Best Law Schools in Washington DC: Passing the bar exam is a requirement for commencing a legal career. Of course, you must first have a sound intellectual foundation. You can begin your legal career at one of the numerous law schools in Washington DC.
The District of Columbia, often known as Washington D.C., is home to many of the country’s best attorneys and officials, as well as the headquarters of the United States federal government. As a result, many students prefer this city.
There are American Bar Association (ABA) approved law schools in Washington DC. Fortunately, each of the law schools has specific features that may make it an appealing place to study, depending on your preferences. The following article gives a brief description of each Washington law school, as well as some discussion of the institution’s characteristics that may be intriguing.
Are you trying to find out which of Washington DC law schools is the best? All of them are listed in this article along with information about their tuition prices, requirements, and other factors that will aid you in making the best decision.
Are There Law Schools in Washington DC?
Yes, law schools exist in Washington!
Amazingly, Washington DC law schools provide their students with practical and popular teaching tools that equip them with the skills and information needed to practice law professionally.
Students attending law schools in Washington DC can easily network professionally by contacting the city’s several top attorneys and decision-makers. These and other aspects combine to make law school in Washington DC a fascinating and meaningful experience that you should run after!
Numerous federal agencies and notable law firms are headquartered in the capital city, giving Washington law students first-rate practical exposure.
How Long is a Law School in Washington D.C?
The J.D. Full-time (Juris Doctor) programs last three years, whereas part-time programs last four years. The program begins with foundational legal studies and then allows students to choose their electives. The law schools in Washington DC have well-known LL.
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What Are Law Schools in Washington DC 2024 Ranked For?
The D.C. Legal Schools are regarded as some of the best in the country, with top-ranked law programs and excellent Bar passage rates. They stand out in this Presidential and political hotbed.
Washington DC is a district as opposed to a state, and it serves as a venue for the country’s top leaders and parliamentarians. The United States capital is located on the Potomac River in Washington, D.C. This is the site of the federal government and its three branches: legislative, executive, and judiciary, which are housed at the Capitol, White House, and Supreme Court.
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How Much Does Law School Cost in Washington D.C?
The cost of attending law school varies by country. Because of their degree of education and professional experience, they may be highly expensive.
Washington DC law schools charge tuition ranging from $30,000 to $70,000.
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What Is the Requirement for Getting Into A Law School In Washington Dc 2024?
Admission standards for Washington DC law schools vary slightly. However, there are some standards that any candidate for admission to one of Washington’s law schools must meet. They are in line with the Law School Admission Council requirements and they are as follows:
LSAT
You must take and pass the Law School Admission Test to continue. The LSAT is usually $200. Your exam score is one of the most important variables in admission to law schools in Washington DC. This is why forethought is necessary.
The Law School Admission Council (LSAC) can give further details on the LSAT.
Transcript
You must obtain authentic transcripts from all graduate, undergraduate, and certificate institutions before applying to law schools in Washington DC.
Letter of recommendation
Washington DC law schools want letters of recommendation from prospective students. It is encouraged that you obtain this letter from either an undergraduate professor you worked for who can attest to your ability to balance work and education, or from an employer who can attest to your ability to do so.
Personal statement
Every academic program in Washington DC requires a personal statement. This allows you to inform the admissions committee about your personality, academic achievements, career ambitions, and even why you want to attend their law school.
What Are the Best Law Schools in Washington D.C?
Washington is an excellent site for legal study and practice, with the city’s well-regarded law schools dividing the city.
In terms of job prospects and salary after graduation, the city is among the best for new graduates, dispelling the dread of being unemployed after graduating from any of the best law schools in Washington DC.
Each of the institutions listed below has been accredited and granted the ABA’s blessing. Any law school that has received ABA accreditation is invariably more prestigious.
Certain law schools in Washington DC provide both full-time and part-time degrees. The following are the best law schools in Washington DC:
- Georgetown University
- Catholic University of America
- Gonzaga University
- Seattle University
- University of Washington
#1. Georgetown University Law Center
The Georgetown Law Center is one of the best law schools in Washington DC 2024, and it is adjacent to the seat of the federal government of the United States. The Law Center provides dual degree programs, such as the J.D./Ph.D., in addition to the normal J.D. is a federal program that investigates the impact of the law on American political and governmental processes
Students can gain practical legal experience at one of 18 clinics, including the D.C. Georgetown students teaching high school students and others in the community about the law through the Street Law Program.
Among the more than 20 research institutions, centers, and programs include the Georgetown Climate Center, the Institute for Constitutional Advocacy and Protection, and the Center on National Security and the Law.
Full-time JD students (12 credits or more per semester) pay a single tuition fee; part-time students (11 credits or fewer per semester) pay tuition by credit hour. Tuition per credit hour for the 2022-2023 academic year is $2,370.
#2. George Washington University Law School
George Washington University’s law school is the nation’s capital’s oldest.
Students can broaden their J.D. by completing dual degree programs at other GW universities, opportunities for experiential study, or employment experience in Washington, D.C. Students can earn a dual degree, such as a J.D./MBA or a J.D./Master of Public Administration, by completing a full-time or part-time J.D.
As a member of the Microsoft-sponsored Technology-Academics-Policy forum, GW Law is engaged in legal topics such as cloud computing and intellectual property.
GWU is one of the best law schools in Washington DC, and you should consider studying there.
Tuition is $65,420 for full-time students and $48,300 for part-time students. There are no application fees.
#3. American University Washington College of law
The American University School of Law, where you are reading this, is one of the best law schools in Washington DC. It is located in the northwest Tenleytown area of Washington DC.
The Juris Doctor Program, LL.M Degree, MLS Programs, SJD Program, and Dual Degree Program are all available at the American University Washington College of Law. Part-time students can pursue the J.D. (Juris Doctor) curriculum lasts four years, whereas full-time students take three years.
Students are permitted to choose any option after completing the program’s basic legal studies. This law school offers one of the greatest LL.M degrees.
Tuition is $58,970 for full-time students, $41,191 for part-time students, and there is a $70 application fee.
#4. Catholic University of America – Columbus school of law
At every stage, the three traits that best reflect Catholic Law’s notion of legal education are practical, focused, and related.
J.D. in Catholic Law Curriculum combines a solid academic basis and an excellent practical education. Legal doctrine is taught to students through difficult cognitive lessons. Clinical and experiential training equips them with useful abilities.
The J.D. The Catholic Law School in Washington offers programs such as J.D. (Juris Doctor), L.L.M. (Master of Laws), and M.L.S. (Master of Legal Studies).
Tuition is $56,040, and part-time work is $38,690. There are no application fees.
#5. Howard University
Howard University School of Law was established in 1867 in the capital city of Washington, DC. Howard University was one of the earliest legal schools to be established in Washington DC and the United States as a whole.
Howard has an 8.6:1 student-to-faculty ratio.
They provide programs such as JD Application and Information, JD/MBA, and Master of Law (LL.M.).
Tuition is $37,160, and applications are $60.
#6. Gonzaga University
Executive Two-Year J.D. at Gonzaga Law the curriculum provides an ABA-accredited six-term legal education in two years rather than three, with a concentration on business and leadership courses.
A blended curriculum is used to teach students by law, business, and leadership educators.
The two-year J.D. program includes both online and on-campus components. Both curricula are present.
Tuition is $48,835 with no application costs.
#7. Seattle University Law school
The Seattle University School of Law, usually known as Seattle Law School, is a professional graduate school affiliated with Seattle Institution, the Pacific Northwest’s largest autonomous university and one of the best law schools in Washington.
The law school in Washington, which is a member of the Association of American Law Schools, has been accredited by the American Bar Association.
Seattle University School of Law attorneys has practiced in all 50 states as well as 18 foreign countries.
The law school provides Juris Doctor (JD), Master of Laws (LLM), and Master of Studies in Law degree programs (MLS).
Tuition: full-time: $51,433; part-time: $34,329; application fee: $65
#8. University of the District of Colombia
The University of the District of Columbia confers degrees through several institutions, including the David A. Clarke School of Law.
It is a public university in Washington with very low tuition compared to other legal schools in the city.
Full-time tuition is $13,438 in-state; full-time tuition is $25,874 out-of-state; part-time tuition is $9,440 in-state; and part-time tuition is $17,860 out-of-state (out-of-state). Applications are $35.
#9. University of Washington Law School
The University of Washington School of Law has a student-to-faculty ratio of 10:1 with an entering class size of approximately 190 students. J.D.
Students can focus their legal education in a variety of ways, including Asian Law, Environmental Law, and Public Service Law. The top-ranked Law Librarianship program at the law school is likewise well-known.
UW Law provides a J.D. Students can pursue concurrent or dual degree programs with other academic departments at the University of Washington, such as a J.D./M.B.A. through the Foster School of Business, a J.D./Master of Public Health through the School of Public Health, and a J.D./Master of Public Affairs through the Evans School of Public Affairs.
The application fee for the full-time program at the University of Washington School of Law is $60. Its full-time tuition is $40,035 (in-state) and $51,534 (out-of-state) (out-of-state). The faculty-to-student ratio is 6.1:1.
Best Law Schools close to Washington D.C
You can also find amazing law schools close to Washington DC. Below are the best law schools close to Washington DC according to the US ranking.
#10. University of Virginia
The University of Virginia School of Law, like all other academic departments, has a strict, student-run honor code. Students promise not to steal, cheat, or lie, and those found guilty by a jury of their peers are expelled.
Each class has about 350 students, with somewhat more men than women. Students at the Darden School of Business can earn combination degrees such as a J.D. in four years, and an MBA It is one of Virginia’s top law schools, alongside the famed Washington DC Law Schools.
At the University of Virginia School of Law, the application fee for the full-time program is $85. Full-time in-state tuition is $66,500; full-time out-of-state tuition is $69,500. (out-of-state). The faculty-to-student ratio is 6.6 to 1.
#11. George Mason School of Law
Because of the George Mason University School of Law’s closeness to Washington, D.C., there are year-round opportunities in multiple levels of government, federal agencies, and private law firms. Because of the profitable atmosphere, it is also one of the renowned schools to be ranked among the best law schools in Washington DC.
Applicants for the J.D. Day and evening programs at the George Mason School of Law are available, as is one joint J.D./Master of Public Policy program. Law students can choose curricular emphases and tracks to concentrate in areas such as patent law, intellectual property law, or homeland and national security law.
At George Mason University’s Antonin Scalia Law School, there is no application fee for the full-time program. The Antonin Scalia Law School at George Mason University does not charge an application fee for its part-time programs. Full-time in-state tuition is $25,875, full-time out-of-state tuition is $41,261, part-time in-state tuition is $19,404, and part-time out-of-state tuition is $30,944. (out-of-state). 4:1 is the student student-to-faculty
#12. William and Mary Law School
The William & Mary Marshall-Wythe School of Law creates initiatives for simulated legal education, such as the two-year Legal Skills Program, in which students work in fake law firms on real-world topics.
The McGlothlin Courtroom, as well as a hub of research and demonstrations in courtrooms using the internet, audio, and video technology, are both parts of the law school’s Center for Legal and Court Technology.
Application costs for William & Mary Law School’s full-time program are $85 each. Full-time in-state tuition is $36,608; full-time out-of-state tuition is $51,620. (out-of-state). The ratio of faculty to students is 7.3:1.
#13. University of Baltimore Law School
Virginia accounts for somewhat more than 60% of students at the private University of Richmond School of Law. Richmond, Virginia’s capital and home to legal companies, corporations, courts, and more, is about six miles from the law school campus. Washington DC is around two hours away.
Students at the University of Richmond School of Law can take electives to specialize their legal education in areas such as litigation, corporate law, and real estate law. The School of Law also provides dual degree options such as a J.D./MBA.
Applications to full-time programs at the University of Baltimore School of Law cost $60. The application fee for the part-time program at the University of Baltimore School of Law is $60. Tuition is $33,592 for full-time in-state students, $49,004 for full-time out-of-state students, $25,058 for part-time in-state students, and $34,616 for part-time out-of-state students. (out-of-state). The student-to-instructor ratio is 7.1:1.
#14. Washington and Lee University Law School
Washington and Lee University School of Law in Virginia is a tiny private institution. In the second year, students often study electives, whereas the first year’s curriculum consists of required courses.
The third year at W&L Law is dedicated to lawyer engagement, and students receive training through activities such as practicums, externships, and clinics. Students can personalize their education by taking electives, but they are not compelled to take a specific path or concentration.
For its full-time programs, the Washington & Lee University School of Law does not require an application fee. Tuition for full-time students is $53,400. The student-to-instructor ratio is 5.8:1.
#15. University of Richmond Law School
Virginia accounts for somewhat more than 60% of students at the private University of Richmond School of Law. Richmond, Virginia’s capital and home to legal companies, corporations, courts, and more, is about six miles from the law school campus. Washington DC is around two hours away.
Students at the University of Richmond School of Law can take electives to specialize their legal education in areas such as litigation, corporate law, and real estate law. The School of Law also provides dual degree options such as a J.D./MBA.
For its full-time programs, the University of Richmond School of Law does not require an application fee. Tuition for full-time students is $50,500. The student-to-faculty ratio is 5.6 to 1.
How to apply for law schools in Washington D.C
- Sign up for an LSAC account. You can monitor the progress of each action you take when you apply to schools using your LSAC.org account. The prerequisites and dates for applications vary by school.
- Sign up for the LSAT and prepare for it. The LSAT is required by law schools in Washington DC. Visit the website of the institution of your choice to learn about their score requirements, it is encouraged.
- Obtain all required transcripts from all completed undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs. You can access an Academic Summary Report once it is finished by logging into your LSAC.org account. Verify that it is correct and thorough.
- Write a comprehensive personal statement and share information with the admissions committee about your personality, academic accomplishments, professional aspirations, and even why you want to attend their law school.
- Get a letter of recommendation from an employer who can attest to your skill to balance work and school life or an undergraduate professor you worked under his supervision.
- Go ahead and apply, then wait for feedback.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
To have a strong chance at Georgetown University Law Center, you will want an LSAT score around the 167+ area and an undergraduate GPA in the 3.7+ range.
Many prestigious law schools, such as Harvard Law School, allow applicants to apply up to three times. So, while you might reapply, you would need to make your final shot count.
Grades generally are the most valued standard that firms use in hiring law students.
There is no limited number of times you can take the LSAT test.
There are 6 American Bar Association-approved law schools in Washington DC.
LSAT is regarded as a very difficult test but is passed after due preparation by students.
Conclusion
A law degree is required because lawyers will always be in demand as the globe advances.
Being a student at one of Washington’s premier law schools may be both rewarding and challenging. If a student wishes to enter one of the top Washington law schools, they need prepare in advance to meet the prerequisites.
Every student who has the good fortune to enroll in one of Washington’s premier law schools has a high chance of becoming well-known and having a successful career. Washington has strong educational and employment options.
References
- US news.com – Best Law Schools in Washington
- The Law School Admission Council (LSAC) – Law School Admission Test (LSAT)