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LSU Law Center
Louisiana State University (LSU) is a highly-regarded institution of higher education that has earned considerable recognition for its excellence in law. In the 2019 edition of U.S. News & World Report’s annual Best Value Law Schools rankings, LSU’s Paul M. Hebert Law Center was ranked an impressive No. 12 among all U.S. law schools.
This marked the fourth time in a row that LSU’s Law Center has been ranked within the top 15 of Best Value Law Schools, and it was also named No. 1 in the state of Louisiana for value by both Top Law Schools and USNWR. In addition, USNWR has given LSU Law consistently high ratings since 2017, placing it among the top 100 law schools in the nation.
Contents
History
Louisiana State University Law Center is known not just for its celebrated bijural legal education but also for having a unique history that goes back over one hundred years. The law school was established in 1906 with only twenty-six full-time students and a solitary professor, Joseph Kelly, who also served as the dean. Classes were initially held in Hill Memorial Library, located at the present site of the state capitol grounds.
By 1925, LSU had moved to its current campus and relocated its law school there. Thomas Boyd Hall served as the new home for the students and faculty of the Law Center until 1937, when Leon Weiss designed a new building for them. This building was designed to replicate the United States Supreme Court style, and once Dean Paul M. Hebert and his students moved in, it became their new home.
Since then, LSU Law Center has continued to provide exemplary legal education to its students through its bijural program. The school believes that educating both legal systems ensures access to national and international markets, making their graduates highly sought after for legal positions. With over a century of history behind it, LSU Law Center will continue to provide top-notch legal education for many years.
Admissions
For those seeking admission, Louisiana State University is an excellent choice for a law school. The school is committed to providing a quality education that sets its graduates up for success in the legal field, and these numbers demonstrate their commitment to excellence. With a yield rate of 38.12%, Louisiana State University is an excellent option for law students. Those looking to attend should keep these admissions figures in mind when applying. Louisiana State University is well worth the effort of applying. If you're unsure about applying to law school or just beginning the application process, please take the time to read some of the excellent pre-law articles found here.
Statistics
| Admissions Stats | ||
| Class of: | 2020-2021 | 2021-2022 |
| 25th - 50th - 75th percentile LSAT | 153 - 155 - 158 | 154 - 156 - 159 |
| 25th - 50th - 75th percentile GPA | 3.1 - 3.45 - 3.71 | 3.28 - 3.56 - 3.78 |
| Acceptance rate | 52.1% | 45.7% |
| Applications received | 1022 | 1325 |
| Acceptances | 533 | 606 |
| Matriculants | 82 | 85 |
Louisiana State University had 1,325 applicants during the 2022 application cycle, with 606 being offered admission. Of that offered admission, 231 accepted their offer and enrolled in the school, meaning the yield rate was 38.12%. LSATs are essential in determining admissions criteria, and the 1L class at Louisiana State University has a median LSAT score of 156. The 25th percentile for the LSAT is 154, and the 75th for the LSAT is 159. GPA also factors into admissions decisions, and the median GPA for this 1L class was 3.56. The 25th percentile GPA was 3.28, and the 75th percentile GPA was 3.78. Louisiana State University is highly competitive, and these statistics demonstrate how rigorous its admissions process is. Those accepted into this university can rest assured knowing other students with similar academic excellence will surround them. With a median LSAT of 156, many of the 1Ls have the potential to perform well in the classroom and after graduation.
Application Requirements
Louisiana State University offers potential students an opportunity to gain admission through a holistic review process. This process considers the traditional undergraduate GPA and LSAT scores and other elements that can play an essential role in the admissions committee's decision-making. For example, applicants should consider providing evidence of their academic performance and achievements, leadership and public service, professional or military service, and cultural or experiential background. These elements can help demonstrate the applicant's aptitude for the study of law and general contribution to the academic and community life of the Law Center. To be considered for Louisiana State University, applicants must have a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university.
Applicants seeking admission to Louisiana State University's Law Center must possess certain traits demonstrating good moral character. These attributes include honesty, trustworthiness, and other qualities that reflect a lawyer's role in society and the legal system. Applicants need to be truthful and forthcoming in their application materials; failing to do so may jeopardize an admission offer or result in disciplinary action by the Law Center or bar disciplinary authorities.
In addition, all applicants must meet specific criteria related to their native language proficiency. All applicants whose native language is not English must submit a TOEFL score of at least 600 on the paper-based test, 250 on the computer-based test, or 100 on the internet-based TOEFL. This standardized test evaluates English language proficiency and is administered around the world. Applicants can obtain more information regarding this exam by writing to TOEFL, Education Testing Service, Princeton, New Jersey, 08541.
Application Checklist
The Louisiana State University's Law Center invites new students to join its ranks every year. To be considered for admission into this esteemed institution, interested applicants must submit all required documents to the Office of Admissions by June 15th. The necessary materials must include an application for admission, an application fee, a personal statement, a resume, their LSAT score, The Credential Assembly Service scores, transcripts, and two letters of recommendation. Submitting these materials ensures that the admissions committee has all the information they need to make an informed decision on your candidacy for admission.
Application Fee and Deadline
People interested in applying to Louisiana State University have a deadline of June 15th. An application form must be filled out and accompanied by a non-refundable fee of 50 dollars. This fee is not refundable under any circumstance, even if the individual decides to withdraw their application or if they are not accepted into the university. For international students, an additional fee of 90 dollars must be paid before the application is processed. In some cases, standardized test scores may also be required for admission. These could include SAT or ACT scores, English language proficiency tests such as TOEFL or IELTS, and other evidence of academic success. Once all the documents and fees have been submitted, applicants will be notified of the admission decision. It’s essential to ensure that all application materials are accurate and complete to ensure a smooth admissions process.
Personal Statement
Every applicant to Louisiana State University must submit a personal statement for consideration. This statement allows the applicant to outline their educational and personal background, discussing their accomplishments, aspirations, and motivations. It is also a chance to delve into why they believe the University of Louisiana is the right place for them to continue to pursue their academic goals. For more information on personal statements and application essays, check out the TLS Guide to Personal Statements.
Resume
Applicants to Louisiana State University must provide a resume or CV to be considered for admission. It should include information such as education history, work experience, and other notable achievements that may help demonstrate the applicant's skill set and preparedness for college-level studies. It is essential to ensure that all relevant data is included, as the admissions committee reviews every resume carefully. The resume should also be neatly formatted and organized, as this can help to make a good impression. In addition, applicants may wish to include references or letters of recommendation if available, as this could give them an extra advantage in the application process. Ultimately, the goal is to present oneself in the best possible manner to the admissions committee so that one has a better chance of being accepted at Louisiana State University. To read some advice about creating a professional law school resume, click here
LSAT
The Law School Admissions Test (LSAT) is an essential requirement for those seeking to study law in the United States, Canada, and other countries. The exam consists of two components: a multiple-choice section and an essay portion. The multiple-choice section of the LSAT includes questions that test reading comprehension, analytical reasoning, and logical reasoning. The LSAT-Flex has been developed to allow applicants to take the multiple-choice section of the exam remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, LSAT Writing can be taken as early as eight days before the multiple-choice exam and is administered online with secure proctoring software that must be installed on the candidate's computer.
The Credential Assembly Service
The Louisiana State University Law Center requires applicants to register with the Credential Assembly Service (CAS). This service is essential for the admissions office. It supplies information such as a student's LSAT scores, a writing sample, copies of all academic transcripts, and a detailed summary of undergraduate grades. The CAS is essential for the admissions office to review applicants' credentials comprehensively. Additionally, the CAS is utilized by many other law schools to compare applicants across multiple institutions. Ultimately, the CAS helps provide the Law Center with an accurate assessment of each applicant's qualifications for admission.
Transcripts
Admitted applicants to Louisiana State University must submit official transcripts of all their undergraduate and graduate work before July 1. These must be sent directly from the institution(s) they attended to LSU's Office of Admissions, as the copies provided by LSAC are only photocopies, and these do not meet the American Bar Association's (ABA) and LSU's requirements for enrollment. It is essential to meet this deadline so their application can be processed promptly and the admissions committee has all the necessary information before making the final decision. Applicants should contact their former institutions if they require assistance when requesting transcripts. All required documents must be received by July 1 for the admissions committee to review their application.
Letters of Recommendation
The Louisiana State University (LSU) Law Center requires applicants to submit two or three letters of recommendation as part of their application process. These recommendations should be provided through the Credential Assembly Service (CAS) administered by the Law School Admission Council (LSAC). These letters must come from individuals who can speak to the applicant’s academic ability, aptitude for legal study, and overall potential as a law student. These individuals should have direct experience with the applicant in an educational or professional setting. To get some additional advice on obtaining letters of recommendation, click here.
Tuition and Financial Aid
The Louisiana State University Law Center is a top-notch institution, offering a unique value for its students. Not only do they boast incredibly affordable tuition levels, but the law center also ensures that students have the resources necessary to be successful after graduation, evidenced by their impressive bar passage rate and employment placement success. According to the National Jurist magazine, the school also provides a low cost of living for its students, making them even more attractive to prospective law students. With all of these factors combined, it is no wonder that LSU Law Center is considered one of the best value legal education in the country.
The average yearly cost of attendance at LSU Law for the 2022-2023 school year is as follows:
Preliminary Average Yearly Cost of Attendance
| 2022-2023, Fall and Spring | |
|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees (Resident) | $23,664.90 |
| Room and Board | $15,414.00 |
| Books | $1,916.00 |
| Personal Expenses | $4,044.00 |
| Transportation on campus | $3,840.00 |
| Total | $48,878.90 |
Tuition and fees are subject to change at any time without any prior warning. The Louisiana Legislature and the LSU Board of Supervisors have established these tuition schedules, focusing on continuing implementation of existing tuition plans.
Merit-Based Scholarships
At Louisiana State University's Law Center, all merit-based scholarships are conditional, meaning that the recipient must fulfill the requirements stated in their scholarship notification. These funds may come from both public and private sources. To retain the scholarship for the following year, students must maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.75 or better at the end of each academic year.
First-year students who don't meet the GPA requirement at the end of their first year will have their scholarship renewed at half its original value for the second year. Students whose scholarship has been decreased may restore it to its full amount if they achieve a cumulative GPA of 2.75 or better by the end of their second year.
Employment Prospects & Bar Passage
Louisiana State University is a public research university in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. It's renowned for its solid academic programs and has a long history of excellence. Louisiana State University offers an academically rigorous Juris Doctor (JD) degree program to prepare students for a career in the legal profession. The JD program at LSU is highly respected, and graduates often go on to successful professional careers. According to the National Association for Law Placement, the median salary of LSU JD graduates who work in the private sector is $77,000. Those who pursue public service can expect a lower salary – about $54,500. Most LSU JD graduates (56.4%) are employed in law firms, while 18.1% clerk for a judge. Only 5.4% of graduates go into public interest work. The bar passage rate at LSU is exceptionally high – 97.3%. This means that most students who graduate from the university can pass the bar exam on their first attempt and become licensed attorneys in their state. LSU's JD degree program offers a strong foundation for legal professionals to build successful careers. With their high salaries and solid bar passage rate, it's no surprise that many university graduates become successful lawyers. Louisiana State University is an excellent choice for those pursuing a career in law.
Academics and Curriculum
Louisiana State University is the only law school in the United States that teaches common law and civil law. This means that a total of 97 credit hours are required for graduation, much higher than what is required at any other university. This can pose a significant challenge to students who wish to pursue dual degrees, as they must figure out how to balance the requirements of two different programs.
However, having the ability to understand and practice in both systems is invaluable for lawyers practicing in Louisiana. This makes LSU Law School an excellent choice for aspiring attorneys who wish to specialize in Louisiana-specific laws. Unfortunately, this also limits the portability of an LSU law degree outside Louisana.
Law Faculty
LSU Law Faculty offers their students an impressive selection of courses every year, with a wide range of topics presented by both full-time and adjunct faculty members. The adjunct faculty include practicing judges, lawyers, and other professionals who are very knowledgeable in their teaching subject areas.
The faculty at LSU Law take great pride in their commitment to providing a quality legal education that is both challenging and personal. Their scholarship has produced many books, articles, casebooks, and supplementals, which are highly regarded in law. These faculty members are experts on matters related to national and state laws and international law, and they actively involve students in discussions about the topics presented in class.
At LSU Law, the faculty's dedication to their students and passion for their subject makes it an excellent choice for anyone seeking a legal education. With experienced teachers in the classroom and an array of course offerings, LSU Law can provide a well-rounded legal education that will prepare its graduates for success in the field of law.
Dual Degree Programs
Louisiana State University offers a variety of dual degree programs for students to take advantage of. These particular degree pathways allow individuals to pair two different educational fields together, leading to more significant opportunities and potential career paths.
The E.J. Ourso College of Business, the Manship School of Mass Communication, and the LSU School of Social Work all offer dual degree programs for students. These include the J.D.-Masters of Business Administration, the J.D.-Masters of Public Administration, the J.D.-Masters in Finance, the J.D.-Masters of Mass Communication, and the J.D.-Master of Social Work.
These pathways allow students to gain extensive knowledge of their primary and the fields they are studying. Dual degree programs provide an opportunity to combine two distinct yet related areas of study and give students a broader perspective on their field and interdisciplinary understanding.
Experiential Opportunities
Louisiana State University offers students various experiential opportunities to supplement their education. Students can gain invaluable real-world experience through state and local government placements as well as the Judicial Field Placement Program, which gives students a chance to work independently in federal and state courts, public interest organizations, and non-profit organizations for credit. The LSU Law Clinic provides second and third-year students with the opportunity to practice law in the community on behalf of indigent clients. Course credit is earned for participating in this clinical program, which experienced faculty members teach. Such practical experiences can prepare students to enter the legal profession with confidence and valuable skills.
CLinics
- Civil Mediation
- Juvenile Defense
- Parole Assistance and Re-entry
- Prosecution
- Wrongful Conviction
- Veterans
Field Placements
Field placements, or externships as they are sometimes called, provide students with a great chance to further enhance their law school studies by gaining work experience in the real world. Through field placements, volunteers are placed with approved host organizations where they can gain invaluable hands-on experience. Students receive in-depth experience during their field placements and complete coursework with LSU Law Center faculty designed to complement their work with the host organization. After completing the field placement and corresponding academic requirements, student externs are awarded credits for this unique combination of work and study. This opportunity is available in all semesters, including the summer semester. Field placements offer the perfect chance to gain real-world knowledge and experience that can be incredibly beneficial for students looking to make a successful transition from law school into the professional world.
Quality of Life
LSU is a gorgeous University situated on over 2,000 acres of rolling hills in the southern part of Baton Rouge. With the Mississippi River situated to its west side, the campus is carpeted with nearly 1,200 live-oak trees and numerous lakes. It has been ranked one of America's 20 most beautiful campuses.
The University's more than 250 main buildings, 57 listed on the National Register of Historic Places, are set atop a 650-acre plateau that makes up the central part of campus. Most notable amongst these buildings is the impressive LSU Law Center, centrally located amongst all the buildings and facilities on campus.
At LSU, it's not just about the stunning landscaping and remarkable architecture but also the community that makes this University so unique. From its dedicated faculty members to its passionate student body, there is no shortage of energy or enthusiasm for education at LSU. Whether you're walking through the historic areas of campus, taking a stroll around the lakes, or just sitting in one of the many green spaces and admiring views of the Mississippi River, it's hard not to be overwhelmed by LSU's charm.
No matter your plans for the future, you can be sure that studying at LSU will give you a unique, unforgettable university experience. From its beautiful campus to its innovative academic programs, LSU is the perfect place for an inspiring and dynamic learning environment.
The LSU campus has something to offer everyone - from its captivating natural beauty to its rich history and vibrant student body. Whether looking for a place to study, relax or just somewhere beautiful to call home, LSU is the perfect fit. With its stunning campus and wide array of educational opportunities, it's easy to see why LSU is one of America's most beloved universities!
Louisiana State University, also known as LSU, is an excellent school that is noted for its football and basketball teams. Every year the Tigers compete for national championships in both sports, and their fans are considered some of the most dedicated and sincere of any college team in the United States. Attending LSU provides students a unique opportunity to experience the energy and spirit of college sports.
Apart from its sporting events, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, has much to offer those who attend LSU. With a population of nearly 800,000, Baton Rouge is the 84th-largest city in the country and a central hub for the petrochemical industry. This means that students have plenty of access to jobs and internships related to this sector. Furthermore, several restaurants, bars, and public spaces are geared toward young adults and provide plenty of entertainment. The Shaw Center for the Arts is also an impressive venue that hosts theater performances and visual arts galleries. In short, LSU students will certainly have no shortage of things to do throughout their time in Baton Rouge.
Synopsis
Due to a combination of reasonable tuition and good job opportunities within Louisiana (especially relative to similarly ranked law schools), LSU's Hebert Law Center is an excellent choice for those looking to go to law school without going $150,000 into debt. Especially for those looking to practice public interest law or those looking to practice inside LA, LSU could be an excellent choice.
Contact Information
Paul M. Hebert Law Center
Louisiana State University
Admissions Office
1 East Campus Drive
Baton Rouge, LA 70803
Telephone: (225) 578-5292
Email: lawinfo@lsu.edu
https://www.law.lsu.edu/admissions/
Summary
| Established | 1906 |
| Location | Baton Rouge, LA |
| Dean | Lee Ann Wheelis Lockridge |
| 2022 US News Ranking | 105 |
| LSAT Median Score | 156 |
| GPA Median Score | 3.56 |
| Bar Passage Rate | 97% (2022) |
| Employment Rate | 42% (2022) |
| Cost | $23,664.90 |
| Average Debt | $102,626 |
| Application Deadline | June 15, 2023 |
Forum and Discussion
LSU Law Center Discussions
Law School Admissions Forums
Law Student Forums
Law School Class Forums
Reference
https://www.law.lsu.edu/
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