Are you pursing a law degree? The TopSchoolsintheUSA.com has generated the latest ranking of best law schools in Utah 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 Utah 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 Utah.
Top ABA-Approved Law Schools in Utah
| National Ranking | Best Law Programs |
| 39 | Brigham Young University (Clark) (Provo, UT) Acceptance rate: 27.4% LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 160-167 GPA (25th-75th percentile): 3.51-3.87 Tuition & Fees: Full-time: $21,200 per year Enrollment (full-time): 430 Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 95.9%
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| 47 | University of Utah (Quinney) (Salt Lake City, UT) Acceptance rate: 30.7% LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 157-163 GPA (25th-75th percentile): 3.41-3.72 Tuition & Fees: In-state, full-time: $19,846 per year, Out-of-state, full-time: $38,496 per year Enrollment (full-time): 398 Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 91.3%
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All Law Schools in Utah
Utah is home to two well-established law schools: The University of Utah S.J. Quinney College of Law and Brigham Young University J. Reuben Clark Law School. Both institutions are known for their rigorous academic programs, commitment to public service, and strong ties to the legal community in Utah and beyond.
1. University of Utah S.J. Quinney College of Law
Overview
The S.J. Quinney College of Law at the University of Utah, located in Salt Lake City, is a top-ranked law school known for its innovative approach to legal education. Established in 1913, it is one of the oldest law schools in the western United States. S.J. Quinney is particularly well-regarded for its programs in environmental law, health law, and public interest law, as well as its commitment to experiential learning through clinics and externships.
The school offers a collaborative and supportive environment, with a focus on preparing students for diverse legal careers. The law school’s state-of-the-art building is LEED Platinum certified and reflects the institution’s focus on sustainability and innovation.
Degree Programs
S.J. Quinney College of Law offers a variety of degree programs, including traditional J.D. programs as well as joint degrees and LL.M. programs:
- Juris Doctor (J.D.): The traditional three-year program provides students with a comprehensive legal education, with opportunities to specialize in areas such as environmental law, health law, and criminal law.
- Dual Degree Programs: Students can pursue a J.D. alongside another graduate degree, allowing them to tailor their education to their specific interests. Popular dual degree programs include:
- J.D./M.B.A. (Master of Business Administration)
- J.D./M.P.A. (Master of Public Administration)
- J.D./M.P.H. (Master of Public Health)
- LL.M. in Environmental and Natural Resources Law: This program is designed for students and professionals who want to focus on environmental law, energy law, and natural resource management.
- Clinical and Externship Programs: The law school offers a robust clinical program, allowing students to gain hands-on experience in areas such as immigration law, environmental law, and criminal defense. Popular clinics include:
- Environmental Law Clinic
- Criminal Justice Clinic
- Innocence Clinic
Admission Requirements
S.J. Quinney College of Law takes a holistic approach to admissions, looking for students who are academically strong and have demonstrated leadership, public service, or relevant work experience. While LSAT scores and GPAs are important, the admissions committee also considers personal statements, letters of recommendation, and other factors.
- Average LSAT Score: 160
- Average GPA: 3.65
- Application Components:
- LSAC application
- Personal statement
- Two to three letters of recommendation
- LSAT scores (GRE scores accepted in some cases)
- Resume highlighting academic achievements, work experience, and extracurricular activities
- Optional diversity statement
The admissions process is competitive, but the school seeks students who will contribute to the legal profession and the community, particularly those with an interest in public service or specialized fields like environmental law.
Starting Salaries
Graduates of S.J. Quinney College of Law enjoy strong job prospects, with many securing positions in law firms, government agencies, and public interest organizations. Starting salaries for graduates vary depending on the sector they enter.
- Private Sector: $85,000 – $125,000
- Public Sector: $55,000 – $70,000
- Judicial Clerkships: $60,000 – $70,000
Many graduates also find opportunities in Utah’s growing industries, including technology, healthcare, and energy, reflecting the school’s strong regional connections.
2. Brigham Young University J. Reuben Clark Law School
Overview
J. Reuben Clark Law School (BYU Law), located in Provo, Utah, is affiliated with Brigham Young University and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Established in 1973, BYU Law is known for its rigorous academic programs, high bar passage rates, and emphasis on ethical practice and public service. The law school consistently ranks highly for its affordability, making it an attractive option for students seeking a top-tier legal education at a lower cost.
BYU Law’s curriculum emphasizes a strong foundation in legal theory, practical skills, and leadership development. The law school also encourages students to engage in service and provides numerous opportunities for community involvement.
Degree Programs
BYU Law offers a variety of degree programs designed to prepare students for successful legal careers:
- Juris Doctor (J.D.): The core three-year program provides a well-rounded legal education, with opportunities for specialization in areas such as corporate law, intellectual property, and international law.
- J.D./M.B.A. Dual Degree: This popular dual degree program allows students to earn both a J.D. and an M.B.A., preparing them for leadership roles in law, business, and management.
- Master of Laws (LL.M.): BYU Law offers an LL.M. program designed for international students who want to learn about the U.S. legal system. This program is ideal for foreign-trained lawyers who wish to practice in the U.S. or expand their legal expertise in international law.
- Clinical and Externship Programs: BYU Law provides hands-on legal training through its clinics and externships, including:
- The Entrepreneurship and Nonprofit Clinic
- The Refugee and Immigration Clinic
- The International Law and Religion Clinic
These programs allow students to work directly with clients, giving them valuable experience in legal practice before they graduate.
Admission Requirements
BYU Law has a competitive admissions process, with a focus on applicants who have demonstrated academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to service. While many students are members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, students from all religious backgrounds are welcome, provided they adhere to the school’s honor code.
- Average LSAT Score: 164
- Average GPA: 3.80
- Application Components:
- LSAC application
- Personal statement that highlights the applicant’s background, experiences, and reasons for pursuing a legal career
- Two to three letters of recommendation
- LSAT scores (GRE scores not accepted)
- Resume detailing academic, professional, and service experiences
- Adherence to the BYU honor code
BYU Law looks for applicants who are not only academically strong but also committed to ethical practice and leadership in the legal field.
Starting Salaries
BYU Law graduates are highly sought after, particularly in the Mountain West region, and enjoy excellent job placement rates. Many graduates work in law firms, corporate legal departments, and public interest organizations, with a strong emphasis on ethical practice.
- Private Sector: $90,000 – $140,000
- Public Sector: $60,000 – $80,000
- Judicial Clerkships: $65,000 – $75,000
The affordability of BYU Law, combined with its strong reputation, allows graduates to pursue a wide range of legal careers without the burden of excessive student loan debt.