The program of study for the Juris Doctor degree requires a minimum of 87 units. Some core courses are required (including all the courses in the first year), others are recommended, and some others are electives. The program is designed to be completed in as little as 3 academic years (2 semesters per year) of full-time study, or in as little as 4 years of part-time study. Full-time students typically enroll for 15 units per semester and are not required to take summer classes. Part-time students take 9 or 10 units per semester and normally 5 units in the summer to complete the program in as little as 4 years. It may be possible to take additional units in the summer session.

Since students in good standing may petition to switch from the full-time to the part-time program or vice versa before the start of the academic year, this will affect their course load and time to complete the degree