University of Arkansas Little Rock Bowen School of Law
The University of Arkansas at Little Rock William H. Bowen School of Law is a diverse and vibrant community dedicated to providing students with access to comprehensive legal education, both full-time and part-time. Their rigorous curriculum focuses on helping students develop the skills and knowledge necessary for success in the law field and instilling in them values that will guide their professional and civic responsibilities.
Contents
History
The University of Arkansas Little Rock Bowen School of Law is a nationally-renowned educational institution established in 1975. Located in the state capital, the school sits at the heart of Arkansas's government and business environment. Bowen offers an innovative approach to legal education, focusing on developing practical skills immediately applicable in practice.
While many law schools are expensive and offer an education centered around theory, Bowen provides an affordable, practice-focused approach.
The school offers full-time and part-time programs to accommodate the different lifestyles of its students. The small student body size creates a close-knit community amongst Bowen's students and faculty. With one of the country's lowest student-to-faculty ratios, students can interact closely with faculty and learn directly from experienced teachers and scholars.
Admissions
If you're looking for a prestigious law school with an excellent job market and outstanding salaries, look no further than the University of Arkansas, Little Rock Bowen School of Law. With its top-notch faculty and high bar passage rates, you can be sure you're getting the best legal education possible. You'll be well-prepared to succeed in whatever direction your career takes you. Check out the University of Arkansas, Little Rock Bowen School of Law - it could be the perfect choice for you! If you're unsure about applying to law school or just beginning the application process, please take the time to read some of the excellent pre-law articles found here.
Statistics
| Admissions Stats | ||
| Class of: | 2020-2021 | 2021-2022 |
| 25th - 50th - 75th percentile LSAT | 148 - 151 - 155 | 149 - 152 - 155 |
| 25th - 50th - 75th percentile GPA | 3.12 - 3.41 - 3.68 | 3.02 - 3.43 - 3.63 |
| Acceptance rate | 50.4% | 59.6% |
| Applications received | 787 | 696 |
| Acceptances | 397 | 415 |
| Matriculants | 22 | 17 |
University of Arkansas at Little Rock Bowen School of Law received 696 applications during the 2022 cycle, of which 415 applicants were offered admission. The yield was 37.83%, meaning that 157 people who had been offered admission ultimately accepted and enrolled at the school for a total 1L class size of 162.
Looking into the admissions statistics, the median LSAT score for enrollees is 152. The 25th percentile LSAT score is 149, and the 75th percentile LSAT score is 155. Meanwhile, the median GPA for accepted applicants was 3.43, with a 25th percentile of 3.02 and a 75th percentile of 3.63.
Applicants looking to apply to the University of Arkansas at Little Rock Bowen School of Law should consider these figures as they consider their LSAT and GPA scores. Additionally, they need to consider the school's yield rate when considering potential law schools. Overall, a robust application and good academic credentials will help give an applicant the best chance for admission.
Deadline
The University of Arkansas Little Rock Bowen School of Law has a rolling admissions process, which means applicants are evaluated and considered for admission as their files are complete. Generally speaking, the school starts to make offers of admission in December each year. Consequently, applications completed on or around April 1st (the deadline) will be accepted if space is still available. No matter the date that your application is complete, Bowen School of Law makes every effort to review applications quickly and make admission decisions promptly. For this reason, it's best to apply early as possible before the April 1st deadline; applicants who apply by January 1st will have the best chance of being accepted into the program. It's important to note that all applications must be completed by April 1st to be considered; incomplete applications will not be reviewed. Therefore, Bowen School of Law must receive all required documents (such as transcripts and letters of recommendation) by April 1st.
How to Apply
Applicants to the University of Arkansas, Little Rock Bowen School of Law, must submit their applications online through the Law School Admission Council's (LSAC) online application portal. There is no fee associated with this process. However, applicants are strongly encouraged to include two letters of recommendation from professional mentors or others who can speak highly of the applicant's academic and professional abilities. These letters should be submitted as part of the applicant's Credential Assembly Service (CAS) Report, which is part of the online application. Letters must reflect a high level of recommendation and demonstrate how the applicant will contribute to Bowen School of Law's mission statement and educational goals.
Applicants must also submit a Statement of Intent which outlines their reasons for applying, along with any relevant information they wish to provide regarding their background or experience. This statement should be 500 words or fewer and is an essential part of the evaluation process. In addition, applicants must include transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended, along with the accompanying LSAC verification form.
Letters of Recommendation
The University of Arkansas Little Rock Bowen School of Law does not require letters of recommendation for admission. However, applicants may submit two professional letters of recommendation as part of their Credential Assembly Service (CAS) Report if they wish. This service is an essential component in the application process, as it allows potential students to provide the admissions committee with a better understanding of their academic and professional accomplishments. By submitting two letters, applicants can increase their chances of being accepted into the program. Ultimately, it is up to the applicant to decide whether they want to include letters. It may benefit some people, while others may find that their application speaks for itself without additional recommendations.
Personal Statement
When writing a personal statement for the University of Arkansas Little Rock Bowen School of Law, it is essential to be concise and thoughtful. The personal statement should be two to three pages long and double-spaced with one-inch margins. It should clearly explain why you are interested in attending law school at this particular institution and demonstrate your enthusiasm for the field of law.
Non-residents need to explain why they are attracted to Bowen, as this can be a determining factor in the admissions process. Discuss how the university's history, location, and curriculum align with your goals and interests. What unique experiences or values does Bowen have that you appreciate?
In addition, you can use the personal statement to highlight any special skills or accomplishments that make you suited for a legal career. Include information about your educational background, professional experience, volunteer work, and other activities that have helped shape your interest in law. Consider how these experiences have prepared you for success in law school and as a future lawyer.
Resume
When applying to the University of Arkansas Little Rock Bowen School of Law, prospective students must include a comprehensive one-page resume with their applications. This document should provide a thorough and detailed overview of a candidate's academic achievements, work experience, professional accolades, and extra-curricular activities. To give the admissions committee all of the information they need to make an informed decision, students should include relevant details and a summary of their qualifications. By providing a comprehensive resume, applicants can demonstrate why they are the ideal candidate for the University of Arkansas Little Rock Bowen School of Law.
Tuition and Financial Aid
The UA Little Rock William H. Bowen School of Law strives to provide an excellent legal education at an affordable price. They understand that many law school graduates cannot pursue the career or line of work they genuinely desire due to the expensive tuition and fees they have accrued throughout their studies. Therefore, they strongly encourage their students to consider public interest law — a practice where lawyers act as advocates for groups such as minority populations, children, and the poverty-stricken — while keeping their financial burden low.
Cost of Attendance
| Tuition | $13,352 |
| Fees | $3,376 |
| Books & Supplies | $1,700 |
| Room & Board | $12,116 |
| Transportation | $3,712 |
| Miscellaneous | $4,534 |
| Loan Fees | $596 |
| TOTAL | $39,386 |
Tuition and Fee Breakdown
The University of Arkansas Bowen School of Law offers students a comprehensive education at an affordable price. All first-year students must pay a non-refundable $250 seat deposit to reserve a place in the incoming class, which will then be applied towards their tuition when they begin their studies. Furthermore, full-time students must take 15 hours each semester, while part-time students must take 10 hours in the fall and 10 hours in the spring.
Tuition for resident students at the University of Arkansas Bowen School of Law is currently $14,215 per year. Additionally, mandatory fees include a $500 registration fee each semester, a $45 technology fee each semester, and a $75 health fee each semester. For non-resident students, tuition is currently set at $30,274 per year. The mandatory fees for non-residents are the same as those for residents.
The University of Arkansas Board of Trustees sets the tuition and fees each year in April, which may be subject to change. Therefore, incoming and returning students need to refer to the published admission and registration packets for a complete breakdown of fees each semester.
Financial Aid
When attending law school, finances can be a significant factor. The Bowen School of Law at the University of Arkansas Little Rock understands this, which is why they offer some of the lowest tuition and fee rates compared to other law schools in the country. This makes attending Bowen an attractive option for prospective students considering a legal education.
In addition to their low tuition and fees, Bowen School of Law has various financial aid options for students who want to attend the school. Students can apply for grants, loans, and scholarships awarded based on need and merit. Grants and loans come from the federal government and the university, while scholarships are offered to students who demonstrate exceptional academic or extracurricular achievement.
Scholarships
The University of Arkansas Little Rock Bowen School of Law offers a variety of scholarships to help students pay for their legal studies. Students who have earned their bachelor's degree from a Historically Black College or University (HBCU) within one of the states that are contiguous to Arkansas, such as Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Texas, are eligible for the Arkansas Contiguous States HBCU Scholarships. Similarly, students who have earned their bachelor's degree from an Arkansas HBCU may be eligible for the Arkansas HBCU Scholarships.
Students who identify as first-generation college students and have graduated or are about to graduate from an Arkansas college or university may qualify for the First-Generation College Student Scholarships. Merit scholarships, determined based on academic achievement, LSAT scores, diversity, and quality of application materials, including personal statements, are also offered up to 100% tuition. Full-tuition merit scholarships are highly competitive, and recipients typically have exceptional academic credentials, strong LSAT scores, leadership qualities, and the ability to excel in the classroom. The university also offers Non-Resident Scholarships, which allow recipients to pay resident tuition rates during their first year of study.
Academics and Curriculum
The Bowen School of Law provides students with numerous opportunities to gain real-world experience through a variety of programs, including their Academic Success Program, which supports first-year law students as they transition into the program; moot court competitions; legal clinics; and externships with local firms or with judicial and governmental offices.
Moreover, the Bowen School of Law is committed to advancing justice through scholarship and public service. Their faculty are engaged in cutting-edge legal research on diverse topics ranging from environmental law to criminal justice reform. Their students participate in various pro bono activities supporting underserved Arkansas communities.
First-Year Curriculum
At the University of Arkansas Little Rock Bowen School of Law, students enrolled in full-time and part-time programs take various courses to prepare them for their upper-class courses. During the first year of study, full-time students take two semester-long courses - Criminal Law and Torts - as well as six-year-long courses: Civil Procedure; Contracts; Property; Research, Writing and Analysis I (RWA I); Research, Writing and Analysis II (RWA II); and Professionalism and the Work of Lawyers.
Part-time students take two semester-long courses - Criminal Law and Torts – and four year-long courses: Contracts; Research Writing and Analysis I (RWA I); Research, Writing and Analysis II (RWA II); and Professionalism and the Work of Lawyers. To complete their first-year curriculum, part-time students take two additional year-long courses - Civil Procedure and Property - during their second year of law school.
At the end of their first year, all students have the knowledge and skills necessary to move on to the upper-class curriculum. With courses ranging from criminal law to professionalism and the work of lawyers, the University of Arkansas Little Rock Bowen School of Law provides a comprehensive foundation in legal education.
Clinics
The Legal Clinic at the UA Little Rock William H. Bowen School of Law is a unique opportunity for students to gain practical, hands-on legal experience while still in school. With seven individual clinics and three clinical projects, there are many different ways that students can get involved in real-world legal practice during their law school journey. Through the clinic program, students gain invaluable experience drafting motions and pleadings, representing clients at hearings, and developing the professional skills needed to serve their future clients.
The clinic program also offers a Public Service Externship Program and Part-Time Student Practicum that enable law students to get involved with projects outside the traditional classroom setting.
Externships
The Public Service Externship at the University of Arkansas Little Rock Bowen School of Law is an educational course that provides students with real-world opportunities to gain practical experience and knowledge in various legal settings. Through this externship, students have the unique opportunity to observe and work in state or federal court systems, government agencies, and non-profit organizations. Students receive credit towards their degree while gaining valuable insight and experience in the legal field that can be invaluable upon graduation.
The UALR Bowen School of Law faculty guides to ensure students are placed in externships that meet their career goals and have the correct learning environment. Faculty also work closely with each student to ensure that the program is tailored to each individual's needs and interests.
At UALR Bowen School of Law, externships are viewed as an essential part of a successful legal career. Through the Public Service Externship program, students can gain experience in various legal settings, develop their legal skills, and form professional networks that can benefit them in the future. The externship is an excellent opportunity for law students to gain experience in a field they are passionate about and make an impact on the legal community.
Lawyering Skills I & II
The University of Arkansas Little Rock Bowen School of Law offers its students a unique opportunity to gain practical legal skills before graduating. The school provides law students with the opportunity to sharpen their legal knowledge and develop the real-world skills needed for success in the legal profession. Through Bowen's professional skills classes, both required for graduation, students gain hands-on experience in legal areas such as contract drafting and negotiation, client interviewing, business planning, legal research, and writing. These courses are taught by experienced faculty members practicing attorneys or Bowen alums.
Lawyering Skills I & II is one of the professional skills classes offered at UALR Bowen School of Law.
Quality of Life
The University of Arkansas at Little Rock (UALR) is a vibrant and diverse metropolitan research university located in the heart of Arkansas. With nearly 10,000 students from all corners of the world and different walks of life, UALR offers an engaging learning environment where students can grow academically, personally, and professionally.
The Bowen School of Law is located on the UALR campus, providing students access to various resources. The law school has an outstanding faculty and staff passionate about the legal profession and dedicated to assisting students in achieving their professional goals. Students can access academic advising, career services, library resources, student organizations, and more.
Outside the classroom, UALR also offers students various activities and events to participate in. Greek life, special events, student government association, registered student organizations, campus recreation, Little Rock Trojan athletic events, and the campus garden are just some of the many opportunities for students to make the most out of their college experience. Additionally, the Student Experience Center is focused on creating a vibrant and exciting campus that will enhance students' time at UALR with resources such as tutoring, health services, and on-campus jobs.
At UALR, they are proud of their diverse student body and committed to helping each reach their full potential. They believe that the Bowen School of Law provides an ideal opportunity for students to excel in their studies, build relationships, and create meaningful experiences that will help them prepare for their future.
Culture
The University of Arkansas Little Rock Bowen School of Law is a vibrant and lively city with plenty to offer for those seeking to explore the unique culture of the American South. A prime example of this can be found on Main Street, where The Oxford American, a non-profit quarterly literary magazine, is dedicated to shining a light on the complexities and history of the region. Their neighbor, South on the Main restaurant, also carries on this mission using food and music.
For a more educational experience, Little Rock Central High School is nationally renowned for its part in desegregating public schools in the US. The ‘Little Rock Nine’ bravely resisted the segregationist culture of the time, despite opposition from the then Arkansas Governor, and exercised their federal rights to attend the previously all-white school. It is now listed as a National Historic Site and offers classes for students today.
For an even more immersive cultural experience, visitors can check out live performances at The Rep, The Weekend Theater, the Robinson Center, and the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra. With so much to offer, the University of Arkansas Little Rock Bowen School of Law is an excellent place for those looking to experience and explore the unique culture of the American South.
Location
The University of Arkansas Little Rock William H. Bowen School of Law is situated in the center of the capital city of Arkansas, making it easy and convenient for students to access a variety of courts, legal firms, and organizations. A mere stone's throw away is the highest state, local, and federal courts, providing a wealth of opportunities to our talented student body.
Our students also have access to various social and professional networking events in the evening, with our alums being a third of Arkansas' judiciary. Little Rock hosts many attractions, from science museums, art galleries, and the Presidential Library, all within walking distance from Bowen. With such a range of culture and history, the University of Arkansas Little Rock William H. Bowen School of Law is an ideal location for law students to learn and grow their legal careers.
This perfect blend of academic excellence, culture, history, and networking opportunities make the University of Arkansas Little Rock William H. Bowen School of Law a great place to study and a foundation to build a successful legal career. It is the perfect place to learn the skills and gain the experience you need for success.
Employment Prospects and Bar Passage
The University of Arkansas, Little Rock Bowen School of Law is a prestigious institution, and it's no surprise that its graduates earn good salaries upon graduating. According to reports, the median salary for JD graduates who work in the private sector is $65,000, while those who go into public service jobs typically make around $56,000. Of all graduates, 43.2% choose to go into law firms, and 5.7% become judicial clerks. Additionally, 12.5% of graduates pursue public interest work. As for the bar passage rate, 89.0% of the University of Arkansas, Little Rock Bowen School of Law graduates pass the bar on their first try - a testament to their quality education. With such impressive figures, it's no wonder that so many choose to attend this esteemed school of law. A degree from the University of Arkansas, Little Rock Bowen School of Law, is an excellent stepping stone for a successful legal career. With competitive salaries and a high first-time bar passage rate, graduates can be confident that their hard work will pay off. This school has long been known as one of America's premier law schools, and now its graduates are reaping the benefits of their hard work.
Contact Information
William H. Bowen School of Law
1201 McMath Avenue
Little Rock, AR 72202
Phone: 501-916-5431
More contact information
Summary
| Established | 1975 |
| Location | Little Rock, AR 72202 |
| Dean | Theresa M. Beiner |
| 2022 US News Ranking | 147 |
| LSAT Median Score | 152 |
| GPA Median Score | 3.43 |
| Bar Passage Rate | 89% (2022) |
| Employment Rate | 7% (2022) |
| Cost | $13,352 |
| Average Debt | $65,328 |
| Application Deadline | 15-Mar-2023 |
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Reference
LSD Law
Ranked 147
Guide to Fee Waivers
LSAC Guide
How to Learn to Do Well on a Law School Exam
Success in Law School - A Unique Perspective
The Guide to Law School Loans
