Best Law Schools in Ohio

Are you pursing a law degree? The TopSchoolsintheUSA.com has generated the latest ranking of best law schools in Ohio 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 Ohio 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 Ohio.

Best Law Schools in Ohio

Top ABA-Approved Law Schools in Ohio

National Ranking Best Law Programs
41 Ohio State University (Moritz) (Columbus, OH)
Acceptance rate: 39.0%
LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 159-165
GPA (25th-75th percentile): 3.45-3.81
Tuition & Fees: In-state, full-time: $26,118 per year, Out-of-state, full-time: $41,068 per year
Enrollment (full-time): 680
Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 88.6%

Ohio State University School of Law

67 Case Western Reserve University (Cleveland, OH)
Acceptance rate: 46.5%
LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 153-160
GPA (25th-75th percentile): 3.22-3.67
Tuition & Fees: Full-time: $42,564 per year
Enrollment (full-time): 600
Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 86.1%

Case Western Reserve University School of Law

70 University of Cincinnati (Cincinnati, OH)
Acceptance rate: 46.9%
LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 155-162
GPA (25th-75th percentile): 3.36-3.8
Tuition & Fees: In-state, full-time: $22,204 per year, Out-of-state, full-time: $38,720 per year
Enrollment (full-time): 409
Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 86.8%

University of Cincinnati School of Law

122 University of Akron (Akron, OH)
Acceptance rate: 53.6%
LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 151-156
GPA (25th-75th percentile): 3.12-3.63
Tuition & Fees: In-state, full-time: $21,873 per year, Out-of-state, full-time: $34,428 per year
Enrollment (full-time): 318
Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 91.8%

University of Akron School of Law

131 University of Toledo (Toledo, OH)
Acceptance rate: 43.5%
LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 150-155
GPA (25th-75th percentile): 3.05-3.57
Tuition & Fees: In-state, full-time: $20,742 per year, Out-of-state, full-time: $31,846 per year
Enrollment (full-time): 357
Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 90.1%

University of Toledo School of Law

134 Cleveland State University (Cleveland-Marshall) (Cleveland, OH)
Acceptance rate: 39.5%
LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 152-157
GPA (25th-75th percentile): 3-3.52
Tuition & Fees: In-state, full-time: $19,864 per year, Out-of-state, full-time: $27,204 per year
Enrollment (full-time): 425
Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 83.7%

Cleveland State University School of Law

152 Capital University (Columbus, OH)
Acceptance rate: 64.6%
LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 148-154
GPA (25th-75th percentile): 2.95-3.5
Tuition & Fees: Full-time: $1,127 per credit
Enrollment (full-time): 456
Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 67.2%

Capital University School of Law

169 Ohio Northern University (Pettit) (Ada, OH)
Acceptance rate: 40.9%
LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 149-156
GPA (25th-75th percentile): 3.03-3.66
Tuition & Fees: Full-time: $32,750 per year
Enrollment (full-time): 311
Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 75.8%

Ohio Northern University School of Law

184 University of Dayton (Dayton, OH)
Acceptance rate: 70.4%
LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 148-152
GPA (25th-75th percentile): 2.78-3.37
Tuition & Fees: Full-time: $32,638 per year
Enrollment (full-time): 488
Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 83.9%

University of Dayton School of Law

All Law Schools in Ohio

Ohio is home to several prestigious law schools that offer comprehensive legal education and prepare students for successful careers in the legal profession. With a range of programs in areas such as business law, public interest law, criminal law, and health law, Ohio’s law schools provide a strong academic foundation combined with practical training opportunities.

The law schools in Ohio are:

  1. The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law
  2. Case Western Reserve University School of Law
  3. University of Cincinnati College of Law
  4. University of Akron School of Law
  5. Cleveland-Marshall College of Law (Cleveland State University)
  6. Capital University Law School
  7. University of Dayton School of Law

1. The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law

Overview

The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law (OSU Moritz), located in Columbus, is consistently ranked among the top law schools in the nation. Founded in 1891, Moritz College of Law is known for its rigorous academic programs, a strong focus on leadership, and a commitment to public service. With close ties to Ohio’s legal community and state government, Moritz provides students with a wealth of practical learning opportunities, including clinics, externships, and leadership development programs.

Degree Programs

OSU Moritz offers a variety of degree programs that cater to diverse interests and career goals:

  • Juris Doctor (J.D.): A three-year program that provides a strong foundation in legal theory and practice, with opportunities to specialize in areas such as:
    • Business Law
    • Criminal Law
    • Dispute Resolution
    • Intellectual Property 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.A. in Public Policy
  • LL.M. (Master of Laws): Designed for foreign-trained lawyers who want to gain expertise in U.S. law and practice.
  • Clinical Programs:
    • Criminal Defense Clinic
    • Civil Litigation Clinic
    • Immigration Clinic
    • Dispute Resolution Clinic

Admission Requirements

OSU Moritz is highly selective, seeking students with strong academic records, leadership potential, and a commitment to public service.

  • Average LSAT Score: 163
  • Average GPA: 3.71
  • Application Components:
    • LSAC application
    • Personal statement
    • Two to three letters of recommendation
    • LSAT scores
    • Resume
    • Optional diversity statement

Starting Salaries

Graduates of OSU Moritz find employment in top law firms, corporations, and government agencies across the U.S., especially in Ohio.

  • Private Sector: $90,000 – $190,000
  • Public Sector: $60,000 – $80,000
  • Judicial Clerkships: $65,000 – $75,000

2. Case Western Reserve University School of Law

Overview

Case Western Reserve University School of Law (CWRU Law), located in Cleveland, is known for its excellence in international law, health law, and intellectual property law. Established in 1892, CWRU Law offers a global perspective on legal education, with strong connections to international organizations and a commitment to experiential learning. The school provides students with numerous opportunities for hands-on learning through clinics, externships, and study abroad programs.

Degree Programs

CWRU Law offers several degree programs to meet the needs of students interested in various areas of legal practice:

  • Juris Doctor (J.D.): A three-year program that allows students to specialize in areas such as:
    • International Law
    • Health Law
    • Intellectual Property Law
    • Business Law
  • Dual Degree Programs:
    • J.D./M.B.A. (Master of Business Administration)
    • J.D./M.P.H. (Master of Public Health)
    • J.D./M.S.S.A. (Master of Social Science Administration)
  • LL.M. Programs: CWRU Law offers LL.M. degrees in areas such as:
    • International Business Law
    • Intellectual Property Law
    • U.S. & Global Legal Studies
  • Clinical Programs:
    • Human Rights Clinic
    • Health Law Clinic
    • Criminal Justice Clinic
    • Intellectual Property Venture Clinic

Admission Requirements

CWRU Law is known for its competitive admissions process and seeks students who excel academically and demonstrate leadership in their communities.

  • Average LSAT Score: 160
  • Average GPA: 3.55
  • Application Components:
    • LSAC application
    • Personal statement
    • Two letters of recommendation
    • LSAT scores
    • Resume
    • Optional diversity statement

Starting Salaries

CWRU Law graduates are well-positioned for careers in law firms, corporations, and health care organizations, particularly in Ohio and the surrounding region.

  • Private Sector: $85,000 – $130,000
  • Public Sector: $60,000 – $75,000
  • Judicial Clerkships: $60,000 – $70,000

3. University of Cincinnati College of Law

Overview

The University of Cincinnati College of Law (UC Law), founded in 1833, is the fourth-oldest continuously operating law school in the United States. Located in Cincinnati, UC Law is known for its commitment to public service and its strong programs in corporate law, criminal law, and international law. The school offers students ample opportunities for practical learning through externships, clinics, and partnerships with local law firms and corporations.

Degree Programs

UC Law offers a range of degree programs designed to prepare students for diverse legal careers:

  • Juris Doctor (J.D.): A three-year program with specializations in areas such as:
    • Corporate Law
    • Criminal Law
    • International Law
    • Litigation
  • Joint Degree Programs:
    • J.D./M.B.A. (Master of Business Administration)
    • J.D./M.A. in Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies
  • LL.M. in U.S. Law: Designed for foreign-trained attorneys who want to study U.S. law and prepare for the bar exam.
  • Clinical Programs:
    • Entrepreneurship and Community Development Clinic
    • Indigent Defense Clinic
    • Human Rights Quarterly Clinic
    • Domestic Violence Clinic

Admission Requirements

UC Law seeks students who are academically strong, passionate about law, and committed to making a difference in their communities.

  • Average LSAT Score: 159
  • Average GPA: 3.6
  • Application Components:
    • LSAC application
    • Personal statement
    • Letters of recommendation
    • LSAT scores
    • Resume

Starting Salaries

Graduates of UC Law have strong career prospects, particularly in Ohio and the Midwest, where they often work in law firms, government agencies, and public interest organizations.

  • Private Sector: $80,000 – $120,000
  • Public Sector: $55,000 – $70,000
  • Judicial Clerkships: $55,000 – $65,000

4. University of Akron School of Law

Overview

The University of Akron School of Law (Akron Law) is known for its strong programs in intellectual property law and trial advocacy. Located in Akron, the law school offers a practical legal education with a focus on experiential learning and affordable tuition. Akron Law’s location near major metropolitan areas like Cleveland and Pittsburgh provides students with opportunities to gain practical experience through externships and internships.

Degree Programs

Akron Law offers a variety of degree programs tailored to students’ needs:

  • Juris Doctor (J.D.): A three-year program with specializations in:
    • Intellectual Property Law
    • Litigation
    • Criminal Law
  • J.D./LL.M. in Intellectual Property: A joint degree program that allows students to earn both a J.D. and an LL.M. in Intellectual Property Law.
  • Part-Time J.D. Program: Designed for working professionals who wish to complete their law degree on a part-time basis.
  • Clinical Programs:
    • Trademark Clinic
    • Criminal Defense Clinic
    • Reentry Clinic

Admission Requirements

Akron Law has a competitive admissions process that considers LSAT scores, academic performance, and other factors such as work experience and community involvement.

  • Average LSAT Score: 154
  • Average GPA: 3.3
  • Application Components:
    • LSAC application
    • Personal statement
    • Two letters of recommendation
    • LSAT scores
    • Resume

Starting Salaries

Akron Law graduates often find employment in law firms, corporate legal departments, and intellectual property practices, particularly in Ohio and surrounding states.

  • Private Sector: $65,000 – $110,000
  • Public Sector: $50,000 – $65,000
  • Judicial Clerkships: $50,000 – $60,000

5. Cleveland-Marshall College of Law (Cleveland State University)

Overview

Cleveland-Marshall College of Law (C-M Law), part of Cleveland State University, is located in downtown Cleveland and has a strong focus on practical legal education and public service. Established in 1897, C-M Law offers a dynamic learning environment with a commitment to providing students with real-world legal experience. The law school is particularly well-regarded for its legal clinics, public interest law programs, and proximity to Cleveland’s legal and corporate communities.

Degree Programs

C-M Law offers several degree programs:

  • Juris Doctor (J.D.): A three-year program with opportunities to specialize in:
    • Business Law
    • Health Law
    • Public Interest Law
  • Part-Time J.D. Program: Designed for working professionals who want to pursue a law degree on a part-time basis.
  • LL.M. in U.S. Legal Studies: A program for foreign lawyers interested in U.S. law.
  • Clinical Programs:
    • Civil Litigation Clinic
    • Criminal Justice Clinic
    • Transactional Law Clinic

Admission Requirements

C-M Law seeks students with a strong academic background, leadership experience, and a passion for public service and advocacy.

  • Average LSAT Score: 151
  • Average GPA: 3.25
  • Application Components:
    • LSAC application
    • Personal statement
    • Letters of recommendation
    • LSAT scores
    • Resume

Starting Salaries

Graduates of C-M Law enjoy strong job placement in Cleveland and across Ohio, particularly in law firms, corporate legal departments, and public interest organizations.

  • Private Sector: $60,000 – $100,000
  • Public Sector: $50,000 – $65,000
  • Judicial Clerkships: $50,000 – $60,000

6. Capital University Law School

Overview

Located in Columbus, Capital University Law School offers a legal education focused on practical skills, public service, and leadership development. The law school has strong ties to the Columbus legal community and provides students with numerous opportunities to gain hands-on experience through its clinics, externships, and public interest programs.

Degree Programs

Capital Law offers several degree programs:

  • Juris Doctor (J.D.): A three-year program with the option to specialize in:
    • Business Law
    • Health Law
    • Family Law
  • Part-Time J.D. Program: Designed for working professionals, allowing them to earn their law degree on a flexible schedule.
  • LL.M. in Taxation: A specialized program for those interested in tax law and policy.
  • Clinical Programs:
    • Mediation Clinic
    • General Practice Clinic
    • Public Interest Externships

Admission Requirements

Capital Law seeks students with a commitment to public service, leadership potential, and a strong academic background.

  • Average LSAT Score: 150
  • Average GPA: 3.1
  • Application Components:
    • LSAC application
    • Personal statement
    • Letters of recommendation
    • LSAT scores
    • Resume

Starting Salaries

Capital Law graduates often find employment in law firms, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations, particularly in the Columbus area.

  • Private Sector: $60,000 – $90,000
  • Public Sector: $50,000 – $65,000
  • Judicial Clerkships: $50,000 – $60,000

7. University of Dayton School of Law

Overview

The University of Dayton School of Law, located in Dayton, is known for its innovative approaches to legal education and its strong focus on technology, business law, and intellectual property law. Founded in 1922, Dayton Law offers a range of experiential learning opportunities through clinics, externships, and its nationally recognized hybrid J.D. program.

Degree Programs

Dayton Law offers several degree programs:

  • Juris Doctor (J.D.): The core three-year program with specializations in:
    • Intellectual Property Law
    • Business Law
    • Public Interest Law
  • Hybrid Online J.D. Program: This program combines online coursework with on-campus intensives, providing flexibility for working professionals.
  • LL.M. in Intellectual Property and Technology Law: Designed for students who wish to specialize in IP law.
  • Clinical Programs:
    • Intellectual Property Law Clinic
    • Criminal Law Clinic
    • Human Rights Law Clinic

Admission Requirements

Dayton Law seeks applicants who demonstrate academic potential, leadership, and a commitment to innovation and public service.

  • Average LSAT Score: 152
  • Average GPA: 3.2
  • Application Components:
    • LSAC application
    • Personal statement
    • Letters of recommendation
    • LSAT scores
    • Resume

Starting Salaries

Dayton Law graduates are well-prepared for careers in intellectual property, business law, and public interest, particularly in Ohio and surrounding states.

  • Private Sector: $65,000 – $100,000
  • Public Sector: $50,000 – $65,000
  • Judicial Clerkships: $50,000 – $60,000