- 1). Obtain a bachelor's degree. In order to be admitted into a canon law program of study, you must have a 4-year degree. Many canon law students have degrees in theology, religion, pastoral studies or related fields. However, depending upon the school, you may not necessarily be required to have a bachelor's degree in any particular field.
- 2). Obtain a master's degree in theology, if you wish to study canon law at the Catholic University of America. The Catholic University of America is currently the only school in the United States that offers a licentiate of canon law, also known as a J.C.L. degree. The J.C.L. differs from a S.T.L. degree (licentiate of sacred theology), which prepares students to teach Catholic theology in a college, seminary, or university, to serve as a chaplain or a theological resource for a diocese. The J.C.L. specifically prepares students to practice canon law and to serve as agents of the Church's legal system, which is equipped with courts, lawyers and judges.
- 3). Obtain a licentiate of canon law. The degree requires two to three years of study. Worldwide, there are various programs of study for canon law. However, in North America, there are only two schools that offer the program: the Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. and St. Paul's University in Ottawa. Obtain a J.C.D. degree, which is a doctorate degree in canon law, if desired. The J.C.D. is not required to practice canon law professionally, but it allows you to teach in canon law programs.
- 4). Study Latin. The most recent and official Code of Canon Law, which took effect in 1983 under Pope John Paul II, is in Latin. Unofficial translations are readily available, but canon lawyers are encouraged to be proficient readers of Latin in order to consult the authoritative text for particularities and precise language.
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