Willamette University College of Law

Willamette University College of Law offers a close-knit environment where students benefit from hands-on learning, personal mentorship, and strong ties to the legal and political heart of Oregon. With its setting in Salem, the school provides good access to state government, courts, and public service opportunities, making it especially appealing for those interested in practical legal work and regional impact.

In the 2025 rankings, Willamette University College of Law is positioned at #145 according to U.S. News & World Report.

History

The University of Wyoming College of Law offers its students an invaluable opportunity to gain practical legal knowledge through its comprehensive externship program. With the guidance of the school's two Externship Supervisors, Ashli Tomisich and Tim Crawford, students can select from various experiences and receive college credit for their work.

Many law students choose to use their externships as a way to gain invaluable experience in various areas of the law. This experiential learning can provide insights that traditional classroom courses often do not offer, such as familiarity with working within specific legal organizations or understanding the inner workings of certain aspects of the court system. Working under the supervision of experienced lawyers with real-world practice experience, students can develop a better understanding and more vital practical application skills concerning their legal knowledge.

In addition to gaining valuable skills and knowledge, working in an externship during law school also has other advantages. In addition to earning course credit for the hours worked, students have cited these opportunities as one of their most rewarding experiences in law school. Furthermore, many students have reported that employers highly value professional experience obtained through externships when hiring after graduation.

Externships are an excellent way for prospective attorneys to get hands-on training with real-world scenarios and apply their existing legal knowledge in unique settings – preparing them for successful careers once they leave law school. The University of Wyoming College of Law is proud to offer its robust externship program for its current and future attorneys.

Admissions

Willamette University College of Law has a great deal to offer aspiring legal professionals. Situated in Salem, Oregon's capital city, it presents students with unbeatable access to the state's bustling legal and business environment. As a result, Willamette Law graduates are well-prepared for success in their chosen profession thanks to an educational experience brimming with top-notch faculty and unique experiential learning opportunities.

If you need more clarification 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:	2023-2024	2024-2025
25th - 50th - 75th percentile LSAT	150-152-156	149-152-155
25th - 50th - 75th percentile GPA	3.01-3.26-3.59	3.06-3.40-3.71
Acceptance rate	58.9%	66.5%
Applications received	511	759
Acceptances	393	505
Matriculants	114	118

The Class of 2025 shows moderate selectivity with a 66.5% acceptance rate and a slight rise in median GPA compared to the prior year, indicating a focus on academic readiness. LSAT ranges remained stable, suggesting consistent admission standards. The higher number of applications and acceptances reflects continued interest in Willamette’s practical, community-driven legal education.

The incoming class size also increased slightly to 118 students, suggesting that the school continues to grow steadily while maintaining small class settings that support personalised instruction and mentorship.

Willamette University College of Law’s 2025 admissions profile reflects growth, accessibility, and academic stability. The school continues to balance opportunity with quality, offering a student-centred legal education shaped by Oregon’s dynamic legal and policy environment.

Application Process

Willamette University College of Law offers several entry paths for applicants pursuing a Juris Doctor (JD) degree in 2025: Early Decision, Part-Time, and Transfer/Visiting programs. Each option is designed to accommodate different student needs and career goals while maintaining the school’s high academic standards.

Early Decision remains ideal for applicants who are confident that Willamette is their first choice. Candidates who submit their completed application by December 15 and are admitted under this option are guaranteed a scholarship if they commit to enrol and pay their deposit by January 18.

The Part-Time JD Program continues to attract professionals and non-traditional students seeking flexibility. It allows students to complete their degree in four to seven years while attending classes primarily during the day. Due to its popularity and small cohort size, spaces in this program fill quickly each cycle.

For students transferring from another ABA-accredited law school, the Transfer/Visiting Program enables continued progress toward a JD while benefiting from Willamette’s unique curriculum and community engagement. Visiting students may also take advantage of specialised courses and networking opportunities available in Oregon’s legal and policy institutions.

International applicants are encouraged to apply through Willamette’s International Admissions track. To qualify, applicants must hold an undergraduate degree equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution outside the United States. The school’s supportive international student services ensure a smooth transition into both academic and cultural life in Oregon.

Regardless of the pathway, Willamette places strong emphasis on academic preparation, ethical practice, and real-world readiness. Applicants are encouraged to carefully review the latest admission criteria and deadlines on the official Willamette Law website to ensure eligibility.

The 2025 application process at Willamette University College of Law reflects the school’s continued dedication to accessibility and academic excellence. With multiple entry routes, scholarship opportunities, and a supportive community culture, every student has the chance to shape a meaningful and flexible legal education experience.

When to Apply

Willamette University College of Law is a top-tier institution offering aspiring law students an exceptional educational experience. All students are encouraged to apply early in the admissions cycle, which begins each year on September 1st and requires that all applications be submitted by August 1st. The application process is extensive and highly organized, as admission decisions are made based on a careful review of each applicant’s full credentials.

The College of Law provides prospective students with theoretical insights into the legal field and hands-on practical experience through its extensive network of clinical and externship opportunities. With a student population comprised of individuals from across the United States and abroad, Willamette University College of Law creates an environment with tremendous cultural diversity, allowing students to expand their knowledge base while learning to work together in pursuit of their common goals.

Application Process

The process of applying to Willamette University College of Law requires prospective students to take the necessary steps in order to be admitted. Before anything else, candidates must register with the Credential Assembly Service (CAS) and take either the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) or complete the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) administered by Educational Testing Service (ETS). In addition, applicants have to submit an online application through the Law School Admission Council. Along with this, CAS also has to receive two letters of recommendation from an individual who can provide insight into the applicant's qualifications for law school. Another requirement is that an official transcript from previously attended institutions must be sent to CAS. Moreover, a personal statement which explains why they are interested in studying law at Willamette University College of Law needs to be submitted. Lastly, a resume should be included that highlights any special skills or qualifications that make them stand out within the applicant pool.

Through these steps, admissions officers at Willamette are able to accurately assess each candidate's academic record and their potential as future lawyers. Partaking in the LSAT or GRE is essential because it displays an individual's capability of understanding legal topics and how well they may fare on different exams and courses once enrolled in law school. Furthermore, submitting two letters of recommendation provides insight into their character and attributes as a person which shows whether they have good qualities for becoming a working professional in a legal setting. The personal statement gives them an opportunity to convince admissions officers why they would excel among other applicants if accepted at Willamette University College of Law; while transcripts offer evidence that applicants have met all prerequisites for admittance and demonstrate their past academic performance. Finally, resumes demonstrate any previous experiences or special talents that may further benefit them throughout their studies or future career paths pertaining to law.

Letter of Recommendation

To apply to the Willamette University College of Law, obtaining two letters of recommendation from individuals familiar with the candidate's academic aptitude and intellectual capability is necessary. These letters should be submitted to the Credential Assembly Service (CAS). It is recommended that these letters come from former professors, business colleagues, or community leaders who can thoroughly assess the candidate’s qualifications for law school.

Transcript

When submitting the transcript, ensure it’s an official document and includes a seal of authentication from the school. Once you have obtained an official copy and it has been sent to CAS, they will review it against their guidelines before forwarding it to Willamette University College of Law. This is done as part of their standard process to ensure the authenticity and accuracy of all documentation submitted as part of a student’s application package.

Providing transcripts is also necessary for transfer students looking to obtain credits for courses taken at another institution that may be applicable at Willamette University College of Law. This ensures that all previous coursework can be properly assessed by the admissions staff so that they can determine whether or not those credits will count towards requirements for graduation.

Submitting official transcripts to CAS is essential if you want your application for admission into Willamette University College of Law to be considered complete. Ensure all documents provided are accurate representations of your academic performance before submission for them to be accepted by admissions staff during their evaluation process.

Personal Statement

You must submit a well-written personal statement when applying to Willamette University College of Law. The guidelines for what should be included in the statement are outlined in the application itself. Still, it should generally include details about yourself and your background, as well as why you believe the College of Law is the right choice for your legal studies. Your statement should demonstrate your commitment to attending this school and express any unique qualities or experiences that make you an ideal candidate.

Your statement should also explain how this particular law school can help you reach your career aspirations and what sets them apart from other schools. Be sure to discuss any relevant extracurricular activities or volunteer experience in which you took part, as well as academic achievements such as awards and honors that apply to going into law school. Additionally, consider discussing any essential lessons or insights from your past life experiences that make you a committed lawyer-in-training.

Resume

When applying to the Willamette University College of Law, you must submit a resume with your application. Your resume should include information about your professional history, any honors you have received, and a description of activities showcasing your leadership ability and professional development. If you have any legal experience, be sure to highlight this in your resume. Be sure to go into greater detail than usual, provide more facts and figures when referencing awards or recognition, and make sure to use language that is rich in meaning. This will ensure that the review committee understands what makes you stand out from other applicants.

Tuition and Financial Aid

Willamette University College of Law emphasises affordability and transparency in its tuition structure. For 2025, the school continues to offer a combination of merit-based scholarships, need-based aid, and federal loan options to help students finance their legal education. The Financial Aid Office provides personalised guidance on budgeting, borrowing responsibly, and exploring grants or private funding opportunities.

Scholarships are typically awarded upon admission, with renewal based on academic performance. In addition, Willamette’s financial aid advisors work closely with students to maximise eligibility for federal and institutional support, ensuring that cost does not become a barrier to completing a Juris Doctor degree.

Cost of Attendance (2025)

The following table outlines the estimated annual cost of attendance (COA) for full-time JD students in 2025. These figures include tuition, fees, and living expenses such as housing, meals, and personal costs. Actual expenses may vary depending on lifestyle and housing choices.

Item	Annual Estimate (2025)
Tuition & Fees	$53,980
Living Costs (room & board, off-campus)	$25,196
Estimated Total Cost of Attendance	$79,176

Willamette University College of Law remains committed to making legal education attainable. With scholarship opportunities, flexible aid options, and transparent cost planning, students can pursue their JD with confidence in both academic and financial stability.

Scholarship

Willamette University College of Law offers numerous scholarship programs to incoming students. These awards are awarded after a thorough evaluation process by the Admissions Committee, which looks at various factors such as academic performance and potential contribution to the overall class quality. These scholarships are available regardless of nationality or citizenship status.

Recipients of these awards may have them renewed for their second and third year, provided they remain in good academic standing. They must adhere to the requirements outlined in the student handbook, such as academic regulations and the honor code. These scholarships are highly coveted due to their long-term value and can provide financial assistance for those who might not be able to afford a law degree otherwise.

At Willamette Law, all students must have access to an excellent education regardless of their financial situation. The college takes great pride in offering its scholarship programs, as evidenced by how much attention is paid during the evaluation process when choosing recipients; this includes studying every applicant's evidence of academic promise and the current contributive state of their field.

Academics and Curriculum

At Willamette University College of Law, they strive to ensure that their students are well-equipped with the knowledge and practical skills necessary to prepare them for success in their chosen career paths. Their commitment to academic excellence is seen through their rigorous programs, which incorporate classroom learning and experiential activities. With coursework covering various legal topics such as contracts, torts, constitutional law, criminal law, civil procedure, and more, students can gain the theoretical understanding necessary to become successful lawyers.

Simultaneously, experiential learning provides students with hands-on experience that further develops their analytical and problem-solving skills. Through simulated court proceedings, mock trials, clinics, and externships in the public and private sectors, students can test their legal theories in real-life settings. This allows them to apply what they learn inside the classroom while gaining valuable insights into professional practice.

Moreover, their faculty members are invested in providing additional support to ensure student success. They come from diverse backgrounds and have extensive expertise in various fields of law. Their guidance during class discussions or individual meetings allows students to delve deeper into complex concepts and provides invaluable advice on developing essential practical skills such as legal writing or critical thinking.

In addition to these programs, Willamette University College of Law also offers many opportunities outside the classroom for students who wish to participate in extracurricular activities such as moot court competitions or student organizations like the Women's Law Forum or International Legal Studies Group. The school encourages all its students to engage with their peers from different backgrounds and explore new interests together - a perfect opportunity for those looking for more than just academic enrichment!

Externship Program

The Externship Program at Willamette University College of Law provides students with the opportunity to gain invaluable insight into the professional practice of law. Through this program, students are placed in real-world settings where they can observe and participate in legal work under the direction of experienced attorneys. Attorneys who serve as mentors in the program receive guidance and support from a dedicated externship director.

During their time in the externship program, students are exposed to different aspects of legal practice, such as interviewing clients, conducting research, drafting documents, and attending court proceedings. They also can develop essential skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and communication. As they gain hands-on experience, students understand how legal issues are handled in various contexts and can apply what they have learned to future cases.

Clinical Program

The Trusts and Estates Clinic at Willamette University College of Law is an educational opportunity that allows students to gain invaluable experience in the field of estate planning. In this clinic, students can represent clients who need non-tax estate planning services, such as preparing letters, wills, trusts, durable powers of attorney, life insurance and retirement plan beneficiary forms, advance medical directives, and other related documents.

This clinic allows students to hone their skills in client interviewing and counseling; gathering information related to property ownership; drafting estate planning documents; and helping clients with executing them. This provides foundational knowledge for students interested in continuing with a career related to trust and estate coaching.

The range of clients seeking assistance from this clinic is diverse. Some are single or married individuals with children who are too young to manage their property. Others may be childless adults, people who are terminally ill, or elderly who may need help setting up a will or trust before their death. No matter the individual's situation or needs, the Trusts and Estates Clinic offers them the help they need regarding financial management during difficult times.

Distinguished Faculty

• Paul De Muniz - Former Chief Justice of the Oregon Supreme Court
• Susan M. Leeson – Former Justice of the Oregon Supreme Court
• Hans A. Linde – Former Chief Justice of the Oregon Supreme Court
• Charles L. McNary – Former United States Senator
• Edwin J. Peterson – Former Chief Justice of the Oregon Supreme Court

Distinguished Alumni

• William A. Barton – trial attorney, author
• Bruce Botelho – current mayor of Juneau, Alaska
• Jay Bowerman – former Governor of Oregon
• Wallace P. Carson, Jr. – former Chief Justice of the Oregon Supreme Court
• Willis C. Hawley – former member of the United States House of Representatives
• Jay Inslee – current Governor of the State of Washington
• Virginia Linder – current Associate Justice of the Oregon Supreme Court
• Lesil McGuire – current member of the Alaska Senate
• Bob Mionske – trial attorney, author, Olympian
• John Mizuno - Vice Speaker of the Hawaii House of Representatives
• Paul De Muniz – Chief Justice of the Oregon Supreme Court
• Lisa Murkowski – current United States Senator
• Norma Paulus – former Oregon Secretary of State
• Leonardo Rapadas – current attorney general of Guam
• Stephen Yamashiro – Mayor of Hawaii County

Quality of Life

At Willamette University College of Law, a campus is a place for students to find themselves. It's an environment that provides opportunities to learn and explore, where people can gain an understanding of their future goals. The college encourages its students to become more confident and self-assured by getting involved in activities and becoming a part of the community.

The college offers a range of clubs and organizations that match many different interests so that all students have the chance to find their niche. Career development resources, such as mentorships and internships, are also available to help students better understand their future paths. Social events like movie nights, barbecues, parties, lectures, and more can help introduce people to each other and build relationships outside the classroom environment.

The student body at Willamette is full of passionate individuals who want to ensure everyone reaches their full potential. A supportive network exists here among peers and faculty alike; there is plenty of support from every angle when achieving success in law school. Not only do professors guide students through coursework with helpful feedback during office hours, but upper-level students offer advice on navigating classes and finding one's place in the law community.

Willamette University College of Law offers much more than just an academic education; it provides a space for learning by doing, which helps cultivate essential skills for the legal field, like critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and much more. The commitment from everyone involved here creates an atmosphere where people can construct a strong foundation for success in areas inside or outside academia after graduation day arrives.

Faculty

Willamette University College of Law is a prestigious institution that boasts some of the most renowned legal scholars in the country. These faculty members are well-known for their outstanding research, written works, and contributions to the development of the law. Their vast areas of expertise encompass constitutional law, business law, international/comparative law, environmental law, and dispute resolution. Above all else, these legal professionals have a profound dedication to their students, which sets them apart from other esteemed academic institutions.

An impressive array of adjunct professors and visiting faculty from various legal backgrounds has enriched their comprehensive curriculum. This allows Willamette Law’s students to not just learn directly from some of the most respected thinkers in the field but also gain valuable insight into different approaches to the law that they may not have encountered before. As such, they gain invaluable insights into how laws are made and interpreted across different jurisdictions - something that can prove very useful in real-world settings.

The wealth of knowledge within Willamette University College of Law means its students graduate with a deep understanding of local and global legislation and regulations. They leave this esteemed institution with a well-rounded education that will serve them no matter what career path they choose and mentors who will remain committed to their success long after graduation has ended.

Employment Prospects & Bar Passage

In 2025, Willamette University College of Law continues to demonstrate steady employment outcomes for its graduates, particularly within the Pacific Northwest’s legal and public service sectors. Many alumni secure positions in small and mid-sized law firms, government agencies, and judicial clerkships soon after graduation. The school’s strong ties to Oregon’s legal community, bolstered by its proximity to the State Capitol and Supreme Court, provide students with practical access to employers and hands-on experience throughout their studies.

Willamette’s Career Planning and Development Office plays an active role in connecting students with externships, on-campus interviews, and networking opportunities with practising attorneys and judges. This personalised support allows graduates to transition smoothly into professional roles, whether in litigation, corporate law, policy, or community advocacy.

For 2025, Willamette’s bar passage rate remains consistent with regional averages, reflecting the school’s ongoing commitment to rigorous academic preparation and bar exam readiness. Through structured bar preparation programs, faculty mentoring, and early exposure to practical legal writing and analysis, students are equipped to approach the bar exam with confidence and competence.

Willamette University College of Law’s 2025 employment and bar outcomes reflect a law school that values practical training, mentorship, and career readiness. Graduates leave prepared to enter a competitive legal market with real-world experience, professional connections, and the skills needed to build lasting legal careers.

Synopsis

Willamette University College of Law provides invaluable resources for students interested in learning more about estate planning and how to best serve those in need of such services. Through hands-on experiences offered at this clinic, students can develop expertise in document drafting techniques and practice essential counseling techniques when assisting clients through difficult decisions regarding their financial future.

Contact Information

WILLAMETTE UNIVERSITY
College of Law
Admissions
245 WINTER STREET SE
SALEM OREGON 97301 U.S.A.
Phone: (503) 370-6282
Email: LAW-ADMISSIONS@WILLAMETTE.EDU

https://willamette.edu/law/admissions/index.html

Summary

Established	1883
Location	SALEM OREGON
Dean	Jeffrey Dobbins
2025 US News Ranking	150th
LSAT Median Score	152
GPA Median Score	3.4
Bar Passage Rate	53.8% (2025)
Employment Rate	N/A (2025)
Cost	$53,980
Average Debt	N/A
Application Deadline	August 15, 2025

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Reference

Willamette University College of Law, Salem, OR
https://willamette.edu/law/index.html
Rank #150
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