The University Of Illinois Chicago School Of Law: Campus, Admissions, Rankings & More

Unveiling the University of Illinois Chicago School of Law reveals a dynamic institution rooted in public service, academic excellence, and real-world legal training. Located in downtown Chicago, the law school provides students with direct access to courts, law firms, and government agencies. It offers a wide range of JD, LLM, and joint-degree programs, supported by expert faculty and a strong focus on experiential learning through clinics and externships. With a commitment to diversity, innovation, and community engagement, UIC Law prepares students to become skilled, ethical professionals equipped to serve a diverse and evolving legal landscape.

Campus And Location

The University of Illinois Chicago School of Law is located at 300 South State Street, Chicago, Illinois 60604, in the Loop.

Description Of The Campus And Facilities

UIC School of Law operates from a modern facility at 300 South State Street in downtown Chicago. The campus places students steps away from federal and state courts, major law firms, and government institutions. The law building includes a fully equipped mock courtroom, the Collaboration Commons for academic interaction, and the John and Joan Lyons Center for legal innovation. The Louis L. Biro Law Library spans five floors, offering extensive legal resources, group study rooms, and dedicated wireless access.

The Serenity Room supports mental wellness, providing a quiet space for meditation or prayer. The Office of Student Life and Leadership offers programs focused on wellness, leadership, and career development. Campus security includes trained personnel and emergency services to ensure a safe learning environment. Accessible public transportation links the campus to the rest of the city. The main UIC campuses also extend amenities such as student housing, recreation centers, and large event spaces.

Academic Programs

UIC School of Law provides diverse academic pathways through its JD, LLM, and joint degree programs. The Juris Doctor curriculum spans full-time and part-time formats, with concentrations in areas such as Business Law, Criminal Law & Procedure, Intellectual Property, Health Equity, and International Human Rights. The JD integrates experiential learning, requiring clinics or externships. Joint degrees combine legal education with disciplines like public health, administration, urban planning, or policy. The Master of Laws (LLM) program serves attorneys seeking specialization in Employee Benefits, Estate Planning, Real Estate Law, Tax Law, or IT & Privacy. Non-lawyers can pursue the Master of Jurisprudence (MJ) to gain legal insight applicable to professional contexts. Certificate options enhance focus in niche areas such as Disability Legal Studies. These programs allow students to align legal training with specific career objectives. Through academic depth and interdisciplinary options, UIC Law supports a broad range of legal and policy-driven pursuits.

Notable Faculty And Their Areas Of Expertise

UIC School of Law features a distinguished faculty with expertise across critical legal disciplines. Beth E. Richie focuses on gender violence, incarceration, race, and abolition, drawing from her background in sociology and African American studies. Kevin L. Hopkins brings deep knowledge of tort law, legal ethics, and philosophy, enhancing legal education through his leadership roles. Sarah Dávila A. leads the International Human Rights Clinic, guiding students in hands-on advocacy and global justice work.

Allison K. Bethel directs the Fair Housing Legal Clinic, training students in civil rights litigation and housing law. Yolanda M. King specializes in intellectual property, privacy, and technology law, preparing students for the evolving digital landscape. Amy T. Campbell connects legal study with public health, focusing on health equity and interdisciplinary policy work. Donald L. Beschle mentors students in scholarly writing and legal publication. Together, these educators shape the UIC School of Law’s commitment to justice, innovation, and professional readiness.

Admissions

Admissions at UIC School of Law reflect a commitment to academic excellence, accessibility, and diversity, offering a supportive pathway for aspiring legal professionals through holistic evaluation and inclusive initiatives.

Acceptance Rate And Selectivity

In 2025, the UIC School of Law reported an acceptance rate of 64.1%, reflecting a moderately selective admissions process. The law school maintains accessible entry while emphasizing academic readiness and commitment to public service in its applicant evaluation.

Admission Requirements And Application Process

UIC School of Law’s 2025 admission profile reflects a balanced evaluation of academic performance and potential. The median LSAT score for all program entrants stands at 152, with the middle 50% ranging from 149 to 154. Undergraduate GPA scores range from 3.12 to 3.61, with a median GPA of 3.38. These figures indicate a competitive yet accessible admissions standard. Applicants must submit LSAT scores, academic transcripts, personal statements, and letters of recommendation. The application process emphasizes academic readiness, writing ability, and alignment with the school’s mission of public service and justice. Both full-time and part-time JD programs are available.

Embracing Diversity, Fostering Inclusion

• Financial Aid and Scholarships: Generous scholarship programs help talented students from all walks of life. They overcome financial barriers. This way, students can pursue their legal aspirations.
• The SCALES Program: This dedicated initiative provides comprehensive support systems and mentoring programs. They empower students from disadvantaged backgrounds throughout their legal journey.
• Vibrant Student Organizations: A robust network of student organizations represents diverse identities and interests. It fosters a sense of belonging and celebrates the richness of varied perspectives.

Rankings And Recognition

UIC School of Law earns national recognition for its strengths in legal writing, trial advocacy, and part-time programs, reflecting its commitment to academic excellence and practical, skills-based legal education.

Recent Rankings Of UIC Law

UIC Law isn’t just any law school – it’s consistently recognized for its excellence. In 2025, UIC School of Law ranked #169 among Best Law Schools and #39 in Part-Time Law. It earned national recognition in specialty areas, including #27 in Legal Writing, #34 in Trial Advocacy, and #85 in Intellectual Property Law. Other strengths include Dispute Resolution (#86), Health Care Law (#99), and Business/Corporate Law (#113), reflecting a diverse academic portfolio.

Recognition And Awards Received By The Law School

Awards and recognitions are icing on the cake, but at UIC Law, they prove the commitment to excellence and innovation. Here are just a few:

• The John F. Kennedy Center: This is for Public Service, and the Law recognizes their dedication to public interest law. This prestigious center reflects a core value at UIC Law.
• National Security Law Program ranked #14 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report, showing strength in this critical area.
• Top Program for Legal Technology and Design: Their cutting-edge curriculum earns us a consistent spot among the best in the country.

Alumni Achievements And Success Stories

The alumni aren’t just lawyers, judges, CEOs, advocates, and changemakers. Their achievements speak volumes about the caliber of education and support they receive at UIC Law. Here are just a few inspiring examples:

• Judge Jennifer Morel: A graduate of the Part-time JD program, she now serves as a respected Cook County Circuit Court judge.
• Patricia Brown Holmes: A leading expert in intellectual property law, she’s a partner at a top law firm and a tireless advocate for diversity in the legal field.
• Christopher D’Angelo: Using his legal skills and entrepreneurial spirit, he founded a successful legal technology company, transforming the way legal services are delivered.

Campus Life

UIC School of Law offers a dynamic campus life that supports academic, professional, and personal development. The Office of Student Life & Leadership organizes key programs such as student life awards, travel grants, and diversity week, creating a vibrant and inclusive community. Students engage with over 50 organizations representing various legal interests, including criminal, corporate, and international law, fostering collaboration and leadership. First-year students begin their journey through the three-day Vivify orientation, which builds peer relationships and prepares them for academic success.

The Office of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion promotes cultural awareness and supports identity-based initiatives through year-round programming. Wellness and support services include confidential counseling, caregiver resources, Veterans support, and access to a Professional Clothes Closet for career-related needs. These resources combine to create a supportive and engaging environment where students thrive both inside and outside the classroom. UIC Law’s urban location enhances opportunities for civic involvement, networking, and practical experience

Legal Clinics And Experiential Learning

UIC School of Law offers a strong commitment to experiential learning through its legal clinics, externships, and skill-building programs. All JD students must complete required experiential credits, ensuring practical readiness for legal practice. The school houses seven in-house Community Legal Clinics, where students work under faculty supervision to serve real clients. These include the Community Enterprise & Solidarity Economy Clinic, Fair Housing Legal Clinic, International Human Rights Clinic, Veterans Legal Clinic, and specialized USPTO-certified Intellectual Property Patent and Trademark Clinics. Each clinic functions like a legal office, giving students the opportunity to interview clients, draft legal documents, negotiate settlements, and argue in court.

Externships expand learning beyond the classroom with placements at over 50 partner sites, including courts, government agencies, nonprofits, and private firms. These experiences allow students to earn academic credit while working alongside practicing attorneys and judges. UIC Law also hosts Open House events to help students explore and apply for these roles.

The Lawyering Skills Program further reinforces experiential learning, offering four semesters of structured instruction in legal research, writing, client counseling, and trial advocacy. Through a well-rounded approach that blends theory with practice, the UIC School of Law prepares students to serve their communities with competence, ethics, and real-world legal experience.

Career Services

UIC School of Law’s Career Services Office supports students with individualized counseling, job search strategies, networking events, and employer connections, helping them navigate diverse legal career paths with confidence and professionalism.

Career Counseling And Guidance For Law Students

• Charting Course: Dedicated career counselors act as your personal compass. They help you assess your strengths, interests, and goals to chart your ideal legal path.
• Sharpening Tools: The CSO empowers you to present your unique value proposition confidently. It provides personalized resume and cover letter workshops. It also offers interview preparation sessions and mock interviews.
• Demystifying the Maze: Learn about diverse legal career options through interactive workshops. Gain insights into practice areas, career development strategies, and salary negotiation tactics.
• Building Network: The CSO fosters a vibrant community through mentorship programs, networking events, and career fairs. It connects you with experienced legal professionals and potential employers.

Internship And Job Placement Assistance

Your Launchpad to Experience: Access a vast online internship and job opportunities database. The database is tailored to your specific interests and career goals.

• Bringing Employers to You: Use the CSO’s robust On-Campus Interview Program. You can meet potential employers face-to-face at your law school.
• Navigating the Post-Graduate Job Market: The CSO’s support continues beyond graduation. It provides personalized guidance and resources for refining resumes and cover letters. It also offers coaching for interviews and job search strategies.
• Conquering the Bar Exam: Prepare with comprehensive resources for this crucial step. Use personalized study plans and mock exam simulations. The CSO offers them.

Frequently Asked Questions About The University Of Illinois Chicago School Of Law

1. Is The University Of Illinois Chicago Law A Good School?

Yes, the University of Illinois Chicago Law School is a great choice. It’s known for excellent teaching, a wide range of law courses, and strong career support. Students get top-notch legal education and many chances to succeed in their careers.

2. What GPA Do You Need For UIC Law?

To get into the UIC School of Law, aim for a GPA within the range of 3.12 to 3.61, which reflects the 25th to 75th percentile of admitted students. The median undergraduate GPA for all program entrants is 3.38. While a GPA around or above the median strengthens your chances, the admissions committee reviews applications holistically, also considering LSAT scores, personal statements, extracurricular involvement, and letters of recommendation.

3. What LSAT Score Do I Need For UIC Law School?

Aim for an LSAT score of around 155 to 165 to get into UIC Law School. This range is a good target, but remember, they also look at your whole application, like your grades and activities, not just your LSAT score.

4. What Is The Ranking Of The University Of Chicago Law School?

The University of Illinois Chicago School of Law ranks #169 in Best Law Schools and #39 in Part-Time Law for 2025, based on widely accepted indicators of academic excellence.

Wrapping Up

The University of Illinois Chicago School of Law is one of the top law schools in Illinois and a top choice for legal education. This school offers innovative programs that cater to a diverse range of interests in law. Its focus on real-world skills ensures students are ready for their careers. The faculty brings expertise and a commitment to student success. With a vibrant community, students find support and opportunities for growth.

The University of Illinois Chicago School of Law shapes future legal professionals who make a significant impact. It’s a remarkable place to start for anyone aiming to excel in the legal field. Check out their programs and join a community of leaders.