Are you pursing a law degree? The TopSchoolsintheUSA.com has generated the latest ranking of best law schools in Tennessee 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 Tennessee 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 Tennessee.
Top ABA-Approved Law Schools in Tennessee
| National Ranking | Best Law Programs |
| 17 | Vanderbilt University (Nashville, TN) Acceptance rate: 26.4% LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 165-170 GPA (25th-75th percentile): 3.48-3.84 Tuition & Fees: Full-time: $46,148 per year Enrollment (full-time): 586 Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 91.6%
|
| 75 | University of Tennessee, Knoxville (Knoxville, TN) Acceptance rate: 34.1% LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 156-162 GPA (25th-75th percentile): 3.24-3.75 Tuition & Fees: In-state, full-time: $16,456 per year, Out-of-state, full-time: $35,200 per year Enrollment (full-time): 486 Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 80.8%
|
| 187 | University of Memphis (Humphreys) (Memphis, TN) Acceptance rate: 35.1% LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 153-157 GPA (25th-75th percentile): 3.09-3.62 Tuition & Fees: In-state, full-time: $15,690 per year, Out-of-state, full-time: $37,562 per year Enrollment (full-time): 394 Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 72.4%
|
All Law Schools in Tennessee
Tennessee is home to several well-regarded law schools, each offering a variety of programs to prepare students for successful careers in the legal field. Whether you are interested in practicing corporate law, public interest law, criminal defense, or another specialty, Tennessee’s law schools provide robust academic and practical training to meet diverse career goals.
The law schools covered here are:
- Vanderbilt University Law School
- University of Tennessee College of Law
- Belmont University College of Law
- Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law (University of Memphis)
- Lincoln Memorial University Duncan School of Law
1. Vanderbilt University Law School
Overview
Vanderbilt University Law School, located in Nashville, is one of the top law schools in the United States, consistently ranked among the top 20 by U.S. News & World Report. Founded in 1874, Vanderbilt Law is known for its rigorous academic programs, world-class faculty, and strong emphasis on interdisciplinary studies. The school’s location in Nashville provides students with access to a vibrant legal market, as well as connections to national and international opportunities in law, business, and government.
Vanderbilt Law is highly selective and places a strong emphasis on both legal theory and practical experience. It offers numerous opportunities for students to engage in clinics, externships, and pro bono work.
Degree Programs
Vanderbilt Law offers a range of degree programs designed to meet diverse student interests and career aspirations:
- Juris Doctor (J.D.): The three-year program provides a strong foundation in legal principles with opportunities for specialization in fields such as business law, criminal law, and international law.
- Dual Degree Programs:
- J.D./M.B.A. (Master of Business Administration)
- J.D./M.D. (Doctor of Medicine)
- J.D./Ph.D. in Law and Economics
- J.D./M.A. in Latin American Studies, Philosophy, or Medicine, Health, and Society
- LL.M. (Master of Laws): A one-year program for foreign-trained lawyers or those seeking to specialize in U.S. law, international law, or business law.
- Clinical Programs and Externships: Vanderbilt Law offers a wide array of clinical opportunities, including:
- Criminal Practice Clinic
- First Amendment Clinic
- Immigration Practice Clinic
- International Law Practicum
Admission Requirements
Vanderbilt Law’s admissions process is highly selective, with a focus on attracting students who excel academically and demonstrate leadership, work experience, and community involvement.
- Average LSAT Score: 167
- Average GPA: 3.8
- Application Components:
- LSAC application
- Personal statement
- Two to three letters of recommendation
- LSAT scores (GRE also accepted)
- Resume detailing academic, work, and extracurricular experience
- Optional diversity statement
Vanderbilt Law seeks students who are not only academically strong but also committed to leadership, ethical practice, and public service.
Starting Salaries
Vanderbilt Law graduates have excellent career prospects, with many securing positions at top law firms, government agencies, and corporations.
- Private Sector: $190,000 (Big Law firms)
- Public Sector: $60,000 – $85,000
- Judicial Clerkships: $65,000 – $75,000
The school’s strong alumni network and national reputation ensure that Vanderbilt Law graduates are highly sought after by employers.
2. University of Tennessee College of Law
Overview
The University of Tennessee College of Law (UT Law), located in Knoxville, is one of the oldest law schools in the country, established in 1890. UT Law is known for its strong emphasis on practical legal education, particularly through its Advocacy and Dispute Resolution program, which is consistently ranked among the best in the country. The school also offers specialized programs in business law, environmental law, and public interest law.
UT Law offers a collaborative learning environment with small class sizes, allowing students to build strong relationships with faculty and peers.
Degree Programs
UT Law offers a variety of degree programs designed to prepare students for a wide range of legal careers:
- Juris Doctor (J.D.): The three-year program provides a comprehensive legal education with opportunities to concentrate in areas such as business transactions, advocacy, and environmental law.
- Dual Degree Programs:
- J.D./M.B.A.
- J.D./M.P.A. (Master of Public Administration)
- J.D./M.S.W. (Master of Social Work)
- LL.M. in Advocacy and Dispute Resolution: A one-year program designed for practicing attorneys who want to specialize in trial advocacy, mediation, and arbitration.
- Clinical Programs and Externships: UT Law has a strong commitment to experiential learning through clinics and externships, such as:
- Advocacy Clinic
- Business Law Clinic
- Environmental Law Clinic
Admission Requirements
UT Law seeks applicants who have demonstrated academic excellence, leadership, and a commitment to public service. The admissions process is competitive, but the school values a holistic approach that takes into account work experience and community involvement.
- Average LSAT Score: 158
- Average GPA: 3.6
- Application Components:
- LSAC application
- Personal statement
- Two to three letters of recommendation
- LSAT scores
- Resume detailing academic, professional, and volunteer experience
- Optional diversity statement
UT Law values diversity and seeks students who are dedicated to making a positive impact in the legal field.
Starting Salaries
UT Law graduates enjoy strong employment prospects, particularly in Tennessee and the Southeast region. Many go on to work in law firms, government agencies, and public interest organizations.
- Private Sector: $80,000 – $120,000
- Public Sector: $55,000 – $70,000
- Judicial Clerkships: $60,000 – $70,000
UT Law’s strong regional connections and focus on practical skills make it a popular choice for students seeking to practice law in Tennessee.
3. Belmont University College of Law
Overview
Belmont University College of Law, located in Nashville, is a relatively new law school, having been founded in 2011, but it has quickly gained recognition for its commitment to providing students with a comprehensive legal education that emphasizes ethics, professionalism, and practical experience. Belmont Law is one of only a few law schools with a focus on entertainment and music business law, reflecting its location in Music City.
Belmont Law prides itself on small class sizes and a student-centered approach, offering a supportive environment where students can thrive academically and professionally.
Degree Programs
Belmont Law offers several degree programs designed to prepare students for success in a variety of legal fields:
- Juris Doctor (J.D.): The three-year program provides a solid foundation in legal theory and practice, with concentrations available in entertainment law, criminal law, and health law.
- Dual Degree Programs:
- J.D./M.B.A.
- Clinical Programs and Externships: Belmont Law emphasizes experiential learning, with clinics and externships that allow students to gain hands-on legal experience, including:
- Entertainment Law Clinic
- Criminal Law Clinic
- Legal Aid Externships
Admission Requirements
Belmont Law looks for students who are academically strong and demonstrate leadership, integrity, and a commitment to ethical practice. While it is a competitive program, Belmont Law offers a holistic admissions process that values diverse experiences and backgrounds.
- Average LSAT Score: 157
- Average GPA: 3.5
- Application Components:
- LSAC application
- Personal statement
- Two letters of recommendation
- LSAT scores
- Resume
Belmont Law encourages applicants who have a strong interest in public service and those who seek to contribute to the legal community.
Starting Salaries
Belmont Law graduates have strong job prospects, particularly in the Nashville legal market. Many go on to work in law firms, entertainment companies, and government agencies.
- Private Sector: $75,000 – $110,000
- Public Sector: $50,000 – $65,000
- Judicial Clerkships: $55,000 – $65,000
Belmont Law’s emphasis on ethics and professionalism makes its graduates highly desirable in the legal job market.
4. Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law (University of Memphis)
Overview
The Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law, located in downtown Memphis, is part of the University of Memphis and is known for its strong emphasis on public service, advocacy, and practical legal training. Founded in 1962, the school offers students access to a vibrant legal community in Memphis, with strong connections to government agencies, nonprofits, and law firms.
The law school’s location in a major city allows students to engage with the legal profession early on through internships, externships, and pro bono work.
Degree Programs
The University of Memphis Law School offers several degree programs designed to prepare students for legal practice:
- Juris Doctor (J.D.): The core three-year program provides students with a well-rounded legal education and opportunities to specialize in areas such as criminal law, civil rights law, and health law.
- Dual Degree Programs:
- J.D./M.B.A.
- J.D./M.P.A.
- Clinical Programs and Externships: Memphis Law has a strong commitment to experiential learning, with clinics such as:
- Elder Law Clinic
- Housing Adjudication Clinic
- Child and Family Litigation Clinic
Admission Requirements
The University of Memphis Law School values applicants who have demonstrated academic excellence, leadership, and a commitment to public service. The school also seeks students who will contribute to the diverse and dynamic community in Memphis.
- Average LSAT Score: 155
- Average GPA: 3.4
- Application Components:
- LSAC application
- Personal statement
- Two letters of recommendation
- LSAT scores
- Resume
Memphis Law looks for students who are dedicated to public service and advocacy, particularly in underserved communities.
Starting Salaries
Graduates of Memphis Law enjoy strong employment prospects, particularly in Tennessee, with many going on to work in law firms, government, and nonprofit organizations.
- Private Sector: $70,000 – $100,000
- Public Sector: $50,000 – $65,000
- Judicial Clerkships: $55,000 – $65,000
Memphis Law’s strong focus on practical legal training ensures that its graduates are well-prepared for successful careers.
5. Lincoln Memorial University Duncan School of Law
Overview
Lincoln Memorial University Duncan School of Law, located in Knoxville, is a relatively new law school, founded in 2009. The school is known for its focus on access to justice, particularly in rural and underserved communities. LMU Law emphasizes small class sizes, individualized attention, and practical legal training to prepare students for a wide range of legal careers.
The school is committed to producing lawyers who will serve their communities with professionalism, ethics, and a commitment to justice.
Degree Programs
LMU Law offers a few key programs designed to prepare students for legal practice, with a strong emphasis on practical training:
- Juris Doctor (J.D.): The three-year program provides a comprehensive legal education with a focus on trial advocacy, public interest law, and health law.
- Clinical Programs and Externships: LMU Law offers several experiential learning opportunities, including:
- Legal Aid Clinic
- Advocacy and Trial Practice Externships
- Public Interest Law Placements
Admission Requirements
LMU Law has a holistic admissions process, seeking students who are committed to public service, ethical practice, and contributing to their communities.
- Average LSAT Score: 150
- Average GPA: 3.1
- Application Components:
- LSAC application
- Personal statement
- Two letters of recommendation
- LSAT scores
- Resume
LMU Law values students who are committed to advancing justice in underserved areas, particularly in rural communities.
Starting Salaries
LMU Law graduates often pursue careers in public interest law, criminal defense, and private practice, with many working in smaller firms or rural areas.
- Private Sector: $60,000 – $85,000
- Public Sector: $45,000 – $60,000
- Judicial Clerkships: $50,000 – $60,000
LMU Law’s focus on access to justice makes its graduates highly valued in rural and underserved communities.