Law Schools in Minneapolis MN

Not in Minneapolis? Check out our lists of Law Schools in Rochester, St. Paul, and across Minnesota.

Wondering which law schools in Minneapolis, MN, best fit your career goals?

This guide breaks down the top choices, highlighting what each school offers to jumpstart your legal journey.

Discover what sets the University of Minnesota Law School, Mitchell Hamline School of Law, and the University of St. Thomas School of Law apart.

Let’s explore your options.

University of Minnesota – Law School

University of Minnesota Law School is an esteemed institution known for its rigorous academic programs and exceptional faculty. Located in the heart of Minneapolis on the University of Minnesota campus, it offers a picturesque and supportive environment for law students.

Programs Offered

Explore a variety of programs:

J.D. Program: This is the primary law degree program and is comprehensive, preparing students for a wide range of legal careers.
LL.M. Program: Ideal for international students, this program provides advanced legal study.
S.J.D. Program: Focus on legal research and scholarship with this advanced law degree.
M.S.P.L. (Master of Science in Patent Law): Designed for those interested in patent law, combining legal and technical expertise.
LL.M. in Patent Law: Specialized program for law graduates focusing on patent legislation.

Diverse Curriculum

Areas of study include:

Business Law: Gain in-depth understanding of corporate regulations and procedures.
Civil Litigation: Learn the mechanics and strategies involved in civil court cases.
Criminal Justice: Explore the intricacies of criminal law and criminal justice systems.
Environmental and Energy Law: Focus on laws governing natural resources and energy.

Inclusive Community

The University of Minnesota Law School emphasizes diversity and inclusion:

Commitment to Diversity: Cultivate a rich learning environment with students from all backgrounds.
Support Programs: Access scholarships, mentorship, and diversity initiatives.

Experiential Learning

Hands-on opportunities include:

Clinics: Work on real cases under the close supervision of experienced faculty.
Externships: Gain practical experience in various legal settings.

Centers and Institutes

Key centers enhance student learning:

Human Rights Center: Delve into global human rights issues.
Robina Institute of Criminal Law and Criminal Justice: Engage in research and policy development.

Career Support

Comprehensive career services ensure students are job-ready:

Personalized Advising: Receive tailored career counseling and academic advising.
Career Counseling: Prepare effectively with guidance on career paths and job search strategies.
Strong Alumni Network: Leverage connections with accomplished alumni for mentorship and opportunities.

University of Minnesota Law School boasts high employment rates and bar passage rates, reflecting the quality and rigor of its education.

Mitchell Hamline School of Law – J.D. Program

Located in St. Paul, MN, Mitchell Hamline School of Law is recognized for its commitment to practical legal education and flexibility in learning formats.

Flexible Study Options

Choose a program structure that suits your lifestyle:

Full-Time: Complete your studies with a traditional, immersive schedule.
Part-Time: Balance work, life, and school with a part-time program.
On-Campus and Online Blended Programs: Benefit from a combination of online and on-campus learning.
Blended Learning Program: Participate in a unique program that allows for online coursework supplemented by occasional in-person residencies.

Comprehensive Curriculum

The curriculum aims to provide a well-rounded legal education:

Practice-Oriented Education: Emphasizes real-world applications and client interactions.
Diverse Areas of Law: From corporate law to public interest, find courses that align with your interests.
Clinical Training: Apply your knowledge in practical settings through clinics that tackle real cases.

History of Excellence

With more than a century of legal education, Mitchell Hamline continues to demonstrate its dedication to producing competent and ethical practitioners:

Civic Engagement: Participate in community service and legal volunteerism.
Legacy of Leadership: Follow in the footsteps of prominent legal professionals who have graduated from Mitchell Hamline.

Experiential Learning Opportunities

A variety of hands-on experiences enrich student learning:

Legal Clinics: Participate in clinics that cover family law, health law, and more.
Externships and Residencies: Gain work experience in real legal environments.

Centers and Institutes

Explore diverse legal disciplines with the support of specialized centers:

Minnesota Justice Foundation: Engage in public interest law and community service projects.
Expert Witness Training Academy: Develop skills crucial for trial practice.

Student Support Services

Mitchell Hamline provides robust support to ensure academic and professional success:

Career Development: Receive guidance on career planning and job placement.
Financial Aid: Access a variety of financial support options.
Diversity Initiatives: Benefit from scholarships and programs designed to promote inclusion.
Warren E. Burger Law Library: Utilize extensive legal research resources.

Strong Alumni Network

Leverage a network of outstanding alumni who provide mentorship and career opportunities:

Industry Connections: Network with lawyers, judges, and leaders in the legal field.
Mentorship Programs: Seek guidance from experienced professionals.

Mitchell Hamline School of Law offers an accessible and practice-focused education, preparing students to meet the demands of the legal profession. Visit their official website for more information.

University of St. Thomas – School of Law

The University of St. Thomas School of Law in Minneapolis, MN, sets itself apart with a mission centered on using law to serve the common good. With its welcoming atmosphere and a curriculum designed to fuse ethical legal practices with real-world experience, it aims to cultivate a community of socially responsible legal professionals.

Programs Offered

Choose from a variety of degree programs:

J.D. Program: The cornerstone of legal education, offering thorough preparation for diverse legal careers.
LL.M. in U.S. Law: Tailored for international students looking to gain expertise in U.S. legal systems.
M.S.L. in Ethics and Compliance: Perfect for professionals wanting to specialize in regulatory compliance.
Joint J.D./M.A. in Catholic Studies: Merges legal education with in-depth exploration of Catholic intellectual tradition.

Practical Training

Gain hands-on experience through:

Legal Clinics: Apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios with clinics specializing in different legal areas.
Externships: Work in legal settings to gain invaluable industry experience.
Mentor Programs: Connect with experienced legal professionals for guidance and insight.

Centers and Institutes

Enhance your education with specialized institutions:

Thomas E. Holloran Center for Ethical Leadership: Focuses on ethical leadership within the legal field.
Interprofessional Center for Counseling and Legal Services: Provides interdisciplinary legal and counseling services, enriching practical experience.

Curriculum Highlights

Explore diverse legal topics:

Business Law: Understand corporate governance and commercial transactions.
Civil Litigation: Dive into the intricacies of civil court cases.
Criminal Law: Study criminal behavior, prosecution, and defense.
Global and Comparative Law: Learn about international legal systems and their comparison to U.S. law.

Student Support Services

Access comprehensive resources:

Scholarships and Financial Aid: Various financial aids to support your education.
Inclusive Community: Programs that enhance cultural competence and diversity.
Career Services: Personalized career planning, job search assistance, and professional development.

Vibrant Community

Located in downtown Minneapolis, the School of Law offers a vibrant and supportive environment. The close-knit community ensures personalized learning experiences, complemented by robust legal connections within the city. Explore more about the University of St. Thomas School of Law.

How to Choose the Best Law School in Minneapolis

Selecting the best law school is a crucial decision that influences your future legal career. Here are key factors to consider:

Accreditation: Ensure the law school is accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA) for quality assurance.
Curriculum: Evaluate how the curriculum aligns with your legal interests, offering courses and specialties relevant to your career goals.
Faculty Expertise: Investigate the faculty’s qualifications, professional experience, and accessibility to students.
Internship Opportunities: Look for schools offering substantial internship and externship placements to gain practical experience.
Alumni Network: A strong alumni network can provide mentorship, networking opportunities, and job leads.
Diversity and Inclusion: Consider schools with active diversity initiatives, which can enrich your educational experience.
Support Services: Ensure comprehensive support services are available, including career counseling, financial aid, and mental health resources.
Bar Passage and Employment Rates: Review statistical data on bar passage and employment rates to gauge the school’s effectiveness in preparing students for the legal profession.

Evaluating Personal Fit

While these factors are essential, personal fit also matters. Visit campuses to get a feel for the environment. Engage with current students and alumni to gain insights into their experiences. Assess how the school’s culture aligns with your values and needs.

By thoroughly researching these aspects, you can make an informed decision about the best law school in Minneapolis for you.

Conclusion: Start Your Legal Education in Minneapolis, MN

Minneapolis, MN, is home to some of the finest law schools, including the University of Minnesota Law School, Mitchell Hamline School of Law, and the University of St. Thomas School of Law. Each institution offers unique strengths, diverse programs, and ample experiential learning opportunities designed to prepare you for a successful legal career. Take the next step in your educational journey by exploring these outstanding law schools today. Your legal career starts here – in Minneapolis, MN.