The University Of Illinois College Of Law: History, Academics, Rankings & More

Ever dreamed of becoming the kind of lawyer who doesn’t just practice law—but transforms it? At the University of Illinois College of Law, ambition meets opportunity. Here, you’ll go beyond the casebooks, gaining real-world experience through clinics, externships, and global learning. With top-tier faculty and a vibrant, inclusive campus, you’re not just earning a degree—you’re building your future.

From courtroom advocacy to tech-driven legal innovation, Illinois Law prepares you to lead with purpose and skill. Whether your passion lies in corporate law or civil rights, this is where your legal journey begins—and where your impact starts to take shape.

History And Overview Of The University Of Illinois College Of Law

Founded in 1897, the University of Illinois College of Law has built a legacy of excellence in legal education. With over a century of impact, it remains a leader in academic innovation, public service, and professional preparation.

Founding And Historical Background

Established in 1897, the University of Illinois College of Law began as one of the Midwest’s earliest law schools. From its humble beginnings, it has quickly become a respected institution, renowned for producing skilled and ethical legal professionals. Over the decades, it has expanded its academic offerings and grown into a nationally recognized center for legal scholarship and training.

Mission And Values Of The Law School

The College of Law is dedicated to educating future leaders in law through rigorous academic studies, practical training, and a profound respect for justice. It values integrity, critical thinking, and public service. The school fosters a collaborative and inclusive community where students are encouraged to become thoughtful advocates, problem solvers, and change makers who will shape the legal landscape both locally and globally.

Notable Alumni And Their Contributions

The University of Illinois College of Law has had many notable students who have become famous for their outstanding work in law. People like Sandra Day O’Connor, who worked hard for women’s rights, and Stephen Breyer, a renowned law writer, went to this school. Their work has changed the world of law. But not all students became judges or lawyers. For example, Patricia Roberts Harris was the first African American woman in a big government job for housing.

Besides, Bruce Sundquist became a famous writer who won big awards. This shows that learning law at Illinois can lead to many different and exciting jobs.

Location And Campus Life

Nestled in the heart of Champaign-Urbana, the University of Illinois College of Law offers a dynamic blend of academic rigor and vibrant campus living. Students enjoy a supportive, engaging environment enriched by culture, diversity, and opportunity.

Address And Contact Information

The University of Illinois College of Law is in a town called Urbana-Champaign, in the state of Illinois.

The College of Law is located at:
504 East Pennsylvania Avenue, Champaign, IL 61820
Phone: (217) 333-0931
Website: law.illinois.edu
Situated within a major research university, it provides access to world-class facilities, transportation, and professional networking in a welcoming Midwestern community.

Description Of The Campus Environment

The campus features lush green spaces, historic buildings, and cutting-edge facilities designed for collaborative learning. Students can unwind in Memorial Grove, catch performances at Krannert Center, or explore art at nearby museums.

The law school is centrally located near libraries, dining, and recreational hubs, fostering both focused study and vibrant social life. With year-round events and diverse peers, campus life is engaging and enriching.

Facilities And Resources Available To Students

Students benefit from state-of-the-art classrooms, collaborative study lounges, and a fully equipped moot courtroom. The Albert E. Jenner, Jr. Memorial Law Library offers extensive legal databases and research support.

Additional resources include computer labs, printing services, and high-speed Wi-Fi. Career Services, student lounges, and numerous student organization offices enhance both academic and extracurricular engagement across the law school community.

Academic Programs And Specializations

The University of Illinois College of Law offers a dynamic range of programs, including the J.D., LL.M., and S.J.D. degrees. Students can pursue specializations in business, environmental, international, and intellectual property law.

Overview Of The J.D. Program

The J.D. program is a full-time, three-year curriculum designed to develop core legal skills in analysis, writing, research, and advocacy. First-year students focus on foundational courses, while upper-level students customize their education through electives, clinics, and externships. Specialized tracks and interdisciplinary opportunities prepare graduates for diverse careers in law, policy, business, and public service.

Notable Faculty And Their Expertise

The University of Illinois College of Law has a faculty of renowned scholars and practitioners. Some of the College’s most notable faculty members include:

• Professor Cass Sunstein is a constitutional, administrative, and environmental law expert. He holds the Robert Walton Goetz Professor of Law position.
• Professor Richard Epstein is the James Parker Hall Professor of Law. He is a leading expert in contracts, property law, and legal theory.
• Professor M. Todd Henderson is the John and Mary Pappajohn Professor of Law. He is a leading expert in business, corporate, and securities law.
• Professor Rebecca Brown is an expert in international, human rights, and immigration law. She holds the William H. Neukom Professorship of Law.
• Professor Christopher Buccafusco is the Louis A. Fuselier Professor of Law. He is a leading intellectual property, copyright, and patent law expert.

Unique Specializations And Interdisciplinary Opportunities

The College of Law at the University of Illinois provides various specializations and interdisciplinary opportunities. Some of the College’s most popular specializations include:

Business Law

The College of Law’s Business Law program is one of the top programs in the country. Students in the program can take corporate law, securities law, mergers and acquisitions, and tax law courses.

Environmental Law

It has one of the country’s oldest and most respected programs. Students in the program have the option to take different courses. The courses include environmental law, natural resources law, and energy law.

Intellectual Property Law

The College of Law’s Intellectual Property Law program is one of the top programs in the country. Students in the program have the opportunity to study various subjects. These subjects include patents, copyrights, trademarks, and unfair competition.

Rankings And Accolades

The University of Illinois College of Law consistently ranks among the top 50 law schools nationally, recognized for its rigorous academics, impactful public interest placements, and strong employment outcomes.

Recent Rankings And Recognition

In the 2025 U.S. News & World Report, Illinois Law is tied for #48 among nearly 200 ABA‑accredited law schools. Notable shifts in the rankings methodology emphasize bar passage and employment outcomes.

Additional highlights include:

• Tied at #27 (101–125) in Times Higher Education’s 2025 global subject rankings for Law & Legal Studies.
• Ranked among top public universities in Money.com’s 2025 “Best Public Colleges”—ranking #—for value and return on investment.
• Frequently recognized in national lists for leadership in public interest law placements.

Notable Achievements And Contributions To Legal Education

• Leader in public interest law: Consistently ranked among the top 10 law schools for public interest law placement.
• Home to several renowned legal clinics. These clinics provide students with practical experience in different areas of law.
• Pioneering legal technology and innovation programs: Offering cutting-edge courses and clinics. These are in areas like cybersecurity and artificial intelligence.

Alumni have made meaningful contributions to the legal profession and society. This includes U.S. Supreme Court Justices, federal judges, CEOs, and academics.

How The University Of Illinois College Of Law Stands Out Nationally

• Academic excellence: The curriculum is rigorous. It is taught by distinguished faculty. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, writing, and research skills.
• Public interest focus: Commitment to preparing students for careers serving the public good.
• Practical experience: The school offers opportunities for students to gain hands-on legal experience. They provide clinics, externships, and pro bono work.
• Interdisciplinary opportunities: The University of Illinois allows students to pursue joint degrees and tailor their education to their interests.
• Affordable tuition: The university offers a high-quality legal education at a cheaper price.

Admission Process And Acceptance Rate

Illinois Law’s JD admissions follow a rolling, holistic review process, emphasizing both academic credentials and personal qualities. For the 2024–25 cycle, the school admitted approximately 46.8% of applicants, reflecting a selective yet accessible entry process.

Application Requirements

The following are the application requirements for admission to the University of Illinois College of Law –

• LSAT score: The University of Illinois College of Law considers the LSAT score to be a very important factor in the admissions process.
• Undergraduate GPA: The College of Law considers the undergraduate GPA important for admissions. The median GPA for admitted students entering the 2023 class was 3.71.
• Personal statement: This statement allows you to introduce yourself to the admissions committee. You can also explain your desire to attend law school. Write an essay that highlights your strengths and qualifications. Ensure it is concise and well-organized.
• Letters of recommendation: Letters of recommendation should come from individuals familiar with you and can attest to your academic skills.
• Transcripts: Please send official transcripts from all your schools.
• Resume (optional): Include a resume highlighting your work experience in your application.
• Writing sample (optional): You must include a writing sample in your application to demonstrate your writing skills.

Overview Of The Admission Process

The University of Illinois College of Law has a rolling application process. Applications are reviewed as they are received. However, the strongest applications are submitted early in the application cycle. The admissions committee considers different factors when making admissions decisions. LSAT score, GPA, personal statement, letters of recommendation, and application materials are included.

An admissions committee member or a current law student will conduct the interview when invited to do so. The interview is your chance to learn about the College of Law. You can also answer questions about your application.

Historical Acceptance Rate And Selectivity

The University of Illinois College of Law is a moderately selective law school. The acceptance rate for the 2023 entering class was 42.53%. Please note that the acceptance rate varies from year to year. Please go to the website for the University of Illinois College of Law admissions. It has the most recent data.

Student Life And Extracurricular Activities

Illinois Law offers a vibrant, supportive student experience with over 30 law-specific organizations and access to thousands of university-wide groups. Students thrive in a community rich with leadership, service, professional networking, and social collaboration.

Overview Of Student Organizations And Clubs

With over 30 student organizations and clubs, there’s something for everyone at the College of Law. When you have a specific interest in law, there’s a group for you. You can also connect with students who have similar backgrounds. And when you just want to relax and have fun, there’s a group for that, too.

Here are just a few examples of the many student organizations at the College of Law:

• American Constitution Society (ACS): Promotes discussion and debate on legal and political issues.
• Asian Pacific American Law Students Association (ALSA): Supports and empowers Asian Pacific American law students.
• Black Law Students Association (BLSA): A supportive community for Black law students, advocating for racial justice.
• Business Law Society (BLS): Provides opportunities for students interested in business law careers.
• Environmental Law Society (ELS): Educates students about environmental law and promotes environmental sustainability.
• International Law Society (ILS): Explores international law issues and promotes student engagement with the global legal community.
• Moot Court: Provides students with the opportunity to compete in simulated legal arguments.
• Student Bar Association (SBA): Represents the student body’s interests and sponsors various social and academic events.
• Women’s Law Caucus (WLC): Advocates for women in the legal profession and promotes gender equality.

Opportunities For Networking And Professional Development

The College of Law offers many chances to connect with lawyers and improve skills. Students can network and grow professionally. These include:

• Career Services offers individual counseling. They also provide resume and cover letter reviews. Additionally, they offer job search assistance and networking events.
• Students can gain hands-on legal experience through externships. Externships involve working in law firms, government agencies, and public interest organizations.
• This college of Law offers multiple clinics. These clinics allow students to work on real-world cases. Students are supervised by experienced faculty.
• The College of Law invites judges, lawyers, and academics to speak. They discuss current legal issues and career paths.
• Students can connect with alumni and legal professionals for guidance and support.

Cultural And Social Events On Campus

The College of Law is dedicated to creating an inclusive community. This community welcomes all students. The College hosts a variety of cultural and social events. These events happen throughout the year.

• Barbecues and picnics
• Movie nights and game nights
• Holiday parties and celebrations
• Cultural heritage events
• Speaker series on diversity and inclusion
• Sports tournaments and intramural leagues

Career Services And Alumni Network

Illinois Law’s Office of Career Planning and Professional Development, staffed entirely by practicing attorneys, delivers tailored advising, employer outreach, and strategic support. The alumni network comprises over 11,000 graduates, who actively mentor, refer job opportunities and host networking events.

Overview Of Career Services Offered

The law school offers personalized guidance for career exploration. Also, assist with resume and cover letter writing. Additionally, we provide job search strategies and interview preparation support. Access a comprehensive online job database for job search resources. Attend employer information sessions and alumni career panels.

Connect with legal professionals in various practice areas. Gain hands-on experience through externships and internships. Attend workshops on networking skills, negotiation strategies, and professional branding. Hone your interview skills with experienced legal professionals through mock interviews.

Success Stories Of Alumni

The College of Law has a distinguished alumni network. The network includes accomplished legal professionals, judges, and entrepreneurs. Here are a few inspiring examples:

• Hon. David Bunning (JD ’73): United States Circuit Judge for the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals
• David M. McConnell (JD ’78): Chairman and CEO of Worthington Industries
• Lisa Fairfax (JD ’92): General Counsel and Corporate Secretary of Verizon Communications
• Hon. Paul L. Friedman (JD ’73): Senior Judge for the United States District Court for the District of Columbia
• Michelle D. Anderson (JD ’05): He is the Executive Vice President of Walgreens Boots Alliance. He also serves as the company’s general counsel and secretary.

Impact Of The Alumni Network On Students’ Professional Development

The College’s alumni network is an invaluable resource for students seeking:

Connect with alumni mentors who can guide your career path. They offer valuable insights and professional support. Access exclusive job postings and receive referrals from alumni. They work in various legal fields, offering job opportunities.

You can take advantage of networking opportunities by attending alumni events. Connecting with alumni on LinkedIn is another way to build lasting relationships. These relationships can open doors for you throughout your career. Gain valuable perspectives on current legal trends. Gain insights on emerging practice areas. Gain insights into the ever-evolving legal landscape.

Diversity And Inclusion Initiatives

Illinois Law champions diversity through evidence-based admissions, mentorship programs, scholarship opportunities, and campus training initiatives. The college prioritizes inclusive excellence by developing equitable student support systems and fostering a respectful, inclusive environment that welcomes all identities and perspectives.

Overview Of Diversity Programs And Initiatives

The Diversity Admissions Program promotes access to legal education. It provides holistic admissions reviews, considering applicants’ strengths beyond traditional metrics. This program seeks to include underrepresented groups.

The Diversity Scholarship Program provides financial aid to diverse students. It aims to make a world-class legal education more accessible. Mentorship Programs connect diverse students with faculty and alumni mentors. These mentors offer guidance, support, and valuable career insights.

Student Organizations support a variety of student groups. These groups focus on diverse identities and legal perspectives. They foster a sense of community and belonging. The inclusive curriculum integrates different perspectives and experiences. It improves understanding of the law by providing comprehensive course materials.

Speaker Series and Events hosts lectures and workshops. They feature diverse legal professionals. Their goal is to spark dialogue and raise awareness about critical issues. Encourages students to engage in public service and pro bono work. Promotes access to justice for underserved communities.

Student Demographics And Inclusivity Efforts

The College of Law is committed to fostering a diverse student body that reflects the wider legal community. Here are some key statistics:

• 29% of students in the J.D. program identify as belonging to a racial or ethnic minority group.
• 51% of students are women.
• 10% of students are first-generation college students.
• The College actively creates an inclusive environment for all students.
• The inclusive environment is for students of all backgrounds. Initiatives include:
• Safe Zone training helps faculty and staff create a welcoming environment. It also encourages support for LGBTQ+ students.
• Disability Services provides resources to help students with disabilities. They also offer accommodations to ensure their full participation.
• The Interfaith Center offers a space for students to reflect on and practice their spirituality. It welcomes students from all faiths and backgrounds.
• The Bias Response Team addresses incidents of bias and discrimination. Their goal is to ensure a safe and respectful learning environment.

Support Systems For Underrepresented Groups

The College of Law acknowledges the unique challenges faced by underrepresented groups. It provides dedicated support systems to address these challenges.

• The Student Bar Association Diversity Committee advocates for diverse students. They also organize social and academic events.
• The Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion offers resources, guidance, and support. Its goal is to ensure all students feel welcome and thrive.
• The MLSA supports students of color by creating a supportive community. It also promotes diversity in the legal profession.
• The Women’s Law Caucus (WLC) advocates for women in the legal profession. The WLC also provides support for female students.

Future Developments And Initiatives

Illinois Law is advancing its experiential learning and judicial engagement through new initiatives designed to strengthen leadership, clerkship preparation, and public-sector readiness for students within a modern legal ecosystem.

Upcoming Projects Or Expansions

New Legal Innovation and Technology Clinic: Planned to open in 2024. The clinic will give students hands-on experience. They will learn about emerging legal technologies, including artificial intelligence and blockchain. The College will develop new joint degrees with other departments. It also plans to create partnerships with them. This includes business, engineering, and public health.

The Law Library, a historic building, will undergo a major renovation. This will create a modern, welcoming space for research, collaboration, and student support. The College is expanding its public interest initiatives and clinics. This will offer more opportunities for students to make a difference.

Anticipated Changes In Curriculum Or Programs

They focus on practical skills. They prepare students for legal practice in the 21st century. The College will stay at the forefront of the legal landscape. It will integrate new and emerging legal issues as they arise.

Greater Flexibility and Customization: Recognizing its students’ diverse needs and interests. The College provides additional course choices that are adaptable. Students can tailor their educational path to align with their career goals.

Vision For The Future Of The University Of Illinois College Of Law

The University of Illinois College of Law aspires to be:

• A leader in legal education continuously innovates and adapts. They prepare students for a successful and impactful legal career. This is in a rapidly changing world.
• Expanding its public interest efforts and outreach to underserved communities.
• Making legal services more accessible for everyone.
• A global legal hub attracts top students and faculty worldwide. It engages in cutting-edge research and dialogue on global issues.

Frequently Asked Questions About The University of Illinois College of Law

1. What Is The Ranking Of University Of Illinois College Of Law?

The University of Illinois College of Law is currently ranked tied for 48th nationally in the 2025 U.S. News & World Report law school rankings, following a 12‑spot drop from 2024. Its placement reflects emphasis on bar passage, employment outcomes, and academic reputation.

2. What Is The GPA For The University Of Illinois Law?

The median undergraduate GPA for the entering Juris Doctor class at the University of Illinois College of Law (fall 2024) is 3.77, with the 25th percentile at 3.47 and the 75th percentile at 3.88, reflecting strong academic credentials among admitted students.

3. How Hard Is It To Get Into University Of Illinois Law School?

Gaining admission to the University of Illinois College of Law is moderately competitive: of 1,509 applicants for the 2024–25 cycle, about 46.8% received offers. While acceptance is slightly easier than average, strong LSAT (median 165) and GPA (median 3.77) profiles are expected, making the process selective.

Conclusion

The University of Illinois College of Law is an excellent institution for learning about the law. The law school is among the best law schools in Illinois. The University of Illinois College of Law stands as a distinguished institution offering a rigorous legal education grounded in excellence, innovation, and inclusivity. With nationally ranked programs, esteemed faculty, and robust career services, it equips students with the skills and values to thrive in diverse legal careers. Whether aspiring to practice in the public or private sector, students benefit from a supportive community, hands-on experiences, and a powerful alumni network. For those seeking a transformative legal education rooted in impact and opportunity, Illinois Law provides an exceptional path forward.