Are you pursing a law degree? The TopSchoolsintheUSA.com has generated the latest ranking of best law schools in Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin.
Top ABA-Approved Law Schools in Wisconsin
| National Ranking | Best Law Programs |
| 37 | University of Wisconsin, Madison (Madison, WI) Acceptance rate: 26.4% LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 158-165 GPA (25th-75th percentile): 3.34-3.78 Tuition & Fees: In-state, full-time: $19,683 per year, Out-of-state, full-time: $38,811 per year Enrollment (full-time): 748 Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 93.0%
|
| 96 | Marquette University (Milwaukee, WI) Acceptance rate: 46.1% LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 154-159 GPA (25th-75th percentile): 3.03-3.55 Tuition & Fees: Full-time: $37,570 per year Enrollment (full-time): 586 Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 87.6%
|
All Law Schools in Wisconsin
Wisconsin is home to two prominent law schools that offer top-tier legal education: the University of Wisconsin Law School and Marquette University Law School. Both institutions have a rich history of legal scholarship and have produced distinguished alumni in the legal profession.
1. University of Wisconsin Law School
Overview
The University of Wisconsin Law School, located in Madison, is one of the oldest and most prestigious law schools in the Midwest. Founded in 1868, it is known for its rigorous academic curriculum and for promoting the “law in action” approach, which emphasizes the connection between theory and practical application. The school is ranked among the top law schools in the country and has a strong focus on public service, social justice, and advocacy.
Degree Programs
The University of Wisconsin Law School offers a variety of degree programs for aspiring legal professionals, including:
- Juris Doctor (J.D.): The traditional three-year law degree program that prepares students for legal practice.
- Dual Degree Programs: Students can pursue dual degrees such as a J.D./M.B.A., J.D./M.P.A. (Master of Public Affairs), or J.D./M.S. in Legal Studies, allowing them to combine legal education with other disciplines.
- LL.M. (Master of Laws): For foreign-trained lawyers who wish to study U.S. law or specialize in specific legal areas.
- S.J.D. (Doctor of Juridical Science): The highest law degree for students who wish to pursue legal research and academia.
Admission Requirements
- Average LSAT Score: 160
- Average GPA: 3.6
- Application Components:
- Completed application through LSAC (Law School Admission Council)
- Personal statement
- Letters of recommendation (2-3)
- LSAT score
- Resume detailing academic achievements, work experience, and extracurricular activities
- Optional diversity statement or addendum
The admissions committee looks for well-rounded candidates who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to public service.
Starting Salaries
Graduates of the University of Wisconsin Law School have strong career prospects, with high placement rates in both the public and private sectors. Starting salaries for graduates are typically:
- Private Sector: $95,000 – $125,000
- Public Sector: $55,000 – $70,000
- Judicial Clerkships: $60,000 – $70,000
Many graduates pursue careers in law firms, government agencies, or as judicial clerks, with a growing number entering public interest law and nonprofit organizations.
2. Marquette University Law School
Overview
Marquette University Law School, located in Milwaukee, is another prestigious law school in Wisconsin. It is the only Catholic law school in the state and is known for its commitment to ethics and social justice. Established in 1908, the law school offers a student-centered learning environment with a strong emphasis on hands-on legal experience. Marquette Law School is particularly renowned for its programs in sports law, alternative dispute resolution, and health law.
Degree Programs
Marquette University Law School offers several degree programs tailored to the needs of diverse students:
- Juris Doctor (J.D.): A three-year full-time program that prepares students for a variety of legal careers. Marquette offers concentrations in areas such as sports law, health law, and intellectual property.
- J.D. Part-Time Program: For working professionals who wish to pursue a law degree, Marquette offers a part-time program with flexible schedules.
- LL.M. in Sports Law: Marquette’s LL.M. program is highly regarded for its specialization in sports law, attracting students from across the country.
- Joint Degrees: Students can pursue joint degrees such as a J.D./M.B.A., J.D./M.P.A., or J.D./M.A. in Political Science.
Admission Requirements
- Average LSAT Score: 157
- Average GPA: 3.4
- Application Components:
- Completed application through LSAC
- Personal statement outlining the applicant’s reasons for attending law school
- Letters of recommendation (preferably from academic or professional references)
- LSAT score
- Resume highlighting academic, professional, and volunteer experiences
- Optional addendum or diversity statement
Marquette University Law School values students who demonstrate integrity, leadership, and a commitment to service in their application.
Starting Salaries
Graduates from Marquette University Law School are well-prepared for various legal careers, with many finding positions in law firms, corporations, and government agencies. Starting salaries are as follows:
- Private Sector: $90,000 – $120,000
- Public Sector: $50,000 – $65,000
- Judicial Clerkships: $55,000 – $65,000
Marquette’s alumni network is particularly strong in Wisconsin, and the school’s reputation opens doors for graduates in the Midwest legal market.
Comparison of Law Schools in Wisconsin
Degree Offerings
Both the University of Wisconsin Law School and Marquette University Law School offer robust legal education with their traditional J.D. programs. However, each school has its own unique strengths:
- University of Wisconsin Law School: Known for its emphasis on public service and the “law in action” approach, this school also offers a wide array of dual-degree programs and opportunities for international students through its LL.M. and S.J.D. programs.
- Marquette University Law School: Distinguished for its programs in sports law, health law, and dispute resolution, Marquette provides unique opportunities for students interested in specialized fields of law.
Admissions Process
While both schools have competitive admissions, the University of Wisconsin Law School has slightly higher average LSAT and GPA requirements, making it a bit more selective. However, both schools emphasize holistic admissions processes, looking for candidates with strong academic records, leadership qualities, and a dedication to public service.
- University of Wisconsin Law School:
- Average LSAT: 160
- Average GPA: 3.6
- Marquette University Law School:
- Average LSAT: 157
- Average GPA: 3.4
Career Prospects and Starting Salaries
Both law schools in Wisconsin provide excellent career prospects for graduates, though the University of Wisconsin Law School tends to have slightly higher starting salaries, particularly in the private sector. The strong alumni networks and local reputation of both schools help graduates secure employment in the region.
- University of Wisconsin Law School:
- Private Sector: $95,000 – $125,000
- Public Sector: $55,000 – $70,000
- Marquette University Law School:
- Private Sector: $90,000 – $120,000
- Public Sector: $50,000 – $65,000
Unique Programs and Strengths
- University of Wisconsin Law School:
- Known for public interest law and the “law in action” philosophy
- Dual-degree programs with various disciplines
- Strong clinical programs and international opportunities
- Marquette University Law School:
- Strong in sports law, health law, and dispute resolution
- Part-time J.D. program available for working professionals
- Focus on ethical and social justice education