Are you pursing a law degree? The TopSchoolsintheUSA.com has generated the latest ranking of best law schools in North Dakota that provides Master of Legal Studies (MLS), Master of Dispute Resolution (MDR), Juris Doctor (JD), Master of Laws (LLM), or Doctor of Juridical Science (SJD). You can use the following list to pick a school that fits your needs. These law schools in North Dakota are ranked based on the student reviews, alumni surveys, assessment of peer institutions, and official data reported by each law college. In addition, we also provide average LSAT scores, GPA and acceptance rates for each of these law schools in North Dakota.
Top ABA-Approved Law Schools in North Dakota
| National Ranking | Best Law Programs |
| 145 | University of North Dakota (Grand Forks, ND) Acceptance rate: 43.1% LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 148-154 GPA (25th-75th percentile): 2.93-3.62 Tuition & Fees: In-state, full-time: $9,895 per year, Out-of-state, full-time: $21,580 per year Enrollment (full-time): 251 Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 87.7%
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All Law Schools in North Dakota
North Dakota is home to a single law school, The University of North Dakota School of Law, which plays a central role in training future lawyers in the state. Known for its focus on public service, practical legal training, and a close-knit academic community, the University of North Dakota School of Law provides a comprehensive legal education that prepares students for successful legal careers in North Dakota and beyond.
1. University of North Dakota School of Law
Overview
The University of North Dakota School of Law (UND Law), located in Grand Forks, is the only law school in North Dakota and has been educating lawyers since 1899. UND Law has a strong reputation for its focus on providing students with a solid foundation in legal theory combined with practical legal skills. The school emphasizes public service, particularly in serving the legal needs of North Dakota and the surrounding region, and offers a student-centered learning environment where small class sizes allow for individualized attention from faculty.
UND Law is well-integrated with the state’s legal system, and its graduates often go on to become leaders in North Dakota’s legal community, including judges, attorneys, and public officials. The school’s mission is to prepare students to practice law in a variety of settings, with a focus on ethics, professionalism, and public service.
Degree Programs
The University of North Dakota School of Law offers a variety of degree programs designed to meet the diverse interests and career goals of its students:
- Juris Doctor (J.D.): The J.D. program at UND Law is a traditional three-year program that provides a comprehensive legal education. Students complete a rigorous curriculum that covers all aspects of legal theory and practice, including courses in constitutional law, criminal law, property law, and civil procedure. The program emphasizes practical legal skills through clinics, externships, and simulation courses.
- Joint Degree Programs:
- J.D./M.B.A. (Master of Business Administration): This joint degree program allows students to earn both a law degree and a business degree, preparing them for careers in corporate law, business management, and entrepreneurial ventures.
- J.D./M.P.A. (Master of Public Administration): The J.D./M.P.A. program is designed for students interested in careers in public service, government, or policy-making. It combines legal education with public administration training, offering students the skills necessary for leadership roles in the public sector.
- Clinical and Externship Programs: UND Law offers a range of clinical programs and externships that provide students with hands-on legal experience in a variety of practice areas. Some of the key clinical opportunities include:
- Housing and Employment Law Clinic: Students work on cases involving housing disputes, employment law, and public benefits, providing legal services to low-income clients.
- Criminal Defense Clinic: This clinic allows students to represent clients in criminal cases, working under the supervision of experienced attorneys and gaining courtroom experience.
- Externship Programs: Students have the opportunity to work with judges, government agencies, law firms, and non-profit organizations through UND’s externship program. Externships provide students with real-world experience and valuable professional connections.
Admission Requirements
Admission to the University of North Dakota School of Law is competitive, and the school looks for applicants who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to public service. While LSAT scores and undergraduate GPA are important factors in the admissions process, UND Law also considers other aspects of the applicant’s background, including work experience, community involvement, and personal statements.
- Average LSAT Score: 150
- Average GPA: 3.25
- Application Components:
- LSAC Application: All applicants must submit their application through the Law School Admission Council (LSAC).
- Personal Statement: Applicants are required to submit a personal statement that explains their reasons for pursuing a legal education and their interest in attending UND Law. This is an opportunity for applicants to highlight their unique experiences, skills, and goals.
- Letters of Recommendation: UND Law typically requires two to three letters of recommendation, preferably from professors or professional supervisors who can speak to the applicant’s academic abilities and potential for success in law school.
- LSAT Score: The LSAT is required for all applicants. While the average LSAT score for admitted students is around 150, UND Law takes a holistic approach to admissions, considering all aspects of the applicant’s background.
- Resume: Applicants are encouraged to submit a resume that highlights their academic achievements, work experience, leadership roles, and community service.
- Optional Diversity Statement: UND Law values diversity and encourages applicants to submit an optional diversity statement that explains how their background, experiences, or perspectives would contribute to the law school community.
Starting Salaries
Graduates of the University of North Dakota School of Law enjoy strong employment prospects, particularly in North Dakota and the surrounding region. The school’s focus on practical legal training, combined with its strong connections to the state’s legal community, ensures that students are well-prepared for careers in a variety of legal fields, including private practice, public service, and judicial clerkships. Many graduates also go on to work in government agencies or corporate legal departments.
- Private Sector: $60,000 – $90,000
- Graduates who enter private law firms in North Dakota and the surrounding states can expect starting salaries in the range of $60,000 to $90,000, depending on the size of the firm and the location.
- Public Sector: $50,000 – $65,000
- Graduates who pursue careers in government agencies, non-profit organizations, or public interest law typically earn starting salaries between $50,000 and $65,000. Public defenders, prosecutors, and attorneys working in legal aid organizations are common career paths for UND Law graduates interested in public service.
- Judicial Clerkships: $55,000 – $65,000
- Many UND Law graduates secure judicial clerkships with state and federal judges. These positions provide valuable experience and can serve as a stepping stone to other prestigious legal careers. Starting salaries for judicial clerkships typically range from $55,000 to $65,000.
Practical Learning Opportunities at UND Law
Clinical Programs
The University of North Dakota School of Law places a strong emphasis on experiential learning, and its clinical programs provide students with the opportunity to apply their legal knowledge in real-world settings. Some of the key clinical programs include:
- Housing and Employment Law Clinic: This clinic provides legal assistance to clients facing housing and employment issues, such as landlord-tenant disputes, discrimination claims, and unemployment benefits. Students work directly with clients, drafting legal documents, conducting research, and representing clients in administrative hearings and court proceedings.
- Criminal Defense Clinic: Students participating in the Criminal Defense Clinic represent clients charged with misdemeanor offenses. Under the supervision of faculty members, students handle all aspects of the case, including client interviews, plea negotiations, and court appearances. This clinic provides students with valuable courtroom experience and insight into the criminal justice system.
Externship Opportunities
In addition to its clinical programs, UND Law offers a robust externship program that allows students to gain practical experience working in various legal settings. Externships are available with:
- Judges: Students can work as judicial externs, assisting judges with legal research, writing opinions, and observing courtroom proceedings. This experience provides students with valuable insights into the judicial decision-making process.
- Government Agencies: Externships are available with federal, state, and local government agencies, including the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the North Dakota Attorney General’s Office, and local prosecutors’ offices. These placements allow students to gain experience in areas such as criminal law, environmental law, and regulatory compliance.
- Law Firms: Students have the opportunity to extern with law firms, where they can gain experience in areas such as civil litigation, corporate law, and family law. These placements provide students with exposure to the day-to-day operations of a legal practice.
Career Support and Alumni Network
The University of North Dakota School of Law provides strong career support for its students through the school’s Career Development Office. The Career Development Office offers a range of services to help students prepare for the job search and connect with potential employers. These services include:
- Career Counseling: Students can meet with career counselors to discuss their career goals, receive feedback on their resumes and cover letters, and develop strategies for their job search.
- Job Fairs: UND Law hosts and participates in several job fairs throughout the year, allowing students to meet with employers from law firms, government agencies, and public interest organizations.
- Mock Interviews: The Career Development Office offers mock interviews to help students prepare for interviews with potential employers. Students receive feedback on their performance, including tips on how to improve their interviewing skills.
Alumni Network
UND Law has a strong and supportive alumni network, particularly in North Dakota and the surrounding region. Many graduates remain in the state to practice law, and the law school’s alumni network is a valuable resource for current students seeking internships, job opportunities, and mentorship. Alumni are actively involved in the law school community, and many participate in events such as networking receptions, panel discussions, and guest lectures.
Commitment to Public Service
The University of North Dakota School of Law is deeply committed to public service and encourages its students to engage in pro bono work and community service. Through the school’s Public Interest Program, students have the opportunity to work with local non-profits, legal aid organizations, and government agencies to provide legal services to underserved communities.
The school’s Pro Bono Program encourages students to volunteer their time and skills to assist individuals and organizations in need of legal assistance. Many students participate in pro bono work during their time at UND Law, gaining valuable experience while making a positive impact on their communities.