A law program prepares you for a career that plays an important role in society, protecting rights, shaping policy, and ensuring justice. Lawyers are always in demand, whether in private practice, government, corporate settings, or public interest work, making a solid legal education essential for securing a rewarding and impactful career.
Pennsylvania has a rich legal history and a dynamic legal environment, making it an ideal place to study law. The state is home to a range of law schools, from institutions with strong regional reputations to nationally recognized programs known for academic excellence, distinguished faculty, and comprehensive career support.
A good law school in Pennsylvania provides practical experience through clinics, internships, moot court programs, and networking opportunities that connect students with influential legal professionals.
Among the many law schools in Pennsylvania, some stand out for their exceptional programs and nationwide recognition. These schools consistently rank highly in national and regional evaluations based on factors like bar passage rates, faculty quality, academic resources, and career outcomes.
In this article, we’ve focused on these top institutions, using reliable rankings and data to guide prospective students toward schools that combine strong academics, hands-on training, and a proven track record of producing successful lawyers.
Best Law Schools in Pennsylvania
1. University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School
Penn Carey Law provides a comprehensive legal education with a global perspective. The Juris Doctor (J.D.) program is complemented by advanced degrees such as the Master of Laws (LL.M.), Master of Law (ML), and the Doctor of Juridical Science (S.J.D.).
Students can pursue joint degrees in various disciplines, including Bioethics, Criminology, Education, International Studies, Nonprofit Leadership, Social Policy, and Social Work, allowing for a multifaceted legal education.
The curriculum emphasizes interdisciplinary studies, offering courses in areas like business, health, international, tax, and environmental law. Students engage in practical experiences through clinics, externships, and involvement in law journals, preparing them for diverse legal careers.
The school is accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA), ensuring that its programs meet the high standards required for legal education and practice.
2. Temple University Beasley School of Law
Temple Law offers a robust selection of programs aimed at producing practice-ready attorneys. The full-time and part-time Juris Doctor (J.D.) programs provide a solid foundation in legal principles, complemented by specialized LL.M. programs in Trial Advocacy, Taxation, and Transnational Law. Notably, Temple Law’s LL.M. in Trial Advocacy is nationally recognized, preparing students for litigation careers.
The school also offers an online LL.M. in International Business Law, catering to professionals seeking flexible learning options. Graduate programs include the S.J.D. and a Master of Science in Taxation, both designed for those aiming to delve deeper into specific legal fields.
Temple Law is accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA), ensuring that its programs meet the high standards required for legal education and practice.
3. Villanova University Charles Widger School of Law
Villanova Law provides a comprehensive legal education with a focus on business and practical training. The Juris Doctor (J.D.) program offers concentrations in Business Law, Health Care Law, Intellectual Property Law, Litigation and Dispute Resolution, Public Interest Law, and Sports Law, allowing students to tailor their studies to specific interests.
The curriculum includes over 100 courses, encompassing foundational courses, specialty offerings, drafting courses, clinical experiences, seminars, simulation courses, and externships, ensuring a well-rounded legal education.
Villanova Law is accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA), ensuring that its programs meet the high standards required for legal education and practice.
4. Penn State Dickinson Law
Penn State Dickinson Law offers a dynamic legal education with a focus on practical skills and community engagement. The Juris Doctor (J.D.) program is complemented by an Accelerated Bachelor’s/J.D. Program, allowing students to complete both degrees in a reduced timeframe.
The curriculum introduces students to various practice areas, equipping them with competencies that enhance employability. The school emphasizes experiential learning, providing students with opportunities to engage in real-world legal scenarios.
Penn State Dickinson Law is accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA), ensuring that its programs meet the high standards required for legal education and practice.
5. Drexel University Thomas R. Kline School of Law
Drexel Kline School of Law offers innovative programs designed for the modern legal landscape. The 3-Year J.D. program provides a traditional legal education, while the 2-Year J.D. program, known as “Fast Forward,” allows students to earn their law degree in a condensed timeframe without compromising on the quality of education.
The curriculum includes a nationally recognized year-long Legal Methods program, focusing on legal argumentation and writing skills. Students can choose from concentrations in Business and Entrepreneurship Law, Criminal Law, Health Law, and Intellectual Property Law, aligning their studies with career aspirations.
Drexel Kline School of Law is accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA).
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which law school should I choose in Pennsylvania?
It depends on what you want from your legal education. If you want a nationally ranked school with strong global connections, Penn Carey Law is a top choice. For practical experience and trial advocacy, Temple University Beasley School of Law is excellent.
Villanova and Drexel focus heavily on hands-on learning, while Penn State Dickinson balances tradition with experiential opportunities. Think about your career goals, the areas of law you’re interested in, and the kind of campus experience you want.
2. What types of programs do these schools offer?
All offer the standard Juris Doctor (J.D.), which is required to practice law. Many also have LL.M. programs for advanced specialization, S.J.D. degrees for research-focused legal careers, and joint degrees combining law with business, international affairs, or public health. Concentrations may include corporate law, tax law, intellectual property, health law, and trial advocacy.
3. Are these law schools accredited?
Yes, all the schools on our list are accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA). This is crucial because it qualifies you to sit for the bar exam and ensures the program meets national standards.
4. What are the job prospects after graduation?
Graduates can work in law firms, corporate legal departments, government agencies, nonprofits, or start their own practice. Top-paying areas in Pennsylvania include corporate law, health law, intellectual property, and trial advocacy.
According to the American Bar Association, around 88% of law graduates find jobs within 10 months that require a J.D. Having a specialization or practical experience through clinics and internships increases your chances of landing a strong position.
5. How much does it cost to attend these schools?
Tuition varies widely. For example, Penn Carey Law is around $67,000 per year, Villanova is about $56,000, and Temple is more affordable for in-state students at roughly $31,000. Consider living costs, scholarships, and loan options when calculating the total cost.
6. Do any programs offer online options?
Most J.D. programs are in-person due to hands-on training requirements. Some schools, like Temple, offer online LL.M. programs for flexibility, and a few continuing education or hybrid programs are emerging.
7. What makes one law school better than another?
Look at bar passage rates, employment statistics, faculty expertise, student support services, and available concentrations. Schools with strong clinic programs or externship opportunities give you practical experience that can make a huge difference in starting your career.