Our Juris Doctor (JD) program offers students a comprehensive legal education, combining both traditional classroom and experiential learning opportunities.
Law Degree Admissions
A powerful investment in your future
WashU Law students are an integral part of one of the most respected legal communities in the nation. At WashU Law, students gain access to a rich and rigorous curriculum, world-class faculty, and work alongside supportive peers.
WashU Law is committed to meeting the needs of individual students so they become strong leaders and well-rounded, thoughtful attorneys. The solid legal foundation students establish here ensures that they possess the essential skills for achieving their career goals, making a difference in their communities, and leading throughout the world.
Requirements
Degree Requirements
Before earning their degree, students must meet degree requirements that include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following.
For JD Degree:
- GPA: 3.0 or higher
- Residency: 6 semesters of full-time residency
- Timeline: 24 – 84 months
- Credits: 86
- Coursework: 3 doctrinal courses/semester plus Legal Practice and Legal Research Methodologies and Negotiation (first-year JD students); 6 units of experiential credits in designated courses; 1 ethics course; electives
For LL.M. Degrees:
- GPA: 3.0 or higher
- Residency: Not required
- Timeline: 12 – 48 months
- Credits: 24
- Coursework: Varies by program
For MLS Degrees and Certificates:
- GPA: 2.79 or higher
- Residency: Not required
- Timeline: 12 – 48 months
- Credits: 24
- Coursework: Introduction to U.S. Law and Methods (first year or prior to admission); electives
For JSD Degree:
- GPA: 3.0 or higher
- Residency: 2 years on campus
- Timeline: 36 – 60 months
- Coursework: Auditing courses is recommended; no coursework is required
Admission Requirements
Candidates for WashU Law’s programs must meet admission requirements that include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following.
For JD Program:
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent from an accredited college
- Strong undergraduate record
- Superior performance on the Law School Admission Test (LSAT), GRE, or JD-Next
For LL.M. Programs & Certificates:
- Law degree from an accredited U.S. college or equivalent
- Relevant work experience
For MLS Programs & Certificates:
- Prior educational and professional credentials
- Clear sense of why a candidate is pursuing an MLS
For JSD Program:
- LL.M. degree from U.S.-based school
- Academic and scholarly distinction
- Significant knowledge in chosen area of law/scholarly interest
Application Requirements
Candidates for WashU Law’s programs must submit application materials that include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following.
For JD Program:
- Credential Assembly Service (CAS) report through LSAC
- Personal statement (2-3 pages)
- Resumé
- Letters of recommendation
- Addenda regarding personal story and financial needs
For LL.M. Programs & Certificates:
- Resumé
- Transcripts
- Statement of purpose
For MLS Programs & Certificates:
- Completed application form
- Resumé
- Transcripts
- Statement of purpose
For JSD Program:
- Completed application form
- Dissertation proposal
- TOEFL or IELTS score (exceptions apply)
- Official transcripts
A Powerful Investment in Your Future
Washington University School of Law is ranked #14 by U.S. News & World Report. Our prestige, connections, world-class faculty, and vigorous classes all prepare our students for careers in the legal profession or to better their understanding of U.S. law.
Personalized Support
WashU Law’s dedicated advisors work with both full-time and part-time students to find the areas of study that best fit their career paths, explore financial aid options, get support for taking the bar exam, and more.
Scholarships & Fellowships
WashU Law students may apply to a variety of scholarships and are eligible for federal financial aid. Scholarships are guaranteed for the full three years of study, regardless of academic performance.
Tuition & Financial Aid
WashU Law students may take advantage of funds under the Stafford Loan program and the Grad PLUS Loan program.
Make Yourself at Home
Endless opportunities abound at our school, on our campus, and in our city
WashU Law Programs & Admissions FAQs
- Which degree is best to practice law?
Obtaining a JD degree, passing a state bar exam, and joining the American Bar Association are requirements for practicing law in the United States.
Additional degrees, such as certain LL.M.s, may offer unique insights that allow already-practicing attorneys a competitive advantage in specialized areas of law.
- How long is law school?
How long it takes someone to earn a law degree depends on the exact program chosen. JD students at WashU Law, for example, may earn a degree in two years whereas online LL.M. students may earn a degree in just one year.
- How much does law school cost?
WashU Law full-time tuition for the 2024-2025 academic year is $70,008 USD.
- What are my career options after earning a law degree?
Individuals with a JD law degree can work a wide variety of jobs in and related to the legal field, including lawyers, judges, legal professors, law clerks, and public defenders.
Earning an MLS can grant non-lawyer professionals advanced legal knowledge and skills that are valued in industries like:
- Financial services
- Technology
- Business and manufacturing
- Government
- Human resources
- Healthcare
- Insurance
- Accounting and tax advisory
- What is campus security at WashU like?
Start Your Journey Today
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