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Law Schools in North Carolina: What You Need to Know

June 17, 2024
6 min read

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Reviewed by:

David Merson

Former Head of Pre-Law Office, Northeastern University, & Admissions Officer, Brown University

Reviewed: 6/17/24

Discover each North Carolina Law school's rankings, bar passage rates, acceptance rates, and average acceptance LSAT scores and GPA. 

If you’re considering attending a law school in North Carolina, you’ll have wonderful options. North Carolina has several institutions renowned for their quality programs and academic excellence. This article is your map to finding the best fit for you.

One of the most important things to know in a legal aspiration is choosing the right school. Before choosing a law school in NC, it is important to consider the following.

  • Different specialized legal areas offered and experiential opportunities
  • Faculty strength and faculty-to-student ratios.
  • Location and proximity to firms, work, and networking opportunities
  • Alum success rates and post-graduation employment rates

Making these considerations and seeing how they align with your goals will help you find the best law school fit and assess how your education can best serve your professional trajectory.

Top Law Schools In North Carolina

Law School U.S. News Ranking Acceptance Rate Median LSAT Median GPA
Duke University #4(tie) 20.5% 170 3.87
Wake Forest University #25 31.5% 165 3.79
UNC-Chapel Hill #20(tie) 16.3% 166 3.78
Campbell University #134(tie) 62% N/A 3.24
North Carolina Central University #178-196 34% 149 3.37
Elon University #148 45.9% 153 3.43

Whether you're drawn to a specific field of law or seeking a comprehensive legal education, this section will guide you through the standout features of each school.

1. Duke University

Law School U.S. News Ranking Acceptance Rate Median LSAT Median GPA Bar Passage Rate
Duke University School of Law #4 (tie) 20.5% 170 3.87 94.4%

Duke University School of Law is the best law school in North Carolina, ranking 10th in the country. The school offers a rigorous academic curriculum as well as several hands-on learning experiences. Its programs, bar passage rate, and selectivity in admissions emphasize the quality of education it provides. Duke Law's dedication to promoting diversity and inclusivity further enhances the enriching educational environment.

Among the most elite law schools, Duke Law's graduates demonstrate outstanding achievements in diverse legal sectors. The school's impressive bar passage rates and notable employment outcomes underscore its effectiveness in preparing students for prosperous legal careers.

Duke University boasts a 20.5% acceptance rate. The most recent class showcases a median GPA of 3.87, as indicated by the LSAT scores from the previous year. The average LSAT score at Duke University is 170. The school’s JD application fee is $80 for aspiring students. The tuition fee is marked at $77,100 for enrolled students.

2. Wake Forest University

Law School U.S. News Ranking Acceptance Rate Median LSAT Median GPA Bar Passage Rate
Wake Forest University School of Law #25 31.5% 165 3.79 92.39%

Wake Forest University School of Law holds the second position in the state and 41st in the country. Wake Forest Law is a respected choice among North Carolina law schools focusing on experiential learning and a commitment to academic excellence. Its high bar passage rates and selectivity in admissions underscore its dedication to producing competent legal professionals.

Wake Forest Law is renowned for its inclusive and supportive community, emphasizing collaboration and hands-on experience. The school's strong emphasis on practical learning through clinics and externships equips students with real-world skills.

Wake Forest Law's commitment to nurturing a diverse student body enriches the learning environment. WFU’s acceptance rate is 31.5%. The GPA and LSAT are 3.79 and 165, respectively. Wake Forest University mandates a $75 application fee for prospective applicants. The tuition cost at WFU is $55,162.

3. UNC-Chapel Hill

Law School U.S. News Ranking Acceptance Rate Median LSAT Median GPA Bar Passage Rate
UNC-Chapel Hill School of Law #20(tie) 16.3% 166 3.78 92.31%

The University of North Carolina School of Law is renowned for its commitment to public service and academic rigor. The institution's dedication to shaping ethical and socially responsible legal professionals is evident in its diverse programs and experiential learning opportunities.

With its strong emphasis on community engagement and social justice, UNC School of Law prepares graduates to tackle complex legal challenges with compassion and competence. As a steadfast contributor to the legal field, UNC School of Law continues to produce skilled advocates who contribute positively to the ever-evolving legal field.

In the US rankings, the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill sits in the 24th spot, boasting an admission rate of 16.3%. The school averages a 3.78 GPA and a 166 LSAT score. UNC-Chapel Hill mandates a $75 application fee. Tuition fees at UNC are pegged at $29,696 for residents and $51,486 for non-residents.

4. Campbell University

Law School U.S. News Ranking Acceptance Rate Median LSAT Median GPA Bar Passage Rate
Campbell University School of Law #134(tie) 62% N/A 3.24 95.59%

Campbell University School of Law equips students with hands-on skills through robust clinical programs and real-world simulations. The institution's commitment to fostering professional values and ethics prepares graduates for the legal profession's demands.

Situated in a nurturing environment, Campbell Law encourages collaboration and mentorship among its students and faculty. Its emphasis on building strong ethical foundations and community engagement sets it apart. As an institution dedicated to producing ethical and competent legal practitioners, Campbell University School of Law continues to make a meaningful impact on legal education.

Campbell University boasts a 62% acceptance rate, indicating how easy it is to get in. The GPA is 3.24. The school does not have a specific target LSAT score, but we recommend an average of 152. The school does not impose an application fee, and tuition costs $50,330.

5. North Carolina Central University

Law School U.S. News Ranking Acceptance Rate Median LSAT Median GPA Bar Passage Rate
North Carolina School of Law #178-196 34% 149 3.37 56.59%

North Carolina Central University School of Law stands out for its focus on producing culturally competent legal professionals. With a strong emphasis on experiential learning, the school offers clinics and externships that equip students with practical skills. Its specialized civil rights and constitutional law programs reflect its dedication to addressing pressing legal issues.

NCCU Law's legacy of producing advocates championing social justice and equity resonates in its alumni community. As a trailblazer in fostering a diverse legal workforce, North Carolina Central University School of Law continues to promote justice and equality through legal education significantly.

North Carolina Central University is ranked among the top 200 universities, with an acceptance rate of 34%. The school has a median GPA of 3.37 and an average LSAT score of 149. An application fee of $50 is charged. The tuition fee is $6,722 for residents and $18,058 for non-residents.

6. Elon University

Law School U.S. News Ranking Acceptance Rate Median LSAT Median GPA Bar Passage Rate
Elon University School of Law #148 45.9% 153 3.43 59.3%

The law school's curriculum is designed to prepare graduates for real-world challenges. It offers several experiential opportunities, including moot court, bridge-to-practice programs, and term-based legal courses. Moreover, Elon University Law's emphasis on collaboration with nonprofits and public agencies underscores its commitment to addressing contemporary legal issues and promoting social justice.

Elon University School of Law presents an attractive option for aspiring legal professionals seeking a well-rounded education combining theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Its focus on hands-on learning, interdisciplinary engagement, and community collaboration prepares students to thrive in the dynamic and evolving field of law.

Elon University School of Law's dedication to fostering an engaging student atmosphere is reflected in its modest acceptance rate of 45.9%. The median GPA is 3.43, and the LSAT average score of 153. This diverse and accomplished student body contributes to a vibrant and collaborative learning community.

How to Find More Law Schools Near North Carolina

If you seek law schools around North Carolina, take our law school quiz to help you make a choice.

FAQs: Best Law Schools in North Carolina

What other questions do you have about law schools in North Carolina? Check out the answers below.

1. What Are the Best Law Schools in North Carolina?

The top law schools in North Carolina include Duke University, UNC-Chapel Hill, and Wake Forest University. These institutions offer diverse programs and renowned faculty.

2. How Many Law Schools Are in North Carolina?

North Carolina has six notable law schools, each offering unique strengths and opportunities for aspiring legal professionals.

3. What Is the Most Accessible Law School To Get Into in NC?

Acceptance rates vary among law schools in North Carolina, but each institution maintains rigorous standards for admission. It's important to note that the admissions process considers factors beyond acceptance rates, such as LSAT scores, meeting GPA requirements, personal statements, and individual attributes.

4. What Is the Most Affordable Law School in NC?

North Carolina Central University is the most affordable due to its comparatively lower tuition fees for residents and non-residents.

5. Is There a Law School in North Carolina That Specializes in a Particular Area of Law?

Yes, some law schools in North Carolina offer specialized programs. For example, Duke University School of Law is known for its dual degree options, including a JD/LLM in International and Comparative Law, a JD/LLM in Law and Entrepreneurship, and a JD/MA in Bioethics and Science Policy.

6. What Resources Do North Carolina Law Schools Offer to Help Students Succeed?

North Carolina law schools provide several resources to support student success. These include legal clinics, externship programs, moot court opportunities, and career services. The diverse offerings help students gain practical experience, develop legal skills, and connect with professionals in their desired fields.

Final Thoughts

Law schools in North Carolina are, without doubt, one of the best in the country. There’s a school for everyone. You can find a range of high-quality institutions in North Carolina, regardless of what you’re looking for in your dream law school! 

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