Are you pursing a law degree? The TopSchoolsintheUSA.com has generated the latest ranking of best law schools in South Dakota 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 South Dakota 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 South Dakota.
Top ABA-Approved Law Schools in South Dakota
| National Ranking | Best Law Programs |
| 188 | University of South Dakota (Vermillion, SD) Acceptance rate: 59.0% LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 148-152 GPA (25th-75th percentile): 3.05-3.53 Tuition & Fees: In-state, full-time: $12,340 per year, Out-of-state, full-time: $24,306 per year Enrollment (full-time): 236 Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 78.5%
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All Law Schools in South Dakota
South Dakota is home to one law school, The University of South Dakota Knudson School of Law, located in Vermillion. This law school offers a comprehensive legal education that prepares students for successful careers in various fields of law.
1. University of South Dakota Knudson School of Law
Overview
The University of South Dakota Knudson School of Law, often referred to as USD Law, is the only law school in South Dakota and has been a critical part of the state’s legal community since its founding in 1901. Located in the small city of Vermillion, USD Law offers a close-knit learning environment with small class sizes, allowing for personalized attention and strong mentorship from faculty. The law school is well-respected for its commitment to public service, practical legal education, and its role in training a large percentage of the state’s judges, attorneys, and policymakers.
USD Law is particularly focused on serving the needs of South Dakota and surrounding rural communities, though its graduates are also prepared for careers throughout the country. The school emphasizes practical experience through internships, externships, and clinical programs that give students hands-on legal training.
Degree Programs
USD Law offers a range of degree programs designed to meet the needs of aspiring legal professionals:
- Juris Doctor (J.D.): The core program at USD Law, the J.D. is a three-year program that prepares students for bar passage and legal practice. The curriculum includes a strong foundation in traditional legal principles, with opportunities to specialize in areas such as criminal law, business law, and tribal law.
- Dual Degree Programs:
- J.D./M.B.A. (Master of Business Administration): A dual degree that combines legal training with business management skills, preparing students for careers in corporate law, business transactions, and leadership roles in the business sector.
- J.D./M.P.A. (Master of Public Administration): This dual degree prepares students for careers in government, public service, and policy-making, allowing them to combine legal knowledge with public administration expertise.
- Clinical Programs and Externships: USD Law places a strong emphasis on practical legal education, offering numerous opportunities for students to gain real-world experience through clinical programs and externships, including:
- The Public Defender Clinic: Students represent clients in criminal cases, gaining courtroom experience and learning about criminal defense.
- The Low-Income Taxpayer Clinic: Students assist individuals with tax disputes, providing legal representation and advocacy.
- Externship Program: USD Law students can participate in externships with judges, government agencies, and law firms across the state and region, allowing them to apply their legal knowledge in real-world settings.
- Indian Law Certificate: USD Law offers a specialized certificate in Indian Law, recognizing South Dakota’s large Native American population and the unique legal issues related to tribal law. Students who complete this program are prepared to work in tribal courts, federal agencies, and other areas where tribal law is relevant.
Admission Requirements
Admission to USD Law is competitive, and the school looks for well-rounded applicants who demonstrate academic ability, leadership potential, and a commitment to public service or legal practice. While academic performance, LSAT scores, and undergraduate GPA are important factors in the admissions process, the school also considers work experience, extracurricular activities, and personal statements.
- Average LSAT Score: 150
- Average GPA: 3.40
- Application Components:
- LSAC (Law School Admission Council) application
- Personal statement: Applicants are encouraged to explain their reasons for pursuing a legal education and their interest in USD Law.
- Two to three letters of recommendation: Ideally from professors or professional mentors who can speak to the applicant’s abilities and potential for success in law school.
- LSAT score: While the LSAT is required, the school also takes a holistic approach in considering an applicant’s overall background and achievements.
- Resume: A resume detailing academic accomplishments, work experience, leadership roles, and community service.
USD Law values diversity in its student body and seeks applicants who bring a variety of perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences to the legal profession.
Starting Salaries
Graduates of USD Law have strong job prospects, particularly within South Dakota and surrounding states. The school’s strong reputation in the region, coupled with its emphasis on practical skills and public service, makes its graduates well-prepared for a variety of legal careers. Many USD Law graduates pursue careers in private practice, government agencies, or public interest organizations. The school also has a strong record of placing graduates in judicial clerkships across the state.
- Private Sector: $65,000 – $100,000
- Public Sector: $50,000 – $70,000
- Judicial Clerkships: $50,000 – $65,000
While starting salaries for USD Law graduates vary depending on the sector and geographic location, the school’s emphasis on public service and its regional connections provide excellent opportunities for students interested in working in the legal field in South Dakota and neighboring states. Many graduates remain in the Midwest, where they benefit from strong alumni networks and relationships with local law firms and government agencies.
Practical Learning Opportunities at USD Law
Clinical Programs
One of the hallmarks of USD Law is its commitment to hands-on, practical legal training through its clinical programs. These clinics allow students to represent real clients under the supervision of experienced attorneys, providing invaluable experience before they graduate.
- The Public Defender Clinic: In this clinic, students work with public defenders to represent clients in criminal cases. They gain courtroom experience, handle motions, conduct legal research, and work directly with clients. This clinic is especially valuable for students interested in criminal law or public defense work.
- The Low-Income Taxpayer Clinic: This clinic provides students with experience in tax law and representation. Students assist low-income individuals with tax disputes, helping them navigate the complexities of federal and state tax laws while advocating on their behalf before tax authorities.
Externship Program
USD Law’s externship program allows students to gain practical experience by working in legal settings outside of the classroom. Through externships, students work directly with attorneys, judges, and legal organizations, applying their legal skills in real-world scenarios. The externship program is a vital part of the law school’s practical training focus and includes opportunities in a wide range of practice areas, such as family law, business law, and government service.
Indian Law
Given South Dakota’s significant Native American population and the importance of tribal law in the region, USD Law offers specialized training in Indian Law. Students who complete the Indian Law certificate program are well-prepared to handle legal issues related to Native American tribes, including sovereignty, land use, natural resources, and tribal governance. This expertise is particularly relevant for those interested in working with tribal governments, federal agencies, or in areas of law where tribal issues are prevalent.
Career Support and Alumni Network
Career Services
USD Law provides robust career support for its students through the school’s Career Services Office. The office helps students and graduates connect with potential employers, prepare for interviews, and navigate the job search process. Career services include:
- Job Search Assistance: The Career Services Office offers resources for job searches, including resume reviews, job postings, and networking opportunities.
- Mock Interviews: Students have the opportunity to participate in mock interviews to help them prepare for job interviews in the legal field.
- Networking Opportunities: USD Law hosts career fairs, panel discussions, and alumni events to help students build professional connections and learn about different legal career paths.
Alumni Network
USD Law has a strong and supportive alumni network, particularly within South Dakota and the surrounding region. Many graduates of the law school go on to prominent careers in the legal field, serving as judges, attorneys, and government officials. The school’s alumni network is an invaluable resource for students, offering mentorship, job referrals, and opportunities for professional development.
Alumni connections are particularly strong in South Dakota, where many USD Law graduates remain to practice law. The school’s regional focus ensures that students who wish to work in South Dakota or nearby states have access to a wide range of opportunities, including judicial clerkships, law firm positions, and roles in public service.
Commitment to Public Service
USD Law places a strong emphasis on public service and encourages its students to engage in pro bono work and community service. The law school’s commitment to serving the public is reflected in its curriculum, clinics, and extracurricular activities. Many students participate in pro bono projects during their time at USD Law, providing free legal services to individuals and communities in need.
USD Law’s focus on public service is also reflected in its alumni, many of whom pursue careers in government, nonprofit organizations, and legal aid services. The school’s mission to train lawyers who are dedicated to improving their communities and advancing justice is central to its identity.