Are you pursing a law degree? The TopSchoolsintheUSA.com has generated the latest ranking of best law schools in Maryland 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 Maryland 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 Maryland.
Top ABA-Approved Law Schools in Maryland
| National Ranking | Best Law Programs |
| 42 | University of Maryland (Carey) (Baltimore, MD) Acceptance rate: 19.7% LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 156-163 GPA (25th-75th percentile): 3.31-3.75 Tuition & Fees: In-state, full-time: $25,405 per year, Out-of-state, full-time: $36,684 per year Enrollment (full-time): 735 Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 93.3%
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| 118 | University of Baltimore (Baltimore, MD) Acceptance rate: 40.5% LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 151-158 GPA (25th-75th percentile): 2.97-3.46 Tuition & Fees: In-state, full-time: $25,798 per year, Out-of-state, full-time: $37,900 per year Enrollment (full-time): 738 Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 91.2%
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All Law Schools in Maryland
Maryland is home to two prominent law schools that offer comprehensive legal education and prepare students for successful careers in law. Both schools—University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law and University of Baltimore School of Law—are located in Baltimore, a hub for legal practice in the state. These law schools provide rigorous academic programs, extensive experiential learning opportunities, and strong connections to local, regional, and national legal markets.
1. University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law
Overview
The University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law, established in 1823, is the third-oldest law school in the United States and is known for its strong commitment to public service, health law, environmental law, and business law. Located in Baltimore, the school is part of the University of Maryland, Baltimore, a hub for health and professional studies. The law school offers students a broad curriculum, a focus on practical legal training, and a vast alumni network. Its urban location allows for numerous externship and employment opportunities, particularly in government, business, and public interest law.
Degree Programs
The University of Maryland Carey School of Law offers a variety of degree programs to accommodate the diverse interests of its students:
- Juris Doctor (J.D.): The core three-year law degree program designed to provide students with a strong foundation in legal theory and practice. Students can choose to concentrate in areas such as environmental law, business law, health law, and international law.
- Master of Laws (LL.M.): A one-year advanced law degree for lawyers seeking to specialize in areas such as environmental law, health law, or international law. The LL.M. program allows students to deepen their expertise in specific legal fields.
- Doctor of Juridical Science (S.J.D.): The highest degree in law, this research-focused program is intended for individuals interested in legal scholarship, academic careers, or policy-making roles.
- Dual Degree Programs:
- J.D./M.B.A. (Master of Business Administration): Offered in partnership with the University of Maryland Robert H. Smith School of Business, this program prepares students for leadership roles in law and business.
- J.D./M.P.H. (Master of Public Health): Designed for students interested in combining legal studies with public health expertise.
- J.D./M.S.W. (Master of Social Work): For students focusing on the intersection of law and social work.
Specializations and Focus Areas
Maryland Carey Law allows students to specialize in several key legal areas, providing them with targeted expertise for specific career paths:
- Health Law: The school’s location near several major health institutions, including Johns Hopkins University, makes it an ideal place for studying health law and policy.
- Environmental Law: Maryland Carey Law offers a strong environmental law program, allowing students to study issues related to natural resources, environmental justice, and sustainability.
- Business Law: The business law curriculum focuses on corporate law, securities regulation, tax law, and mergers and acquisitions, preparing students for careers in corporate legal departments or business law firms.
Admission Requirements
Admission to the University of Maryland Carey School of Law is competitive, and the school seeks students with strong academic credentials, leadership experience, and a commitment to public service.
- Average LSAT: 160
- Average GPA: 3.55
Other factors considered in the admissions process include:
- Personal Statement: Applicants must submit a personal statement detailing their reasons for pursuing a legal education and how Maryland Carey Law aligns with their career goals.
- Letters of Recommendation: Two letters are typically required, preferably from academic professors or employers who can speak to the applicant’s qualifications and potential for success in law school.
- Resume: Highlighting leadership roles, work experience, internships, and community involvement.
Starting Salaries
Graduates of Maryland Carey Law are well-prepared for the job market and often secure positions in law firms, government agencies, and corporate legal departments in Maryland, Washington, D.C., and beyond.
- Median starting salary (private sector): $105,000
- Median starting salary (public sector): $65,000
2. University of Baltimore School of Law
Overview
The University of Baltimore School of Law, established in 1925, is known for its focus on practical legal training and its commitment to producing practice-ready graduates. Located in the heart of Baltimore, the law school offers students access to a vibrant legal market, with close proximity to federal courts, law firms, government agencies, and non-profit organizations. UB Law emphasizes experiential learning, offering robust clinical programs, externships, and opportunities for pro bono work. The school’s evening program also makes it accessible for working professionals.
Degree Programs
The University of Baltimore School of Law offers a range of degree programs that prepare students for various legal careers:
- Juris Doctor (J.D.): A comprehensive three-year program that provides students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in legal practice. The school also offers a part-time evening J.D. program for working professionals.
- Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Taxation: A one-year program designed for attorneys who want to specialize in tax law. This program provides advanced training in federal, state, and international tax issues.
- LL.M. in U.S. Law: This program is designed for foreign-trained lawyers who want to gain expertise in the U.S. legal system.
- Dual Degree Programs:
- J.D./M.B.A.: A joint degree program offered with the University of Baltimore’s Merrick School of Business.
- J.D./M.P.A. (Master of Public Administration): For students interested in public service, this program integrates legal studies with public administration.
Specializations and Focus Areas
UB Law offers several areas of specialization, allowing students to focus on specific areas of legal practice:
- Family Law: The school has a strong family law program that covers areas such as divorce, child custody, adoption, and domestic violence.
- Public Interest Law: UB Law has a strong commitment to public service, with opportunities for students to work in public interest organizations, government agencies, and non-profit organizations.
- Business and Commercial Law: Students interested in business law can focus on corporate governance, contracts, bankruptcy, and commercial transactions.
Admission Requirements
Admission to UB Law is competitive, and the admissions committee looks for applicants with strong academic records, work experience, and leadership potential.
- Average LSAT: 154
- Average GPA: 3.30
Additional admission requirements include:
- Personal Statement: Applicants must submit a personal statement explaining their reasons for pursuing a legal education and how UB Law aligns with their career aspirations.
- Letters of Recommendation: Two letters of recommendation are required, typically from academic or professional references who can attest to the applicant’s capabilities.
- Resume: Highlighting professional experience, leadership roles, and community service activities.
Starting Salaries
Graduates of UB Law are competitive in the job market, particularly in Maryland and Washington, D.C. Many graduates find positions in law firms, government agencies, and corporate legal departments.
- Median starting salary (private sector): $80,000
- Median starting salary (public sector): $60,000
Experiential Learning Opportunities in Maryland Law Schools
Both the University of Maryland Carey School of Law and the University of Baltimore School of Law emphasize experiential learning, providing students with practical legal experience through clinics, externships, and internships. These programs help students develop the skills they need to succeed in their legal careers.
University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law
- Environmental Law Clinic: One of the school’s most prominent clinics, where students work on cases involving environmental protection, natural resource management, and public health.
- Public Health Law Clinic: In collaboration with the University of Maryland’s medical school, students work on legal issues related to healthcare access, public health policy, and bioethics.
- Immigration Clinic: Students assist immigrants with legal matters, including asylum claims, deportation defense, and visa applications.
- Externship Program: Students gain hands-on experience by working with judges, government agencies, law firms, and non-profit organizations. Placements are available in Maryland and Washington, D.C.
University of Baltimore School of Law
- Innocence Project Clinic: Students work to exonerate wrongfully convicted individuals by investigating cases, conducting legal research, and advocating for clients in court.
- Family Law Clinic: Students represent clients in family law matters such as divorce, child custody, and domestic violence cases.
- Tax Clinic: This clinic allows students to assist low-income taxpayers with disputes before the IRS and the Maryland Tax Court.
- Judicial Externships: UB Law students can extern with federal and state judges, providing them with an inside view of the judicial process and courtroom proceedings.
Bar Passage Rates
Bar passage rates are a key indicator of how well a law school prepares its students for the bar exam. Both Maryland law schools offer bar preparation programs and resources to help students succeed.
- University of Maryland Carey School of Law: The school consistently has a high bar passage rate, with approximately 85% of graduates passing the bar exam on their first attempt.
- University of Baltimore School of Law: UB Law has a strong bar passage rate, with approximately 80% of graduates passing the bar exam on their first try.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Both law schools offer a variety of financial aid options, including merit-based scholarships, need-based grants, and federal loans, to help students manage the cost of their legal education.
University of Maryland Carey School of Law
- In-state tuition: Approximately $32,000 per year
- Out-of-state tuition: Approximately $47,000 per year
Maryland Carey Law offers a range of merit-based scholarships, including full and partial tuition scholarships, based on academic performance and leadership potential.
University of Baltimore School of Law
- In-state tuition: Approximately $30,000 per year
- Out-of-state tuition: Approximately $45,000 per year
UB Law offers merit-based scholarships and need-based financial aid to help students cover the cost of tuition. Scholarships are awarded based on academic performance, LSAT scores, and leadership potential.
Career Services and Job Placement
Both Maryland law schools have dedicated career services offices that help students and alumni secure internships, externships, and full-time employment. These services include career counseling, resume reviews, mock interviews, and job fairs.
University of Maryland Carey School of Law
- Employment Rate: Approximately 90% of graduates are employed within 10 months of graduation, with many finding positions in law firms, government agencies, and non-profit organizations.
University of Baltimore School of Law
- Employment Rate: Approximately 85% of UB Law graduates are employed within 10 months of graduation, with many working in law firms, corporate legal departments, and public service roles.