ABA Accredited Law Schools in Mississippi

University of Mississippi School of Law

The University of Mississippi School of Law, located in Oxford, Mississippi, is known for its strong academic programs, emphasis on practical training, and commitment to public service. The school offers a comprehensive legal education that prepares students for successful careers in various legal fields.

School History

Founded in 1854, the University of Mississippi School of Law is one of the oldest public law schools in the United States. The law school has a rich history of academic excellence and a strong commitment to public service. Over the years, it has produced numerous distinguished alumni who have made significant contributions to the legal profession and public service. The school’s location in Oxford provides students with a vibrant intellectual community and numerous opportunities for internships and employment.

Degrees Offered (including Joint Degrees)

The University of Mississippi School of Law offers a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, as well as several joint degree programs. These include JD/MBA (Master of Business Administration) and JD/MPA (Master of Public Administration). The school also offers an LL.M. (Master of Laws) in Air and Space Law. These programs are designed to provide a comprehensive and interdisciplinary legal education that equips students with the skills needed to tackle complex legal and policy issues.

Tuition and Fees

For the 2023-2024 academic year, tuition for in-state JD students is approximately $17,354 per year, while out-of-state students pay around $37,684 per year. Additional fees, including health insurance, student activity fees, and technology fees, total about $1,500 annually. Financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans, are available to help students manage these expenses.

Scholarships

The University of Mississippi School of Law offers a variety 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 school provides fellowships and loan repayment assistance programs for graduates entering public service.

Acceptance Rate

The acceptance rate at the University of Mississippi School of Law is approximately 43%, 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 is around 155. This score reflects the competitive nature of the admissions process and the school’s rigorous academic standards.

Admissions Requirements

Admissions requirements 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 and leadership.

Famous Alumni

1. Trent Lott – Former U.S. Senator and Senate Majority Leader.
2. John Grisham – Bestselling author and former practicing attorney.
3. William Winter – Former Governor of Mississippi.
4. Edwin Pittman – Former Chief Justice of the Mississippi Supreme Court.
5. Michael Watson – Current Mississippi Secretary of State.

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

1. Butler Snow LLP – A major law firm known for hiring many Mississippi Law graduates.
2. Baker Donelson – Another leading law firm with significant hiring from Mississippi.
3. Forman Watkins & Krutz LLP – Prestigious law firm known for hiring graduates.
4. Mississippi Supreme Court – A major employer for graduates pursuing judicial clerkships.
5. State of Mississippi – Various state government agencies are significant employers for graduates pursuing public service careers.

Averaged Starting Salaries

Graduates from the University of Mississippi School 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 $50,000 per year, while corporate positions can provide starting salaries averaging around $60,000 annually.

Mississippi College School of Law

Mississippi College School of Law, located in Jackson, Mississippi, is known for its strong emphasis on practical training, public service, and a supportive learning environment. The school offers a comprehensive legal education that prepares students for successful careers in various legal fields.

School History

Mississippi College School of Law was founded in 1930 as Jackson School of Law and became affiliated with Mississippi College in 1975. Over the years, the law school has built a reputation for its commitment to practical skills training, public service, and academic excellence. Its location in Jackson, the state capital, provides students with numerous opportunities for internships and employment in government and public interest law.

Degrees Offered (including Joint Degrees)

Mississippi College School of Law offers a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, as well as several joint degree programs. These include JD/MBA (Master of Business Administration) and JD/MPA (Master of Public Administration). The school also offers an LL.M. (Master of Laws) in various legal disciplines. These programs are designed to provide a comprehensive and interdisciplinary legal education that equips students with the skills needed to tackle complex legal issues.

Tuition and Fees

For the 2023-2024 academic year, tuition at Mississippi College School of Law is approximately $36,750 per year. Additional fees, including health insurance, student activity fees, and technology fees, total about $1,500 annually. Financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans, are available to help students manage these expenses.

Scholarships

Mississippi College School of Law offers a variety 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 school provides fellowships and loan repayment assistance programs for graduates entering public service.

Acceptance Rate

The acceptance rate at Mississippi College School of Law is approximately 50%, 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 is around 150. This score reflects the competitive nature of the admissions process and the school’s academic standards.

Admissions Requirements

Admissions requirements 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 and leadership.

Famous Alumni

1. Patricia Wise – Judge of the Mississippi Court of Appeals.
2. James Graves – Judge of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit.
3. John Hailman – Former U.S. Attorney and author.
4. David Sanders – Former Mississippi State Senator.
5. Jeff Weill – Circuit Judge for Hinds County, Mississippi.

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

1. Butler Snow LLP – A major law firm known for hiring many Mississippi College Law graduates.
2. Baker Donelson – Another leading law firm with significant hiring from Mississippi College.
3. Forman Watkins & Krutz LLP – Prestigious law firm known for hiring graduates.
4. Mississippi Court of Appeals – A major employer for graduates pursuing judicial clerkships.
5. State of Mississippi – Various state government agencies are significant employers for graduates pursuing public service careers.

Averaged Starting Salaries

Graduates from Mississippi College School of Law can expect competitive starting salaries. Those entering private practice often start with salaries around $65,000 per year. Public service and government roles typically offer starting salaries of approximately $50,000 per year, while corporate positions can provide starting salaries averaging around $55,000 annually.