Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Legal Education Partner in California
For over 50 years, Ventura College Of Law has pioneered accessible legal education, empowering a diverse student body to become civically engaged legal professionals. Our programs, including the Juris Doctor (J.D.), Hybrid J.D., and Master of Business, Law, and Technology, emphasize practical skills taught by practicing judges, attorneys, and elected officials. With campuses in Santa Barbara and Ventura, California, and fully online options, we prioritize affordability, flexibility, and community impact.Our graduates, equipped with cultural competence and real-world experience, excel in law and related fields while upholding the rule of law. Accredited by the Committee of Bar Examiners of the State Bar of California and regionally by WSCUC, we remain committed to democratizing legal education through innovative teaching and inclusive policies.
Services
Juris Doctor
Hybrid Juris Doctor
Master of Business Law and Technology
Business Operations Certificate
Emerging Law Certificate
Entrepreneurship Certificate
Technology Certificate
Details
- Year established: 1969
Highlights and features
- We offer affordable tuition rates and scholarships to reduce student debt.
- Our faculty includes practicing judges, lawyers, and elected officials with decades of experience.
- Flexible programs: Evening J.D., Hybrid J.D., and 100% online Master of Business, Law, and Technology.
- Diverse student body reflecting 50% women and 60% underrepresented minorities.
- Graduates receive hands-on experience through internships and international study opportunities.
Associations and certifications
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
- Committee of Bar Examiners of the State Bar of California
What people say
Accessible legal education
Supportive faculty
Career success
Diverse student body
Hands-on experience
Services
Juris Doctor
Our Juris Doctor program prepares students for the California Bar Exam through a collaborative curriculum emphasizing legal theory, practical skills, and civic responsibility. Students learn from practicing attorneys and judges, gaining hands-on experience via internships and externships. Graduates enter the legal profession equipped to advocate for diverse clients and communities while upholding ethical standards.
Hybrid Juris Doctor
The Hybrid J.D. combines online learning with monthly in-person residencies, focusing on 'Lawyering Skills' for immediate professional application. Designed for students needing flexibility, this program maintains rigorous academic standards while accommodating work and family commitments through its innovative blended format.
Master of Business, Law, and Technology
This 100% online graduate program develops leadership skills for careers at the intersection of business, law, and technology. Concentrations in entrepreneurship, emerging law, and technology prepare professionals to navigate complex regulatory environments while driving innovation in corporate, legal, or tech sectors.
Professional Certificates
Our professional certificates in Business Operations, Emerging Law, Entrepreneurship, and Technology provide focused expertise for legal and business professionals. These programs enhance career opportunities by addressing current industry trends and equipping students with specialized knowledge applicable to evolving legal and corporate landscapes.
Experiential Learning
Students gain real-world experience through internships, directed research projects, and international study opportunities. These hands-on learning experiences, supervised by legal professionals, bridge classroom theory with practical application, preparing graduates for immediate contributions to the legal field.
People
Matthew Nehmer, Ph.D.
President
Dr. Nehmer leads Ventura College Of Law with over 20 years of experience in higher education administration. He champions accessible legal education while maintaining academic excellence and community engagement through strategic innovation.
Brandy Price, J.D.
Dean & Chief Academic Officer
Dean Price oversees academic operations with a focus on curriculum development and faculty support. Her legal expertise and commitment to student success ensure programs align with evolving industry standards and student needs.
Erica Bristol, J.D.
Trustee & Professor
Professor Bristol teaches intellectual property law and directs the school's mediation program. With extensive legal practice experience, she bridges academic instruction with real-world applications for students pursuing IP law careers.
Jennifer Mertus, J.D.
Internship Director
As Internship Director, Mertus connects students with practical legal experience opportunities. Her focus on professional development ensures students gain valuable skills through supervised internships with judges, attorneys, and legal organizations.
Casey Summar, J.D.
Vice Chair, Board of Trustees
Attorney Summar contributes strategic governance expertise as Vice Chair. Her nonprofit law practice and adjunct professorship at Vanderbilt Law School reinforce the institution's commitment to legal education excellence and community service.
Questions
Is The Colleges of Law accredited?
Yes, we are regionally accredited by WSCUC and approved by the California State Bar Committee of Bar Examiners.
Can I practice law outside California with your J.D.?
Our J.D. qualifies graduates for the California Bar Exam but may not meet requirements for other states.
What financial aid options exist?
We offer scholarships, federal loans, and Title IV financial aid for eligible students.
Do you offer online programs?
Yes, including the 100% online Master of Business, Law, and Technology and Hybrid J.D. programs.
What career support services are available?
Our graduates access networking opportunities, internships, and alumni mentorship in legal and related fields.
