Are you pursing a law degree? The TopSchoolsintheUSA.com has generated the latest ranking of best law schools in Iowa 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 Iowa 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 Iowa.
Top ABA-Approved Law Schools in Iowa
| National Ranking | Best Law Programs |
| 33 | University of Iowa (Iowa City, IA) Acceptance rate: 38.9% LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 158-164 GPA (25th-75th percentile): 3.51-3.81 Tuition & Fees: In-state, full-time: $26,348 per year, Out-of-state, full-time: $46,056 per year Enrollment (full-time): 550 Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 90.6%
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| 106 | Drake University (Des Moines, IA) Acceptance rate: 55.5% LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 153-158 GPA (25th-75th percentile): 3.06-3.64 Tuition & Fees: Full-time: $34,006 per year Enrollment (full-time): 434 Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 89.5%
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All Law Schools in Iowa
Iowa is home to two respected law schools that provide excellent legal education and training for aspiring attorneys. Both schools offer a variety of programs, specialized areas of study, and practical experiences to prepare graduates for successful careers in the legal field.
1. University of Iowa College of Law
Overview
The University of Iowa College of Law, located in Iowa City, is one of the oldest law schools in the nation, having been established in 1865. It is consistently ranked among the top public law schools in the country and is known for its commitment to academic excellence, affordability, and practical legal training. The College of Law offers a supportive community with small class sizes, distinguished faculty, and numerous opportunities for hands-on learning. With a strong focus on research and writing, Iowa Law is well-regarded for producing practice-ready graduates.
Degree Programs
The University of Iowa College of Law offers a variety of degree programs that cater to different career paths in law:
- Juris Doctor (J.D.): The core three-year program that prepares students for legal practice. The J.D. program includes clinics, externships, and a robust curriculum in both theoretical and practical legal education.
- Master of Laws (LL.M.): A one-year program designed for foreign-trained lawyers who wish to gain a deeper understanding of U.S. law.
- S.J.D. (Doctor of Juridical Science): A research-focused doctoral degree for students interested in academic or high-level legal research careers.
- Joint Degree Programs:
- J.D./M.B.A. (Master of Business Administration)
- J.D./M.P.H. (Master of Public Health)
- J.D./M.A. in Urban and Regional Planning
- J.D./Ph.D. (various fields)
Admission Requirements
Admission to the University of Iowa College of Law is competitive, with the admissions committee looking for students with strong academic records, leadership potential, and a commitment to public service.
- Average LSAT: 161
- Average GPA: 3.63
Other factors considered in the admissions process include:
- Personal Statement: Applicants must submit a personal statement explaining their motivation for pursuing law, their career goals, and why Iowa Law is the right fit for them.
- Letters of Recommendation: Preferably from professors or employers who can speak to the applicant’s academic and professional potential.
- Resume: Highlighting relevant work experience, leadership roles, and extracurricular activities.
- Optional Diversity Statement: Applicants may submit a diversity statement discussing their unique experiences or perspectives that would contribute to the diversity of the law school community.
Starting Salaries
University of Iowa College of Law graduates are highly regarded in both regional and national legal markets, with many securing positions at top law firms, government agencies, and corporations.
- Median starting salary (private sector): $95,000
- Median starting salary (public sector): $60,000
2. Drake University Law School
Overview
Drake University Law School, located in Des Moines, is the second oldest law school in Iowa, founded in 1865. Drake Law is known for its focus on experiential learning and its strong connections to the Iowa legal community. The law school offers a range of clinics, externships, and internships that give students practical legal experience before they graduate. With its proximity to the Iowa State Capitol and courts, Drake Law students have unique opportunities to engage in government and public service work.
Degree Programs
Drake University Law School offers several degree programs designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge needed for a successful legal career:
- Juris Doctor (J.D.): A three-year program that provides a comprehensive legal education. Students can choose from various areas of emphasis, including constitutional law, business law, criminal law, and public service.
- Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Agricultural and Food Law: A specialized one-year program focusing on legal issues related to agriculture and food production, designed for both U.S. and international lawyers.
- Master of Jurisprudence (M.J.): A program for non-lawyers who want to gain legal knowledge in areas such as compliance, health law, or intellectual property.
- Joint Degree Programs:
- J.D./M.B.A. (Master of Business Administration)
- J.D./M.P.A. (Master of Public Administration)
- J.D./M.S.W. (Master of Social Work)
Admission Requirements
Drake University Law School evaluates applicants holistically, considering not just academic performance but also leadership, work experience, and community involvement.
- Average LSAT: 153
- Average GPA: 3.36
Other key factors considered in the admissions process include:
- Personal Statement: Applicants must provide a personal statement discussing their reasons for pursuing a legal education and why Drake Law is the right fit for their professional goals.
- Letters of Recommendation: Typically from academic professors or professional supervisors who can speak to the applicant’s qualifications and potential for success in law school.
- Resume: Outlining work experience, internships, leadership roles, and community service.
- Optional Diversity Statement: Applicants are encouraged to submit a diversity statement if they feel that their background, experiences, or perspectives will add to the diversity of the law school community.
Starting Salaries
Drake Law graduates have strong job prospects in Iowa’s legal market, particularly in government, public service, and private practice. The law school’s emphasis on practical experience ensures that graduates are well-prepared for the workforce.
- Median starting salary (private sector): $70,000
- Median starting salary (public sector): $55,000