Widener University Commonwealth Law School – Top Facts

The Widener University Commonwealth Law School, established in 1989, is the only ABA-accredited law school in Pennsylvania’s capital, Harrisburg. Its location offers students exceptional access to state government, courts, and legal organizations, providing practical experience that complements rigorous academic training and a strong commitment to public service.

Throughout its history, the law school has remained dedicated to fostering public interest work and promoting social justice. It supports students through initiatives like the Public Interest Initiative, pro bono service, and experiential learning opportunities that prepare graduates to serve communities and advocate for meaningful change.

The institution’s mission is to prepare a diverse body of students to become responsible, ethical attorneys with a deep understanding of the law’s critical role in society. In this article, we’ll explore Widener University Commonwealth Law School’s ranking, acceptance rate, programs, and much more.

Things To Know About Widener University Commonwealth Law School

Location And Campus

Widener University Commonwealth Law School is situated at 3737 Vartan Way in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. As the only law school in the state capital, it offers students unparalleled access to Pennsylvania’s Capitol Complex, including the legislature, state agencies, and various courts. This strategic location provides unique opportunities for internships, externships, and networking within the governmental and legal sectors.

The 19-acre campus features modern facilities designed to support a comprehensive legal education. Key buildings include the Classroom and Law Library Building, housing classrooms, faculty offices, and the library; the Courtroom Annex, containing moot courtrooms and the Central Pennsylvania Law Clinic; and the Administration Building, which hosts admissions, financial aid, and student affairs offices.

Beyond academics, the campus offers amenities such as the Grab ‘n Go café for dining and recreational facilities, including basketball and tennis courts. Its proximity to downtown Harrisburg provides students with access to cultural attractions, dining, and outdoor activities like the Capital Area Greenbelt Trail and the Susquehanna River, enhancing the overall student experience.

Academic Programs And Curriculum

The law school provides students with the opportunity to pursue a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree through both full-time and part-time programs. Additionally, the law school offers various certificate programs that cover a wide range of specialties, including Environmental Law, Health Law, Law & Government, Business Advising, Trial Advocacy, Criminal Law, Family Law, International & Comparative Law, Intellectual Property Law, and Alternative Dispute Resolution

One of the distinctive features of this prestigious law school’s curriculum is its clinical program, which allows students to represent real clients under the supervision of faculty members. The law school operates four clinics: Administrative Law Clinic; Consumer Law Clinic; Elder Law Clinic; and Family Justice Clinic.

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Admissions And Acceptance Rate

Gaining admission to Widener University Commonwealth Law School is competitive and comprehensive. Applicants must complete a detailed application, which includes submitting LSAT scores, undergraduate transcripts, personal statements, and letters of recommendation that demonstrate their potential.

The current Widener University Commonwealth Law School acceptance rate stands at approximately 66.5%, reflecting its balanced selectivity. For the incoming class, LSAT scores generally range from 147–151, with a median of 148. The GPA range for the 25th–75th percentile is 3.06–3.64, and the median undergraduate GPA is 3.36.

On the other hand, the student community is known for its rich diversity, embracing individuals from a wide array of ethnicities, backgrounds, and age groups. This inclusive atmosphere helps create a dynamic and engaging learning environment.

Rankings And Reputation

Widener University Commonwealth Law School currently ranks No. 175 (tie) out of 195 in Best Law Schools and No. 57 (tie) out of 67 in Part-time Law, according to U.S. News & World Report. The school is also ranked No. 119 (tie) in Dispute Resolution and No. 64 (tie) in Environmental Law.

The law school is well-regarded for its commitment to public interest law, government service, and social justice. It supports this mission through centers like the Law & Government Institute, the Environmental Law and Sustainability Center, and the Business Advising Program, which offer practical experiences, research opportunities, and community engagement for students.

This school of law also publishes two respected scholarly journals: the Widener Commonwealth Law Review, which examines a wide range of legal topics, and the Widener Journal of Law, Economics & Race, which explores the intersections of law, race, and economics, contributing to important conversations in legal scholarship.

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Career Prospects And Alumni

Widener University Commonwealth Law School offers strong career development support through counseling, job search resources, and recruitment events. For the 2025 class, 67.1% of graduates were employed at graduation, and 76.5% secured full-credit outcomes 10 months later. With a graduating class of 85 students, these results reflect the school’s commitment to helping students achieve meaningful legal employment. The law school boasts a proven track record of guiding students toward their professional goals.

Graduates pursue diverse career paths in private law firms, government agencies, public interest organizations, and business sectors. Widener’s strong ties to local and regional legal communities provide students with numerous internships, externships, and clerkship opportunities. The active alumni network of this top-tier law school further enhances employment connections, mentoring, and support for new graduates, strengthening long-term career growth and professional development in the legal field.

Conclusion

Widener University Commonwealth Law School continues to uphold its mission of fostering an inclusive, practical, and service-oriented approach to legal education. Its commitment to public interest and social justice, coupled with its rigorous academic programs, makes it a compelling choice for aspiring lawyers.

Whether through its diverse curriculum, remarkable campus, or dedicated faculty, Widener Commonwealth aims to produce not just law graduates but future leaders equipped with the skills and ethics to shape a more just world.

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