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Best Law Schools in Michigan - The Complete List

March 1, 2024
5 min read

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Reviewed by:

David Merson

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

Reviewed: 3/1/24

Are you looking for a law school in Michigan? This article will help you find the one best for you.

Embarking on a legal education journey is a pivotal step towards a rewarding and impactful career in the field of law. In the state of Michigan, aspiring legal professionals are met with a diverse array of options, each distinguished in its own right. 

Choosing the right law school is a crucial decision that can shape the trajectory of one's legal career. In this article, we will explore and evaluate Michigan law schools, delving into their unique strengths, renowned faculty, comprehensive programs, and the distinctive learning environments they offer. 

Top Law Schools in Michigan

Whether you prioritize academic reputation, experiential learning opportunities, or a specific legal focus, this detailed table will provide you with key information about the best law schools in Michigan. 

Law School U.S. News Ranking Acceptance Rate Median LSAT Median GPA
University of Michigan – Ann Arbor #10 13.5% 171 3.83
Wayne State University #56 35.5% 161 3.80
Michigan State University #111 43.9% 157 3.52
University of Detroit Mercy #141 56.1% 154 3.39
Western Michigan University (Cooley) #180 - 196 48.2% 148 3.00

Michigan law schools offer a wide range of options for hopeful law students, from the famous Ann Arbor to the lesser-known Cooley. The variety in acceptance rates and test schools will give most potential students hope at finding the perfect school for them within the state of Michigan.

University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

Law School U.S. News Ranking Acceptance Rate Median LSAT Median GPA Bar Passage Rate
University of Michigan - Ann Arbor #10 13.5% 171 3.83 95.48%

The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, stands as a stalwart institution renowned for its academic excellence, and its law program is no exception. Boasting a top-tier law school consistently ranked among the nation's best, UMichigan offers a comprehensive and dynamic legal education experience. 

With a distinguished faculty comprising leading scholars and practitioners, the program emphasizes a rigorous curriculum, innovative research opportunities, and a commitment to fostering critical thinking and legal advocacy skills. 

Wayne State University

Law School U.S. News Ranking Acceptance Rate Median LSAT Median GPA Bar Passage Rate
Wayne State University #56 35.5% 161 3.8 84.07%

Wayne State University, situated in the heart of Detroit, boasts a reputable law program that has earned recognition for its commitment to excellence and diversity. The Wayne State University Law School is known for its innovative approach to legal education, blending academic rigor with practical experiences. 

With a faculty comprising experienced practitioners and scholars, the program offers a diverse array of specialized courses, clinical opportunities, and externships to equip students with real-world skills. 

Michigan State University

Law School U.S. News Ranking Acceptance Rate Median LSAT Median GPA Bar Passage Rate
Michigan State University #111 43.9% 157 3.52 77.46%

Michigan State University, with its expansive academic offerings, hosts a reputable law program that stands out for its commitment to fostering well-rounded legal professionals. The Michigan State University College of Law combines a rigorous curriculum with practical experiences, preparing students for the complexities of the legal landscape. 

The program places a strong emphasis on experiential learning, offering clinics, externships, and simulation courses to provide hands-on training. Additionally, the College of Law's commitment to interdisciplinary education and innovative research initiatives sets it apart, offering students a holistic legal education that transcends traditional boundaries.

University of Detroit Mercy

Law School U.S. News Ranking Acceptance Rate Median LSAT Median GPA Bar Passage Rate
University of Detroit Mercy #141 56.1% 154 3.39 78.26%

The University of Detroit Mercy School of Law is distinguished for its rich tradition and commitment to producing ethical and skilled legal professionals. Situated in the heart of Detroit, the law school offers a dynamic environment that integrates theoretical knowledge with practical application. 

The law program at the University of Detroit Mercy focuses on experiential learning. It provides students with opportunities for real-world application through clinics, internships, and community engagement initiatives.

Western Michigan University (Cooley)

Law School U.S. News Ranking Acceptance Rate Median LSAT Median GPA Bar Passage Rate
Cooley Law School #180 - #196 48.2% 148 3.0 73.1%

Western Michigan University Thomas M. Cooley Law School is recognized for its accessibility and commitment to providing a practical and inclusive legal education. As one of the largest law schools in the nation, Cooley Law School has multiple campuses and offers flexible scheduling options, catering to a diverse range of students. 

The program emphasizes hands-on learning through clinics, externships, and simulation courses, preparing students for the demands of the legal profession. With a focus on practical skills development, Cooley Law School equips graduates to navigate the complexities of the legal field, fostering a strong sense of professionalism and community engagement.

How to Find More Law Schools Near Michigan

If you’re looking for more law schools near Michigan, use our free tool to find the ideal school for you.

FAQs

Here are a few common questions about the best law schools in Michigan.

1. How Many Law Schools in Michigan?

There are five Michigan law schools.

2. Which Law School Is Most Prestigious in Michigan?

The University of Michigan - Ann Arbor is the most prestigious law school in Michigan.

3. Are There Part-Time or Evening Law School Programs in Michigan?

Three schools offer part-time law programs in Michigan: Wayne State University, the University of Detroit Mercy, and Western Michigan University (Cooley). The schools that offer evening options include Wayne State University, Michigan State University (online), and Cooley.

Final Thoughts

Whether you seek the esteemed tradition and academic excellence of the University of Michigan, the community-focused and socially conscious approach of Wayne State University, or anything in between, Michigan's legal education landscape offers options as diverse as the state itself. 

Each of the Michigan law schools stands as a gateway to a rewarding legal career, providing students with the knowledge, skills, and experiences necessary to thrive in an ever-evolving legal landscape.

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