ABA Accredited Law Schools in Idaho

University of Idaho College of Law

The University of Idaho College of Law, located in Moscow, Idaho, is the state’s only ABA-accredited law school. It is known for its commitment to providing a high-quality legal education that emphasizes practical skills, public service, and a deep understanding of the legal issues pertinent to the state and the broader region.

School History

The University of Idaho College of Law was established in 1909, making it one of the oldest law schools in the western United States. The school was founded with the mission to provide comprehensive legal education and to produce graduates who would serve the legal needs of Idaho and beyond. Over the years, the college has expanded its programs and facilities, including the addition of a second location in Boise in 2010 to increase access to legal education in the state’s capital. The College of Law has a rich history of public service, with many of its alumni serving in prominent positions in government, judiciary, and private practice.

Degrees Offered (including Joint Degrees)

The University of Idaho College of Law offers a Juris Doctor (JD) degree and several joint degree programs in collaboration with other university departments. These joint degrees include JD/MBA (Master of Business Administration), JD/MS (Master of Science in Environmental Science), and JD/MPA (Master of Public Administration). Additionally, the school offers an LL.M. (Master of Laws) in Native American Law for advanced legal studies. These programs are designed to provide students with interdisciplinary skills that are valuable in today’s complex legal landscape.

Tuition and Fees

For the 2023-2024 academic year, tuition for in-state JD students at the University of Idaho College of Law is approximately $22,760 per year, while out-of-state students pay around $42,000 per year. Additional fees, including health insurance, student activity fees, and technology fees, total about $2,500 annually. The school offers various financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans, to help students manage these expenses.

Scholarships

The University of Idaho College of Law provides a variety of scholarships to assist students financially. These include merit-based scholarships, need-based scholarships, and specialized scholarships for students pursuing careers in public interest law or who demonstrate significant academic achievements. Additionally, the school participates in federal and state financial aid programs, providing comprehensive support for students with demonstrated financial need.

Acceptance Rate

The acceptance rate at the University of Idaho College of Law is approximately 60%, reflecting its moderately 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 Idaho College of Law is around 153. This score reflects the competitive nature of the admissions process and the school’s rigorous academic standards.

Admissions Requirements

Admissions requirements for the University of Idaho 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 diversity and seeks applicants with varied backgrounds and experiences who have demonstrated a commitment to public service.

Famous Alumni

1. Dirk Kempthorne – Former Governor of Idaho and U.S. Secretary of the Interior.
2. Jim Risch – U.S. Senator from Idaho and former Governor of Idaho.
3. David Leroy – Former Attorney General and Lieutenant Governor of Idaho.
4. Linda Copple Trout – First female Chief Justice of the Idaho Supreme Court.
5. Ryan Nelson – Judge of the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit.

Top Companies or Organizations that Hire the Most Graduates in Recent Years

1. Idaho State Judiciary – Major employer of graduates pursuing careers in public service and judicial clerkships.
2. Hawley Troxell Ennis & Hawley LLP – Leading law firm in Idaho known for hiring many graduates.
3. Givens Pursley LLP – Another top law firm that employs many University of Idaho graduates.
4. Idaho Attorney General’s Office – Significant hiring for various legal positions within the state government.
5. Boise Cascade Company – Major corporation with corporate legal positions for graduates.

Averaged Starting Salaries

Graduates from the University of Idaho College of Law can expect competitive starting salaries. Those entering private practice often start with salaries around $70,000 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 $75,000 annually.