We all want to make a difference. Some people want to be remembered as someone who had a significant impact on the world, while others make their presence felt quietly. Big or small, anyone can help bring about positive change for humanity.
Studying law is one way to make a difference. Many people study law to uphold justice, a highly commendable goal, especially in challenging times. Others want to be intellectually challenged and develop expertise in critical thinking. Regardless of the reason, there are many benefits to studying law. Lawyers do not work only in courtrooms; they can also take on many roles in various industries. In this article, we will look at the top law schools in Michigan.
Best Law Schools in Michigan
1. University of Michigan Law School
- Law School Links:
- Degrees offered: J.D., LL.M., S.J.D.
Founded in 1859, the University of Michigan Law School is one of the oldest law schools in the United States. The law school is known for its strong academic reputation, broad curriculum, clinical opportunities, and global reach. Michigan Law alumni have gone on to work in the judiciary, government, public interest, private practice, and other fields.
Students in the law degree programs have opportunities to participate in international externship programs in Geneva, India, and South Africa. Graduate study at Michigan Law currently includes the LL.M. and S.J.D. programs for foreign-trained lawyers.
The law school also offers a wide selection of international, comparative, and foreign law courses, including courses related to Chinese law, comparative human rights, constitutional law in South Africa, and other international legal topics.
2. Wayne State University
- Law School Links:
- Degrees offered: J.D., LL.M., M.S.L., B.A. in Law, Minor in Law, Joint J.D./LL.M., Dual LL.M.
Next on our list of the best law schools in Michigan is Wayne State University Law School. Founded in 1927 as Detroit City Law School, Wayne Law is a public law school located in Detroit. The university states that Wayne Law consistently has the lowest tuition of any law school in Michigan.
The law school offers a diverse curriculum to prepare students for legal practice and related careers. Students can study foundational and advanced subjects across public law, business law, litigation, dispute resolution, health law, tax law, and other areas.
The Master of Studies in Law program is designed for professionals who want legal knowledge without earning a J.D. The program is online, most coursework is asynchronous, and concentration options include Corporate Compliance, Health Law, and Human Resources. Most students complete the degree in 24 months.
3. University of Detroit Mercy School of Law (Detroit Mercy Law)
- Law School Links:
- Degrees offered: J.D., Canadian & American Dual JD, JD/MBA
Established in 1912, the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law is part of the University of Detroit Mercy. Detroit Mercy Law’s history is shaped by Jesuit and Mercy values, and the school is located in downtown Detroit.
Detroit Mercy Law emphasizes practical training, legal writing, and professional preparation. The U.S. J.D. program requires 90 credit hours and includes foundational courses, upper-level core courses, a clinic, a Law Firm Program course, an upper-level writing course, and a global distribution course.
The Canadian & American Dual JD is a three-year program offered with Windsor Law. Students earn J.D. degrees from both Detroit Mercy Law and Windsor Law and complete 105 credit hours across the two institutions. Detroit Mercy Law also offers a JD/MBA program that allows students to earn a J.D. from Detroit Mercy Law and an MBA from the University of Detroit Mercy College of Business Administration in less time than pursuing the degrees separately.
4. Michigan State University College of Law (MSU Law)
- Law School Links:
- Degrees offered: J.D., Advanced Standing J.D., dual/concurrent degree options, and non-degree/exchange programs
The history of the Michigan State University College of Law dates back to 1891, when the Detroit College of Law was founded to serve Detroit residents. The college affiliated with Michigan State University in 1995 and was fully integrated into Michigan State University in 2020. MSU Law is accredited by the American Bar Association.
As a law school in Michigan, Michigan State University College of Law offers J.D. programs, dual and concurrent degree options, and master’s and non-degree programs. Students can also pursue clinics, externships, trial practice, dispute resolution, and other practical learning opportunities.
MSU Law currently lists a study abroad program in Japan focused on the U.S.-Japanese relationship. The school also notes that students may enroll in study abroad programs offered by other ABA-accredited law schools.
5. Cooley Law School
- Law School Links:
- Degrees offered: J.D.; LL.M. programs in Corporate Law and Finance, Homeland and National Security Law, Taxation, and U.S. Legal Studies for international lawyers
Cooley Law School is accredited by the American Bar Association and the Higher Learning Commission. Students can gain substantive skills and knowledge for the legal profession and may choose from concentrations such as Administrative Law, Business Transactions, Canadian Law Practice, Environmental Law, Intellectual Property, International Law, Litigation, and General Practice/Solo and Small Firm.
The J.D. program offers schedule options that can be completed in two to five years, depending on the student’s path. Cooley also has LL.M. programs listed by the American Bar Association in Corporate Law and Finance, Homeland and National Security, Taxation, and U.S. Legal Studies for international lawyers.
I hope that this article was helpful. If you are interested, check out the available courses for international students and the USA Scholarships Page!
