The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Law Schools in Texas
When it comes to choosing a law school, the options can be overwhelming. For students interested in studying law in Texas, the good news is that the state has a number of excellent law schools to choose from.
In fact, Texas has some of the best law schools in the country, with a range of programs and specialities to suit a variety of interests.
Whether you’re looking for a top-ranked law school with a national reputation or a smaller program with a more specialized focus, there are plenty of options to consider in Texas.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the best law schools in Texas, taking a closer look at what makes each program stand out, and what students can expect from their experience at each school.
Whether you’re a prospective law student trying to decide where to apply, or a current law student looking to transfer to a new program, this guide will provide valuable insights and information to help you make an informed decision.
5 Best Law Schools in Texas
1. The University of Texas School of Law
The University of Texas School of Law in Austin is consistently ranked as one of the top law schools in the country. It offers a variety of programs, including a traditional three-year J.D. program, an LL.M. program for foreign-trained lawyers, and a joint J.D./MBA program.
Position of World and National University Rank
The University of Texas School of Law is ranked 15th in the United States by U.S. News & World Report. It is also ranked 28th in the world by QS World University Rankings. The school is widely regarded as one of the top law schools in the country, with a reputation for academic excellence and a strong focus on experiential learning.
Programs Proffered by The University of Texas School of Law
- Traditional three-year J.D. program
- LL.M. program for foreign-trained lawyers
- Joint J.D./MBA program
Admission Statistics:
- Acceptance rate: 23%
- Median LSAT: 167
- Median GPA: 3.73
- Enrollment: 921
The University of Texas School of Law is highly competitive, with an acceptance rate of just 23%. Successful applicants typically have a median LSAT score of 167 and a median GPA of 3.73. The school has an enrollment of 921 students.
2. Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law
The Dedman School of Law at Southern Methodist University in Dallas is another highly regarded law school in Texas. It offers a variety of programs, including a full-time J.D. program, a part-time J.D. program, and LL.M. programs in several areas of specialization.
Position of World and National University Rank
The Dedman School of Law at Southern Methodist University in Dallas is highly ranked, being placed at 45th in the United States by U.S. News & World Report. It is also ranked 215th in the world by QS World University Rankings.
Programs Proffered by Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law
- Full-time J.D. program
- Part-time J.D. program
- LL.M. programs in several areas of specialization
The Dedman School of Law at Southern Methodist University in Dallas has a strong focus on practical skills training, with opportunities for students to participate in clinics, and internships.
Extra Facilities of Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law
Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law provides its students with a range of extra facilities to support their academic and professional development. These include:
- The VanSickle Family Law Clinic offers students the opportunity to work on real cases under the supervision of experienced attorneys
- The Tsai Center for Law, Science and Innovation, which provides resources and support for students interested in intellectual property law and technology
- The Consumer Advocacy Project, allows students to work on consumer protection cases and gain hands-on experience in litigation and negotiation
These and other facilities make Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law an excellent choice for students interested in practical skills training and hands-on learning.
Admission Statistics: Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law
- Acceptance rate: 39%
- Median LSAT: 162
- Median GPA: 3.46
- Enrollment: 621
Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law has an acceptance rate of 39%. Successful applicants typically have a median LSAT score of 162 and a median GPA of 3.46. The school has an enrollment of 621 students.
3. Texas A&M University School of Law
Texas A&M University School of Law in Fort Worth is a relatively new law school, having been established in 2013. It has quickly gained a reputation as one of the top law schools in Texas. The school offers a variety of programs, including a traditional three-year J.D. program, an LL.M. program, and a joint J.D./MBA program.
Position of World and National University Rank
Texas A&M University School of Law is ranked 111th in the United States by U.S. News & World Report. It is not ranked in the QS World University Rankings.
Programs Proffered by Texas A&M University School of Law
Texas A&M University School of Law offers a variety of programs, including a traditional three-year J.D. program, an LL.M. program, and a joint J.D./MBA program.
Extra Facilities of Texas A&M University School of Law
Texas A&M University School of Law provides its students with a variety of extra facilities to support their academic and professional development. These include:
- The Program in Natural Resources Systems, which offers specialized coursework and research opportunities in environmental and natural resources law
- The Immigrant Rights Clinic, allows students to work on immigration cases under the supervision of experienced attorneys
- The Entrepreneurship Law Clinic provides legal assistance to startup companies and entrepreneurs
These and other facilities make Texas A&M University School of Law an excellent choice for students interested in specialized areas of law or hands-on learning opportunities.
Admission Statistics: Texas A&M University School of Law
- Acceptance rate: 47%
- Median LSAT: 154
- Median GPA: 3.27
- Enrollment: 532
Texas A&M University School of Law has an acceptance rate of 47%. Successful applicants typically have a median LSAT score of 154 and a median GPA of 3.27. The school has an enrollment of 532 students.
4. Baylor Law School
Baylor Law School in Waco is another highly regarded law school in Texas. It offers a traditional three-year J.D. program, as well as LL.M. programs in several areas of specialization. Baylor Law School is also known for its small class sizes and individualized attention to students.
Position of World and National University Rank
Baylor Law School in Waco is highly regarded, being ranked 56th in the United States by U.S. News & World Report. It is also ranked 276th in the world by QS World University Rankings.
Programs Proffered by Baylor Law School
Baylor Law School offers a traditional three-year J.D. program, as well as LL.M. programs in several areas of specialization.
Extra Facilities of Baylor Law School
Baylor Law School offers a range of extra facilities to support its students, including:
- The Practice Court Program, which provides students with hands-on experience in litigation and trial advocacy
- The Entrepreneurship and Community Development Clinic, which offers legal assistance to small business owners and entrepreneurs
- The Baylor Law Review, a student-run legal journal that publishes articles on a variety of legal topics
These and other facilities make Baylor Law School an excellent choice for students interested in practical skills training and hands-on learning opportunities.
Admission Statistics:
Baylor Law School is highly competitive, with an acceptance rate of just 35%. Successful applicants typically have a median LSAT score of 163 and a median GPA of 3.54. The school has an enrollment of 400 students.
5. South Texas College of Law Houston
South Texas College of Law Houston is a private law school located in Houston. It offers a traditional three-year J.D. program, as well as LL.M. programs in several areas of specialization. South Texas College of Law Houston is also known for its strong alumni network and career services.
Position of World and National University Rank
South Texas College of Law Houston is ranked 144th in the United States by U.S. News & World Report. It is not ranked in the QS World University Rankings.
Programs Proffered by South Texas College of Law Houston
South Texas College of Law Houston offers a variety of programs, including a traditional three-year J.D. program, as well as LL.M. programs in several areas of specialization.
Extra Facilities of South Texas College of Law Houston
South Texas College of Law Houston provides its students with a range of extra facilities to support their academic and professional development. These include:
- The Randall O. Sorrels Legal Clinics, offer students the opportunity to work on real cases under the supervision of experienced attorneys
- The Frank Evans Center for Conflict Resolution provides resources and support for students interested in alternative dispute resolution
- The Transactional Law Clinic, allows students to gain hands-on experience in transactional law and business planning
These and other facilities make South Texas College of Law Houston an excellent choice for students interested in practical skills training and a well-rounded legal education.
Admission Statistics: South Texas College of Law Houston
- Acceptance rate: 51%
- Median LSAT: 152
- Median GPA: 3.21
- Enrollment: 1,055
South Texas College of Law Houston has an acceptance rate of 51%. Successful applicants typically have a median LSAT score of 152 and a median GPA of 3.21. The school has an enrollment of 1,055 students.
5 Factors to Consider When Choosing a Law School in Texas
Choosing a law school can be a daunting task. With so many options available, it can be challenging to determine which school is the right fit for you. Here are some factors to consider when making your decision:
1. Location
Location is an important factor to consider when choosing a law school. You should think about where you want to practice law after graduation and choose a school in that area. This will give you the opportunity to network with local attorneys and gain experience in the local legal market. You should consider the cost of living in the area and whether you are willing to relocate.
2. Cost
The cost of attending law school can vary widely. You should consider the total cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, and living expenses. Look for schools that offer scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid to help offset the cost.
3. Curriculum
Consider the curriculum offered by the law school. Look for schools that offer courses in areas that interest you, such as intellectual property, environmental law, or international law. Consider whether the school offers opportunities for hands-on learning, such as clinical programs or moot court competitions.
4. Faculty
The faculty at a law school can have a significant impact on your education. Look for schools that have experienced and knowledgeable professors who are passionate about teaching. Consider whether the school has a diverse faculty that represents a range of perspectives and backgrounds.
5. Career Opportunities
Consider the career opportunities available to graduates of law school. Look for schools with strong career services departments that can help you find internships, clerkships, and job opportunities after graduation. Consider the school’s bar passage rate and the employment rate for graduates.
Law Schools in Texas Rankings
If you’re considering applying to law school in Texas, it’s important to know which schools are ranked the highest. While rankings should never be the only factor you consider when choosing a law school, they can be a useful tool for comparing different programs and identifying those that may be a good fit for you.
According to U.S. News & World Report’s 2022 rankings, the top five law schools in Texas are:
- The University of Texas School of Law
- Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law
- Texas A&M University School of Law
- Baylor Law School
- South Texas College of Law Houston
These rankings are based on a variety of factors, including academic reputation, student selectivity, and job placement rates for graduates.
Conclusion
Choosing the right law school is a crucial decision that can impact your entire legal career. Texas has some of the best law schools in the country, offering a variety of programs and specialities to fit your interests and goals.
From our research and analysis, the University of Texas at Austin stands out as the top law school in Texas. Its reputation, academic excellence, and vast resources make it a top choice for aspiring lawyers.
When making your decision, consider factors such as location, cost, faculty, and job placement rates. It’s also important to visit the campus and talk to current students and alumni to get a better sense of the school’s culture and community.
Ultimately, the best law school for you will depend on your individual needs and goals. By doing your research and carefully weighing your options, you can find the right fit and set yourself up for a successful legal career.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering applying to law school in Texas, you may have some questions about the application process, residency requirements, and financial aid. Here are some frequently asked questions to help you navigate the process:
What are the admission requirements for law school in Texas?
Each law school in Texas has its own admission requirements, but most schools require applicants to have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, a competitive LSAT score, and a strong academic record. Some schools may also require letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and an interview.
How do I establish residency in Texas for law school?
To establish residency in Texas for law school, you must live in Texas for 12 consecutive months before the start of the semester in which you plan to enrol. You must also show that you have a permanent residence in Texas, such as a lease or mortgage agreement, and that you are financially independent. The residency officer at the university will make the final determination of your residency status.
What types of financial aid are available for law students in Texas?
Law students in Texas may be eligible for a variety of financial aid, including scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs. Many law schools offer merit-based scholarships to incoming students based on their academic records and LSAT score. Students can also apply for federal financial aid by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
How can I find out more about law schools in Texas?
You can find more information about law schools in Texas by visiting their websites, attending information sessions and open houses, and speaking with current students and alumni. You can also consult rankings and reviews from reputable sources, such as U.S. News & World Report and The Princeton Review.
