Detroit Mercy Law Launches Innovative Fully Online JD Program, Set to Debut in 2026
On September 11, 2025, the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law announced the launch of its fully online Juris Doctor (JD) program, marking a significant expansion in accessible legal education amid growing demand for flexible options in the post-pandemic era. The program, the first of its kind offered by a Jesuit law school in Michigan, aims to accommodate working professionals, non-traditional students, and those in remote areas, while maintaining the rigorous standards of an ABA-accredited degree. Classes are scheduled to begin in Fall 2026, with applications opening in early 2025.
Program Highlights and Structure
The online JD is designed to mirror the on-campus experience, spanning three years (or four for part-time students) and requiring 86 credit hours. Key features include:
- Curriculum: Core courses in constitutional law, contracts, torts, civil procedure, and legal research, alongside electives in areas like intellectual property, environmental law, and health law. The program emphasizes practical skills through simulated courtrooms, virtual clinics, and externships with partner organizations.
- Flexibility: Asynchronous lectures allow self-paced learning, with synchronous sessions for discussions and exams. No residency requirements, though students must complete 50 hours of pro bono work and pass the bar exam in an eligible jurisdiction.
- Technology and Support: Powered by a custom learning management system integrated with AI tools for case analysis and Zoom for real-time interactions. Faculty from Detroit Mercy’s established JD program will teach, ensuring continuity in quality.
- Tuition and Aid: Estimated at $1,200 per credit hour (total ~$103,200), with scholarships available for underrepresented groups and merit-based applicants. Financial aid options include federal loans, and the school plans to offer employer partnerships for tuition reimbursement.
Dean Matthew R. Cunningham stated, “This program democratizes access to legal education without compromising our commitment to ethical, justice-oriented training. In a world where lawyers must adapt to remote work and diverse needs, our online JD prepares graduates to thrive anywhere.” The initiative aligns with the school’s Jesuit mission, focusing on social justice and community service.
Accreditation and Eligibility
The program has received provisional approval from the American Bar Association (ABA), with full accreditation anticipated by 2027 pending successful reviews. Graduates will be eligible to sit for the bar exam in most states, though Michigan’s Board of Law Examiners requires character and fitness evaluations. Admission criteria include a bachelor’s degree (any major), LSAT or GRE scores, and a personal statement; no prior legal experience needed.
Broader Context and Demand
Detroit Mercy Law, founded in 1896 and known for its strong bar passage rate (85% in 2024) and employment outcomes (90% within 10 months), joins a growing list of law schools offering online JDs. Pioneers like Mitchell Hamline and St. Mary’s have seen enrollments rise 30-50% since 2020, driven by the gig economy, delayed careers, and regional shortages of lawyers in underserved areas. In Michigan, where the legal workforce is aging (average age 52), this program addresses access gaps, particularly for first-generation and minority students.
The announcement has generated buzz on social media, with law school admissions forums on Reddit and LinkedIn praising the affordability and flexibility compared to traditional programs costing $150,000+. Prospective students can attend virtual info sessions starting October 2025 via the school’s website. This launch positions Detroit Mercy as a leader in hybrid legal education, potentially influencing other Catholic and mid-tier law schools to follow suit.