Michigan State University College of Law

At Michigan State University College of Law, students can explore their passions through various elective courses. Nearly 140 are offered each year, with many opportunities for interdisciplinary studies available through other graduate programs at the university.

Through MSU Law's academic programs, students can hone in on specific legal practice areas, working with expert faculty to gain expertise. Each program creates a close-knit community of students who share similar interests, making it easy for everyone to learn from one another and create meaningful connections. With access to hands-on learning experiences, such as internships and externships, legal clinics, moot court teams, and other specialty programs, our students leave MSU Law with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in their fields.

History

The College of Law at Michigan State University has a long and storied history that dates back to the 19th century. In 1891, a group of individuals in Detroit who had been reading law in the offices of local attorneys created the Detroit College of Law. This was founded as an initiative to provide legal education for residents of Detroit without having to leave the city to study. For its first two years, the school was led by students, a unique situation at the time.

Michigan State University College of Law is committed to providing students with access to a world of opportunities alongside its dedicated student-focused culture. The affiliation between the university and the law school began in 1995, after which the relationship progressed until full integration into Michigan State University was achieved in October 2018. This momentous event on August 17th, 2020, marked the completion of the integration process, with MSU College of Law becoming a constituent college.

The historic DCL values have been maintained and supplemented by the resources of Michigan State University, offering students access to numerous educational opportunities. The affiliation has also enabled MSU College of Law to expand its range of experiences for current and incoming students. Through the university, the college can offer more internships and externships with prestigious legal organizations, access to a more extensive alum network, and various other resources.

The combination of MSU College of Law’s unparalleled commitment to student-centric learning experiences and Michigan State University’s vast resources has enabled the college to form a strong foundation for the law students of today, tomorrow, and generations to come. MSU College of Law is positioned to be a leader among Big Ten law schools for years to come through its dedication to access and opportunity, work ethic, and immersion in the legal profession.

Admissions

Statistics

Admissions Stats
Class of:	2020-2021	2021-2022
25th - 50th - 75th percentile LSAT	153 - 156 - 158	153 - 156 - 158
25th - 50th - 75th percentile GPA	3.33 - 3.56 - 3.74	3.31 - 3.59 - 3.74
Acceptance rate	59.2%	48.0%
Applications received	1165	1413
Acceptances	690	679
Matriculants	150	147

In 2022, Michigan State University College of Law received 1,413 applications. Of those, 679 individuals were offered admission, and 225 accepted the offer, resulting in an acceptance rate of 33.14%. Most applicants had an LSAT score between 153 and 158--with the median score being 156--while the median GPA was 3.59, with the 25th and 75th percentile at 3.31 and 3.74, respectively. Michigan State University College of Law has an impressive 1L class size of 234, making it a highly competitive yet rewarding experience for students seeking to pursue law school in this field.

Application Requirements

The college considers various factors when reviewing applications for admission, including academic performance (undergraduate GPA and LSAT score), personal statement and résumé, letters of recommendation, essays, and other supplemental materials, as well as the applicant's unique experiences and personal qualities. Each application is carefully reviewed for academic achievements that reflect an individual's capacity to succeed in law school and their potential contributions to the diversity and environment of MSU Law.

Tuition

Michigan State University College of Law provides an individualized budget for each academic year that includes direct costs, such as tuition and fees, and indirect costs, like housing, food, and transportation. The tuition for the 2020-2021 school year is assessed differently for In-State and Out-of-State students. A “flat rate” is used for students taking between 10-17 credit hours per semester, where tuition is the same regardless of the number of credits taken. For students enrolled in less than ten or more than 17 credits per semester, a different rate applies on a per-credit-hour basis.

Cost of Attendance

Cost of Attendance for 2022-2023 (Fall/Spring only)

Tuition In-State	$41,040	Tuition Out-State	$45,600
Fees	$224	Fees	$224
Books	$3,072	Books	$3,072
Room and Board	$14,652	Room and Board	$14,652
Transportation/ Personal/Misc.	$4,220	Transportation/ Personal/Misc.	$4,220
Medical	$0	Medical	$0
Technology Support	$2,000	Technology Support	$2,000
TOTAL	$65,208	TOTAL	$69,768

1L students should add $200 for the RWA Lab fee (total budget would be $61,724/$66,284).

3L students should add $625 for an average bar exam fee (total budget would be $62,149/$66,284).

First-year students at MSU College of Law are typically enrolled in 28 or 29 credit hours and need 88 credits to graduate. The tuition cost for a J.D. student changes to a block fee after ten credits have been taken. If a student is pursuing both the J.D./MBA degrees concurrently, their financial aid will be adjusted accordingly, and there will be an adjustment to the cost of attendance. In addition, students must be enrolled in a minimum of 6 credits to receive disbursement for Stafford and Grad Plus loans. Tuition and fees are subject to change by the MSU Board of Trustees. All tuition amounts listed are based on one credit.

Financial Aid

Michigan State University College of Law is committed to helping students reduce the burden of student loan debt, allowing them to pursue their goals and serve diverse communities. To do this, the college offers scholarships for incoming students who demonstrate leadership, public service, and perseverance. These scholarships are available to Michigan residents and those with a proven commitment to public sector practice, working in the Indian country, providing legal services to low-income or underserved communities, and intellectual property and legal technology. These scholarships are aimed at helping first-generation college students, Native people, veterans, single parents, and those with backgrounds in IP and emerging technologies become successful lawyers who can serve their communities. With the help of these scholarship funds, Michigan State University College of Law can help create a more exciting and diverse class of excellent students. The college strongly believes that reducing student debt will help graduates pursue their goals and provide legal services to diverse communities across Michigan and the nation.

Scholarship

Michigan State University College of Law offers scholarships, including the Michigan Access Initiative Scholarship, to assist students in their educational endeavors. This scholarship provides an annual $20,000 for Michigan residents who demonstrate substantial academic achievement and financial need, are committed to serving their communities or have a history of resilience. All scholarships offered by the College of Law are renewable for all three years, provided that the student remains in good academic standing. Current students should note that this dollar amount is already included in their existing scholarship offer.

The Michigan State University College of Law offers a unique program called the Dean’s Civil Rights/Social Justice Fellowship Program, designed to provide students with an opportunity to gain experience in civil rights and social justice practice. This fellowship provides students with $20,000 per year for tuition and fees and a subsidized summer work experience at a law firm specializing in civil rights and social justice practice.

To be eligible for the fellowship, students must demonstrate exceptional qualifications and an interest in civil/constitutional rights and social justice. The fellowship provides students with valuable experience working in the legal field, which can serve as a springboard for further success. It also provides an opportunity to gain insight into how the law affects civil rights and social justice, allowing them to develop the skills necessary for effective advocacy and policymaking.

Academics

Michigan State University College of Law offers aspiring lawyers a comprehensive and expansive education. The first year of study consists of the same core area classes as other law schools, including torts, contracts, civil procedure, and more. After this initial foundation is laid, students can specialize in one or more areas. Ten focus areas permit students to explore their interests more deeply and broaden their understanding of the law. Additionally, students can pursue one of three certificates available to those completing enough elective credits.

Finally, MSU Law provides joint degree programs for students who wish to combine their JD with an additional graduate program offered by Michigan State. The JD-MBA program is especially noteworthy as Michigan State has a highly-ranked MBA program. This combination degree can benefit those students interested in practicing business law. With the wide range of opportunities that MSU Law provides, students are sure to find an area of study that best fits their interests and goals.

Moot Court and Trial Advocacy Board, and Law Review

MSU Law has a very successful Moot Court and Trial Advocacy Board that is an annual contender in the competition. The team received seven awards in 2009, including; the Best National Brief-ABA National Appellate Advocacy Competition, Third Best Regional Oralist-ABA National Appellate Advocacy Competition, and Fourth Best Regional Brief-ABA National Appellate Advocacy Competition. The law review at MSU has been continuously functioning since 1931 and is completely run by the students. The top 5% of the 1L class is offered a spot on the review, and the other positions are filled with a writing competition. The law review offers a great experience to anyone who cuts.

Clinical Opportunities

There are currently five clinics offered at MSU Law - low-income taxpayer clinic, rental housing clinic, small business and nonprofit law clinic, plea and sentencing clinic, and a chance at childhood clinic. The school is planning to open new clinics shortly and has new facilities where the current clinics are located. These clinics offer students a great practical experience and allow for hands-on learning.

Study Abroad

MSU Law offers students the opportunity to work for credit in Washington, D.C., with any federal agency for an entire semester. This program opens doors and offers excellent experiences to those who choose to participate. Students wishing to go a little further away may also choose to study abroad in Canada, Japan, and Mexico.

Faculty

MSU Law has 86 full-time and part-time faculty members, making for a 16.6 student-to-faculty ratio. The faculty is committed to keeping an open door policy and allowing ample opportunity for students to interact with professors, both in and out of the classroom. Students say the professors are very down-to-earth and accessible, particularly at exam times when stress levels are heightened.

Quality of Life

Michigan State University College of Law is an ideal location for law students looking for a year-round blend of academic and recreational experiences. In East Lansing, the state capital of Michigan, MSU is situated in the center of the state with easy access to all four seasons. In addition to its proximity to downtown Lansing's shopping, nightlife, and outdoor activities, the MSU campus has a welcoming atmosphere with beautiful flora and fauna. With its renowned horticulture and agricultural programs, MSU is one of the largest undergraduate campuses in the US, with more than 50,000 students. As part of the Big Ten Conference, students can enjoy cheering on nationally ranked athletic teams and participating in exciting campus events.

The College of Law is located inside the law building with its library, computer labs, and Wi-Fi access. The library extends hours during exam time and is an excellent resource for studying late into the night. With modern technology, comforts, and amenities, MSU College of Law provides the perfect environment for aspiring lawyers to pursue their educational dreams. From the vast green spaces to the exciting collegiate sports, law students at MSU can look forward to a unique experience that combines academic excellence with the whole college lifestyle.

Overall, no matter what law field you enter, Michigan State University College of Law is a great place to study - with plenty of academic, recreational, and professional development opportunities. It's the ideal place to start your legal career!

Housing

Michigan State University College of Law is nestled in the heart of East Lansing, Michigan, and offers an array of housing options for its graduate students. The university provides two living accommodations specifically tailored to meet the needs of those enrolled in its law school. Both are conveniently located near campus and provide a quiet environment perfect for completing coursework.

East Lansing is also an excellent option for renting off-campus apartments. The city and university's bus system provide efficient transportation from these areas to campus, while the cost of living in East Lansing is much lower than that of other cities. Students can easily find affordable apartments within minutes of the school for around $500 a month, with some apartment complexes even having buildings specifically for law school students.

For those looking to save on living costs, Michigan State University College of Law offers an array of options that suit any budget and lifestyle. From university-provided housing to off-campus apartments, there is something available for everyone. Students can make the most of their law school experience with all these great options.

Employment Prospects & Bar Passage

Michigan State University College of Law is one of the leading law schools in the nation, boasting a successful and competitive student population. Graduates from MSU's College of Law have a median salary of $70,000 for those who go into private sector work and $52,000 for those in government employment. With a strong focus on practical learning and real-world application, graduates from MSU Law are well-prepared for the rigors of the legal profession.

Due to its outstanding academic programs and thriving alum base, MSU Law has a high employment rate in the legal field. 53.4% of law graduates choose to work in law firms, while 10.1% clerk for judges. MSU Law's dedication to the public interest is also noteworthy, with 10.6% of graduates going into that sector.

Finally, the bar pass rate of Michigan State University College of Law graduates is higher than the state average, making it one of the most reliable law school programs for preparing students for professional success. 79.1% of MSU graduates successfully pass the bar on their first try, with much more passing in subsequent attempts. This is a testament to the high quality of the education offered through Michigan State University College of Law.

Those looking for an excellent law school experience should look no further than Michigan State College of Law. With highly competitive academics, a wide range of job opportunities, and an impressive bar pass rate, Michigan State College of Law is the go-to destination for aspiring lawyers.

Synopsis

The Michigan State University College of Law offers a nationally known name and the backing of one of the premiere research institutions in the United States. It is still struggling to distance itself from the old Detroit College of Law, but with time the school will be much easier to associate with MSU. This is a great option for anyone who resides in Michigan and wishes to practice law in that state. MSU Law offers all of the modern conveniences of a large campus but still has a private school feel. It presents students with a sense of community and has a lot to offer regarding quality of life.

Applicants with numbers at or above the median should consider the high number of full-tuition scholarships the school offers. Other applicants should consider the $48,000 price tag and be aware of the potential problems one could have in placing outside of the Midwest. MSU Law has the backing of a major Big Ten school and could easily break into the top 100 in the rankings in the future. The school may be a good choice for Michigan residents and anyone qualified enough to receive one of those coveted full-tuition scholarships but it could be a little less attractive for students who do not wish to find work in that region.

Contact Information

Michigan State University
College of Law
Admissions Office
648 N. Shaw Lane
East Lansing, MI 48824
Email: admiss@law.msu.edu
Phone: (517) 432-0222

https://www.law.msu.edu/admissions/index.html

Summary

Established	1859
Location	East Lansing, MI
Dean	Mark D. West
2022 US News Ranking	91st
LSAT Median Score	171
GPA Median Score	3.84
Bar Passage Rate	94% (2022)
Employment Rate	89% (2022)
Cost	-$66,808 (In-state) -$69,808 (Out-of-state)
Average Debt	$131,683
Application Deadline	February 28, 2023 (Regular) November 23, 2022(Early Decision)

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Reference

Michigan State University College of Law
https://www.law.msu.edu/index.html
Rank #91
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