ABA Accredited Law Schools in Arizona
Arizona State University Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law
Arizona State University (ASU) Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law, located in Phoenix, is renowned for its innovative curriculum and commitment to practical training. Named after the first female Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court, the college offers a diverse range of programs and opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience in the legal field.
School History
The Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law was established in 1967. It was named in honor of Justice Sandra Day O’Connor in 2006, recognizing her trailblazing contributions to the judiciary and her roots in Arizona. The school has consistently focused on integrating practical skills with academic excellence, preparing students to excel in various legal careers. It has grown significantly over the years, both in terms of student enrollment and the breadth of its programs.
Degrees Offered (including Joint Degrees)
ASU’s Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law offers a Juris Doctor (JD) degree and several joint degrees. These include JD/MBA (Master of Business Administration), JD/MPP (Master of Public Policy), JD/MRED (Master of Real Estate Development), and JD/MD (Doctor of Medicine). The college also offers an LL.M. (Master of Laws) and an SJD (Doctor of Juridical Science) for advanced legal studies. These programs are designed to provide a comprehensive and interdisciplinary legal education.
Tuition and Fees
For the 2023-2024 academic year, the tuition for in-state JD students at ASU is approximately $28,000 per year, while out-of-state students pay around $47,000 per year. Additional fees, including technology fees, student activity fees, and health insurance, total about $3,000 annually. Financial aid and payment plans are available to assist students in managing their educational expenses.
Scholarships
ASU Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law offers a variety of scholarships to help offset the cost of tuition. These include merit-based scholarships, need-based scholarships, and specialized scholarships for students pursuing careers in public interest law. Additionally, the college provides scholarships for students with exceptional academic records or those who demonstrate significant leadership and community service.
Acceptance Rate
The acceptance rate at ASU Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law is approximately 35%, reflecting its selective admissions process. The school seeks to admit students who exhibit strong academic potential, leadership qualities, and a commitment to contributing positively to the legal profession and society.
Average LSAT Score
The average LSAT score for admitted students at ASU Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law is around 163. This score reflects the competitive nature of the admissions process and the high academic standards maintained by the school.
Admissions Requirements
Admissions requirements for ASU Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law include a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, a competitive LSAT score, a strong GPA, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a resume. The school values applicants with diverse backgrounds and experiences and those who have demonstrated a commitment to public service.
Famous Alumni
- Kate Gallego – Mayor of Phoenix, recognized for her contributions to local government and urban development.
- Michael Bailey – U.S. Attorney for the District of Arizona, known for his work in the federal legal system.
- Susan Segal – Chief Judge of the Arizona Court of Appeals, Division One.
- Diane Humetewa – U.S. District Judge for the District of Arizona and the first Native American woman to serve as a federal judge.
- Andrew Thomas – Former Maricopa County Attorney known for his role in local law enforcement and legal affairs.
Top Companies or Organizations that Hire the Most Graduates in Recent Years
- Snell & Wilmer LLP – A prominent law firm offering various legal services.
- Perkins Coie LLP – A major law firm known for hiring many ASU graduates.
- Maricopa County Attorney’s Office – A significant employer for graduates pursuing careers in public service and prosecution.
- Lewis Roca Rothgerber Christie LLP – A leading law firm in the region.
- Arizona Supreme Court – Many graduates clerk or work directly within the state’s highest court.
Averaged Starting Salaries
Graduates from ASU Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law can expect varying starting salaries depending on their career path. Those entering private practice often start with salaries around $90,000 per year. Public service and government roles typically offer starting salaries of approximately $60,000 per year, while corporate positions can provide starting salaries averaging around $95,000 annually.
University of Arizona James E. Rogers College of Law
The University of Arizona James E. Rogers College of Law, located in Tucson, is known for its strong emphasis on interdisciplinary studies and innovative programs. It offers a dynamic curriculum designed to prepare students for a wide range of legal careers, supported by a distinguished faculty and extensive resources.
School History
Founded in 1915, the James E. Rogers College of Law is the oldest law school in Arizona. Over the past century, it has built a reputation for academic excellence and innovation in legal education. The school was named after James E. Rogers, a notable philanthropist, in recognition of his significant contributions to the university. The college has a strong tradition of public service and has produced numerous influential legal professionals.
Degrees Offered (including Joint Degrees)
The University of Arizona James E. Rogers College of Law offers a Juris Doctor (JD) degree and several joint degrees. These include JD/MBA (Master of Business Administration), JD/MPA (Master of Public Administration), and JD/PhD programs in various disciplines. The college also offers LL.M. (Master of Laws) and SJD (Doctor of Juridical Science) degrees for advanced legal studies. These programs are designed to provide a comprehensive and interdisciplinary education.
Tuition and Fees
For the 2023-2024 academic year, tuition for in-state JD students at the University of Arizona is approximately $24,500 per year, while out-of-state students pay around $32,000 per year. Additional fees, including technology fees, student activity fees, and health insurance, total about $2,800 annually. The school offers various financial aid options to help students manage these costs.
Scholarships
The University of Arizona James E. Rogers College of Law offers a range of scholarships to assist students financially. These include merit-based scholarships, need-based scholarships, and specialized scholarships for students pursuing public interest law careers. Additionally, the college provides scholarships for students with outstanding academic records or those who demonstrate significant leadership and community service.
Acceptance Rate
The acceptance rate at the University of Arizona James E. Rogers College of Law is approximately 40%, reflecting its selective admissions process. The school seeks to admit students who demonstrate strong academic potential, leadership qualities, and a commitment to contributing positively to the legal profession and society.
Average LSAT Score
The average LSAT score for admitted students at the University of Arizona James E. Rogers College of Law is around 160. This score indicates the competitive nature of the admissions process and the high academic standards maintained by the school.
Admissions Requirements
Admissions requirements for the University of Arizona James E. Rogers College of Law include a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, a competitive LSAT score, a strong GPA, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a resume. The school values applicants with diverse backgrounds and experiences, and those who have demonstrated a commitment to public service.
Famous Alumni
- Raúl Héctor Castro – Former Governor of Arizona and U.S. Ambassador, known for his contributions to public service and diplomacy.
- Frank D. Celebrezze Jr. – Former Chief Justice of the Ohio Supreme Court.
- Tom Chandler – Founding partner of the law firm Chandler, Tullar, Udall & Redhair, LLP.
- Ann Day – Former Arizona State Senator with a significant impact on state legislation.
- Mary Anne Richey – U.S. District Judge for the District of Arizona, known for her judicial contributions.
Top Companies or Organizations that Hire the Most Graduates in Recent Years
- Quarles & Brady LLP – A prominent law firm that hires many graduates.
- Pima County Attorney’s Office – A significant employer for those pursuing careers in public service and prosecution.
- Arizona Public Service (APS) – The largest electric utility in Arizona, offering various legal positions.
- Fennemore Craig, P.C. – A leading law firm in the region.
- University of Arizona – Many graduates find employment within the university’s legal and administrative departments.
Averaged Starting Salaries
Graduates from the University of Arizona James E. Rogers College of Law can expect varying starting salaries depending on their career path. Those entering private practice often start with salaries around $85,000 per year. Public service and government roles typically offer starting salaries of approximately $55,000 per year, while corporate positions can provide starting salaries averaging around $90,000 annually.