Chicago-Kent College Of Law: Admission, Rankings, Acceptance Rates & More
Chicago‑Kent College of Law at Illinois Institute of Technology is a leading institution known for its innovative, practice-focused legal education. Located in downtown Chicago, it offers a dynamic blend of rigorous academics, hands-on training, and a strong commitment to public service, diversity, and technological advancement. With nationally recognized programs in Intellectual Property, Trial Advocacy, and Legal Writing, Chicago‑Kent prepares students to excel in a wide range of legal careers. Its supportive faculty, modern facilities, and inclusive campus environment create an ideal setting for aspiring legal professionals.
Table of Contents
- Location And Campus
- Academic Offerings At Chicago-Kent College Of Law
- Notable Faculty
- Admission Essentials
- Law School Ranking
- Achievements And Alumni Success
- Bar Passage And Employment Outcomes
- Law School Cost Overview
- Campus Life Highlights
- Career Services
- Diversity And Inclusion
- Technology And Resources
- Conclusion
Location And Campus
Chicago-Kent College of Law is nestled in the heart of Chicago’s vibrant West Loop neighborhood. It is located at 565 W Adams St, Chicago, IL 60661, USA. This dynamic area pulsates with art galleries and trendy restaurants. The alluring proximity of the Chicago River adds to its appeal. The campus itself exudes a modern and urban atmosphere. It blends historic and contemporary architectural styles.
Facilities And Accessibility
Chicago‑Kent College of Law’s Conviser Law Center is a 10-story, fully accessible facility with high-speed Wi-Fi and modern classrooms. Key features include two tech-equipped courtrooms for trial training, a three-level law library with 500,000+ volumes and study spaces, and a 325-seat auditorium. Students have access to a fitness center, game room, meditation room, and lactation room. The campus supports students with disabilities through individualized accommodations coordinated by the Center for Disability Resources.
Tech resources include public computer labs, networked printers, and a stable IT environment. The Office of Student Affairs provides academic, wellness, and accessibility support. Additionally, students can volunteer at the Self-Help Resource Center in the Daley Center, assisting self-represented litigants with legal resources. Overall, the campus is designed to foster academic excellence, wellness, and inclusivity through modern facilities and comprehensive student services.
Academic Offerings At Chicago-Kent College Of Law
Chicago‑Kent College of Law offers a wide range of academic programs that combine rigorous legal education with practical training. The primary degree is the Juris Doctor (J.D.), available in full-time and part-time formats, requiring 87 credits and foundational courses in legal writing, constitutional law, and civil procedure. Students can further specialize by earning certificates in fields such as Intellectual Property, Criminal Litigation, Labor & Employment Law, Privacy Law, and Legal Innovation.
Advanced degrees include LL.M. programs in areas like Global Business Law, Trial Advocacy, and International IP Law, catering to both U.S. and international law graduates. Chicago‑Kent also offers joint degree options, such as J.D./MBA and J.D./LL.M., allowing students to expand their expertise across disciplines.
Experiential learning is central to the curriculum, with the C‑K Law Group offering legal clinics in family law, immigration, IP, and more. Students can also engage in externships, trial advocacy training, and the Praxis Program, which integrates real-world projects and simulations.
Academic support includes the Academic Skills Program, and students can participate in cutting-edge research through specialized centers focused on justice, technology, labor law, and national security. Overall, Chicago‑Kent emphasizes practice-ready legal education with a strong commitment to innovation and public service.
Notable Faculty
Chicago‑Kent College of Law features a distinguished faculty known for academic leadership and real-world legal expertise. Dean Anita K. Krug specializes in securities regulation and corporate governance and is the school’s first permanent female dean. Lori B. Andrews, a nationally renowned scholar in genetics and privacy law, has been named among America’s most influential lawyers. Clinical Professor Richard S. Kling, an expert in evidence and criminal law, has tried over 500 jury cases, including capital defenses, and plays a central role in the school’s clinical training.
Sarah Fackrell (formerly Burstein), a leading voice in design patent law, joined in 2024 and contributes cutting-edge research published in major law reviews. These faculty members exemplify Chicago‑Kent’s commitment to integrating rigorous legal theory with hands-on practice, mentoring students through litigation, research, and policy innovation. Their influence extends nationally across academia, courtrooms, and public policy—enhancing the school’s reputation for excellence and impact.
Admission Essentials
Admission to Chicago‑Kent College of Law requires strong academic credentials, including competitive GPA and LSAT scores, along with a commitment to legal study, critical thinking, and professional excellence.
Acceptance Rates And Entry Criteria
In 2025, Chicago‑Kent College of Law had an acceptance rate of 49.4%, reflecting its moderately selective admissions process for aspiring legal professionals seeking a practice-focused education.
LSAT And GPA Benchmarks
In 2025, Chicago‑Kent College of Law maintained competitive admissions standards. The undergraduate GPA range for the 25th to 75th percentile of admitted students was 3.43 to 3.89, with a median GPA of 3.74. LSAT scores ranged from 155 to 162, with a median score of 160. These figures reflect the law school’s commitment to academic excellence while remaining accessible to a diverse pool of applicants, fostering a well-rounded and capable student body prepared for rigorous legal training.
Application Process Insights
Here are some key insights to help you with your Chicago-Kent application:
- Start early. The application deadline is usually in February, but it’s best to start working on your application months in advance.
- Get your recommenders lined up. Choose recommenders who can speak to your academic ability and potential as a lawyer.
- Write a killer personal statement. This is your chance to show Chicago-Kent who you are and why you’re a good fit for their law school.
- Highlight your unique experiences. Be bold and showcase your extracurricular activities, work experience, and other things that make you stand out.
Law School Ranking
In 2025, Chicago‑Kent College of Law was ranked #107 among Best Law Schools and an impressive #14 in Part-Time Law by U.S. News & World Report. The school also earned recognition in various specialties, including #9 in Intellectual Property Law and #12 in Trial Advocacy, showcasing its strengths in these practice areas. Other notable rankings include #44 in Legal Writing, #72 in Contracts/Commercial Law, and #73 in Business/Corporate Law. Chicago‑Kent also placed in areas like Criminal Law (#114), Constitutional Law (#79), Environmental Law (#124), and Tax Law (#95), reflecting its diverse and well-rounded legal education offerings.
Achievements And Alumni Success
Beyond rankings, Chicago-Kent boasts a rich history of achievements and alumni success. Here are some examples:
- Faculty Expertise: Renowned professors with real-world experience ensure you learn from the best.
- Cutting-Edge Programs: Specialized programs like Intellectual Property and Health Law equip you with in-demand skills.
- Global Opportunities: Study abroad programs and international partnerships broaden your horizons.
- Alumni Network: Connect with a network of successful alumni working in diverse legal fields.
Chicago-Kent alumni hold prestigious positions in various sectors:
- Judges and Justices: Notable alumni serve on federal and state courts, including the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit.
- Corporate Counsel: Graduates in Fortune 500 companies and startups hold key legal positions.
- Public Interest Leaders: Alumni champion important causes through non-profit organizations and government agencies.
Bar Passage And Employment Outcomes
Chicago‑Kent College of Law demonstrates strong post-graduation success. Within 10 months of graduation, 86% of graduates achieved full-credit employment outcomes. The first-time bar passage rate stands at 84.1%, notably above the national average of 78.3%. Additionally, the school reports an ultimate bar passage rate of 89.7% over a two-year average, highlighting its effective preparation for legal practice and commitment to student success in achieving licensure and launching their legal careers.
Law School Cost Overview
Attending Chicago‑Kent College of Law involves a full-time tuition of $54,170, applicable to both in-state and out-of-state students. In addition to tuition, students should budget approximately $20,655 for food and housing and $1,815 for books. These estimated costs provide a comprehensive view of the financial commitment required for one academic year of legal education.
Campus Life Highlights
Campus life at Chicago‑Kent College of Law is vibrant and inclusive, featuring student organizations, wellness spaces, professional events, and modern facilities that foster community, collaboration, and personal development.
Student Organizations And Activities
With over 40 student organizations covering diverse interests, you’re bound to find your niche. Here are some examples
- American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU): Advocate for civil liberties and social justice.
- Environmental Law Society: Address environmental challenges through legal advocacy.
- Moot Court Honors Society: Hone your legal research and oral argument skills.
- Lambdas: The Gay-Straight Alliance: Create a welcoming space for LGBTQ+ students and allies.
- Intellectual Property Law Society: Explore the legal world of patents, trademarks, and copyrights.
Beyond formal organizations, there are countless events and activities. These include guest speaker panels, workshops, social mixers, and sporting events. You’ll find the perfect way to unwind, have fun, and build lasting connections with your classmates.
Moot Court And Legal Clinics
Chicago-Kent offers hands-on learning opportunities. It has a renowned moot court program and legal clinics.
- Moot Court: Participate in simulated court proceedings. Gain valuable legal experience and develop your public speaking skills through Moot Court.
- Legal Clinics: Legal Clinics work under experienced attorneys on real-world cases. This gives students practical legal experience and lets them positively impact the community.
These programs enhance your legal skills and boost your confidence. They also prepare you for the realities of legal practice.
Networking Opportunities
Chicago-Kent boasts a strong alumni network and close ties to the legal community. You’ll have access to:
- Mentorship programs: Connect with experienced professionals who can provide guidance and support.
- Career fairs and networking events: Meet potential employers and explore diverse legal career paths.
- Guest lectures and panels: Learn from prominent legal figures and practitioners.
Career Services
Campus life at Chicago‑Kent College of Law is vibrant and inclusive, featuring student organizations, wellness spaces, professional events, and modern facilities that foster community, collaboration, and personal development.
Counseling And Placement
Students receive personalized guidance on career exploration. They also get help with writing resumes and cover letters, preparing for interviews, and developing networking strategies. One can get access to an extensive database of legal job postings. Also, attending career fairs and connecting with potential employers through on-campus interviews. In addition, one can hone the skills through workshops on legal writing. As well as negotiation, and other essential professional skills.
Internships And Alumni Network
- Internship Opportunities: Gain valuable practical experience through internships—intern at law firms, government agencies, and non-profit organizations.
- Externship Programs: Earn academic credit while working in legal settings. This allows you to test-drive different practice areas.
- Alumni Network: Tap into the power of Chicago-Kent’s vast alumni network for mentorship, career advice, and job leads.
Diversity And Inclusion
Chicago‑Kent College of Law is deeply committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, fostering a welcoming environment through dedicated programs, supportive policies, and community initiatives that celebrate and empower all students.
Initiatives And Demographics
- Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI): This is a special team at Chicago-Kent. They make sure everyone gets a fair chance to join, learn, and have fun in school.
- Diversity Open House: Every year, Chicago-Kent has a special day. Here, students from various places and cultures can come and see what the school is like.
- Student Organizations: More than 20 clubs for students with similar backgrounds or interests exist.
- Scholarships: The school offers special scholarships and programs to help students from different groups.
- Student Body Diversity: At Chicago-Kent, 31% of the students are from different racial and ethnic groups. Whereas 45% are women, and 11% are from other countries.
Inclusive Policies And Culture
Chicago-Kent is very serious about making sure everyone is treated nicely and fairly. They don’t allow any kind of bullying or unfair treatment. The school makes sure that students with disabilities get the help they need. So everyone can learn and participate in the same way. These are special talks where students and teachers discuss different ideas and opinions. It helps everyone understand and respect each other more. Students can get advice and support from teachers. They can also get advice from older students with similar backgrounds or experiences.
Technology And Resources
Chicago‑Kent College of Law offers cutting-edge technology and robust resources, including high-speed Wi-Fi, digital libraries, courtroom tech, and IT support, enhancing legal research, learning, and hands-on training experiences.
Tech Infrastructure And Facilities
- State-of-the-art Technology: Enjoy high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the campus. Access advanced research software. Also, use modern classrooms equipped for multimedia presentations and collaborative learning.
- Dedicated IT Support: Get prompt and reliable assistance with any tech issues you encounter. This will ensure you stay focused on your studies.
- Flexible Learning Environment: Access course materials and recordings online. This allows you to learn at your own pace and convenience.
Law Library And Research Tools
- Award-Winning Law Library: The John Marshall Harlan Law Library is award-winning. It boasts an extensive collection of legal resources. It includes print and digital books, journals, government documents, and more.
- Expert Librarians: Skilled librarians are available to guide your research. They provide personalized assistance and teach you essential legal research skills.
- Subscription Databases: Access the latest legal research databases, including Westlaw and LexisNexis. They provide comprehensive legal information and case law.
- Online Research Guides: Use curated online guides on various legal topics. They help you navigate the vast legal research landscape efficiently.
Conclusion
The Chicago-Kent College of Law is a special place for learning about law. The law school is considered one of the top law schools in Illinois. Chicago‑Kent College of Law offers a dynamic and practice-oriented legal education, combining rigorous academics with real-world training. With strong rankings in Intellectual Property, Trial Advocacy, and Legal Writing, it prepares students for diverse legal careers. Its innovative programs, supportive faculty, and accessible part-time options make it a compelling choice for aspiring lawyers. Backed by modern facilities, experiential learning opportunities, and a commitment to public interest, Chicago‑Kent continues to shape skilled, ethical professionals ready to lead in today’s evolving legal landscape.