Are you pursing a law degree? The TopSchoolsintheUSA.com has generated the latest ranking of best law schools in Indiana 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 Indiana 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 Indiana.
Top ABA-Approved Law Schools in Indiana
| National Ranking | Best Law Programs |
| 22 | University of Notre Dame (Notre Dame, IN) Acceptance rate: 20.9% LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 162-167 GPA (25th-75th percentile): 3.45-3.74 Tuition & Fees: Full-time: $43,335 per year Enrollment (full-time): 563 Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 91.3%
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| 28 | Indiana University, Bloomington (Maurer) (Bloomington, IN) Acceptance rate: 33.6% LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 158-167 GPA (25th-75th percentile): 3.38-3.89 Tuition & Fees: In-state, full-time: $28,130 per year, Out-of-state, full-time: $45,602 per year Enrollment (full-time): 692 Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 87.2%
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| 91 | Indiana University, Indianapolis (Indianapolis, IN) Acceptance rate: 43.8% LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 151-159 GPA (25th-75th percentile): 3.09-3.68 Tuition & Fees: N/A Enrollment (full-time): N/A Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 91.4%
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| 190 | Valparaiso University (Valparaiso, IN) Acceptance rate: 71.2% LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 147-151 GPA (25th-75th percentile): 2.95-3.46 Tuition & Fees: Full-time: $38,086 per year Enrollment (full-time): 541 Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 70.5%
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All Law Schools in Indiana
Indiana is home to several respected law schools that provide comprehensive legal education, preparing students for successful careers in a variety of legal fields. These schools are known for their rigorous academic programs, strong alumni networks, and focus on practical training.
1. Indiana University Maurer School of Law (Bloomington)
Overview
The Indiana University Maurer School of Law, located in Bloomington, is the flagship law school of Indiana University and one of the oldest law schools in the nation, having been established in 1842. Maurer Law is known for its academic excellence, distinguished faculty, and strong focus on international law, intellectual property, and public interest law. The school offers a supportive community and numerous opportunities for hands-on legal training.
Degree Programs
Maurer School of Law offers a variety of degree programs designed to prepare students for successful careers in the legal profession:
- Juris Doctor (J.D.): A three-year, full-time program that provides a broad foundation in legal theory and practice.
- LL.M. (Master of Laws): A one-year program for foreign-trained lawyers and U.S. lawyers seeking specialized legal training.
- S.J.D. (Doctor of Juridical Science): A research-focused doctoral program for students interested in academic or high-level legal research careers.
- M.C.L. (Master of Comparative Law): A degree for foreign lawyers who wish to study the U.S. legal system.
- Joint Degrees:
- J.D./M.B.A. (Master of Business Administration)
- J.D./M.P.A. (Master of Public Affairs)
- J.D./M.I.S. (Master of Information Science)
Admission Requirements
Maurer School of Law is highly selective, seeking students with strong academic credentials and a commitment to leadership and public service.
- Average LSAT: 162
- Average GPA: 3.80
Other factors considered in the admissions process include:
- Personal Statement: Applicants must submit a personal statement explaining their motivation for pursuing law and why Maurer Law is the right fit for their career goals.
- Letters of Recommendation: Typically from professors or employers who can speak to the applicant’s academic abilities and potential for success in law school.
- Resume: Highlighting relevant work experience, leadership roles, and community service.
Starting Salaries
Maurer Law graduates are highly competitive in both national and international legal markets, with many securing positions at top law firms, government agencies, and corporate legal departments.
- Median starting salary (private sector): $110,000
- Median starting salary (public sector): $65,000
2. Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law (Indianapolis)
Overview
The Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law, located in the heart of downtown Indianapolis, is known for its strong ties to the legal community in Indiana, particularly in government and health law. Established in 1894, McKinney Law offers students access to internships, externships, and networking opportunities in Indianapolis’ legal market. The school is particularly well-regarded for its programs in health law, intellectual property, and international law.
Degree Programs
McKinney School of Law offers a range of degree programs to meet the needs of aspiring legal professionals:
- Juris Doctor (J.D.): A three-year program designed to provide a comprehensive legal education, with options for full-time and part-time study.
- LL.M. (Master of Laws): A one-year program for both U.S. and international lawyers looking to specialize in areas such as health law, intellectual property, and international law.
- S.J.D. (Doctor of Juridical Science): A research-based doctoral degree for students pursuing academic or legal research careers.
- Joint Degrees:
- J.D./M.B.A. (Master of Business Administration)
- J.D./M.P.H. (Master of Public Health)
- J.D./M.P.A. (Master of Public Affairs)
Admission Requirements
McKinney Law evaluates applicants based on their academic performance, leadership potential, and professional experience. The admissions process is holistic, considering a variety of factors beyond just test scores.
- Average LSAT: 153
- Average GPA: 3.40
Additional factors in the admissions process include:
- Personal Statement: Applicants are required to submit a personal statement that outlines their career goals and reasons for choosing McKinney Law.
- Letters of Recommendation: These should come from individuals who can provide insight into the applicant’s academic potential and character.
- Resume: Detailing work experience, leadership activities, and community involvement.
Starting Salaries
Graduates of McKinney Law are well-positioned to find employment in Indiana’s legal market, particularly in the areas of government, health law, and public service.
- Median starting salary (private sector): $85,000
- Median starting salary (public sector): $60,000
3. Notre Dame Law School
Overview
Notre Dame Law School, located in South Bend, Indiana, is one of the oldest Catholic law schools in the United States, having been established in 1869. The law school is known for its strong emphasis on ethics, public service, and global legal studies. Notre Dame Law School is renowned for its academic rigor, national reputation, and strong alumni network that stretches across the country. It offers students the opportunity to engage with legal issues through a Catholic intellectual tradition.
Degree Programs
Notre Dame Law School offers several degree programs that emphasize both theoretical and practical legal education:
- Juris Doctor (J.D.): A three-year program that provides a broad legal education with a focus on ethics and professional responsibility.
- LL.M. (Master of Laws): A program designed for both U.S. and foreign-trained lawyers who want to specialize in areas such as international human rights, environmental law, or corporate law.
- J.S.D. (Doctor of Juridical Science): A research-focused program for students interested in legal scholarship and academic careers.
- Dual Degrees:
- J.D./M.B.A. (Master of Business Administration)
- J.D./M.A. (Master of Arts in Political Science)
Admission Requirements
Admission to Notre Dame Law School is highly competitive, with the school seeking students who demonstrate strong academic potential, leadership, and a commitment to ethical practice.
- Average LSAT: 167
- Average GPA: 3.75
Other components of the admissions process include:
- Personal Statement: Applicants are encouraged to write a personal statement that reflects their interest in law, career goals, and how Notre Dame’s mission aligns with their aspirations.
- Letters of Recommendation: Preferably from professors or employers who can speak to the applicant’s academic and professional abilities.
- Resume: Highlighting work experience, community service, and leadership roles.
Starting Salaries
Notre Dame Law graduates are highly sought after by top law firms, corporations, and public interest organizations across the country, with strong placement rates in both the private and public sectors.
- Median starting salary (private sector): $180,000
- Median starting salary (public sector): $70,000
4. Valparaiso University Law School (Closed)
Overview
Valparaiso University Law School, located in Valparaiso, Indiana, was founded in 1879 and had a long history of providing legal education focused on public service and ethics. However, due to declining enrollment and financial challenges, the law school ceased operations in 2020. While it is no longer open, Valparaiso Law had a strong focus on preparing graduates for careers in public service, legal aid, and government.
Clinical and Externship Opportunities in Indiana Law Schools
Indiana University Maurer School of Law
Maurer Law offers numerous clinical and externship programs to give students real-world legal experience, including:
- Conservation Law Clinic: Students work on environmental law issues related to land conservation and natural resource management.
- Intellectual Property Clinic: This clinic allows students to work with entrepreneurs and businesses on trademark, patent, and copyright issues.
- Judicial Clerkships: Students have the opportunity to work with federal and state judges, gaining hands-on experience in the judicial system.
Indiana University McKinney School of Law
McKinney Law provides extensive practical training through its clinical programs, such as:
- Health and Human Rights Clinic: Students represent clients in legal issues related to healthcare access, disability rights, and public health.
- Criminal Defense Clinic: This clinic provides students with the opportunity to represent clients in criminal cases, under the supervision of licensed attorneys.
- Immigration Law Clinic: Students assist immigrants with legal issues related to asylum, deportation, and visa applications.
Notre Dame Law School
Notre Dame Law School offers a wide range of experiential learning opportunities, including:
- Notre Dame Clinical Law Center: This clinic offers students practical experience in family law, housing law, and small business legal services.
- International Human Rights Clinic: Students work on international human rights cases, providing legal assistance to clients from around the world.
- Public Defender Externships: Students can gain experience working in public defender offices, representing clients who cannot afford legal representation.