Are you pursing a law degree? The TopSchoolsintheUSA.com has generated the latest ranking of best law schools in Arizona 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 Arizona 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 Arizona.
Top ABA-Approved Law Schools in Arizona
| National Ranking | Best Law Programs |
| 26 | Arizona State University (O’Connor) (Tempe, AZ) Acceptance rate: 28.4% LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 160-165 GPA (25th-75th percentile): 3.43-3.77 Tuition & Fees: In-state, full-time: $24,471 per year, Out-of-state, full-time: $38,595 per year Enrollment (full-time): 602 Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 98.2%
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| 43 | University of Arizona (Rogers) (Tucson, AZ) Acceptance rate: 35.8% LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 158-163 GPA (25th-75th percentile): 3.24-3.76 Tuition & Fees: In-state, full-time: $26,089 per year, Out-of-state, full-time: $41,051 per year Enrollment (full-time): 440 Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 87.4%
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| 171 | Phoenix School of Law (Phoenix, AZ) Acceptance rate: 72.9% LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 146-151 GPA (25th-75th percentile): 2.7-3.32 Tuition & Fees: Full-time: $37,764 per year Enrollment (full-time): 697 Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 91.3%
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All Law Schools in Arizona
Arizona is home to several esteemed law schools that offer comprehensive legal education to students from diverse backgrounds. Whether you’re looking to practice in a large law firm, pursue a career in public service, or engage in academic research, Arizona’s law schools provide the academic foundation and practical skills necessary for success in the legal profession. In this article, we will explore the law schools in Arizona, including their degree programs, admission requirements, and expected starting salaries for graduates.
1. The University of Arizona James E. Rogers College of Law
Overview
The University of Arizona James E. Rogers College of Law, located in Tucson, is one of the top-ranked public law schools in the United States. Established in 1915, it is the oldest law school in Arizona and is well-known for its commitment to public service, innovative academic programs, and global legal initiatives. The school has a diverse student body and is renowned for producing graduates who are prepared for a range of careers in the legal field, including academia, private practice, and government service.
Degree Programs
The James E. Rogers College of Law offers several degree programs to meet the needs of its diverse student population:
- Juris Doctor (J.D.): A three-year, full-time program that provides comprehensive legal education and prepares students for bar admission.
- Master of Laws (LL.M.): Designed for both U.S. and international law graduates, with specializations in:
- Indigenous Peoples Law and Policy
- International Trade and Business Law
- Doctor of Juridical Science (S.J.D.): A highly specialized doctoral program for students who wish to pursue legal research and academia.
- Master of Legal Studies (MLS): A one-year program for non-lawyers who seek a legal understanding to enhance their careers.
- Dual Degrees: The law school offers several dual degrees, including:
- J.D./MBA (Master of Business Administration)
- J.D./MPA (Master of Public Administration)
- J.D./Ph.D. in Environmental Sciences or Anthropology
Admission Requirements
Admission to the James E. Rogers College of Law is competitive, and the school seeks well-rounded candidates who demonstrate strong academic ability and potential for leadership.
- Average LSAT: 162
- Average GPA: 3.70
Other key factors considered in the admissions process include:
- Personal Statement: A compelling narrative explaining the applicant’s motivation for pursuing a legal career.
- Letters of Recommendation: Preferably from academic or professional references who can speak to the applicant’s qualifications.
- Resume: Detailing academic achievements, work experience, and extracurricular involvement.
Starting Salaries
Graduates of the James E. Rogers College of Law enjoy strong job placement rates and competitive salaries. Many go on to work in prestigious law firms, government agencies, or corporate legal departments.
- Median starting salary (private sector): $95,000
- Median starting salary (public sector): $60,000
2. Arizona State University Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law
Overview
The Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law at Arizona State University (ASU), located in Phoenix, is one of the nation’s top public law schools. Named after Justice Sandra Day O’Connor, the first woman appointed to the U.S. Supreme Court, the law school is known for its innovative curriculum and strong focus on public service, technology, and environmental law. ASU Law is ranked among the top 25 law schools in the United States by U.S. News & World Report.
Degree Programs
ASU Law offers a wide range of degree programs, including specialized areas of study for students who want to focus on specific legal fields:
- Juris Doctor (J.D.): A full-time program designed to provide a solid foundation in legal theory and practice.
- Master of Laws (LL.M.): A one-year, post-J.D. degree with concentrations in:
- Biotechnology and Genomics
- Law and Sustainability
- International Law
- Master of Legal Studies (MLS): A program for non-lawyers who want to gain legal knowledge to enhance their careers in fields like business, technology, and healthcare.
- J.D./M.B.A.: A dual degree program that allows students to earn both a J.D. and an MBA in collaboration with ASU’s W.P. Carey School of Business.
- Doctor of Juridical Science (S.J.D.): A research-focused degree for those pursuing academic or policy-based legal careers.
Admission Requirements
Admission to the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law is highly competitive, with the school seeking students who have demonstrated academic excellence and leadership potential.
- Average LSAT: 164
- Average GPA: 3.80
Other factors that the admissions committee considers include:
- Personal Statement: An opportunity for applicants to express their personal and professional goals.
- Letters of Recommendation: Typically from professors or employers who can speak to the applicant’s intellectual abilities and character.
- Resume: Detailing relevant experience, leadership positions, and community service.
Starting Salaries
ASU Law graduates are highly sought after by employers in the private and public sectors, with competitive starting salaries across various legal fields.
- Median starting salary (private sector): $100,000
- Median starting salary (public sector): $60,000
3. Phoenix School of Law (now Arizona Summit Law School)
Overview
Phoenix School of Law, rebranded as Arizona Summit Law School, was founded in 2005 in Phoenix. It was a for-profit law school and one of the few law schools in Arizona that catered to non-traditional students. However, Arizona Summit Law School faced significant challenges, including loss of accreditation and financial difficulties. As of 2018, Arizona Summit ceased operations and closed permanently.
While Arizona Summit Law School is no longer operational, it played a role in providing legal education to students who may not have been able to attend traditional law schools due to financial or academic barriers. Arizona Summit was known for its mission to increase diversity within the legal profession and its flexible evening programs for working professionals.
4. Arizona Christian University School of Law
Overview
Arizona Christian University (ACU) School of Law is a small, private Christian university located in Phoenix, Arizona. It offers a unique law program that integrates Christian ethics with legal education, preparing students to practice law with a strong moral compass and commitment to service. ACU School of Law is a non-traditional law school that offers limited legal programs, primarily designed for students who want to incorporate faith into their legal careers.
Degree Programs
ACU’s School of Law offers a distinctive approach to legal education, combining faith-based learning with traditional law programs:
- Bachelor of Legal Studies (BLS): A pre-law degree for undergraduate students interested in law. This program lays the groundwork for those planning to attend law school.
- Master of Legal Studies (MLS): A graduate program for non-lawyers who want to understand the legal system and its intersection with Christian ethics.
Admission Requirements
Admission to Arizona Christian University’s law programs is based on a combination of academic performance, commitment to Christian principles, and professional aspirations.
- No LSAT Requirement: Unlike traditional law schools, ACU’s programs do not require an LSAT score for admission.
- GPA Requirements: Students must meet the university’s general academic requirements, with an emphasis on maintaining a strong GPA in undergraduate coursework.
Other factors include:
- Faith Statement: Applicants must submit a statement outlining their faith and how it influences their desire to study law.
- Resume: A summary of professional experience and community involvement.
Starting Salaries
Since Arizona Christian University does not offer a traditional Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree, graduates of the legal studies programs typically pursue careers in fields related to law but not as practicing attorneys. As such, salary expectations will vary based on the specific career path chosen by the graduate.