Law for the Community and the World.
Earn your JD with flexible study options.

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A top 4 U.S. Environmental Law School
Residential and online hybrid options
Financial aid available
Over 60+ courses in environmental law

Pursue a JD at your pace and make a lasting difference.

A law degree from Vermont Law and Graduate School represents more than just academic achievement—it's a testament to your unwavering dedication and commitment to leveraging the power of law to effect meaningful change in society and the environment.

When you earn a JD degree from Vermont Law and Graduate School, you're not just beginning your legal education. You're igniting your passion, aligning your career trajectory with your goals, and becoming a catalyst for change in your community and beyond. Whether you're aiming to expedite your legal education, or require a more gradual approach due to familial or professional obligations, our programs cater to your needs.

Find the JD program that fits your needs.

  • Online Hybrid JD
    Delivered through a mixture of online classes and three brief, in-person residential sessions, the Online Hybrid JD offers the same rigorous legal education as our residential JD, but with flexibility that allows you to earn a law degree without giving up your ability to earn an income or moving to Vermont.
  • Traditional Three-Year JD Program
    This is the JD track most students choose when entering law school. You will complete your studies over the course of three academic years, attending classes in the fall and spring semesters.
  • Accelerated Juris Doctor (AJD)
    This option allows you to earn a JD degree in less time and reduce costs associated with living expenses while enrolled.
  • Extended Four-Year JD Program
    If you have family, work, or life circumstances that preclude you from enrolling in the full three-year program, this option provides the opportunity to take fewer credits per semester and graduate in four academic years.
  • Reduced Residency Juris Doctor (RRJD)
    This program offers a more flexible way to earn a JD with the opportunity to finish your JD degree online, perhaps while working, while gaining practical legal experience and building your professional network.

Become a leader in law.

While preparing for general practice in all 50 states, you’ll develop the knowledge and acquire the skills needed for leadership in your chosen field. With our range of programs and specializations, Vermont Law and Graduate School ensures that you will find a pathway suited to both your lifestyle and legal interests.

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Program Highlights

Ranked the #4 Environmental Law School by U.S. News and World Report

Expert Faculty: Learn from a diverse team of legal professionals and justice experts who bring real-world experience and cutting-edge insights into the classroom.

Practical Skills Development: Gain practical experience and the necessary tools to make change in the justice system.

Inclusive Approach: We prioritize inclusive policy-making, embrace diverse perspectives, and foster collaborative solutions.

Classroom to Courtroom: We prepare you for the bar and general practice in any of the 50 states.

60+ courses in environmental law, more than any other school in the nation

Cutting-Edge Curriculum

Our core curriculum focuses on legal doctrine and analysis, emphasizes the broader social context of the law, and provides education in the skills and values required for effective law practice.

A Degree That Leads to Your Dream Career

Vermont Law and Graduate School graduates are the leaders, policymakers, and professionals our communities and our world most desperately need. Our JD concentrations and specializations include:

• Animal Law
• Business Law
• China and Southeast Asia
• Climate Law
• Criminal Law
• Dispute Resolution
• Environmental Law
• Energy Law
• Food and Agricultural Law
• International and Comparative Law
• Land Use Law
• Legal Writing
• Restorative Justice
• Tax Law and Policy
• Water Resources Law
• And more

About the Dean

Vermont Law School Dean Beth McCormack

Dean McCormack was a litigator at Mintz, Levin, Cohn, Ferris, Glovsky and Popeo, P.C. from 2001 to 2011. She specialized in commercial litigation and construction law, handling state and federal cases as well as arbitration. With a JD cum laude from Boston University School of Law, she later became an adjunct professor there, teaching Legal Research and Writing, while also serving as a special assistant district attorney.

Career Planning and Networking

As a student, you will build meaningful relationships that will support your career growth and professional development and have access to:

  • Personal Career Counselor
  • Mentorship
  • Career Events
  • Networking and Alumni Connections
  • Externship and Job Searches

Policy and environmental leaders in Vermont

Founded in 1972, Vermont Law and Graduate School takes pride in a history of developing leaders who make a difference in communities around the world, harnessing the power of the law and public policy.

U.S. News and World Report consistently ranks Vermont Law and Graduate School as one of the top environmental law programs.

Vermont Law and Graduate School is approved by the Council of the Section of Legal Education and Admissions to the Bar of the American Bar Association, 321 North Clark Street, Chicago, IL 60654, 312-988-6738.

Accreditation: Vermont Law and Graduate School's master's program is regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).

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