Thurgood Marshall School of Law

The founding of Texas Southern University and its law school resulted from a decision by the U.S. Supreme Court in 1946. Thurgood Marshall, then the chief counsel for the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, successfully argued a case for Heman M. Sweatt, who was refused admission to a state law school because he was black. The state legislature, in 1947, established the Texas State University for Negroes (later renamed Texas Southern University). In 1976, the law school moved to its current location and was named in honor of Thurgood Marshall, the first black U.S. Supreme Court Justice.

History

Texas Southern University often referred to as "TSU," is a historically black university in Houston, Texas. Founded in 1947 as the Texas State University for Negroes following an unsuccessful effort by Heman Marion Sweatt, an African American mail carrier from Houston, to gain entry into the all-white University of Texas, TSU was the first state-supported university established for African Americans in Texas. After the United States Supreme Court decided Sweatt's case, and separate but equal laws were deemed unconstitutional, the university's name was changed to Texas Southern University on June 1, 1951.

TSU comprises nine colleges and schools offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees. The university has several notable departments, including the Thurgood Marshall School of Law, the Barbara Jordan-Mickey Leland School of Public Affairs, and the Jesse H. Jones School of Business. With a student enrollment of over 10,000 students every year, TSU is one of the most diverse universities in the United States.

In addition to its academic focus, TSU is a member of the Southwestern Athletic Conference and has a strong athletic program with teams in men's sports: basketball, baseball, cross country, football, golf, soccer, and track & field, as well as women's sports: basketball, bowling, cross country, soccer, softball, tennis track & field, volleyball, and golf.

TSU is a vibrant member of the Houston community and has been instrumental in promoting social justice through education for more than 70 years. Throughout its history, TSU has become renowned for its core values of excellence and service to others, embodied in its commitment to providing educational opportunities for all.

Texas Southern University is a landmark of success in the American education system and continues to inspire future generations. Its legacy will live on for many years as it continues to provide access to quality education, promote diversity and inclusion, support its student body, and create an environment where all students can thrive.

Admissions

Statistics

Admissions Stats
Class of:	2020-2021	2021-2022
25th - 50th - 75th percentile LSAT	147 - 148 - 150	149 - 151 - 153
25th - 50th - 75th percentile GPA	2.72 - 3.17 - 3.49	2.81 - 3.32 - 3.6
Acceptance rate	30.4%	28.2%
Applications received	1755	1771
Acceptances	534	499
Matriculants	32	43

Texas Southern University had 1,771 applications during the 2022 admission cycle. Of those, 499 were given offers of admission, and 194 accepted the offer. This led to an overall yield rate of 38.88%, meaning that 38.88% of applicants who were offered admission decided to attend Texas Southern University.

The 1L class at Texas Southern University has a median LSAT score of 151, with the 25th percentile being 149 and the 75th percentile being 153. The GPA for 1Ls is 3.32, with the 25th percentile being 2.81 and the 75th percentile being 3.6.

Application Date

Texas Southern University is an excellent choice for those pursuing a legal education. Applications become available on September 1, and the deadline to apply is August 1. However, it is recommended that applicants submit their applications as early as possible to take advantage of the "rolling basis" admissions process. Individuals who have attended Law School prior or wish to transfer or visit other schools should review the required documents for their specific admissions process. First-time J.D. candidates must apply by April 1 to be considered for scholarship awards. All applications must include a completed CAS report, transcripts from all colleges and universities attended, LSAT score, writing sample, and letters of recommendation to be considered for admission.

Application for Admission

The process starts online if you are looking to apply to Texas Southern University. You must navigate the Law School Admission Council (LSAC) website and create an account. This is where you will enter all of your relevant information, such as school transcripts, resumes, letters of recommendation, and any other documents that may be required. Once your application is completed, it will be reviewed, and decisions will be rendered after receiving the LSAC CAS report. It's important to note that you can submit your application before receiving your LSAT scores, but decisions will only be made once the CAS report is complete.

Personal Statement

When applying to Texas Southern University, you must provide a personal statement to showcase your unique qualities and give the Admissions Committee a better understanding of who you are. This statement should be considered your “sales tool,” as it should present a compelling argument for why the school should accept you as a student. Showcase any unique qualities or skills that you possess, and describe how these attributes have helped shape your life and goals. Additionally, if there are extenuating circumstances or if you have faced adversity in the past, use this opportunity to explain that to the committee.

Addendum

Texas Southern University is an academic institution that offers prospective students the opportunity to pursue various educational opportunities. For those who wish to apply to the school, it is possible to include addenda with their application to address any GPA issues or extenuating circumstances that might have affected their academic performance. In particular, those who have taken the LSAT multiple times and have disparate scores – 5 points plus or minus – should provide an addendum of explanation for the disparity. This will give the Admissions Committee a better sense of the applicant's overall academic record, allowing them to make a more informed decision on the application. Furthermore, any additional information that an applicant wishes to bring to the attention of the Admissions Committee not addressed elsewhere in their application can also be included in an addendum. Ultimately, this will help strengthen a student's application and give them a better chance of admission at Texas Southern University.

Resume

Applicants must present an up-to-date curriculum vitae (CV). A CV is a comprehensive document outlining professional qualifications, experience, and skills. It typically includes educational background, awards and honors, publications, presentations, and special training or certifications. It can also include work experience, volunteer activities, and previous research projects. Submitting a CV demonstrates to the Texas Southern University Admissions Office that applicants are prepared and have thoroughly developed their professional credentials. It provides insight into the applicant’s background and experiences, which can help make admissions decisions. A well-written CV can be the difference between acceptance and rejection for admission. Therefore, applicants must take the time to create an accurate and comprehensive CV. By doing so, they can demonstrate their qualifications and set themselves apart from other candidates.

Letters of Recommendation

Letters of recommendation are critical documents in the law school application process. You must provide at least two such letters written by someone who is familiar with your academic performance or can evaluate you as an applicant for success in law school. It is not recommended to receive letters from friends, family members, or other acquaintances since they may need to assess your suitability for law school accurately.

Finding an academic recommender may be challenging if you have been out of school for an extended period, such as after college graduation. Instead, letters from employers or other professionals who can attest to your character and qualifications would also be accepted.

When submitting letters of recommendation through the LSAC letter of recommendation service, make sure to fill out the necessary forms and provide each recommender with an LSAC letter of recommendation form. The LSAT/LSDAS, Registration and Information Book will provide instructions on how to submit letters through this service and information about downloading the forms from the LSAC website.

Application Fee

If you are interested in enrolling at Texas Southern University, you must pay a non-refundable application fee of $55. When you submit your application, this payment must be made online through the Law School Admission Council (LSAC). It is important to remember that this fee is not refundable if you choose to withdraw your application or if you are not accepted. It is essential to review the application requirements carefully before submitting your fee since you must meet them to ensure your admission standing is met. You should also consider any fees associated with taking the LSAT, which may be required for admission. Double-check all the details and deadlines related to applying so you can take advantage of this incredible opportunity.

Law School Admission Test

Applicants interested in enrolling in the J.D. program at Texas Southern University's Thurgood Marshall School of Law must take the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) before submitting their application. The Law School Admission Council administers this test, and scores must be reported to TSU within three years before the date of application. The LSAT is a standardized test designed to assess the critical reading, analytical reasoning, and logical thinking skills necessary for success in law school.

In addition to taking the LSAT, applicants are encouraged to prepare for the exam by reviewing study materials available from the Law School Admission Council website or other sources. The website also contains information about the exam, test preparation, and law school application.

Applicants who prepare for the LSAT can demonstrate a commitment to their legal education and success in the J.D. program at Texas Southern University's Thurgood Marshall School of Law. Taking the time to understand and practice for the LSAT is essential to becoming an effective legal professional.

Character & Fitness

For aspiring lawyers, admission to the bar in any state requires specific criteria to be met in terms of character, fitness, and other qualifications. Prospective attorneys must understand what is required of them to practice law in their intended state or state. To help with this, the National Conference of Bar Examiners provides an online platform that guides the criteria for bar admission. Texas Southern University is committed to helping students understand this process and offering resources to provide more information when needed. The university's Office of Student Affairs also assists in understanding character and fitness requirements and other necessary qualifications for admission to the bar. Additionally, faculty advisors are available to discuss any questions or concerns students may have. With the proper knowledge and resources, Texas Southern University is dedicated to helping future lawyers succeed in their pursuit of admission to the bar.

Deposits

Texas Southern University requires admitted applicants to make two non-refundable deposits totaling $500 to accept their seat offer. This payment must be made online via the University Portal, which will be indicated in the applicant's admission letter. Once these deposits have been processed, the student has accepted the offer of admission and can remain enrolled at the university. Please make these deposits promptly to avoid the forfeiture of their seat offer.

The first deposit of $200 is due within five business days from the date the admission letter is issued. This deposit constitutes payment for enrollment fees associated with new student orientation, freshman/transfer advising sessions, and registration. The remaining $300 deposit is due within 30 days of the initial admission letter and serves as a seat reservation payment.

These deposits are non-refundable regardless of the student's enrollment status at Texas Southern University, and they will be credited toward the first semester's tuition balance immediately following registration. Any additional expenses incurred during the registration process will also be applied to this balance. If a student does not enroll at Texas Southern University, these deposits are forfeited and will not be refunded.

Admission Decisions

Texas Southern University's Admissions Committee reviews each complete application and makes decisions accordingly. The time taken to make a decision can vary greatly, depending on when the application was submitted, how many total applications were received, and how much time was needed to assess an individual's credentials compared to other applicants. Applications are typically reviewed starting in December, and decisions are made until all applicants are considered.

The admissions process is strictly confidential, and information about applicants will not be released to outside parties. Applicants should ensure their applications are complete to receive a prompt review by the Admissions Committee. Once an admission decision has been made, it will be sent in writing to the applicant.

Deferral of Admission

Texas Southern University allows admitted students who need to delay their enrollment to defer admission for a year. This option is available to a limited number of students annually and is not granted automatically. To secure their seat in the following year's class, incoming students must submit a non-refundable deposit. To initiate the deferral process, applicants must write to lawadmissions@tsu.edu detailing the reasons for their request.

It is important to note that scholarships are not deferred with admission. Students who elect to delay enrollment will be considered for scholarships among the entering class where they will ultimately enroll. Awards may differ in amount year-to-year, so incoming students should keep this in mind when deciding to defer.

Texas Southern University understands that sometimes circumstances change and is committed to providing students with the flexibility they need while still allowing them to pursue their educational goals. The deferral of admission is one-way TSU accomplishes that goal.

Academics and Curriculum

Texas Southern University is a Tier 4 institution of higher learning located in Houston, Texas. With 43 faculty members, they boast a small student-to-faculty ratio of 13 to 1. This makes it possible for students to have the best opportunity of engaging with their instructors and get individualized assistance when needed.

First-year students participate in a rigorous curriculum that includes courses in property, torts, contracts, criminal law, legal writing, civil procedure, and lawyering. Despite the challenging course load and grading curve, students report feeling well-prepared for the challenges of their future jobs as lawyers.

The student body at Texas Southern University is highly diverse, with an enrollment rate that can reach as high as 50 percent for African-Americans and 24 percent for Hispanics. While non-minority students are also welcome to attend, they make up a smaller percentage of the student body. The university celebrates its diverse student population with various events and activities throughout the year that highlight different cultures and backgrounds.

Overall, Texas Southern University provides an excellent opportunity for students seeking a legal education. With its small student-to-faculty ratio and diverse student population, students can be sure that they will receive the individualized attention and support needed for success in their chosen field.

Texas Southern University is an excellent choice for those seeking a Tier 4 law school. With its small lecture sizes, diverse student body, and rigorous curriculum, students can rest assured that they will receive a quality legal education. Moreover, the university's commitment to celebrating diversity makes it a desirable option for those seeking a unique learning experience.

Quality of Life

Texas Southern University, located in Houston's Third Ward, has a reputation for being a vibrant and diverse campus. Although the cost of living is lower than in other parts of the city and state, the crime rate in this part of town is slightly higher than the national average. This has been a concern for many students who feel they need more time to take advantage of the vibrant culture and attractions in the area.

The University has recently taken steps to reduce crime on campus, including increasing its security force and installing cameras around the premises. In addition, they have renovated many of their facilities that had been underfunded for some time, with construction projects taking longer than expected. Despite these challenges, the University has continued to provide students with an environment where they can grow and learn.

Houston offers numerous attractions that have been great additions for Marshall Law students. There is always something going on in the city, from sporting events at the nearby Toyota Center to music venues such as House of Blues and Revention Music Center. The Third Ward also offers plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops for students looking to get the most out of their college experience.

Overall, Texas Southern University has much to offer its students in terms of both academics and leisure activities. While crime remains an issue in the Third Ward, dedicated faculty and staff are working hard to ensure students are as safe as possible. Despite its challenges, the University continues to be a vibrant and welcoming place for higher learning. Texas Southern University is an excellent option for students looking to excel in their studies and enjoy the cultural attractions of Houston.

Synopsis

The city's crime rates, the law school's questionable employment prospects, and undeniably dismal bar passage rates should all cause concern for prospective students. There are, however, potential benefits for students considering Marshall Law. It is highly diverse, the average debt is commendably low, and the starting salaries are impressively high for a Tier 4 school. Marshall School of Law can be a good choice for a Texas resident who wants an education that will help jumpstart a well-paying career in Texas.

Contact Information

Texas Southern University-Thurgood Marshall School of Law
Office of JD Admissions
3100 Cleburne
Houston, TX 77004
(713) 313-7114
lawadmit@tsulaw.edu
www.tsulaw.edu

Summary

Established	1946
Location	Houston, TX 77004
Dean	Joan R.M. Bullock
2022 US News Ranking	147
LSAT Median Score	151
GPA Median Score	3.32
Bar Passage Rate	50% (2022)
Employment Rate	n/a (2022)
Cost	$22,058
Average Debt
Application Deadline	Debt after three years $70,363

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Reference

LSD Law Ranked 147 Guide to Fee Waivers
LSAC Guide
How to Learn to Do Well on a Law School Exam
Success in Law School - A Unique Perspective
The Guide to Law School Loans