Academic Programs at Trinity Law School
Trinity Law School is a Christian law school. We are committed to the belief that Christianity should affect every aspect of life and business. This includes legal practice and public policy. Courses at Trinity Law School seek to provide a student not only with the same knowledge of the law they would obtain at a secular law school, but with an understanding of law and legal practice that is fully integrated with biblical principles and the Christian worldview. We want graduates of Trinity Law School to be equipped to effectively criticize current public policy and propose superior public policy alternatives. We want Trinity graduates to be equipped to defend their faith in the marketplace of ideas and, if necessary, in the courts. We want Trinity graduates to be able to aid those who are being oppressed, to free those unjustly condemned, and to work for justice in every level and aspect of society. We seek to instill in Trinity students the realization that law is a profession committed to the whole good of individuals and society, not just a trade or means to earn a living. This integrative approach takes place both in each class dedicated to an individual legal subject and in specialized classes such as Jurisprudence and Legal Institutions and Values that deal directly with philosophical and theological issues.
Required Curriculum
The academic calendar consists of two 15-week semesters each fall and spring with the option of additional summer courses. To graduate with a Juris Doctor degree from the full-time program, a student must complete three consecutive academic terms within five years. To graduate from the part-time program, a student must complete four consecutive academic terms within five years.
Full-time Students (Three-year Schedule)
Part-time Students (Four-year Schedule)
Degree Requirements
Trinity Law School confers the Juris Doctor degree upon its students who have met the admissions requirements and have satisfactorily completed the prescribed program of 90 units of study. In most cases, the degree will be conferred only upon students who have been in residence at Trinity Law School for at least the final four semesters. An average grade of C (2.00 on a scale of 4.00) or better is required in all work offered for the degree.
The following honors shall be awarded:
3.00 - 3.34 cum laude
3.35 - 3.69 magna cum laude
3.70 - 4.00 summa cum laude
In the case of transfer students, graduation honors will be calculated based on all units appearing on the Trinity record, including units transferred from other institutions. In no case, however, will the honors designation exceed that which would be granted based on Trinity Law School units alone.
Class Attendance
Regular class attendance is mandatory for all students. Students must attend at least 80% of the regularly scheduled class hours in each course to receive credit for the course. Only in emergency circumstances, may students arrange to make up class hours, and then only with the permission of the professor and upon petition to the Dean. Students are required to attend class prepared to actively participate.
Academic Advisement
Final responsibility for meeting degree requirements for graduation rests with each student. However, the law school seeks to provide information and academic assistance for each student to complete the Juris Doctor degree successfully. Academic advisement is provided through individually appointed academic advisors. Advisement forms listing all graduation requirements are available in the registrar's office.
Students with Disabilities
Any student with a disability requiring special arrangements will be accommodated upon petition, with supporting documentation of the handicap and upon approval of the Dean. Special accommodations will be carefully tailored to meet the documented need in accordance with the Trinity Law School disability policy.
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