2-year JD students take the same courses, gain the same experiential education, participate in the same activities and meet the same requirements for graduation as students in the traditional JD program. The difference is that 2-year students take courses at a more intensive pace, taking up to 17 credits per semester for six consecutive semesters; the summer, fall, and spring semesters over two years. As a result, 2-year students are eligible to take the bar exam after two years: one full year earlier than students who complete the 3-year JD. Because the 2-year program is considerably more intense, we seek students who bring academic credentials or life experiences that suggest they will be very likely to succeed in this special cohort.

Students can complete their JD in two years, enabling them to enter the job market a year earlier than students who pursue a traditional 3-year JD. As a result, the length of time they spend as a full-time student with limited earning power is substantially reduced.

Yes. Just indicate on the application you are applying to the 2-year JD program, and you will automatically also be considered for the 3-year JD. If you are admitted into the 2-year JD program and would like to be considered for the 3-year program, please email lawadmissions@drexel.edu. The Admissions Committee will review your request to change programs.

Students seeking admission to the 2-year program should apply by the priority deadline of January 15th. We will accept applications after January 15th but cannot guarantee there will be space left in the program.

Students who are not accepted into the 2-year program will be considered for fall admission with other applicants for the 3-year JD program.

Yes. 2-year students are eligible to receive all of the merit scholarship funds available to other students at the law school.

Students may “decelerate” from the 2-year program with the approval of the Dean of Students. This change must be made no later than the third term of the program.