Washington College of Law: Academic Excellence and Professional Training
The Washington College of Law (WCL) is a distinguished institution known for its commitment to public interest, international law, and comprehensive clinical training. By blending rigorous academic theory with hands-on practice, WCL prepares students to navigate the complexities of the modern legal landscape while advocating for justice and human rights.
Key Facts
- Top-Ranked Clinical Training: Tied for #1 nationally according to U.S. News & World Report.
- Diverse Degree Options: Offers J.D., LL.M., S.J.D., and an online Master of Legal Studies (MLS).
- Global Reach: The 2021 entering class included students from 28 countries and 42 U.S. states.
- Public Interest Focus: Ranked as the 4th best public interest law school in the nation.
- Specialized Strength: Highly ranked in International Law (#5) and Intellectual Property (#7).
Academic Rankings and Recognition
WCL has earned significant recognition across various national rankings. In 2012, its Master of Laws (LL.M.) program ranked 13th nationally in the AUAP rankings, while the Brian Leiter Law School rankings placed the institution 47th among the Top 70 Law Faculties in Scholarly Impact. The school is also noted for its inclusivity, having been ranked by National Jurist as the fifth best law school for Hispanic students in 2008.
According to U.S. News & World Report, WCL is tied for 89th among 197 ranked schools. However, its specialty programs demonstrate exceptional strength, particularly in Clinical Training (tied #1), International Law (tied #5), and Intellectual Property (tied #7). Other notable rankings include Health Care Law (tied #20), Part-Time Law (tied #16), and Trial Advocacy (tied #15).
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Degrees and Educational Pathways
WCL provides a variety of degree paths tailored to different professional goals. The primary degrees offered include the Juris Doctor (J.D.), the Doctor of Juridical Science (S.J.D.), and the Master of Laws (LL.M.), with the latter specializing in either constitutional or international law.
Dual Degree Programs
To foster interdisciplinary expertise, WCL offers several dual degree options in partnership with other prestigious institutions:
- J.D./M.A. with the School of International Service.
- J.D./M.B.A. and LL.M./M.B.A. with the Kogod School of Business.
- J.D./M.P.P. and LL.M./M.P.P. with the School of Public Affairs.
- International Partnerships: J.D. dual degrees with the University of Ottawa (Canada), Paris Nanterre University (France), Universidad Carlos III (Spain), Universidad Pontificia Comillas (Spain), and LUISS Guido Carli (Italy).
Online Master of Legal Studies (MLS)
For professionals who manage law-related responsibilities but do not intend to practice as attorneys, WCL offers an online Master of Legal Studies. This program can be completed in as little as 15 months and does not require GRE or LSAT scores. Students can choose from four concentration tracks: General MLS, Business, Health Care Compliance, and Technology.
Clinical Legal Education
WCL is a pioneer in modern clinical legal education, maintaining one of the most comprehensive programs in the United States. With 11 clinics and over 200 participating students annually, the program provides essential legal services to a wide array of clients, including refugees, survivors of domestic violence, low-income taxpayers, and nonprofit organizations.
The clinical offerings include:
- General Practice and Criminal Justice Clinics.
- Disability Rights and Domestic Violence Law Clinics.
- The Janet R. Spragens Federal Tax Clinic.
- The Glushko-Samuelson Intellectual Property Law Clinic.
- Immigrant Justice and International Human Rights Law Clinics.
- The Women and the Law Clinic.
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Specialized Programs and Centers
Beyond the classroom, WCL hosts numerous centers and institutes that drive legal research and advocacy. These include the Academy on Human Rights and Humanitarian Law, the National Institute of Military Justice, and the Program on Information Justice and Intellectual Property. The school also engages in global exchange through the Humphrey Fellowship Program and various study-abroad initiatives.
The institution's competitive spirit is evidenced by its Jessup Moot Court Team, which in 2002 was ranked as the top team in the United States and third globally.
Enrollment, Costs, and Outcomes
Admission to WCL is competitive. In 2021, the acceptance rate was 37.94%. The median (50th percentile) undergraduate GPA for entering students was 3.57, with a median LSAT score of 161. The 2021 class was characterized by strong diversity, with 64% female and 36% minority representation.
Financial considerations are significant for prospective students. For the 2021–2022 academic year, the total cost of attendance was $82,842. Law School Transparency estimated the three-year debt-financed cost at $293,573. Data from 2020 indicates that 76% of graduates took on debt, with an average indebtedness of $159,723.
Regarding employment, 61.8% of the class of 2020 secured full-time, long-term, J.D.-required positions nine months after graduation, while an additional 15% found J.D.-preferred employment.
| Category | Metric/Value |
|---|---|
| 2021 Acceptance Rate | 37.94% |
| Median LSAT (2021) | 161 |
| Median GPA (2021) | 3.57 |
| 2021-2022 Total Cost of Attendance | $82,842 |
| 2020 J.D.-Required Employment Rate | 61.8% |
| Clinical Training Rank | Tied #1 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What degrees can I earn at Washington College of Law?
WCL offers the Juris Doctor (J.D.), Master of Laws (LL.M.) in international or constitutional law, Doctor of Juridical Science (S.J.D.), and an online Master of Legal Studies (MLS).
Is the online MLS program for aspiring lawyers?
No, the online Master of Legal Studies is designed for professionals with law-related responsibilities to improve their legal understanding and decision-making; it is not intended for those who wish to become practicing attorneys.
What makes WCL's clinical program unique?
WCL was one of the first law schools to develop a modern clinical program. It is now one of the largest in the country, featuring 11 clinics that serve diverse clients ranging from refugees to intellectual property seekers.
What are the admission requirements for the online MLS?
The online MLS program is accessible and does not require GRE or LSAT scores for admission.
Does WCL support students interested in public interest law?
Yes, WCL is highly ranked for public interest law and provides scholarships through the Equal Justice Foundation (EJF) for students taking unpaid summer internships with public interest organizations.