ABA Accredited Law Schools in North Carolina
Duke University School of Law
Duke University School of Law, located in Durham, North Carolina, is one of the top law schools in the country. Known for its rigorous academic programs, influential faculty, and strong emphasis on interdisciplinary studies, Duke Law offers a comprehensive legal education that prepares students for leadership roles in various legal fields.
School History
Founded in 1930, Duke University School of Law has quickly established itself as a leading institution in legal education. The school is part of Duke University, a prestigious private research university. Over the years, Duke Law has developed a reputation for academic excellence, producing numerous distinguished alumni who have made significant contributions to law, government, and business. The school’s history is marked by a commitment to innovation, public service, and global engagement.
Degrees Offered (including Joint Degrees)
Duke Law offers a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, as well as several joint degree programs. These include JD/MBA (Master of Business Administration), JD/MPP (Master of Public Policy), and JD/MEM (Master of Environmental Management). The school also offers advanced degrees such as LL.M. (Master of Laws) for international students and a Doctor of Juridical Science (SJD). These programs are designed to provide a comprehensive and interdisciplinary legal education.
Tuition and Fees
For the 2023-2024 academic year, tuition at Duke Law is approximately $68,400 per year. Additional fees, including health insurance, student activity fees, and technology fees, total about $2,800 annually. Financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans, are available to help students manage these expenses.
Scholarships
Duke 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. Scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership potential, and financial need.
Acceptance Rate
The acceptance rate at Duke Law is approximately 20%, reflecting its highly selective admissions process. The school seeks to admit students who demonstrate exceptional 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 Duke Law is around 169. This high score reflects the competitive nature of the admissions process and the school’s rigorous academic standards.
Admissions Requirements
Admissions requirements for Duke 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 and leadership.
Famous Alumni
- Richard Nixon – 37th President of the United States.
- Charlie Rose – Journalist and television host.
- Elizabeth Dole – Former U.S. Senator and Secretary of Transportation.
- Kenneth Starr – Former U.S. Solicitor General and independent counsel.
- Christopher Schroeder – Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Legal Policy.
Top Companies or Organizations that Hire the Most Graduates in Recent Years
- Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP – A major law firm known for hiring many Duke Law graduates.
- Covington & Burling LLP – Another leading law firm with significant hiring from Duke.
- Kirkland & Ellis LLP – Prestigious law firm known for hiring graduates.
- U.S. Department of Justice – A major employer for graduates pursuing public service careers.
- Duke Energy – Corporate legal positions within this major energy company.
Averaged Starting Salaries
Graduates from Duke Law can expect high starting salaries. Those entering private practice often start with salaries around $190,000 per year. Public service and government roles typically offer starting salaries of approximately $70,000 per year, while corporate positions can provide starting salaries averaging around $160,000 annually.
University of North Carolina School of Law
The University of North Carolina School of Law, located in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, is known for its strong academic programs, commitment to public service, and vibrant community. UNC Law offers a comprehensive legal education that prepares students for successful careers in various legal fields.
School History
Founded in 1845, the University of North Carolina School of Law is one of the oldest law schools in the United States. It is part of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, the nation’s first public university. Over the years, UNC Law has built a reputation for academic excellence, producing numerous distinguished alumni who have made significant contributions to law, government, and business. The school’s history is marked by a commitment to public service, social justice, and diversity.
Degrees Offered (including Joint Degrees)
UNC Law offers a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, as well as several joint degree programs. These include JD/MBA (Master of Business Administration), JD/MPH (Master of Public Health), and JD/MA in Political Science. The school also offers an LL.M. (Master of Laws) in Human Rights and Social Justice. These programs are designed to provide a comprehensive and interdisciplinary legal education.
Tuition and Fees
For the 2023-2024 academic year, tuition for in-state JD students at UNC Law is approximately $24,320 per year, while out-of-state students pay around $41,520 per year. Additional fees, including health insurance, student activity fees, and technology fees, total about $2,500 annually. Financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans, are available to help students manage these expenses.
Scholarships
UNC 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. Scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership potential, and financial need.
Acceptance Rate
The acceptance rate at UNC Law is approximately 35%, 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 UNC Law is around 161. This score reflects the competitive nature of the admissions process and the school’s rigorous academic standards.
Admissions Requirements
Admissions requirements for UNC 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 and leadership.
Famous Alumni
- James B. Hunt Jr. – Former Governor of North Carolina.
- John Edwards – Former U.S. Senator and Vice Presidential candidate.
- Mike Easley – Former Governor of North Carolina.
- Julius Chambers – Civil rights attorney and former Chancellor of North Carolina Central University.
- Roy Cooper – Current Governor of North Carolina.
Top Companies or Organizations that Hire the Most Graduates in Recent Years
- Womble Bond Dickinson LLP – A major law firm known for hiring many UNC Law graduates.
- Brooks, Pierce, McLendon, Humphrey & Leonard LLP – Another leading law firm with significant hiring from UNC.
- North Carolina Supreme Court – A major employer for graduates pursuing judicial clerkships.
- North Carolina Attorney General’s Office – Significant public service employer for graduates.
- Bank of America – Corporate legal positions within this major financial institution.
Averaged Starting Salaries
Graduates from UNC Law can expect competitive starting salaries. Those entering private practice often start with salaries around $85,000 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 $90,000 annually.
Wake Forest University School of Law
Wake Forest University School of Law, located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, is known for its personalized education, commitment to public service, and strong emphasis on professional development. The school offers a comprehensive legal education that prepares students for successful careers in various legal fields.
School History
Founded in 1894, Wake Forest University School of Law has a long-standing tradition of academic excellence and a commitment to ethical practice. The law school is part of Wake Forest University, a private university known for its rigorous academic programs and vibrant community. Over the years, Wake Forest Law has produced numerous distinguished alumni who have made significant contributions to law, government, and business. The school’s history is marked by a commitment to producing well-rounded, ethical, and professional lawyers.
Degrees Offered (including Joint Degrees)
Wake Forest Law offers a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, as well as several joint degree programs. These include JD/MBA (Master of Business Administration), JD/MDiv (Master of Divinity), and JD/MA in Bioethics. The school also offers an LL.M. (Master of Laws) for international students and a Doctor of Juridical Science (SJD). These programs are designed to provide a comprehensive and interdisciplinary legal education.
Tuition and Fees
For the 2023-2024 academic year, tuition at Wake Forest Law is approximately $49,276 per year. Additional fees, including health insurance, student activity fees, and technology fees, total about $2,500 annually. Financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans, are available to help students manage these expenses.
Scholarships
Wake Forest 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. Scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership potential, and financial need.
Acceptance Rate
The acceptance rate at Wake Forest Law is approximately 31%, 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 Wake Forest Law is around 161. This score reflects the competitive nature of the admissions process and the school’s rigorous academic standards.
Admissions Requirements
Admissions requirements for Wake Forest 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 and leadership.
Famous Alumni
- Richard Burr – U.S. Senator from North Carolina.
- Timothy S. Black – U.S. District Judge for the Southern District of Ohio.
- Jane L. Kelly – U.S. Circuit Judge for the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals.
- Mel Watt – Former Director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency and U.S. Representative.
- Suzanne Reynolds – Former Dean of Wake Forest Law and notable legal scholar.
Top Companies or Organizations that Hire the Most Graduates in Recent Years
- Kilpatrick Townsend & Stockton LLP – A major law firm known for hiring many Wake Forest Law graduates.
- Womble Bond Dickinson LLP – Another leading law firm with significant hiring from Wake Forest.
- North Carolina Court of Appeals – A major employer for graduates pursuing judicial clerkships.
- BB&T (now Truist) – Corporate legal positions within this major financial services company.
- North Carolina Department of Justice – Significant public service employer for graduates.
Averaged Starting Salaries
Graduates from Wake Forest Law can expect competitive starting salaries. 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 $85,000 annually.
North Carolina Central University School of Law
North Carolina Central University (NCCU) School of Law, located in Durham, North Carolina, is known for its strong commitment to public service, diversity, and providing affordable legal education. NCCU Law offers a comprehensive legal education that prepares students for successful careers in various legal fields.
School History
Founded in 1939, NCCU School of Law has a rich history of promoting social justice and producing lawyers who are leaders in their communities. The law school is part of North Carolina Central University, a historically black university. Over the years, NCCU Law has built a reputation for academic excellence and a commitment to serving underrepresented communities. The school’s history is marked by a dedication to producing lawyers who are well-prepared to address the legal needs of a diverse society.
Degrees Offered (including Joint Degrees)
NCCU 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 Tax Law. 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 for in-state JD students at NCCU Law is approximately $13,444 per year, while out-of-state students pay around $33,927 per year. Additional fees, including health insurance, student activity fees, and technology fees, total about $2,000 annually. Financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans, are available to help students manage these expenses.
Scholarships
NCCU 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. Scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership potential, and financial need.
Acceptance Rate
The acceptance rate at NCCU Law is approximately 45%, 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 NCCU Law is around 149. This score reflects the competitive nature of the admissions process and the school’s rigorous academic standards.
Admissions Requirements
Admissions requirements for NCCU 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 and leadership.
Famous Alumni
- Michael F. Easley – Former Governor of North Carolina.
- G.K. Butterfield – U.S. Representative from North Carolina.
- Patricia Timmons-Goodson – Former Associate Justice of the North Carolina Supreme Court.
- Floyd McKissick Jr. – Former North Carolina State Senator.
- Henry Frye – Former Chief Justice of the North Carolina Supreme Court.
Top Companies or Organizations that Hire the Most Graduates in Recent Years
- North Carolina Department of Justice – Significant public service employer for graduates.
- North Carolina Public Defender’s Office – A major employer for graduates pursuing public defense careers.
- Durham County District Attorney’s Office – Significant public sector employer for graduates.
- Womble Bond Dickinson LLP – A leading law firm with notable hiring from NCCU Law.
- North Carolina Supreme Court – A major employer for graduates pursuing judicial clerkships.
Averaged Starting Salaries
Graduates from NCCU 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 $60,000 annually.
Elon University School of Law
Elon University School of Law, located in Greensboro, North Carolina, is known for its innovative approach to legal education, emphasizing experiential learning and professional development. Elon Law offers a comprehensive legal education that prepares students for successful careers in various legal fields.
School History
Founded in 2006, Elon University School of Law is a relatively new law school that has quickly established a reputation for innovation and excellence in legal education. The law school is part of Elon University, a private university known for its emphasis on experiential learning and engaged learning environments. Elon Law is distinguished by its accelerated 2.5-year JD program, which integrates classroom instruction with practical experience. The school’s history is marked by a commitment to producing practice-ready lawyers who are equipped to meet the demands of the legal profession.
Degrees Offered (including Joint Degrees)
Elon Law offers a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, including an accelerated 2.5-year program. The school also offers several dual-degree programs, including JD/MBA (Master of Business Administration) in collaboration with Elon University’s Martha and Spencer Love School of Business. 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 Elon Law is approximately $44,100 per year. Additional fees, including health insurance, student activity fees, and technology fees, total about $2,500 annually. Financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans, are available to help students manage these expenses.
Scholarships
Elon 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. Scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership potential, and financial need.
Acceptance Rate
The acceptance rate at Elon Law is approximately 45%, 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 Elon Law is around 150. This score reflects the competitive nature of the admissions process and the school’s rigorous academic standards.
Admissions Requirements
Admissions requirements for Elon 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 and leadership.
Famous Alumni
- P. David Brown – North Carolina Superior Court Judge.
- Allegra Collins – North Carolina Court of Appeals Judge.
- Mark Martin – Former Chief Justice of the North Carolina Supreme Court (faculty member).
- John R. Brown – North Carolina District Court Judge.
- Elizabeth O. Hartsell – Assistant District Attorney in Mecklenburg County.
Top Companies or Organizations that Hire the Most Graduates in Recent Years
- Brooks, Pierce, McLendon, Humphrey & Leonard LLP – A major law firm known for hiring many Elon Law graduates.
- Womble Bond Dickinson LLP – Another leading law firm with significant hiring from Elon.
- North Carolina Department of Justice – Significant public service employer for graduates.
- North Carolina Public Defender’s Office – A major employer for graduates pursuing public defense careers.
- Lincoln Financial Group – Corporate legal positions within this major financial services company.
Averaged Starting Salaries
Graduates from Elon 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 $65,000 annually.