Career roadmap
How to Become a Law Professor
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a law professor, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a law professor: (1) earn a bachelor’s, (2) earn a J.D., (3) clerk or practice, (4) write scholarship, (5) go on the AALS market. Most people need about 7+ years after high school plus experience. BLS lists “doctoral or professional degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a law professor
Earn a bachelor’s
Any field.
Earn a J.D.
Law school.
Clerk or practice
Experience.
Write scholarship
Publish articles.
Go on the AALS market
Get hired.
Education and training requirements
A Juris Doctor (J.D.) is required, often with strong grades, clerkships, practice experience or a Ph.D.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Doctoral or professional degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | Less than 5 years |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | 7+ years after high school plus experience |
Certifications and licenses
- J.D.: Juris Doctor.
- Bar admission: Required for clinical faculty.
- Judicial clerkship: Common path.
- LL.M. or Ph.D.: Advanced degrees.
Skills to build now
Start with legal expertise, socratic teaching, and legal writing, and practice public speaking and critical thinking. Learning the law professor vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Fellow or Visiting Professor: Enter teaching.
- Assistant Professor: Tenure track.
- Associate Professor: Tenure.
- Professor or Dean: Lead law schools.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Law Professor training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
How long does it take to become a law professor?
Most people need about 7+ years after high school plus experience of training. A Juris Doctor (J.D.) is required, often with strong grades, clerkships, practice experience or a Ph.D.
Do you need a degree to be a law professor?
Yes. Law professors need a J.D., a professional doctorate, and law schools usually look for clerkships, practice experience or a Ph.D. as well.
What certifications are available for law professors?
Common credentials include J.D., Bar admission, Judicial clerkship, and LL.M. or Ph.D.. Clinical law faculty who represent clients must be admitted to the bar.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 25-1112 (Law teachers, postsecondary).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Law teachers, postsecondary (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.