Are you pursing a law degree? The TopSchoolsintheUSA.com has generated the latest ranking of best law schools in Alabama 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 Alabama 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 Alabama.
Top ABA-Approved Law Schools in Alabama
| National Ranking | Best Law Programs |
| 31 | University of Alabama (Tuscaloosa, AL) Acceptance rate: 25.3% LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 158-167 GPA (25th-75th percentile): 3.42-3.94 Tuition & Fees: In-state, full-time: $18,030 per year, Out-of-state, full-time: $30,950 per year Enrollment (full-time): 509 Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 91.3%  |
| 142 | Samford University (Cumberland) (Birmingham, AL) Acceptance rate: 41.9% LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 152-157 GPA (25th-75th percentile): 2.97-3.53 Tuition & Fees: Full-time: $34,848 per year Enrollment (full-time): 489 Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 78.2%  |
| 157 | Faulkner University (Jones) (Montgomery, AL) Acceptance rate: 56.6% LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 146-152 GPA (25th-75th percentile): 2.66-3.36 Tuition & Fees: Full-time: $32,187 per year Enrollment (full-time): 334 Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 84.7%  |
All Law Schools in Alabama
Alabama is home to several law schools that offer rigorous education, preparing students for various legal fields. From the state’s flagship university to smaller, flexible programs designed for working professionals, these law schools each offer unique strengths. Below is an in-depth look at the law schools in Alabama, including their degree programs, admissions requirements, and starting salaries for graduates.
1. The University of Alabama School of Law
Overview
The University of Alabama School of Law, located in Tuscaloosa, is the flagship law school of the state. It consistently ranks as one of the top public law schools in the nation and has earned a reputation for its high-quality legal education, influential alumni network, and strong job placement rates. Founded in 1872, the law school has a long history of producing leaders in the legal profession.
Degree Programs
The University of Alabama School of Law offers a range of programs to meet the needs of aspiring legal professionals:
- Juris Doctor (J.D.) Program: A three-year, full-time program that prepares students for the bar and general legal practice.
- Joint Degrees: The law school collaborates with other University of Alabama departments to offer dual degree programs, including:
- J.D./MBA (Master of Business Administration)
- J.D./MPA (Master of Public Administration)
- J.D./MSW (Master of Social Work)
- J.D./LL.M. (Master of Laws in Taxation or Business Transactions)
- Master of Laws (LL.M.): For practicing attorneys, with concentrations in Taxation or Business Transactions.
- Doctor of Juridical Science (S.J.D.): A research-focused doctoral degree for those looking to pursue academic or high-level policy roles.
Admission Requirements
Admission to the University of Alabama School of Law is highly competitive, requiring strong academic performance, standardized test scores, and a well-rounded application. The admissions committee looks at various factors, including LSAT scores, GPA, work experience, and personal achievements.
- Average LSAT: 163
- Average GPA: 3.85
Other important elements for admission include:
- Personal Statement: A detailed narrative highlighting why the candidate is interested in law and what experiences have prepared them for law school.
- Letters of Recommendation: Letters from academic or professional mentors that speak to the applicant’s abilities.
- Resume: Including professional and extracurricular activities, especially those demonstrating leadership.
Starting Salaries
Graduates from the University of Alabama School of Law enjoy competitive starting salaries, with strong placement in law firms, public sector jobs, and clerkships.
- Median starting salary (private sector): $105,000
- Median starting salary (public sector): $60,000
2. Cumberland School of Law at Samford University
Overview
Cumberland School of Law, located in Birmingham, Alabama, is part of Samford University. Founded in 1847, it is one of the oldest law schools in the country and has a strong reputation for its advocacy program, preparing students to excel in courtroom practice. Cumberland emphasizes hands-on learning and practical skills, producing graduates who are ready for trial work and legal practice.
Degree Programs
Cumberland School of Law offers several degrees that are designed to prepare students for a variety of legal careers:
- Juris Doctor (J.D.): The primary law degree program, combining legal theory with practical skills.
- Joint Degrees: The law school offers several joint degree programs in conjunction with other Samford University departments, including:
- J.D./MBA (Master of Business Administration)
- J.D./M.Div. (Master of Divinity)
- J.D./MPH (Master of Public Health)
- Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Health Law and Compliance: A specialized program focusing on health law, healthcare regulations, and compliance.
- Advocacy Program: An emphasis program for students looking to specialize in trial advocacy and courtroom litigation.
Admission Requirements
Cumberland School of Law seeks well-rounded applicants with strong academic records, work experience, and leadership potential. The admissions process is competitive, but slightly more accessible compared to top-tier schools.
- Average LSAT: 156
- Average GPA: 3.40
Admission also considers:
- Personal Statement: A chance for applicants to showcase their passion for law and their career goals.
- Resume: Highlighting relevant work experience, leadership roles, and extracurricular activities.
- Letters of Recommendation: Academic or professional references that demonstrate the applicant’s qualifications.
Starting Salaries
Cumberland graduates generally secure solid legal jobs, especially in the Southeast. Their salaries reflect their training in advocacy and their practical skills.
- Median starting salary (private sector): $85,000
- Median starting salary (public sector): $55,000
3. Faulkner University’s Thomas Goode Jones School of Law
Overview
Located in Montgomery, Alabama, Faulkner University’s Thomas Goode Jones School of Law focuses on producing lawyers with a strong sense of ethical responsibility. Founded in 1928, the law school emphasizes the integration of Christian values and legal education, offering a faith-based approach to the study of law. It is named after Thomas Goode Jones, a former governor of Alabama and federal judge.
Degree Programs
The Thomas Goode Jones School of Law offers a range of legal education options:
- Juris Doctor (J.D.): A full-time program that prepares students for legal practice.
- Joint Degrees: The school offers a J.D./M.Div. (Master of Divinity) program for students interested in combining their legal education with religious studies.
- Concentration Tracks: Specializations in areas such as Constitutional Law, Public Interest Law, and Criminal Law.
- Clinical Programs: Providing students with hands-on experience in real-world legal settings, particularly in family law and elder law.
Admission Requirements
Faulkner University’s Jones School of Law seeks applicants who are committed to ethical legal practice and community service. While its admissions standards are somewhat less stringent than those of larger law schools, the program still demands strong academic and personal qualifications.
- Average LSAT: 150
- Average GPA: 3.00
Additional admissions factors include:
- Character and Fitness: Strong emphasis is placed on the moral character of applicants.
- Personal Statement: This should outline the applicant’s motivations for pursuing law and any service-oriented goals.
- Letters of Recommendation: Preferably from individuals who can speak to the applicant’s academic abilities and moral character.
Starting Salaries
Graduates of the Thomas Goode Jones School of Law often go into public service or smaller law firms. Starting salaries are typically lower than those of graduates from larger, more prestigious schools.
- Median starting salary (private sector): $65,000
- Median starting salary (public sector): $45,000
4. Birmingham School of Law
Overview
Founded in 1915, Birmingham School of Law (BSL) is a unique, part-time law school that caters to working professionals seeking a legal education. Located in downtown Birmingham, BSL is not accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA) but is approved by the Alabama State Bar. This means graduates can sit for the Alabama Bar Exam but may face limitations in practicing law outside the state.
Degree Programs
Birmingham School of Law offers a single Juris Doctor (J.D.) program, designed to be flexible for students who have full-time jobs or other significant commitments. The program primarily offers evening and weekend classes.
- Juris Doctor (J.D.): The part-time program provides a comprehensive legal education, preparing students to sit for the Alabama Bar Exam.
- Concentrations: While no formal concentrations are offered, students can choose electives in specific areas of law, such as criminal law, family law, and business law.
Admission Requirements
Admission to Birmingham School of Law is more accessible compared to traditional law schools, making it an appealing option for non-traditional students.
- Average LSAT: 145
- Average GPA: 2.90
BSL takes a holistic approach to admissions, considering:
- Work Experience: Many applicants are working professionals with significant career experience outside of law.
- Personal Statement: Applicants must explain why they are pursuing a legal education and how they plan to balance law school with other responsibilities.
- Letters of Recommendation: These should ideally be from professional or academic sources.
Starting Salaries
Graduates of Birmingham School of Law tend to stay in Alabama, often working in smaller firms or in solo practice. Their starting salaries are generally lower than those of graduates from more competitive schools.
- Median starting salary (private sector): $55,000
- Median starting salary (public sector): $45,000
5. Miles Law School
Overview
Miles Law School, located in Birmingham, Alabama, was established in 1974 and primarily serves non-traditional students. Though it is not accredited by the American Bar Association, Miles graduates are eligible to sit for the Alabama State Bar Exam. The school focuses on providing affordable legal education to those who might not otherwise have the opportunity to attend law school.
Degree Programs
Miles Law School offers a Juris Doctor (J.D.) program that is designed to accommodate students with significant outside commitments. The program is structured to allow for part-time study, with courses held in the evenings.
- Juris Doctor (J.D.): This is the primary program, preparing students for legal practice in Alabama.
Admission Requirements
Miles Law School has more lenient admissions criteria compared to other law schools, offering opportunities for individuals from diverse backgrounds.
- No LSAT Requirement: Unlike other law schools, Miles does not require the LSAT for admission, though it does consider other academic factors.
- GPA Requirement: There is no strict GPA requirement, but applicants must demonstrate the ability to complete rigorous legal coursework.
- Diversity of Backgrounds: Miles prioritizes giving opportunities to those from non-traditional or underserved backgrounds.
Starting Salaries
Miles Law School graduates often work in smaller firms or enter solo practice. Their starting salaries reflect the local job market in Alabama and the school’s focus on accessible education.
- Median starting salary (private sector): $50,000
- Median starting salary (public sector): $40,000