Looking for classes in a specific city? Check out our lists of Law Schools in Broken Arrow, Norman, Oklahoma City, and Tulsa.
Looking to find the best law schools in Oklahoma to kickstart your legal career?
This article covers the top options, outlining the unique features, programs, and benefits each school offers so you can make an informed decision. Whether you seek strong faculty, high bar passage rates, or excellent internship opportunities, you’ll find the insights you need right here.
Oklahoma City University – School of Law
Discovering the right law school can shape your legal career significantly. Oklahoma City University School of Law (OCU Law) stands out for its comprehensive program and commitment to student success.
OCU Law offers an array of degree programs including:
- Juris Doctor (J.D.): Designed for those looking to practice law traditionally.
- J.D./MBA: Ideal for students interested in combining legal education with business acumen.
- J.D./MPA, J.D./M.A., and Master of Legal Studies (MLS): These programs cater to varied professional interests and career goals.
Location and Environment
Located in downtown Oklahoma City, OCU Law is in proximity to crucial legal and business institutions. This strategic location provides:
- Professional Networking: Access to local courthouses, law firms, and government agencies.
- Practical Experience: Opportunities for internships and externships within walking distance.
Educational Quality and Opportunities
OCU Law places a strong emphasis on experiential learning. Students participate in:
- Moot Court and Mock Trial Teams: These programs help develop courtroom skills.
- Clinics and Externships: Real-world experience through hands-on legal work.
- Law Reviews: Publishing opportunities that build research and writing skills.
Diversity and Inclusivity
OCU Law is known for fostering a diverse and inclusive learning environment. A diverse student body prepares you for:
- Global Legal Practice: Understanding various perspectives and cultivating empathy.
- Community Engagement: Engaging with different cultures and communities for holistic learning.
Student Success Rates
The school boasts commendable employment success rates. With an average employment rate of over 90% for graduates since 2021, OCU Law ensures:
- Career Readiness: Equipped to step into the legal field immediately after graduation.
- Support Services: The Academic Achievement team aids in navigating law school and preparing for the Bar exam.
Explore more about the programs and opportunities at Oklahoma City University School of Law.
The University of Tulsa College of Law – JD Program
The University of Tulsa College of Law, known for its impactful JD program, provides a solid foundation for future legal professionals. Learn more at the University of Tulsa College of Law.
Key Highlights
- High Placement Rates: A remarkable 93.4% placement rate.
- Bar Pass Rates: An impressive two-year ABA bar pass rate of 93%.
Experiential Learning
To ensure students are practice-ready, TU Law focuses heavily on experiential learning. Key opportunities include:
- Tulsa-based Clinics: Hands-on experience in criminal defense, civil advocacy, and entrepreneurship.
- Internships and Externships: Partnerships with over 200 organizations across 26 states.
Faculty and Environment
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: With a 9:1 ratio, personalized attention from esteemed faculty is ensured.
- Diversity and Inclusion: A welcoming environment for students of all backgrounds.
Facilities and Flexibility
The College of Law’s modern facilities contribute to an enriching learning experience:
- State-of-the-Art Classrooms: Equipped with advanced technology for effective learning.
- Comprehensive Law Library: Extensive resources for research and study.
Flexible program options cater to various start dates and academic plans:
- Start Dates: August, January, or July.
- Financial Aid Options: Includes scholarships, assistantships, fellowships, grants, and loans.
Career Development
Dedicated career services assist students throughout their education journey:
- Career Development Counselors: Full-time support for career path planning.
- Alumni Network: Strong connections for mentorship and job placements.
Explore more about the opportunities at the University of Tulsa College of Law.
Oklahoma State University – 3 + 3 Early Admission to Law School
Oklahoma State University (OSU) offers an innovative 3 + 3 Early Admission to Law School program, designed for students majoring in human development and family science.
Program Overview
This unique program allows you to complete both a bachelor’s degree and a law degree in six years. Key advantages include:
- Three University Partnerships: Agreements with Oklahoma City University, University of Oklahoma, and University of Tulsa for accelerated law school entry.
- Time and Cost Efficiency: Completing degrees in a shorter time frame saves both time and tuition costs.
Academic and Advisory Support
Early decision-making and tailored guidance are critical to the program’s success:
- Dedicated Advisors: Specific academic and pre-law advisors to navigate requirements.
- LSAT Preparation: Assistance with preparing for the Law School Admission Test (LSAT).
Flexibility
The program’s flexibility allows you to choose among three distinguished law schools based on your career goals. This feature ensures:
- Personalized Choices: Tailoring your law education to best fit your professional aspirations.
Considerations
While the program offers significant benefits, it also comes with certain challenges:
- Rigorous Coursework: Accelerated nature demands intense and disciplined effort.
- Early Decision: Informing your advisor early improves navigational ease through the program.
Learn more about this pathway at Oklahoma State University’s 3 + 3 Early Admission to Law School program.
Selecting the right law school in Oklahoma involves evaluating critical factors such as educational quality, practical opportunities, and support services. These insights help you make an informed choice tailored to your career aspirations.
University of Oklahoma – Pre-Law Program
The University of Oklahoma (OU) offers a thorough pre-law program designed to equip undergraduate students with the skills and knowledge needed for law school success. Explore more details at the University of Oklahoma Pre-Law Program.
Key Features
- Full-Time Pre-Law Advisor: Provides guidance on course selection, major choices, and law school preparation.
- Active Pre-Law Society: Facilitates networking opportunities and practical experiences.
- Undergraduate Mock Trial Team: Offers hands-on legal experience to bolster courtroom skills.
- Early Entry Program/Combined Curriculum: Allows undergraduates to begin law school before completing their bachelor’s degree, offering a streamlined path to earning both degrees.
OU College of Law
Consistently ranked among the top law schools, the OU College of Law presents several advantages:
- Small Class Sizes: Enables personalized interactions with faculty and legal professionals.
- High Bar Passage Rates: Ensuring graduates are well-prepared for legal careers.
- Career Development Support: Three full-time counselors assist with career path planning.
- Specialized Certificates: Available in areas such as energy, natural resources, business entrepreneurship, and American Indian law.
- Study Abroad Opportunities: Prestigious partnerships with institutions like Brasenose College in Oxford and Renmin University of China Law School.
Academic Preparation
Students aiming for law school can pursue any undergraduate degree at OU. Recommended courses include:
- Written and Spoken English
- Accounting
- Economics
- Social Sciences
- Humanities
- Philosophy
- Statistics
- Logic
- Composition
These courses help build a solid foundation for understanding legal principles and developing critical skills needed for law school.
Further details can be explored at the University of Oklahoma Pre-Law Program.
How to Choose the Best Law School in Oklahoma
Selecting the best law school in Oklahoma involves a detailed consideration of multiple factors that align with your personal goals and career aspirations. Here are several key aspects to weigh:
Factors to Consider
- Faculty Expertise: Interactions with knowledgeable professors enhance academic and professional growth.
- Bar Passage Rates: High rates often reflect robust preparation and the school’s educational quality.
- Internships and Externships: Extensive opportunities for practical experience in legal settings provide invaluable real-world training.
- Experiential Learning: Programs like clinics and moot courts are crucial for developing practical legal skills.
- Financial Aid Options: Scholarships, assistantships, fellowships, grants, and loans can significantly impact your educational affordability.
- Location: Proximity to courthouses, law firms, and government agencies allows for better networking and job prospects.
- Diversity and Inclusivity: Exposure to varied perspectives prepares you for a global legal practice.
- Alumni Network: Active and supportive alumni can offer mentorship, job placements, and ongoing career development benefits.
Making an Informed Decision
Your choice should reflect your personal and professional needs. Evaluate the options based on:
- Academic Reputation: Consider the school’s standing and performance metrics.
- Program Flexibility: Choose programs that fit your schedule and career path.
- Support Systems: Look for resources like career services, academic counseling, and peer support.
- Future Opportunities: Assess the long-term benefits, including alumni connections and job placements.
By carefully considering these factors, you can identify the best law school in Oklahoma that suits your requirements and supports your journey toward a successful legal career.
Law Schools By State
Conclusion
Selecting the right law school is paramount to your future legal career. Each of the law schools in Oklahoma highlighted here offers unique programs, specialized support, and ample opportunities for practical experience. Whether it’s the comprehensive degree programs at Oklahoma City University School of Law, the robust JD program at The University of Tulsa College of Law, the accelerated 3 + 3 Early Admission at Oklahoma State University, or the well-rounded pre-law offerings at the University of Oklahoma, there’s a path tailored to your goals. Conduct thorough research and engage with these programs to find the best fit for your aspirations and begin your journey toward a successful legal career.