Chapman University Fowler School of Law

Chapman University's Dale E. Fowler School of Law is a renowned private law school located in Orange County, California, just 35 miles from downtown Los Angeles and within a short distance to the beach and Disneyland. This ABA-accredited institution has an impressive faculty that includes three former U.S. Supreme Court clerks, a Nobel Prize winner, and a former five-term U.S. member of Congress - providing students with the opportunity to learn from some of the best legal minds in the country.

History

At Chapman Law, students benefit from a dynamic and personalized legal education designed to help them succeed in their chosen field of law. The diverse academic programs offer students the knowledge dcvbn The Dale E. Fowler School of Law at Chapman University has a long and storied history. It opened in 1995 as the first law school on a university campus in Orange County, California. In 2013, it was renamed the Dale E. Fowler School of Law after Dale and Ann Fowler's generous $55 million gift to the school. The law school is located on the former site of Rancho Santiago de Santa Ana, a considerable tract of land granted by the Spanish crown in 1810. The land was purchased by prominent Los Angeles lawyer Alfred Beck Chapman and his law partner Andrew Glassell in 1868. In 1872, Mr. Chapman donated the land to the town of Orange, now the Dale E. Fowler School of Law site.

In 1999, the law school building was officially renamed Donald P. Kennedy Hall in honor of Mr. Donald Kennedy, a longtime chairman of the board of First American Financial Corporation and Chapman trustee and benefactor who passed away in 2012. The four-story building provides 133,000 square feet of floor space and a vibrant and efficient learning environment for its students.

The Dale E. Fowler School of Law at Chapman University is dedicated to providing the highest quality legal education, preparing students for successful careers in the law, and encouraging student-faculty interaction that furthers scholarship, research, and service to their community. They strive to uphold their tradition of excellence in legal education and continue to lead the way in preparing generations of successful attorneys.

Admissions

Statistics

Admissions Stats
Class of:	2020-2021	2021-2022
25th - 50th - 75th percentile LSAT	154 - 159 - 160	154 - 160 - 162
25th - 50th - 75th percentile GPA	3.26 - 3.52 - 3.66	3.13 - 3.6 - 3.71
Acceptance rate	32.5%	28.3%
Applications received	1868	2190
Acceptances	608	619
Matriculants	152	144

In 2022, the Fowler School of Law at Chapman University received an application pool of 2,190 hopeful law students. After reviewing the applications, 619 offers of admission were granted to applicants, resulting in a yield rate of 24.07% - meaning 149 out of 619 offered acceptance and attended the school. The 1L class size for the 2022-2023 school year was 150 students.

The admissions data shows the median LSAT score for accepted applicants in this cycle was 160, with the 25th percentile at 154 and the 75th percentile at 162. Further, the median GPA for admitted applicants was 3.6, with the 25th percentile of 3.13 and 75 percent at 3.71.

Overall, the Fowler School of Law at Chapman University had a competitive admission cycle in 2022 yet still accepted over 600 students worldwide. With a class size of only 150 students and an impressive yield rate, it is no wonder why many aspiring law students are so eager to attend Chapman.

Application Instructions

To apply for the JD program at Chapman University Fowler School of Law, candidates must create an account with the Law School Admission Council (LSAC). Once logged in, applicants should select “JD/First Year” on the application. Furthermore, a personal statement must be submitted, limited to three pages, type-written, 12 point font, and double-spaced. Additionally, applicants must upload a resume including work experience, volunteer experience and extracurricular activities.

Chapman University Fowler School of Law also requires two letters of recommendation to be sent as part of the application process. Lastly, an up-to-date Credential Assembly Service Report must be ordered and sent to Chapman University Fowler School of Law.

If applicants have additional materials they would like to provide after submitting their application, they may email the addendum(s) to lawadmission@chapman.edu. The application materials must meet these requirements for the file to be properly processed and placed into review. Failure to meet the requirements may result in a delay in processing and placement.

Transfer

Transfer Applicants to Chapman University Fowler School of Law must submit their application online through the Law School Admissions Council. To be eligible, applicants must currently be enrolled in or taking an approved leave of absence from a full-time or part-time JD program at an ABA-accredited law school and have completed at least one year of coursework.

Once the application has been completed, the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs will evaluate whether any courses need to be repeated due to an extended time since attending law school.

Tuition and Financial Aid

Attending Chapman University Fowler School of Law is an excellent way to jump-start your legal career. The tuition costs for a JD program vary depending on the student's time commitment. Full-time students enrolled in at least twelve to sixteen units per semester will be charged $59,500 annually for their JD program. Part-time students enrolling in eight to eleven and a half units per semester will pay $47,520 per annum. Part-time students enrolled in units between 0.5 and 7.5 will be charged $1,980 per unit. There is an overload fee of $1,980 per unit when taking more than the maximum of sixteen units.

No matter the cost or commitment, Chapman University Fowler School of Law will provide a top-notch legal education and leave you with the skills necessary to advance your legal career. With an impressive faculty, rigorous curriculum, and access to state-of-the-art technology and resources, you will be sure to receive the highest quality of education. Chapman University Fowler School of Law provides a comprehensive legal education that prepares graduates to meet the demands of the ever-changing field of law.

Cost of Attendance

Chapman University Fowler School of Law has an established Cost of Attendance that must be followed to determine the federal aid a student is eligible for. This figure is decided upon by the Board of Trustees and the Finance Committee. It considers both institutional costs and surveys conducted with students regarding their living expenses. Federal regulations, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and U.S. Department of Education guidelines also establish students' cost of living allowance.

Only aid that falls within a student's Cost of Attendance can be accepted and applied toward tuition costs. This includes loans, grants, work assistance, fellowships, or scholarships. Students need to understand their Cost of Attendance and how much aid they can secure to ensure that the amount of money accepted is, at most, what is needed. By keeping track of the figure and understanding their financial situation, students can more accurately plan for their tuition expenses.

Financial Aid

The Financial Aid Office at Chapman University Fowler School of Law is dedicated to assisting students committed to achieving their legal studies goals. Their goal is to package financial aid to individuals based on their individual needs and in compliance with all applicable federal, state, and university regulations. They strive to maintain all students' dignity while preserving the integrity of the Federal Aid Programs.

Chapman Law Scholarships

The Fowler School of Law at Chapman University offers a variety of merit-based scholarship opportunities to its first-year students. These scholarships are based on the student's undergraduate cumulative grade point average (GPA) and LSAT score and are awarded upon admission to the JD program. To retain their scholarship awards, students must maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.9 in their second and third years of legal study.

Federal Loans

Federal student and graduate loans are an excellent way to finance their education. These low-interest loans, provided by the Federal government, can be applied for through the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) form. This document outlines all of the financial aid options available to students.

Federal Work Study

Federal Work-Study is an excellent way for students to fund their education after their first year at Chapman University Fowler School of Law. It allows students to work part-time and earn money for their educational expenses. These positions are primarily research assistant roles, helping professors with various evidence collection, or working in the Hugh & Hazel Darling Law Library.

Private Loans

Private Education Loans are a financing option designed to assist international students and those ineligible to receive Federal Loans Programs. While the fees and interest rates vary among lenders, there are certain benefits associated with Private loans that make them an attractive alternative for those who don’t qualify for the other loan options.

Academics

Chapman University Fowler School of Law is renowned for its top-notch tax law program, rated highly by USNews and World Report as 17th in the nation. Students can pursue a double degree, including a JD/MBA and an exclusive JD/MFA in Film and Television Producing. Given its acceptance of students with Tier-3 numbers, Chapman has the potential to be an attractive choice for those interested in law specialties such as entertainment and tax. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 12.6, faculty are accessible and friendly yet challenging when necessary; this helps to keep the "burnout factor" low—1L academic attrition is less than 10%. Furthermore, the atmosphere at Chapman is described as relaxed and collegial compared to other law schools, making it an even more attractive option. Students can gain skills and experience in a supportive environment that will be beneficial upon graduation. Chapman University Fowler School of Law is ideal for those pursuing a legal career in tax or entertainment law.

Chapman University Fowler School of Law is a top-notch school with many advantages to offer its students. The top-ranked Tax Law Program, variety of joint degrees, and relaxed atmosphere make Chapman an attractive option for anyone specializing in law, especially those with Tier-3 numbers. The friendly faculty and low "burnout factor" help students to flourish without becoming overwhelmed. Chapman provides a supportive learning environment that gives students the skills and experience they need to succeed in their legal careers. Chapman University Fowler School of Law is ideal for those specializing in Tax Law or Entertainment Law.

Externships

Chapman University Fowler School of Law offers a unique program for students to develop the practical skills necessary to work in a legal context. With support from Externship Director Carolyn Young Larmore, enrolled students can engage in part-time externships with judges, government agencies, corporations, public interest organizations, private law firms, and more for a total of eight (8) units. Alternatively, students can complete a full-time judicial externship for ten units.

The Externship Program Handbook and Application provide all the information on program policies and requirements so that current students understand their options and responsibilities when participating in this exciting opportunity. With the Externship Program, students can gain real-world experience and knowledge they can apply practically.

They are dedicated to providing their students with the best possible education at Chapman University Fowler School of Law. They understand the importance of providing experiential learning opportunities for young legal professionals and believe their Externship Program is an excellent way to do just that. They are proud to offer their students the chance to develop the skills and experience necessary for success in their chosen field.

Employment Prospects & Bar Passage

Chapman University Fowler School of Law is a top-tier institution that produces highly skilled and successful lawyers. Graduates of this school have one of the highest median salaries upon graduation, with those in the private sector making an average of $84,000. On average, those entering the public sector expect to make $72,000 annually.

Most Chapman University law graduates, 76.1%, go directly into private law firms, and 0.0% choose to clerk for a judge. A small percentage, 2.2%, decide to pursue public interest roles instead. The bar exam is also a breeze for these students, with 80.3% passing on their first try. Such outstanding results indicate the excellent standards of Chapman University Fowler School of Law and its talented faculty.

The university offers various courses, internships, and online resources that provide students with the tools necessary to excel in their chosen career paths. With rigorous education and hands-on experience, Chapman University Fowler School of Law graduates will be ready to face the challenges of their profession head-on.

Graduates from Chapman University Fowler School of Law are highly sought after by employers in both the public and private sectors due to their exceptional academic records, competitive salaries upon graduation, and successful first-time bar passage rates. This school produces well-rounded and successful legal professionals who can make a positive difference. With its outstanding academic programs, top-notch faculty, and a strong network of alums, Chapman University Fowler School of Law is an ideal choice for those seeking a career in law.

Quality of Life

Orange County, California, is a place of divided opinions. Some people embrace the area as a haven of fantastic weather, plush beaches, and welcoming communities. They will often point to the high quality of life and the wide range of amenities that Southern California offers as reasons why living anywhere else would be foolish. On the other hand, those with other views have different opinions. They might see Orange County as nothing more than a shallow playground for the wealthy or an area of right-wing politics that should be avoided altogether.

Before committing to Chapman University Fowler School of Law, it would be wise to visit the area and know whether they would fit in. The cost of living is relatively high, but the rewards can be great for those who find a place in the region. Despite its divided opinions, Orange County offers prospective students many exciting opportunities and experiences. OC has numerous attractions - from buzzing nightlife to world-class shopping centers - for everyone.

Synopsis

All new law schools must initially struggle to find their footing, and Chapman Law is doing just that. Having been ABA-accredited for less than a decade, they have made impressive strides, including a top-20 specialty ranking by USNews. On the other hand, they have yet to establish a positive reputation with major law firms, even in Southern California. Students should approach VERY cautiously the idea of paying nearly $40,000 a year to attend a school that offers them almost no possibility of a biglaw salary. Still, many far worse options exist for individuals looking to live and practice law in Orange County. Chapman Law School does appear to be on the rise, with improving bar passage rates and employment prospects quite good for graduates within nine months after graduation.

Contact Information

Chapman University
Admissions Office
One University Drive
Orange, CA 92866

Phone: (714) 997-6815
https://www.chapman.edu/law/academic-programs/jd/index.aspx

Summary

Established	1995
Location	Orange, CA
Dean	Matthew J. Parlow
2022 US News Ranking	118th
LSAT Median Score	160
GPA Median Score	3.6
Bar Passage Rate	80% (2022)
Employment Rate	47% (2022)
Cost	$59,500
Average Debt	$150,534
Application Deadline	July 15, 2023

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Reference

Chapman University School of Law
https://www.chapman.edu/law/index.aspx
Rank #118
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