government agencies, these real-world experiences prepared me to excel in my internships and set me up for lawyering success. Most valuably, through my experience in the clinic, I discovered the area of law I want to practice after I graduate.”

Daylen Siseroz, Alumnus ’23

“The Patent Program at Thomas Jefferson School of Law provided me with invaluable experience working with clients, drafting patent applications, and handling filings on EFS Web. This experience set me apart from other young professionals in the field of Intellectual Property law and allowed me to hit the ground running at my first job without having to go through the typical learning curve that most new hires face.”

Hollie Kucera,
Student in the Patent Clinic,
Electrical Engineer

“Participating in the Veterans Legal Assistance Clinic under the guidance of Professor Nicole D’Ambrogi was the highlight of my legal education. Under her supervision, the clinic functioned as a bona fide law firm providing the interns with hands-on legal experience. I gained practical skills I use every day in running my law firm, such as conducting client interviews, drafting pleadings, and advocating for my clients in court.”

Stephanie S. Germani, Esq., LL.M.
Attorney and Author

Excellent Faculty & Academic Program

Recognized for its distinguished faculty, virtually all of Thomas Jefferson School of Law professors have extensive practice experience in private firms or public entities including the White House, the State and Justice Departments, United States Attorney’s Offices, and Public Defenders.

Students study in innovative and personalized learning environments utilizing first-rate technology. The learning environment is enriched by a collaborative community known for its diverse student population.

Experiential Learning Opportunities

In addition to coursework, students can learn the skills needed to succeed in law practice, including clinics focused on litigation, business formation, and patent & trademark acquisition. Students compete against other schools in mock trials and other skills competitions.

Like the best law schools in California, TJSL has a student run law review, and the school’s externship program enables students to earn credit toward graduation by clerking for judges or working with an array of legal employers including the district attorney, public defender, city attorney, and numerous private firms.

All of these opportunities are available to students in the online JD program as well as to those on campus.

For residential students, Thomas Jefferson Law School’s downtown campus is just blocks from both the federal and state courthouses, closer than any other San Diego law school.

Strong Alumni Network

The law school has more than 7,000 graduates from its 50+ years of educating lawyers and leaders. The law school’s graduates are leaders in local, state, and federal government—including judges, prosecutors, and criminal defense lawyers, general counsel to nationwide companies, and passionate advocates for the most vulnerable in our community.

Your Law Degree Starts Here

A law degree from Thomas Jefferson School of Law is just the beginning. Join our more than 7,000 alumni and pursue your JD degree at one of the best law schools in California.

Apply Now