The University of Denver Law School is widely recognized for its practical training, international law strengths, and commitment to experiential learning. Located in the Rocky Mountain region, the school attracts students seeking a career-focused environment with strong connections to Denver’s legal and business communities.
Rankings and reputation data help prospective students evaluate how the JD, clinics, and interdisciplinary programs align with their professional goals. The following sections break down recent ranking performance, curriculum highlights, employment outcomes, and real user questions.
| Program | 2024 Rank (U.S. News) | Median LSAT | Median GPA | Bar Passage Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Denver Law School (Sturm College of Law) | 67 | 158 | 3.33 | 84% |
| Part-Time JD | 56 | 156 | 3.30 | 82% |
| LLM in Interdisciplinary Studies | – | – | 3.25 | 88% |
| Online Master of Legal Studies | – | – | 3.50 | 90% |
Ranking Trends Over Time
Recent U.S. News Placement
Across ranking cycles, University of Denver Law School has maintained a position in the top 70 national law schools, with particular strength in clinical training and international law. Its part-time JD has consistently ranked in the top 50, reflecting flexibility for working professionals.
Growth and Specialty Recognition
The school’s emphasis on experiential learning, business law, and dispute resolution has improved its specialty rankings. Students often cite small class sizes and faculty mentorship as factors that enhance educational outcomes beyond what rankings alone can capture.
Admissions Criteria and Preparation
Academic and Testing Benchmarks
A competitive application includes a strong undergraduate GPA, a solid LSAT or GRE score, and a compelling personal statement. The median LSAT and GPA figures in the summary table provide a realistic benchmark for applicants.
Experiential and Diversity Factors
Denver Law values real-world experience, leadership, and diverse perspectives. Work experience, internships, and contributions to underrepresented communities can strengthen an application, especially for candidates near the median numbers.
Curriculum and Experiential Learning
Required Courses and Clinics
The curriculum combines foundational law subjects with practical training through clinics, externships, and simulations. Students refine skills in negotiation, drafting, and advocacy while working on cases that serve real clients.
Special Programs and Certificates
Opportunities such as the International and Comparative Law program, Business Law Center, and Dispute Resolution Center allow students to tailor their education. These programs often integrate coursework, hands-on projects, and networking with practitioners.
Career Outcomes and Employment Data
Bar Passage and Job Placement
Strong bar passage rates and employer partnerships in Denver, Washington D.C., and major cities support graduate employment. The school reports detailed outcomes, including positions in public service, firms, and corporate legal departments.
Salary and Long-Term Trajectory
Graduates frequently enter mid-size and large firms, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations. The combination of practical training and regional connections helps alumni advance into leadership roles over time.
Practical Training and Professional Readiness
- Enroll in skills-based clinics and externships early to build a strong résumé.
- Leverage international and business law centers for specialized projects and networking.
- Track bar passage and employment outcomes by program to set realistic goals.
- Use part-time and flexible JD options to balance work, study, and professional development.
- Engage with alumni mentors and career services for targeted job search support.
FAQ
Reader questions
How does University of Denver Law School compare to regional competitors in rankings?
It typically ranks similarly to or above several regional peers, with higher marks for clinical training and international law, and competitive part-time JD placement.
What is the average class size and student-faculty ratio?
Small seminars and clinics keep the student-faculty ratio favorable, allowing for individual attention and collaborative learning in most courses.
What are the tuition costs and available financial aid options?
Tuition is mid-range for private institutions, with substantial scholarships, fellowships, and loan-deferral programs for students pursuing public interest careers.
How do employers view University of Denver Law School graduates?
Graduates are often seen as practice-ready, with strong drafting, advocacy, and professionalism skills that suit law firms, government, and nonprofit roles.