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Southwestern Law School
Southwestern Law School is a prestigious institution dedicated to public service and excellence for over a century. The school has grown from a small faculty of professors to one of the nation's largest and most respected law schools. The school prides itself on offering students an innovative curriculum that combines classroom learning with real-world experience. At Southwestern Law School, you will have the opportunity to learn from some of the most renowned faculty in the country and gain insight into the legal profession from diverse perspectives.
Contents
History
Southwestern Law School is a non-profit educational institution in Los Angeles, California, that has been providing progressive legal education programs for over a century. In 1911, John J. Schumacher founded the Southwestern College of Law to allow qualified students to pursue a law degree they may not otherwise have. Southwestern was the first law school in Southern California to use the Harvard case method of instruction and established a law review for students interested in scholarship.
Southwestern's current curriculum emphasizes the practical application of legal theory, with courses focusing on problem-solving, transactional lawyering, litigation skills, and professional development. Additionally, Southwestern offers several opportunities outside of the classroom, including clinics, externships, and writing opportunities. Southwestern is dedicated to helping its students become responsible members of the legal profession who can make a positive impact in their communities.
Southwestern Law School continues to be committed to providing progressive education that prepares its students for success in the legal profession. The school and its faculty work hard to ensure students become well-rounded and ethical lawyers ready to contribute to the legal field. With a strong reputation for excellence in legal education, Southwestern Law School is an institution of choice for those looking for a quality law school experience.
Admissions
Southwestern Law School provides an excellent education for those looking to pursue a career in the legal field. The school offers a comprehensive curriculum, high bar passage rates, and job placement rates that prepare its graduates for a successful career. With the help of faculty, staff, and alum network, Southwestern Law School provides everything needed to become an excellent lawyer. So if you're looking for an institution that can give you the tools necessary to pursue a successful legal career, look no further than Southwestern Law School! It's the perfect place to start your journey. If you need more clarification 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 | 158 - 163 - 165 | 160 - 163 - 164 |
| 25th - 50th - 75th percentile GPA | 3.62 - 3.73 - 3.91 | 33.44 - 3.68 - 3.81 |
| Acceptance rate | 18.0% | 31.3% |
| Applications received | 1790 | 1909 |
| Acceptances | 322 | 597 |
| Matriculants | 316 | 363 |
Southwestern Law School has a long and storied history, making it a highly sought-after destination for law students all over the United States. During the 2022 application cycle, 2,045 people applied, and 958 were offered admission. Of those 958 applicants offered admission, 366 ended up attending Southwestern Law School, meaning that 38.20% of those offered admission chose to attend.
The 1L class size at Southwestern Law School is 373, and the median LSAT score of admitted applicants is 154, with the 25th percentile LSAT score of 152 and 75th percentile LSAT score of 157. Similarly, the median GPA for admitted applicants is 3.31, with a 25th percentile GPA of 3.03 and a 75th percentile GPA of 3.57.
Southwestern Law School has long been a leader in legal education, and each year they accept only the brightest and most talented students for admission. With an impressive 38.20% yield rate, Southwestern Law School continues to attract highly qualified students from all over the United States.
Application Process and Requirements
To be considered for admission at Southwestern Law School, first-year applicants must meet the prerequisites of undergraduate pre-legal education. This means they may have a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university and must have specific political science, microeconomics, and constitutional law courses.
Furthermore, applicants must register with the Law School Admissions Council and subscribe to the Credential Assembly Service. Additionally, they are required to take the Law School Admissions Test (LSAT). They must provide a complete application file, including any additional documents requested by the admissions office. On top of these requirements, prospective students are also required to pay the application fee and may be asked to participate in personal interviews.
By following these steps, first-year applicants can begin their journey toward studying at Southwestern Law School. Whether they enroll in a Juris Doctor (J.D.) program or pursue another degree, the admissions process will provide them with the necessary knowledge to begin their legal education. Once they are admitted, they can look forward to gaining a comprehensive understanding of the law and all its associated intricacies.
Application Deadline
Southwestern Law School is a distinguished institution that offers its students a wide range of opportunities. For those aspiring to enroll in the 2023 Fall semester, the application window is set to be open on September 1st, 2022, and closes on April 1st, 2023 - so it’s essential to keep this date in mind. Southwestern Law School offers a variety of degree programs to choose from, ranging from a Juris Doctor program to Masters of Law. Furthermore, students can select between the full-time, part-time, and Executive J.D. programs to best meet their needs.
Southwestern Law School has several scholarship and financial aid packages for those seeking financial assistance. Consider reaching out to their Financial Aid Office for further information on how to apply for these forms of assistance. Aspiring students should also be aware that the application process at Southwestern Law School is highly competitive, with a thorough review of individual credentials and qualifications are taken into consideration before admission decisions are made.
Application Fee
Southwestern Law School requires a non-refundable application fee of $60 to apply. When applying online through LSAC, applicants will be taken step-by-step through the payment process during the final stages of submitting their application. Those who use a paper application can submit their payment through a check or money order to Southwestern Law School. Applicants who have received a fee waiver from either Southwestern Law School or LSAC are not required to pay an application fee.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Southwestern Law School offers a variety of program options for aspiring legal professionals. The school's J.D. The 2022-2023 school year program is available in both full-time and part-time formats, allowing students to choose an option that best fits their lifestyle and needs. Full-time students can expect to pay $56,146 in tuition, while part-time students will pay $37,447. Both options offer access to the same cutting-edge curriculum and world-class faculty, so there is no wrong choice when selecting a program option. Southwestern Law School's J.D. The program also offers ample opportunities for experiential learning through clinics and externships so that students can gain real-world experience in their areas of interest. Whether you're interested in full-time or part-time study, Southwestern Law School will provide the support and resources needed for a successful legal career.
Cost of Attendance
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| ROOM & BOARD | ||||||||
| Rent | $1,567 | $1,610 | $335 | |||||
| Food | $500 | $500 | $375 | |||||
| Utilities | $100 | $300 | $185 | |||||
| Total | $2,167 | $2,410 | $895 | |||||
| BOOKS & SUPPLIES | ||||||||
| Full-Time Day | $1,800 | $1,800 | $1,800 | |||||
| Evening & PLEAS |
$1,000 | $1,000 | $1,000 | |||||
| SCALE | $2,800 | $2,800 | $2,800 | |||||
| TRANSPORTATION | ||||||||
| Gas & Oil | $180 | $280 | $240 | |||||
| Car Ins. | $130 | $140 | $130 | |||||
| Total | $310 | $420 | $370 | |||||
| PERSONAL | ||||||||
| Health Ins.* | $4,069 | $4,069 | $4,069 | |||||
| Clothing, Internet, |
$300 | $400 | $280 | |||||
| Total | $300 | $400 | $280 | |||||
| EXPENSE TOTAL | $2,777 |
Add Insurance & Books | $3,230 | Add Insurance & Books | $1,545 |
Add Insurance & Books |
Financial Aid
Southwestern Law School offers a comprehensive financial aid package to its students. This includes a combination of scholarships, loans, and work-study opportunities. The school is dedicated to providing individualized assistance to each student to ensure they can focus on their studies rather than worrying about the cost of tuition.
Scholarships
Scholarships are offered to both incoming and continuing students. These can range from merit-based awards to need-based grants. To be eligible for a scholarship, students must fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and submit their yearly transcripts.
Loans
Loans are another form of financial assistance offered to law school students. These can include federal loans such as Stafford, Perkins, and Graduate PLUS Loans. Additionally, private loan options are available to help cover the cost of tuition.
Work-Study Programs
Work-study programs are also available at Southwestern Law School. These offer students the opportunity to gain valuable work experience while earning money to pay for their education. Work-study jobs are typically offered through the school and tailored to suit law school schedules.
Academics and Curriculum
First-year students will have a typical lecture size of 76 students. The school has 81 faculty members and a student-to-faculty ratio of 14.3 to 1. All 1Ls have the same schedule of requisite courses, including criminal law, civil procedure, contracts and lawyering. Unlike most other law schools, Southwestern Law offers first-years some choice in their schedule, as they can choose between torts or property in their first year and select an elective. There is also a 24-month alternative JD option known as SCALE, which immerses students in off-campus externships and 18 hours of class per week.
The law school's "cutting edge curriculum" has been recently reworked and "promises more study time, electives and professional focus." Students hope this change will reduce the stress associated with the first-year experience. As at most Tier 3 law schools, Southwestern Law's curriculum is described as difficult and the grading curve as harsh, but the students stick with it. Only about 2 percent of students did not return for their second year.
Experimental Learning
At Southwestern Law School, students have the opportunity to gain invaluable and evidence-based knowledge through a variety of hands-on experiential learning programs. Among these are clinics, externships, practicums, and public interest opportunities. These educational experiences allow law students to apply what they’ve learned in the classroom to real legal situations, allowing them to experience legal practice firsthand.
Clinics
The law school’s Clinical Programs are a unique opportunity for students to solve real-world problems while representing individuals and organizations in court. Students engage in direct client representation and develop professional skills such as interviewing clients and writing briefs. Through these experiences, students gain an understanding of the law while also acquiring practical experience.
Externships
Southwestern Law School provides students with externship opportunities. These placements allow them to work in government offices, businesses, and non-profit organizations as they gain a better understanding of their chosen career path. Through legal research and analysis, drafting documents, and engaging in other on-the-ground activities, students learn how to apply the legal skills they’ve learned in the classroom.
Practicum Program
In addition, the practicum program allows students to undertake field research and participate in independent scholarly projects that shed light on real-world legal issues. The school also offers specialized public interest opportunities where students gain experience while serving an underserved population. Through these experiences, students gain an intimate understanding of the legal system and its implications for those in need.
By participating in any of Southwestern Law School’s experiential learning opportunities, students can acquire valuable real-world knowledge that will serve them well as they enter their chosen career path. Whether through a clinic, an externship, a practicum, or a public interest opportunity, Southwestern Law School provides students with the chance to engage in experiential learning and gain practical skills that will help them become successful lawyers.
Quality of Life
Southwestern Law School, located in Los Angeles just southeast of Beverly Hills, offers a truly unique experience for its students. As soon as you step onto the campus grounds, you’ll feel an atmosphere of tranquility and beauty that can only be found at one of America’s most prestigious law schools. The campus itself sprawls over two city blocks, making it easily accessible from anywhere within the city.
As a student of Southwestern Law School, you will also have unparalleled access to all that Los Angeles has to offer. From luxurious beaches and bars to world-class restaurants, clubs, and theaters – there is something for everyone in this vibrant city. Getting around Los Angeles is also easy, with various public transportation options and plenty of Uber drivers. However, traffic can become a problem during rush hour, so it’s essential to consider that when choosing a place to live.
No matter the budget or lifestyle, there is an option for everyone regarding housing in Los Angeles. With so much to choose from, it’s no wonder why Southwestern Law School is one of the most sought-after law schools in the country! So if you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable educational experience, Southwestern Law School is worth considering.
The faculty at Southwestern Law School is renowned for their commitment to student success and for providing a comprehensive educational experience. With this in mind, the school is dedicated to preparing students to become creative problem-solvers with an ethical foundation that will make them successful attorneys. On top of all this, Southwestern Law School offers its students classes taught by some of the most distinguished legal minds in the world. The school also provides its students with numerous educational and career opportunities through its extensive alum networks, legal clinics, and internships.
Southwestern Law School is truly a place like no other – and it’s easy to see why it’s such a sought-after law school in the United States! With its outstanding faculty, comprehensive academic programs, and access to some of the best opportunities in Los Angeles, Southwestern Law School is an ideal choice for anyone pursuing a law degree. With all of its amenities and offerings, it’s no wonder why this school has become so popular among prospective law students. Southwestern Law School is a perfect choice if you’re looking for a great place to learn and grow.
Employment Prospects & Bar Passage
Southwestern Law School is an accredited institution that provides a quality legal education to students looking to practice law. Graduates from Southwestern Law School typically see high job placement rates and wage potential in the private and public sectors. The median salary for graduates entering the private sector is $80,000, and for those going into the public sector, it's $68,850.
Law firms are the most common employers for Southwestern Law School graduates; 65.9% of those who graduated go directly to law firms, while 0.6% go on to clerk for a judge. 15.3% choose paths related to the public interest, and others pursue career options unrelated to the legal field.
Southwestern Law School is an excellent choice for those wanting to pursue a career in law. The school ensures its students are well-prepared for their future careers with a comprehensive curriculum and high bar passage rates: 82.5% of graduates pass the bar on their first try. This makes Southwestern Law School a great place to learn the fundamentals of law and prepare for a successful legal career.
Synopsis
The location and new curriculum at Southwestern Law are undeniable draws for prospective students. However, an average of $107,000 in debt and slim chances at obtaining a big-firm salary should counterbalance those draws. The median salary of the private sector is decent at $77,000, but this does not erase the risk of taking on so much debt. The California bar is a challenge for all students who take it, but Southwestern Law's relatively low pass rate should give pause to the prospective student. Indeed, there is nothing like going to school in Los Angeles. For students who crave this experience and who want to practice in California, Southwestern Law can be a worthwhile choice.
Contact Information
Southwestern Law School
Office of J.D. Admissions
3050 Wilshire Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90010
213-738-6834
admissions@swlaw.edu
http://www.admissions.swlaw.edu
Summary
| Established | 1911 |
| Location | Los Angeles, CA 90010 |
| Dean | Darby Dickerson |
| 2022 US News Ranking | 147 |
| LSAT Median Score | 154 |
| GPA Median Score | 3.31 |
| Bar Passage Rate | 83% (2022) |
| Employment Rate | 23% (2022) |
| Cost | $28,073 |
| Average Debt | $188,164 |
| Application Deadline | 1-Apr-2023 |
Forum and Discussion
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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
