South Texas College Of Law Houston: Rankings, Academics & More
The journey to a meaningful legal career begins at South Texas College of Law Houston, a vibrant institution located in the heart of downtown. Surrounded by courts, law firms, and civic organizations, it provides students with an immersive legal education and access to numerous professional opportunities.
At South Texas, passionate faculty, hands-on training, and a supportive community combine to shape tomorrow’s legal leaders. Whether you’re drawn to advocacy, public service, or corporate law, this is a place where your ambition is nurtured and your future in law begins with purpose.
Table of Contents
Location And Campus
South Texas College of Law Houston occupies a full city block in vibrant downtown Houston, steps from federal and state courthouses, law firms, and civic institutions. Housed in interconnected buildings—Tower Cullen, Neal, and the Fred Parks Law Library—it offers a dynamic urban legal education environment.
Address And Contact Information
- Main Address: 1303 San Jacinto St, Houston, TX 77002‑7000
- Main Office: (713) 659‑8040
- Admissions: (713) 646‑1810, [email protected]
- Law Library Reference: (713) 646‑1712, [email protected]
- Campus Hours: Mon–Thu: 6 am–midnight; Fri: 6 am–10 pm; Sat: 7 am–10 pm; Sun: 8 am–10 pm
- Website: https://www.stcl.edu/
Description Of The Law School’s Physical Facilities And Resources
The downtown campus features modern lecture halls, numerous group and individual study rooms, and the extensive Fred Parks Law Library—stocked with over 596,000 volumes. Technology-equipped classrooms, quiet zones, and collaborative spaces enhance productivity. Additionally, student lounges, fax/copy amenities, and 24/7 access provide comfort and convenience for law students.
Academic Programs
South Texas College of Law Houston offers ABA‑accredited full‑time and part‑time JD programs (including hybrid and online options) and a flexible LLM. Students experience rigorous classroom instruction paired with extensive experiential learning to prepare for a career in law.
Juris Doctor (JD) Program
The JD at South Texas combines traditional doctrinal courses with experiential learning—including clinics, moot court, and internships. Available full-time, part-time on-campus, or part-time online, the program equips students with professional skills, ethical training, and law‑ready competence.
Overview Of The JD Curriculum And Specialized Tracks
First-year coursework covers foundational subjects such as Civil Procedure, Contracts, Torts, and Criminal Law, taught through case-based and Socratic methods. Upper-level students can focus on tracks like Advocacy, Alternative Dispute Resolution, or Transactional Practice, with certificate options through the Advocacy and Transactional Practice Centers.
Clinical Legal Education And Practical Experience Opportunities
South Texas offers over 20 in-school legal clinics, delivering more than 35,000 hours annually in areas such as family law, immigration, criminal justice, and intellectual property. Alongside externships across Houston courts, prosecutors, and nonprofits, students gain real-world experience under faculty supervision. A robust pro bono program also rewards 50+ service hours.
Master Of Laws (LLM) Program
The LLM at South Texas is designed for flexibility, offering specialized studies in areas such as tax, international, or business law. Open to U.S. and foreign-trained attorneys, it provides practical, networking-rich learning tailored to individual career goals.
Available LLM Concentrations And Study Options
South Texas offers LLM options in fields such as Tax Law, International Legal Practice, and business and transactional law. The program accommodates both full-time and part-time schedules, supporting both on-campus and online study. Coursework includes simulation courses, legal research, and networking opportunities with Houston’s legal community.
Unique Aspects Of The LLM Program At South Texas College Of Law Houston
The LLM stands out for its customizable structure, which allows students to blend classroom, clinic, and externship experiences, along with its emphasis on career development. Its Houston location connects LLM students with global law firms, government agencies, and international business clients amid a diverse legal ecosystem.
Faculty And Expertise
South Texas College of Law Houston boasts a dedicated team of full-time professors and adjuncts who combine scholarly insight with real-world legal experience. Their interdisciplinary expertise and active mentorship equip students for ethical, skilled legal practice.
Distinguished Professors And Their Areas Of Expertise
South Texas College of Law Houston has a distinguished faculty of scholars and practitioners who are experts in a wide range of areas of law. Some of the school’s most notable faculty members include:
- Michael F. Barry, Professor of Law and Director of the Center for Christian Studies in Law
- Debra Berman, Professor of Law
- Josh Blackman, Professor of Law
- Vanessa Browne-Barbour, Professor of Law
- Catherine Greene Burnett, Professor of Law and Vice President for Experiential Education
- Richard R. Carlson, Professor of Law
- Elaine A. Carlson, Professor of Law
- Amanda Harmon Cooley, Professor of Law
- Frank Fagan, Professor of Law
- Matthew J. Festa, Professor of Law
These professors have published extensively in leading law journals and books, and they are frequently invited to speak at conferences and workshops.
Faculty Involvement In Research And Their Impact On Legal Scholarship
The school’s faculty are not just teachers but also leading researchers. Their work in fields like constitutional law and international law is recognized worldwide. They write in journals and books that shape legal thought. Their expertise is also sought at conferences, influencing law and policy. Students here benefit from this cutting-edge knowledge directly impacting today’s legal landscape.
Community And Student Life
South Texas College of Law Houston fosters a cohesive, welcoming atmosphere where diverse students thrive. The Office of Student Engagement and Student Services provides comprehensive support, while the law school culture fosters collaboration, professional growth, and a spirit of inclusion.
Supportive And Inclusive Environment For Students
The Agosto Justice Center champions diversity, equity, and leadership through ongoing dialogue, educational programs, and supportive networks for all students. The Office of Student Support offers ADA accommodations, wellness services, and academic coaching to ensure every student succeeds. A nondiscrimination policy affirms inclusivity across race, gender, and ability.
Student Organizations And Extracurricular Activities
South Texas hosts over 50 student groups—from the Student Bar Association to niche chapters like ACLU, Animal Legal Defense Fund, and IP Law—aiding leadership and community engagement. Greek-legal fraternities, journals, and advocacy groups host conferences, workshops, and pro bono initiatives, enriching educational and professional growth.
Events And Initiatives Fostering Networking And Professional Development
The Career Resource Center hosts signature events, such as the Government & Public Interest Table Talk and on-campus interviews, connecting students with employers and alumni. Law firms, nonprofits, and government agencies frequently host recruitment fairs and skill-building workshops. The Houston Bar Association offers students free membership, CLE opportunities, and clerkship programs to boost career readiness.
Acceptance Rate And Admissions Process
South Texas College of Law Houston maintains a 38.8% acceptance rate for the 2024–25 JD cycle, with a 44.3% yield—demonstrating a moderately selective admissions process.
Recent Acceptance Rates And Admissions Statistics
In the 2024–25 cycle, 2,298 applicants were reviewed, and 891 were admitted, with 395 matriculating, resulting in an acceptance rate of 38.8% and an enrollment yield of 44.3%. Median entering credentials: LSAT 154 (25th–75th percentile: 151–157) and GPA 3.35 (25th–75th percentile: 3.04–3.57).
Insight Into The Selection Criteria And Application Requirements
Admission is merit-based, with academic performance, LSAT score, references, personal statement, and extracurricular involvement all considered. Applicants typically showcase strong undergraduate records (median GPA 3.35) and competitive LSAT scores (median 154)—deadlines: May 9 for fall and November 25 for spring entry. The rolling review begins in late February and mid-September.
Ranking And Recognition
South Texas College of Law Houston is nationally acknowledged for its strong advocacy programs and solid legal education. Widely recognized in U.S. News specialty rankings, the school consistently achieves top-50 standings in key areas like Trial Advocacy and Dispute Resolution.
Current Ranking
In the 2025 U.S. News & World Report rankings, South Texas College of Law Houston is positioned at #138 overall and tied at #50 for its part-time JD program. It excels in specialty fields—most notably ranking #6 in Trial Advocacy, #23 in Dispute Resolution, and earning strong placements in Legal Writing and ADR.
Comparisons With Peer Law Schools And Notable Achievements
Below is a table comparing South Texas College of Law Houston with its peer law schools based on the information provided:
| School | U.S. News & World Report Ranking | LSAT Median | GPA Median |
|---|---|---|---|
| South Texas College of Law Houston | $138 | 154 | 3.35 |
| University of Houston Law Center | $63 | 161 | 3.75 |
| Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law | $43 | 165 | 3.86 |
| Texas Tech University School of Law | 88 | 158 | 3.65 |
| St. Mary’s University School of Law | 148 | 153 | 3.41 |
Frequently Asked Questions About South Texas College Of Law Houston
1. What Is South Texas College Of Law Houston Ranked?
South Texas College of Law Houston is ranked #138 nationally in the 2025 U.S. News & World Report law school rankings, with its part‑time JD program tied at #50. The school’s advocacy program impressively ranks 6th in the nation, reflecting excellence in trial and moot court training.
2. Is South Texas School Of Law A Good School?
Yes—South Texas College of Law Houston is well‑regarded, especially for its practical, hands‑on training, strong advocacy programs, and accessible faculty. It’s consistently named a “Best Law School” by The Princeton Review, enjoys a diverse, supportive community, and graduates often find employment in law firms throughout Houston and beyond.
3. What Is The Minimum GPA For South Texas College Of Law?
The minimum undergraduate GPA for applicants to South Texas College of Law Houston typically falls around 3.04, which is the 25th percentile for admitted students. Admitted candidates typically range from 3.04 to 3.57, with a median GPA of approximately 3.35.
Conclusion
When you dream of a law career, South Texas College of Law Houston is the perfect place. With its strong ranking, exciting programs, and a campus full of life, this school opens doors to a world of possibilities. It’s where your passion for law meets opportunity. Get ready to join a community that will cheer you on every step of the way. South Texas College of Law Houston is not just a law school; it’s where your future takes flight.