Nestled between the Appalachian Mountains and the Atlantic Ocean, North Carolina is an ideal destination for hiking, sunbathing, and collecting seashells. For those facing the challenges of a busy law school schedule, it certainly helps to have these natural amenities! Besides using the library, you could find a quiet spot near a trail, or near the water, to spend quality time studying for your coursework.
Check out this brief guide on the top law schools in North Carolina to help you choose the best option for your law school studies!
1. Duke University
Duke University’s law school is ranked 10th overall in the US, with an acceptance rate of 20%. The current class has a median GPA of 3.80 according to last year’s LSAT scores at Duke University, the average LSAT score was 169. An application fee of $80 is charged from the student for their JD applications. The tuition fee is set at $66,120.
Duke University is the top law school in North Carolina, so you can rest assured that you are getting a top-notch education here. It offers some exciting dual degree programs such as JD/LLM in International and Comparative Law, JD/LLM in Law and Entrepreneurship, JD/MA in Bioethics and Science Policy, and JD/MBA. The highly competitive environment of this university allows its students to grow and become world-class law professionals.
2. UNC-Chapel Hill
University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill is ranked 24th in the US News rankings, with an acceptance rate of 21%. The batch of 2024 has a median GPA of 3.7 and an average LSAT score of 164. UNC-Chapel Hill charges a $75 application fee. The tuition at the UNC is set at $24,532 for residents and $41,678 for non-residents.
UNC offers dual degree courses such as JD/MBA, JD/MA in Sports Administration, and JD/ Masters in Public Policy. The university has a variety of legal clinics specializing in different branches of law and a one-semester externship program.
3. Wake Forest University
According to US News rankings, Wake Forest University is ranked at 41st place, with an acceptance rate of 18%. The batch of 2024 has a median GPA of 3.73 and an average LSAT score of 163. Wake Forest University charges a $75 application fee. The tuition at WFU is $47,610.
There are multiple joint degrees such as JD/MBA, JD/MA in Bioethics, and JD/M. Div (master of divinity). The presence of legal clinics and legal journals helps students of Wake Forest University to grow exponentially during their JD program. WFU offers resident study abroad programs in London, Venice, and Vienna making it one of the top law schools in North Carolina.
4. Campbell University
Campbell University is ranked between 147-193, with an acceptance rate of 62%. The median GPA of the class of 2024 is 3.36 and an average LSAT score of 152. The Norman Adrian Wiggins School of Law at Campbell University charges no application fee, and its tuition fee is set at $43,370.
Campbell University offers international opportunities to study in Ghana and abroad. The program provides students with several opportunities to gain a global perspective and experience. This university teaches students the practical skills of negotiation and arbitration.
5. Elon University
Elon University is ranked among the top 200 universities, with an acceptance rate of 46%. The present class has a median GPA of 3.30 and an average LSAT score of 150. The tuition fee is set at $47,358.
Elon University offers an engaging student atmosphere, with more than 6000 students on campus. The university offers moot courts, bridge-to-practice, term-based legal courses and aims to collaborate with non-profits and public agencies, making it a good law school to go for.
6. North Carolina Central University
North Carolina Central University is ranked among the top 200 universities, with an acceptance rate of 45%. The present class has a median GPA of 3.24 and an average LSAT score of 146. An application fee of $50 is charged. The tuition fee is set at $13,544 for residents and $36,116 for non-residents.
With under 600 students, North Carolina Central University offers a faculty-to-student ratio of less than 10:1, making it an ideal choice if you prefer smaller class sizes.
Choosing From the Best Law Schools in North Carolina
As shown above, North Carolina has plenty of great options to study law. Some important factors to consider when deciding on which school is best for you would require developing your own criteria – do you prefer a larger student body, such as Elon’s, or a tight-knit group like at North Carolina Central University? It’s also important to note that several of these options are in some of North Carolina’s largest cities, while Campbell University is in a small town. While there are obvious geographical and size differences, you’ll be sure to experience excellent instruction and preparation for your future career in law!
