Frequently Asked Questions
Taft Law School students use many of the same casebooks and textbooks as students at traditional universities such as Harvard, Stanford, and other American Bar Association approved law schools. In addition, Taft students benefit from professionally prepared course outlines, law summaries, and recorded lectures.
The case method, also often referred to as the Socratic method, is a method of learning first implemented by in the early 20th century by Harvard and Columbia law schools. The case method requires students examine (“brief”) and discuss actual court decisions. In recent years a growing number of legal educators have expressed dissatisfaction with this model. In 2007 the Carnegie Commission on Higher Education released a report which recommended sweeping changes in how law was taught. These recommendations included de-emphasizing the case method of instruction.
While the Carnegie report questioned the value of the case method in classroom programs, our experience has shown that it has even less value in a distance learning program. Historically the greater emphasis a distance law school places on the case method, the lower the bar examination pass rate. Most Taft Law School courses utilize “casebooks,” but of equal importance are treatises, outlines, recorded lectures and other study aids.
In required courses, there are no lengthy research or term papers. As a general rule, the final examination grade constitutes approximately 50% of the course grade. Final examinations, which must be proctored, generally consist of essay and multiple-choice questions patterned after prior California Bar Examination questions. The examinations are written and graded by faculty with years of experience in grading bar examination style questions.
Successful law students – and outstanding attorneys – have come from all walks of life and educational backgrounds. Consequently, Taft Law School does not prescribe a specific course of study or employment experience for admission. Any person who has the ability to learn, is well motivated, has reasonable writing skills, and possesses a logical mind has the basic tools necessary to become a successful Taft student and attorney.
No. The Program is designed to meet the requirements of the Committee of Bar Examiners of the State Bar of California. The Program consists of four academic years. The final examinations are taken during the 11th or 12th month of each academic year. For example, a student commencing study on July 1st of this year would take final examinations in May and June of next year.
Yes. A student may take a leave of absence between academic years. However, once study has commenced, the academic year must be completed within the 48 to 52 week time period unless special authorization is obtained from the School. All degree requirements must be satisfied within seven years from the date of original enrollment.
A common misconception about law school is that students must specialize in particular areas of the law while pursuing the first law degree. The volume of basic material essential to professional competence and required to pass the bar examination is too great to allow specialization within the JDAT℠ Program. A major focus is to prepare students for the California Bar Examination. For attorneys wishing to specialize in particular areas of the law, the Continuing Education of the Bar and many private organizations offer hundreds of outstanding programs annually.
Special grants-in-aid are available to outstanding prospects such as graduate degree holders and certain members of professional groups such as CPA’s, members of the military and law enforcement personnel. These grants are generally equal to 5% – 10% of the tuition. In addition, student loans are available to those who qualify. Up to date information on loan alternatives can be found on the Taft Law School website. (Tuition, Financial Aid and Financing.)
Yes. The School participates in the Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DANTES) Program. The DANTES Program provides tuition assistance to members of the military and their spouses.
First year students may commence formal study in January, April, July, or September. To allow sufficient time to obtain books and materials and initiate the login process, all enrollments must be finalized at least five business days before formal study can commence. An enrollment can be finalized only upon the receipt by the School of a properly executed Enrollment Agreement.
Only for the bar examinations. Academic and administrative procedures are carefully designed so that students can complete all requirements for graduation entirely through distance education without unreasonably disrupting their professional or family lives. Students may elect to take final examinations at one of over 363 approved testing sites. If a testing site is not convenient to a student, procedures are in place for the student to nominate a proctor.
