Are you pursing a law degree? The TopSchoolsintheUSA.com has generated the latest ranking of best law schools in Washington 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 Washington 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 Washington.
Top ABA-Approved Law Schools in Washington
| National Ranking | Best Law Programs |
| 21 | University of Washington (Seattle, WA) Acceptance rate: 22.1% LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 161-166 GPA (25th-75th percentile): 3.44-3.82 Tuition & Fees: In-state, full-time: $25,780 per year, Out-of-state, full-time: $39,850 per year Enrollment (full-time): 545 Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 96.0%
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| 85 | Seattle University (Seattle, WA) Acceptance rate: 46.3% LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 154-159 GPA (25th-75th percentile): 3.1-3.52 Tuition & Fees: Full-time: $39,282 per year Enrollment (full-time): 806 Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 88.2%
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| 116 | Gonzaga University (Spokane, WA) Acceptance rate: 53.2% LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 153-157 GPA (25th-75th percentile): 3.15-3.51 Tuition & Fees: Full-time: $34,105 per year Enrollment (full-time): 506 Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 82.6%
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Law Schools in Washington
The state of Washington is home to several highly regarded law schools that offer a range of programs catering to various legal career paths. These schools provide students with opportunities to engage in a diverse legal landscape, which includes corporate law, environmental law, public service, and technology law.
The law schools covered here are:
- University of Washington School of Law
- Seattle University School of Law
- Gonzaga University School of Law
1. University of Washington School of Law
Overview
The University of Washington School of Law (UW Law), located in Seattle, is widely recognized as one of the top public law schools in the country. Established in 1899, UW Law is known for its commitment to social justice, innovation, and interdisciplinary legal studies. Its prime location in Seattle offers students access to some of the leading technology companies, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations, creating a dynamic environment for legal education and practical experience.
UW Law has a strong emphasis on public service and is particularly well-regarded for its programs in environmental law, intellectual property law, and international law. The school also emphasizes experiential learning, offering numerous opportunities for internships, clinics, and externships.
Degree Programs
UW Law offers a broad range of degree programs tailored to various legal careers and academic interests:
- Juris Doctor (J.D.): The traditional three-year law degree that prepares students for legal practice. Students can specialize in areas such as technology law, public interest law, or health law.
- Dual Degree Programs:
- J.D./M.B.A. (Master of Business Administration)
- J.D./M.P.A. (Master of Public Administration)
- J.D./M.S. in Public Health
- LL.M. Programs: UW Law offers LL.M. programs in several areas, including Intellectual Property Law, Global Business Law, and Sustainable International Development.
- Ph.D. in Law: A research-based degree for students interested in academic or advanced legal research careers.
- Clinical Programs and Externships: UW Law emphasizes experiential learning through clinics such as:
- Innocence Project Northwest Clinic
- Immigration Law Clinic
- Technology Law & Public Policy Clinic
Admission Requirements
UW Law is known for its competitive admissions process, attracting applicants with strong academic records and a commitment to public service or leadership. The school takes a holistic approach, considering not only LSAT scores and GPAs but also personal statements, work experience, and community involvement.
- Average LSAT Score: 164
- Average GPA: 3.7
- Application Components:
- Completed application via LSAC (Law School Admission Council)
- Personal statement
- Two to three letters of recommendation
- LSAT or GRE scores
- Resume outlining academic, work, and extracurricular achievements
- Optional diversity statement
Starting Salaries
Graduates of UW Law enjoy strong employment outcomes, with many securing positions in law firms, corporate legal departments, public service, and government agencies. The proximity to major tech companies like Microsoft and Amazon also provides opportunities in technology law.
- Private Sector: $90,000 – $140,000
- Public Sector: $55,000 – $75,000
- Judicial Clerkships: $65,000 – $75,000
The strong alumni network and location in Seattle, a major tech and legal hub, contribute to the high placement rate of graduates.
2. Seattle University School of Law
Overview
Seattle University School of Law is the largest independent law school in the Pacific Northwest. Established in 1972, it is known for its commitment to social justice, diversity, and a student-centered learning environment. Located in the heart of Seattle, Seattle University Law offers students unique opportunities to engage with the city’s vibrant legal community, from corporate law to public interest and environmental advocacy.
Seattle University School of Law is particularly noted for its public interest law and clinical programs. The school prides itself on creating well-rounded, ethical lawyers who are dedicated to serving their communities and advocating for justice.
Degree Programs
Seattle University Law offers a variety of programs designed to meet the needs of diverse student populations:
- Juris Doctor (J.D.): The traditional three-year law degree. Students have the option to focus on areas such as criminal law, business law, or social justice advocacy.
- J.D. Part-Time Program: Designed for working professionals, this program allows students to earn their law degree on a part-time basis, with flexible evening and weekend classes.
- Dual Degree Programs:
- J.D./M.B.A.
- J.D./M.P.A.
- J.D./M.P.P. (Master of Public Policy)
- LL.M. Programs: The law school offers an LL.M. in Innovation and Technology Law, providing advanced study in cutting-edge legal issues affecting tech companies and startups.
- Clinical and Externship Programs: Seattle University Law has a robust clinical program, including:
- The Civil Rights Clinic
- The Criminal Justice Clinic
- The International Human Rights Clinic
Admission Requirements
Seattle University School of Law values a holistic admissions process, seeking applicants who are not only academically strong but also committed to social justice and community engagement.
- Average LSAT Score: 158
- Average GPA: 3.4
- Application Components:
- LSAC application
- Personal statement highlighting the applicant’s background, values, and reasons for pursuing a legal career
- Letters of recommendation (2-3)
- LSAT or GRE scores
- Resume reflecting academic achievements, work experience, and volunteer activities
- Optional diversity statement
Starting Salaries
Graduates of Seattle University School of Law have strong job placement rates, particularly in the Pacific Northwest, where many go on to work in law firms, government agencies, or nonprofit organizations.
- Private Sector: $85,000 – $130,000
- Public Sector: $50,000 – $65,000
- Judicial Clerkships: $55,000 – $65,000
Seattle University Law’s focus on public service and its strong connections to the Seattle legal community provide a solid foundation for graduates pursuing both private and public sector careers.
3. Gonzaga University School of Law
Overview
Gonzaga University School of Law, located in Spokane, is a Catholic, Jesuit law school that emphasizes a values-based legal education. Established in 1912, Gonzaga Law has a tradition of educating ethical and socially responsible lawyers who are prepared to lead and serve. The school is known for its close-knit community, personalized attention, and strong emphasis on practical legal training.
Gonzaga Law is particularly renowned for its public service focus and offers several programs dedicated to civil rights, environmental law, and access to justice for underserved communities.
Degree Programs
Gonzaga Law offers a variety of degree programs designed to prepare students for the legal profession:
- Juris Doctor (J.D.): A three-year law degree program that emphasizes ethical legal practice, leadership, and service. Gonzaga Law offers concentrations in criminal law, environmental law, and health law.
- Accelerated J.D. Program: Gonzaga offers a two-year accelerated J.D. program, allowing students to complete their legal education more quickly.
- Dual Degree Programs:
- J.D./M.B.A.
- J.D./M.S.W. (Master of Social Work)
- LL.M. in Taxation: For students seeking advanced expertise in tax law.
- Clinical and Externship Programs: Gonzaga Law provides extensive hands-on experience through clinics such as:
- The Center for Civil and Human Rights
- The Elder Law Clinic
- The Environmental Law Clinic
Admission Requirements
Gonzaga Law seeks students with a commitment to public service, academic excellence, and leadership potential. The admissions committee looks for well-rounded candidates who can contribute to the school’s community and mission.
- Average LSAT Score: 154
- Average GPA: 3.3
- Application Components:
- Completed application through LSAC
- Personal statement explaining the applicant’s interest in Gonzaga Law and commitment to ethical legal practice
- Two to three letters of recommendation
- LSAT or GRE scores
- Resume highlighting work experience, leadership, and volunteer activities
- Optional diversity statement
Starting Salaries
Gonzaga Law graduates have strong employment outcomes, particularly in public interest law, government service, and private practice in the Pacific Northwest.
- Private Sector: $80,000 – $120,000
- Public Sector: $45,000 – $60,000
- Judicial Clerkships: $50,000 – $65,000
The school’s emphasis on social justice and public service, along with its strong regional reputation, makes Gonzaga Law an excellent choice for students who want to make a positive impact through their legal careers.