Are you pursing a law degree? The TopSchoolsintheUSA.com has generated the latest ranking of best law schools in Oregon 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 Oregon 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 Oregon.
Top ABA-Approved Law Schools in Oregon
| National Ranking | Best Law Programs |
| 59 | Lewis & Clark College (Northwestern) (Portland, OR) Acceptance rate: 39.3% LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 157-163 GPA (25th-75th percentile): 3.2-3.68 Tuition & Fees: Full-time: $36,362 per year Enrollment (full-time): 493 Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 89.4%
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| 88 | University of Oregon (Eugene, OR) Acceptance rate: 40.7% LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 157-160 GPA (25th-75th percentile): 3.17-3.6 Tuition & Fees: In-state, full-time: $26,061 per year, Out-of-state, full-time: $32,505 per year Enrollment (full-time): 505 Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 78.0%
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| 133 | Willamette University (Collins) (Salem, OR) Acceptance rate: 49.3% LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 152-157 GPA (25th-75th percentile): 2.86-3.42 Tuition & Fees: Full-time: $32,540 per year Enrollment (full-time): 405 Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 83.7%
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All Law Schools in Oregon
Oregon is home to three law schools, each offering a unique combination of academic rigor, practical experience, and specialized programs that prepare students for successful legal careers. These schools provide students with comprehensive legal education and opportunities to specialize in areas such as environmental law, business law, and public interest law.
The law schools in Oregon are:
- University of Oregon School of Law
- Lewis & Clark Law School
- Willamette University College of Law
1. University of Oregon School of Law
Overview
The University of Oregon School of Law, located in Eugene, is the state’s oldest law school, established in 1884. It is nationally recognized for its strong programs in environmental and natural resources law, dispute resolution, and public interest law. As a public law school, it offers an affordable education combined with the academic excellence of a major research university. The school places a strong emphasis on practical legal training, and students benefit from its various clinics, externships, and hands-on learning opportunities.
Degree Programs
The University of Oregon School of Law offers a variety of degree programs tailored to different career goals:
- Juris Doctor (J.D.): The traditional three-year law program that provides a comprehensive foundation in legal theory and practice. Students can specialize in areas such as:
- Environmental and Natural Resources Law
- Business Law
- Public Interest Law
- Criminal Law
- Joint Degree Programs:
- J.D./M.B.A. (Master of Business Administration): Offered in conjunction with the University of Oregon’s Lundquist College of Business.
- J.D./M.A. in Conflict and Dispute Resolution: Focused on mediation and negotiation, ideal for students interested in dispute resolution.
- LL.M. (Master of Laws): A one-year program for lawyers seeking to specialize in environmental law or conflict and dispute resolution.
- Clinical Programs and Externships:
- Environmental Law Clinic
- Domestic Violence Clinic
- Business Law Clinic
- Externship placements with government agencies, law firms, and nonprofits
Admission Requirements
The University of Oregon School of Law looks for students with a strong academic background, leadership qualities, and a commitment to community involvement. The admissions process is competitive, but the school takes a holistic approach, considering LSAT scores, GPA, and other factors such as work experience and personal statements.
- Average LSAT Score: 158
- Average GPA: 3.48
- Application Components:
- LSAC application
- Personal statement
- Two to three letters of recommendation
- LSAT scores
- Resume
- Optional diversity statement
Starting Salaries
Graduates of the University of Oregon School of Law find employment in various sectors, including law firms, government agencies, and public interest organizations, particularly in the Pacific Northwest.
- Private Sector: $75,000 – $120,000
- Public Sector: $50,000 – $70,000
- Judicial Clerkships: $55,000 – $65,000
The school’s strong focus on public interest and environmental law makes its graduates highly sought after in those fields.
2. Lewis & Clark Law School
Overview
Lewis & Clark Law School, located in Portland, is widely regarded as one of the top environmental law schools in the United States. It was founded in 1915 and has built a reputation for its commitment to environmental advocacy and hands-on legal education. The school offers students extensive opportunities for experiential learning through its clinics, externships, and partnerships with local, national, and international organizations. In addition to environmental law, Lewis & Clark is known for its strengths in animal law, business law, and intellectual property law.
Degree Programs
Lewis & Clark Law School offers a range of degree programs to meet the diverse interests of its students:
- Juris Doctor (J.D.): The standard three-year program offers students the chance to specialize in various fields, with a particular focus on:
- Environmental Law
- Business Law
- Criminal Law
- Intellectual Property Law
- Joint Degree Programs:
- J.D./LL.M. in Environmental Law: Students can earn both a J.D. and an LL.M. in Environmental Law, allowing for deeper specialization in this area.
- J.D./M.B.A.: A dual degree program in partnership with Lewis & Clark’s Graduate School of Management.
- LL.M. Programs: Lewis & Clark offers LL.M. programs for U.S. and foreign lawyers in:
- Environmental and Natural Resources Law
- Animal Law
- Clinical Programs and Externships:
- Earthrise Law Center: Focused on environmental litigation.
- Animal Law Clinic
- Small Business Legal Clinic
- Externships with environmental organizations, law firms, and government agencies
Admission Requirements
Lewis & Clark Law School is known for its environmental and social justice focus and looks for students who share a passion for advocacy and service. The admissions process is competitive, and the school evaluates applicants based on academic performance, LSAT scores, and demonstrated interest in specific legal fields.
- Average LSAT Score: 158
- Average GPA: 3.45
- Application Components:
- LSAC application
- Personal statement
- Two letters of recommendation
- LSAT scores
- Resume
- Optional diversity statement
Starting Salaries
Lewis & Clark Law School graduates enjoy strong employment prospects, particularly in environmental law and public interest sectors. Many graduates also work in business law and intellectual property law, particularly in Portland and the Pacific Northwest.
- Private Sector: $80,000 – $125,000
- Public Sector: $50,000 – $70,000
- Judicial Clerkships: $55,000 – $65,000
The school’s environmental law graduates are highly sought after by nonprofits, government agencies, and environmental advocacy groups.
3. Willamette University College of Law
Overview
The Willamette University College of Law, located in Salem, Oregon, is the oldest law school in the Pacific Northwest, founded in 1883. The school is known for its close-knit community, emphasis on practical skills, and its connections to government agencies due to its proximity to the Oregon State Capitol. Willamette Law has a strong focus on public service, business law, and dispute resolution, making it a popular choice for students interested in careers in government, public interest, or corporate law.
Degree Programs
Willamette University College of Law offers a variety of degree programs designed to provide students with a solid legal education and practical training:
- Juris Doctor (J.D.): The traditional three-year program prepares students for a wide range of legal careers. Students can specialize in areas such as:
- Business Law
- Criminal Law
- Dispute Resolution
- Health Law
- Joint Degree Programs:
- J.D./M.B.A.: A joint program with Willamette University’s Atkinson Graduate School of Management, ideal for students interested in business law and corporate practice.
- LL.M. in Transnational Law: This one-year program is designed for foreign-trained lawyers who want to gain expertise in U.S. law and international legal issues.
- Clinical Programs and Externships:
- Trusts and Estates Clinic
- Business Lawyering Institute
- Externships with government agencies, law firms, and nonprofit organizations
Admission Requirements
Willamette University College of Law values applicants with strong academic records, leadership potential, and a commitment to public service. The admissions process considers LSAT scores, GPA, and other factors such as work experience and community involvement.
- Average LSAT Score: 153
- Average GPA: 3.35
- Application Components:
- LSAC application
- Personal statement
- Two letters of recommendation
- LSAT scores
- Resume
- Optional diversity statement
Starting Salaries
Graduates of Willamette Law have strong job prospects, particularly in Oregon’s government, legal services, and corporate sectors. Many graduates pursue careers in public service, business law, or work in small to mid-sized law firms.
- Private Sector: $65,000 – $110,000
- Public Sector: $50,000 – $65,000
- Judicial Clerkships: $50,000 – $60,000
Willamette Law’s focus on practical skills and its connections to state government make it a top choice for students interested in public service and government careers.