Are you pursing a law degree? The TopSchoolsintheUSA.com has generated the latest ranking of best law schools in West Virginia 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 West Virginia 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 West Virginia.
Top ABA-Approved Law Schools in West Virginia
| National Ranking | Best Law Programs |
| 105 | West Virginia University (Morgantown, WV) Acceptance rate: 45.7% LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 152-157 GPA (25th-75th percentile): 3.15-3.7 Tuition & Fees: In-state, full-time: $16,423 per year, Out-of-state, full-time: $31,367 per year Enrollment (full-time): 411 Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 92.1%
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All Law Schools in West Virginia
West Virginia has a limited but well-respected selection of legal education institutions. Currently, the state is home to only one law school, West Virginia University College of Law. Despite being the sole law school in the state, West Virginia University (WVU) offers a comprehensive and distinguished program that prepares students for a wide range of legal careers.
1. West Virginia University College of Law
Overview
West Virginia University College of Law, located in Morgantown, is the only law school in West Virginia. It was established in 1878 and has since built a reputation for producing high-quality legal professionals, particularly in fields related to public interest, energy, and environmental law. The College of Law is a nationally ranked institution with a student-centered approach, offering a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical legal skills.
As the state’s flagship law school, WVU Law prides itself on its commitment to public service and providing access to justice. It is also notable for its clinics and externships, which give students hands-on experience in real-world legal practice.
Degree Programs
West Virginia University College of Law offers a variety of degree programs and specializations to cater to different career paths within the legal profession.
- Juris Doctor (J.D.): The standard three-year law degree. WVU Law provides a general J.D. curriculum with opportunities for students to specialize in specific legal fields such as energy and sustainable development, public interest law, or litigation.
- LL.M. in Energy and Sustainable Development Law: This specialized program is designed for students who already hold a law degree and wish to gain advanced expertise in energy law and environmental issues. This program attracts both domestic and international students.
- Dual Degree Programs: WVU offers several dual degree programs, allowing students to combine their J.D. with another graduate degree. Some popular options include:
- J.D./M.B.A. (Master of Business Administration)
- J.D./M.P.A. (Master of Public Administration)
- J.D./M.S. in Energy, Environment, and Natural Resources
- Clinics and Externships: WVU Law offers a variety of clinical programs where students work on real legal cases under faculty supervision. Some of the most notable clinics include:
- Immigration Law Clinic
- Innocence Project
- Child and Family Advocacy Clinic
- Entrepreneurship and Innovation Law Clinic
Admission Requirements
The admission process at WVU College of Law is competitive, and the school takes a holistic approach to evaluate applicants. While LSAT scores and undergraduate GPA play a significant role, the admissions committee also considers other factors, such as work experience, personal statements, and letters of recommendation.
- Average LSAT Score: 154
- Average GPA: 3.4
- Application Components:
- Completed application through the LSAC (Law School Admission Council)
- Personal statement highlighting the applicant’s reasons for attending law school, relevant experiences, and future career goals
- Two to three letters of recommendation, preferably from academic or professional sources
- LSAT score (though GRE scores are sometimes accepted in lieu of LSAT)
- Resume outlining work experience, volunteer work, internships, and extracurricular activities
- Optional diversity statement
WVU Law looks for students who not only have strong academic records but also demonstrate leadership potential, community involvement, and a commitment to social justice.
Starting Salaries
West Virginia University College of Law graduates have an excellent track record when it comes to employment, with a large percentage securing jobs within 10 months of graduation. Many graduates stay within the state of West Virginia or the broader Appalachian region, but the school’s reputation also extends nationally.
- Private Sector: $80,000 – $105,000
- Public Sector: $50,000 – $65,000
- Judicial Clerkships: $55,000 – $65,000
- Public Interest Law: $45,000 – $60,000
WVU Law graduates often pursue careers in law firms, corporate legal departments, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and judicial clerkships. Due to its strong ties with the state government and the energy sector, many graduates find employment in fields like environmental law, energy regulation, and public service.
Unique Strengths of West Virginia University College of Law
Focus Areas and Specializations
Although WVU College of Law offers a well-rounded legal education suitable for various legal careers, it has particular strengths in the following areas:
- Energy and Environmental Law: Given West Virginia’s long-standing connection to the energy industry, WVU Law has developed specialized programs and resources focused on energy law, natural resources, and sustainability. The LL.M. in Energy and Sustainable Development Law attracts students with interests in these sectors, and the school offers related externships and networking opportunities with industry leaders.
- Public Interest Law: WVU Law has a strong focus on public service and advocacy. Its clinical programs allow students to work on pro bono cases and serve underrepresented communities. Many graduates go on to work in nonprofit organizations, legal aid, or public defense.
- Litigation and Advocacy: WVU Law has a well-regarded trial advocacy program that prepares students for careers in litigation. Through mock trial competitions, moot court, and internships, students gain the skills necessary to succeed in courtrooms and other dispute resolution settings.
Admissions Process
WVU College of Law takes a holistic approach to admissions, focusing on more than just LSAT scores and GPAs. While strong academic credentials are important, the admissions committee values students who show dedication to public service, leadership potential, and diverse experiences. For example, candidates who have been actively involved in community service or who have a unique background or perspective are highly regarded.
The school also offers a number of scholarship opportunities, especially for students from West Virginia or those who demonstrate a commitment to public interest law.
Career Support
WVU Law provides robust career services to its students and alumni. The Office of Career Services helps students with job searches, resume and cover letter writing, mock interviews, and networking events. The school has strong ties with legal employers in West Virginia and the surrounding region, making it easier for graduates to find jobs in their desired practice areas.
In addition, the school offers loan repayment assistance programs (LRAP) for graduates who pursue careers in public interest law, ensuring that they can meet their financial obligations while serving underrepresented communities.
Student Life and Campus Environment
West Virginia University College of Law fosters a tight-knit community where students, faculty, and staff work closely together. The school’s relatively small size allows for individualized attention, and students often cite the supportive and collaborative environment as one of the key advantages of attending WVU Law.
Campus Facilities
The law school building, located on WVU’s Evansdale Campus, features state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, moot courtrooms, a law library, and legal clinics. Students have access to the latest legal research tools and technology, and the campus is designed to encourage collaboration and engagement among students.
Student Organizations and Extracurriculars
WVU Law offers a wide range of student organizations and extracurricular activities that allow students to explore their legal interests, develop leadership skills, and build professional networks. Some popular student organizations include:
- Energy Law Society: For students interested in careers in energy law and policy.
- Environmental Law Society: Focuses on environmental advocacy and sustainability issues.
- Public Interest Advocates (PIA): Provides pro bono legal services and raises awareness about public interest law careers.
- Moot Court Board: Organizes competitions and helps students develop their advocacy and oral argument skills.
- Student Bar Association (SBA): WVU Law’s student government, which organizes social, academic, and networking events for students.
Networking Opportunities
WVU Law’s alumni network is particularly strong in the Appalachian region, but graduates have gone on to work in various parts of the United States and internationally. The school regularly hosts networking events, including career fairs, alumni panels, and guest lectures by prominent legal professionals. These events help students build connections with practicing attorneys, judges, and other legal experts.