Elon University Is Preparing Its Nationally Recognized Law Program For Charlotte
Elon University has announced plans to further expand its legal education presence in Charlotte and has applied to the American Bar Association for approval to launch an additional full-time law program, with classes planned to begin in Fall 2027.
Once the additional program is approved and launched, Elon Law will offer three North Carolina-based options for law students:
- A full-time, 2.5-year Juris Doctor program in Charlotte
- A part-time, 4-year Elon Law Flex Program in Charlotte
- A full-time, 2.5-year Juris Doctor program in Greensboro
“The need for graduate and professional programs in one of our nation’s fastest-growing cities makes the launch of a full-time law program a natural next step for Elon Law,” said Elon University President Connie Ledoux Book. “Elon University is deeply committed to serving the Charlotte community by introducing new and innovative programs that enhance educational offerings for professionals and address the expressed needs of the region.”
The new full-time J.D. program in Charlotte will mirror Elon Law’s existing, nationally recognized curriculum and successful approach to experiential learning. It also will expand the reach of the school’s robust law alumni network in a metropolitan region where a significant number of Elon Law graduates live and practice.
With the launch of this additional program, Elon Law will have a full-time presence in two cities that are home to influential federal courts — the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of North Carolina in Greensboro, and the U.S. District Court for the Western District of North Carolina in Charlotte — as well as the state court system; federal, state and municipal government agencies; and nonprofits that provide legal services to underserved communities.
The full-time Elon Law program plans to enroll a class of about 75 students, a size that allows Elon Law to strategically develop partnerships with Charlotte’s legal community and provide options for future growth. Elon Law students in Charlotte will complete a full-time, course-connected residency-in-practice with a practicing attorney or judge during their second year.
“Elon Law’s advantage is that our students learn the law by practicing it in the community,” said Zak Kramer, dean of Elon University School of Law. “We’ve been part of Charlotte for years. This is about deepening those relationships, building new ones and doing more through the community-connected model we’ve developed in Greensboro.”
Beginning in Fall 2027, Elon Law plans to operate both of its law programs from the Queens University of Charlotte campus, either upon completion of the planned merger of the two institutions or through a lease agreement.
Applications will be accepted starting in August 2026. Per ABA requirements, offers of admission will not be extended until formal permission is granted.