20 Worst Law Schools in the U.S.: Low Bar Passage Rates and Poor Employment Outcomes
Choosing the right law school is a critical decision for aspiring attorneys. The quality of legal education can significantly impact a graduate’s career prospects and earning potential.
While many institutions offer excellent programs, some law schools struggle to provide adequate preparation for the legal profession.
This article examines the 20 worst-performing law schools in the United States based on factors such as bar passage rates, employment outcomes, and student debt levels.
By highlighting these underperforming institutions, prospective law students can make more informed choices about their education and future careers.
The rankings serve as a cautionary guide for those considering legal studies at these schools.
1. Southern University Law Center
Southern University Law Center, located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, faces significant challenges in providing quality legal education. The school’s bar passage rates have consistently fallen below national averages, raising concerns about graduate preparedness.
Limited resources and facilities impact the learning environment for students. The law center struggles to attract highly qualified faculty members, potentially affecting the depth and breadth of legal instruction.
Job placement rates for graduates lag behind those of more prestigious institutions. Many alumni face difficulties securing employment in competitive legal markets.
The school’s low admission standards have drawn criticism from legal education experts. This approach may contribute to the struggles some students face in completing the program and passing the bar exam.
Despite these issues, Southern University Law Center maintains a commitment to serving underrepresented communities in the legal profession. The school continues to work on improving its academic programs and student outcomes.
2. Thomas Jefferson School of Law
Thomas Jefferson School of Law, located in San Diego, California, has faced significant challenges in recent years. The school has struggled with low bar passage rates and employment outcomes for its graduates.
In 2019, the American Bar Association revoked Thomas Jefferson’s accreditation due to financial issues and non-compliance with standards. This decision severely impacted the school’s reputation and student enrollment.
The law school has also faced criticism for its high tuition costs relative to the career prospects of its graduates. Many alumni have reported difficulties finding employment in the legal field after graduation. Similarly, just as students preparing for the Microsoft AZ-104 Practice Test Dumps face challenges in ensuring their investment in training leads to career success, law school graduates need to weigh the value of their education against future job opportunities.
Thomas Jefferson School of Law has attempted to address these issues by implementing curriculum changes and increasing student support services. Despite these efforts, the school continues to face an uphill battle in improving its standing among U.S. law schools.
3. Whittier Law School
Whittier Law School, located in Costa Mesa, California, ceased operations in 2019. The institution faced significant challenges in recent years, leading to its closure.
The school struggled with low bar passage rates, which consistently fell below the state average. This issue raised concerns about the quality of education provided to students.
Whittier Law School also experienced difficulties with job placement for its graduates. Many alumni struggled to secure employment in the legal field after completing their degrees.
The closure of Whittier Law School left enrolled students in a difficult position. They were forced to transfer to other institutions or abandon their legal education pursuits.
The shutdown of Whittier Law School serves as a cautionary tale for other law schools facing similar challenges. It highlights the importance of maintaining academic standards and ensuring positive outcomes for graduates.
4. Florida A&M University College of Law
Florida A&M University College of Law, located in Orlando, Florida, has faced challenges in recent years. The law school has struggled with low bar passage rates, impacting its reputation and ranking.
In 2023, the school’s first-time bar passage rate was 45.2%, significantly below the state average. This performance has raised concerns about the quality of education provided to students.
The law school has also experienced difficulties with student retention and graduation rates. These factors have contributed to its low ranking among U.S. law schools.
Florida A&M University College of Law offers full-time and part-time programs. Despite its challenges, the school maintains a commitment to diversity and aims to provide opportunities for underrepresented communities in the legal profession.
5. Appalachian School of Law
Appalachian School of Law, located in Grundy, Virginia, faces significant challenges in the legal education landscape. The school struggles with low bar passage rates, which can impact graduates’ career prospects.
Employment outcomes for Appalachian graduates have been concerning. Many alumni find it difficult to secure positions in the legal field after graduation.
The school’s remote location in rural Virginia may limit networking opportunities and access to legal internships. This geographical isolation can pose hurdles for students seeking practical experience.
Appalachian School of Law has faced accreditation issues in the past. These challenges have raised questions about the institution’s long-term stability and educational quality.
The school’s tuition costs remain relatively high compared to employment outcomes. This disparity can lead to financial strain for graduates entering the job market.
6. University of La Verne College of Law
The University of La Verne College of Law, located in Ontario, California, faces challenges in providing quality legal education. Its bar passage rates have consistently fallen below the state average, raising concerns about graduate preparedness.
The school’s employment outcomes for recent graduates also lag behind many peer institutions. A significant portion of alumni struggle to secure full-time, long-term positions that require bar passage within 10 months of graduation.
La Verne Law has faced accreditation issues in the past. The American Bar Association placed the school on probation in 2011 due to concerns over admissions practices and academic standards.
While the school has made efforts to improve, its continued low rankings and performance metrics keep it among the lower-tier law schools in the United States. Prospective students should carefully consider these factors when evaluating their legal education options.
7. Western State College of Law at Argosy University
Western State College of Law at Argosy University faces significant challenges in providing quality legal education. The school struggles with low bar passage rates, which can impact graduates’ career prospects.
Employment outcomes for Western State alumni have been concerning. Many graduates find it difficult to secure jobs in the legal field after completing their studies.
The school’s accreditation status has been precarious in recent years. This instability raises questions about the long-term viability of the institution and the value of its degrees.
Tuition costs at Western State are relatively high compared to outcomes. Students often graduate with substantial debt, which can be challenging to repay given the employment landscape.
The school’s reputation within the legal community is not strong. This can limit networking opportunities and career advancement for graduates.
8. Charlotte School of Law
Charlotte School of Law was a for-profit law school located in Charlotte, North Carolina. It opened its doors in 2006 and quickly gained a reputation for poor academic performance and low bar passage rates.
The school faced numerous challenges throughout its existence. In 2016, the American Bar Association placed it on probation due to concerns about its admissions practices and academic standards.
Charlotte School of Law lost its federal funding in December 2016, leading to financial difficulties. This resulted in the school’s closure in August 2017, leaving many students in limbo.
The school’s closure left a significant impact on its former students. Many were left with substantial student loan debt and incomplete law degrees, struggling to transfer credits to other institutions.
Charlotte School of Law serves as a cautionary tale in legal education. Its short-lived existence highlights the importance of maintaining high academic standards and responsible admissions practices in law schools.
9. Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico School of Law
The Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico School of Law faces significant challenges in providing quality legal education. Located in Ponce, Puerto Rico, this institution struggles with low bar passage rates and limited employment prospects for graduates.
The school’s bar exam performance is a major concern. In recent years, first-time test takers have achieved pass rates well below the national average. This raises questions about the effectiveness of the curriculum in preparing students for legal practice.
Post-graduation employment outcomes are also problematic. Many graduates struggle to secure full-time, long-term positions that require bar passage. This limits their ability to build successful legal careers and manage student loan debt.
The school’s resources and facilities have been criticized as outdated and insufficient. Some students report a lack of modern technology and research tools necessary for a competitive legal education.
10. Texas Southern University Thurgood Marshall School of Law
Texas Southern University Thurgood Marshall School of Law faces significant challenges in providing quality legal education. The school’s bar passage rates have consistently fallen below state averages, raising concerns about graduate preparedness.
Employment outcomes for graduates are also a point of concern. Many alumni struggle to secure positions in the legal field within the first year after graduation.
The school’s admissions standards have been criticized as less selective compared to other law schools. This has led to questions about the academic readiness of incoming students.
Financial concerns plague the institution, with high student debt loads and limited scholarship opportunities. These factors contribute to the overall financial burden on graduates.
Despite these issues, the school maintains a commitment to diversity and social justice. It continues to serve as an important institution for underrepresented communities in the legal profession.
11. Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School
Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School has faced challenges in recent years. The school’s bar passage rates have been consistently below average compared to other law schools in Georgia.
In 2019, the school’s first-time bar passage rate was 65.9%, which was lower than the state average. This performance has raised concerns about the quality of education provided.
The school’s employment statistics for graduates have also been a point of concern. A significant percentage of graduates struggle to find full-time, long-term employment in the legal field after graduation.
Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School has a lower admissions selectivity compared to many other law schools. This has led to questions about the academic preparedness of incoming students.
The school’s reputation within the legal community has suffered due to these ongoing issues. Prospective students should carefully consider these factors when evaluating their options for legal education.
12. North Carolina Central University School of Law
North Carolina Central University School of Law faces challenges in providing students with a competitive legal education. The school’s bar passage rates have consistently fallen below the state average, raising concerns about graduates’ preparedness for legal practice.
Employment outcomes for NCCU Law graduates are also a point of concern. A significant percentage of graduates struggle to secure full-time, long-term positions that require bar passage within 10 months of graduation.
The school’s relatively high tuition costs, compared to employment prospects, may lead to financial difficulties for graduates. This imbalance between cost and career outcomes can result in a less favorable return on investment for students.
NCCU Law’s lower ranking among U.S. law schools reflects these challenges. While the school aims to provide opportunities for underrepresented groups in the legal profession, it must address these issues to better serve its students and improve its standing.
13. Concordia University School of Law
Concordia University School of Law, located in Boise, Idaho, faced significant challenges during its brief existence. The law school opened in 2012 but closed its doors in 2020 due to financial difficulties.
Concordia struggled to obtain full accreditation from the American Bar Association (ABA). This impacted its ability to attract students and maintain a stable enrollment.
The school’s bar passage rates were consistently below average, raising concerns about the quality of education provided. Many graduates found it difficult to secure employment in the legal field after graduation.
Concordia’s closure left enrolled students in a difficult position, forcing them to transfer to other institutions or abandon their legal studies. The abrupt shutdown highlighted the risks associated with attending newer, less established law schools.
14. Ohio Northern University Pettit College of Law
Ohio Northern University Pettit College of Law, located in Ada, Ohio, faces challenges in providing competitive legal education. The school’s bar passage rates have been below average in recent years, raising concerns about graduate preparedness.
Employment outcomes for Pettit College of Law graduates are less favorable compared to other law schools. Many alumni struggle to secure positions in the legal field within 10 months of graduation.
The law school’s relatively high tuition costs, combined with limited scholarship opportunities, contribute to significant student debt. This financial burden can impact graduates’ career choices and long-term financial stability.
Pettit College of Law’s small size limits networking opportunities and diversity of course offerings. Students may find fewer options for specialization compared to larger institutions.
The school’s rural location in Ada, Ohio, presents challenges for students seeking internships and job opportunities in major legal markets.
15. Faulkner University Jones School of Law
Faulkner University Jones School of Law, located in Montgomery, Alabama, faces challenges in providing a competitive legal education. The school’s bar passage rate falls below the state average, raising concerns about graduate preparedness.
Employment outcomes for Jones School of Law graduates have been less favorable compared to other law schools. A significant portion of graduates struggle to secure full-time, long-term positions that require bar passage.
The school’s relatively high tuition costs, coupled with limited scholarship opportunities, can lead to substantial student debt. This financial burden may outweigh the potential career prospects for many graduates.
Jones School of Law’s low selectivity in admissions contributes to its struggles. The school accepts a high percentage of applicants, potentially impacting the overall quality of the student body and subsequent academic performance.
16. New England Law Boston
New England Law Boston has faced challenges in recent years. The school’s bar passage rates have been below average compared to other law schools in Massachusetts.
Graduates of New England Law Boston have reported difficulties finding employment in the legal field. The school’s job placement statistics lag behind many other institutions.
Tuition costs at New England Law Boston are relatively high considering its ranking and outcomes. This has led to concerns about the value proposition for students.
The school has a small endowment, which limits its ability to offer substantial financial aid or invest in programs and facilities. This financial constraint impacts the overall student experience.
New England Law Boston’s reputation within the legal community has suffered due to these factors. Prospective students should carefully weigh the costs and potential outcomes before considering this institution.
17. Ave Maria School of Law
Ave Maria School of Law, located in Naples, Florida, has faced challenges in maintaining its reputation and academic standards. The school’s bar passage rates have consistently fallen below the state average, raising concerns about graduate preparedness.
Accreditation issues have plagued Ave Maria in the past. The American Bar Association placed the school on probation in 2016 due to admissions practices and academic standards concerns. While the probation was lifted in 2018, the school’s reputation has yet to fully recover.
Employment outcomes for Ave Maria graduates have been less favorable compared to other law schools. Many alumni struggle to secure positions in the legal field, with a significant portion working in non-law-related jobs after graduation.
The school’s conservative Catholic mission has drawn criticism for potentially limiting academic freedom and diversity of thought. This narrow focus may impact students’ ability to engage with a broad range of legal perspectives and issues.
18. Black Hills State University Law School
Black Hills State University Law School, located in Spearfish, South Dakota, has faced significant challenges in recent years. The school’s bar passage rates have consistently fallen below the national average.
Graduates of Black Hills State University Law School often struggle to secure employment in the legal field. Many find themselves working in non-law related positions or facing unemployment after graduation.
The school’s faculty-to-student ratio is higher than desirable, limiting individual attention and mentorship opportunities. This can impact the quality of education and preparation for legal careers.
Black Hills State University Law School has limited resources for student support services and career development programs. This lack of comprehensive support can hinder students’ academic progress and professional growth.
The school’s curriculum has been criticized for not adequately preparing students for the realities of legal practice. Some graduates report feeling underprepared for the complexities of actual casework.
19. Santa Barbara & Ventura Colleges of Law
Santa Barbara & Ventura Colleges of Law operate as a non-profit law school with campuses in Santa Barbara and Ventura, California. The institution offers part-time evening programs for students pursuing Juris Doctor degrees.
The school is not accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA). This limits graduates’ ability to practice law outside of California. Students can only sit for the California Bar Exam after completing their studies.
Bar passage rates for Santa Barbara & Ventura Colleges of Law graduates have been consistently low. This raises concerns about the quality of legal education provided by the institution.
The school’s tuition is lower than many ABA-accredited law schools. However, the limited career prospects may offset this financial advantage for many students.
Graduates often face challenges in securing competitive legal positions due to the school’s lack of national recognition and accreditation status.
20. District of Columbia David A. Clarke School of Law
The District of Columbia David A. Clarke School of Law, part of the University of the District of Columbia, faces challenges in providing quality legal education. Its bar passage rates have consistently fallen below the national average.
The school’s employment outcomes for graduates are concerning. Many alumni struggle to secure full-time, long-term positions that require bar passage within 10 months of graduation.
Student debt is another issue at David A. Clarke School of Law. Graduates often leave with substantial loan burdens, which can be difficult to manage given the employment challenges they face.
The school’s resources and facilities are limited compared to higher-ranked law schools. This can impact the quality of education and opportunities available to students.
While the school aims to serve its community, its struggles in key areas have led to its inclusion on lists of lower-performing law schools in the United States.
Factors That Influence Law School Rankings
Law school rankings consider multiple criteria to assess the quality and performance of institutions. These factors provide prospective students with valuable insights for making informed decisions about their legal education.
Accreditation Importance
Accreditation plays a crucial role in law school rankings. The American Bar Association (ABA) is the primary accrediting body for U.S. law schools. ABA accreditation ensures that schools meet specific standards of quality and rigor in their legal education programs.
Schools without ABA accreditation often rank lower or may not be included in major rankings at all. This status can limit graduates’ ability to practice law in certain jurisdictions.
Accreditation also impacts a school’s eligibility for federal financial aid programs, affecting student access to funding options.
Bar Passage Rates
Bar passage rates significantly influence law school rankings. This metric measures the percentage of a school’s graduates who pass the bar exam on their first attempt.
Higher bar passage rates often correlate with better rankings. Schools with consistently high pass rates demonstrate their ability to prepare students for professional practice.
Many ranking systems compare a school’s bar passage rate to the state average. Schools exceeding state averages typically receive higher scores in this category.
Bar passage rates also reflect on the quality of a school’s curriculum and faculty, as well as its admission standards.
Employment Outcomes
Employment outcomes are a key factor in law school rankings. This metric considers the percentage of graduates who secure full-time, long-term positions requiring bar passage within 10 months of graduation.
Rankings often prioritize employment in larger law firms, federal clerkships, and prestigious public interest positions. Schools with higher placement rates in these areas tend to rank better.
Salary data for recent graduates also influences rankings. Higher average starting salaries can boost a school’s standing.
Some ranking systems consider the quality of employment outcomes relative to a school’s location and local job market conditions.
Impacts of Attending Lower-Ranked Law Schools
Attending a lower-ranked law school can significantly affect a graduate’s career trajectory, financial situation, and educational experience. These factors can have long-lasting implications for aspiring lawyers.
Career Prospects
Graduates from lower-ranked law schools often face more challenging job markets. Top law firms and prestigious judicial clerkships tend to recruit heavily from higher-ranked institutions. This can limit career options and starting salaries for graduates of less prestigious schools.
Employment rates for these graduates are typically lower. Many find themselves competing for positions at smaller firms or in less desirable legal sectors. Some may struggle to find law-related work at all.
Advancement opportunities can be more limited. Graduates might need to work harder to prove themselves and may face barriers when trying to transition to more prestigious firms or roles later in their careers.
Student Loan Debt
Lower-ranked law schools often lead to higher student loan debt. These institutions frequently offer less financial aid and scholarships compared to top-tier schools.
Graduates may struggle to repay loans due to lower starting salaries. The average law school debt can exceed $160,000, creating a significant financial burden.
Some graduates find themselves in a difficult position: high debt and limited job prospects. This can delay major life milestones like homeownership or starting a family.
Loan repayment programs may be harder to qualify for if graduates can’t secure high-paying legal jobs. This can extend the repayment period and increase the total cost of education.
Quality of Education
Lower-ranked law schools may offer a different educational experience compared to top-tier institutions. Faculty at these schools might have less prestigious credentials or research output.
Resources for students can be more limited. This includes smaller libraries, fewer clinics, and less robust career services departments.
Networking opportunities may be less extensive. Alumni networks are often smaller and less influential, potentially impacting future job prospects.
The academic rigor and competitiveness among students might be lower. This could affect a graduate’s preparedness for challenging legal work or bar exam performance.
Some lower-ranked schools struggle with bar passage rates. This can further complicate job searches and career advancement for graduates.
Alternatives to Considering Low-Ranked Law Schools
Aspiring legal professionals have several options beyond attending low-ranked law schools. These alternatives can provide valuable skills and knowledge in the legal field without the drawbacks of less reputable institutions.
Community Colleges
Community colleges offer affordable legal studies programs that can serve as stepping stones to law-related careers. Many provide associate degrees in legal studies or paralegal studies. These programs typically cover foundational legal concepts, research skills, and practical applications.
Students can gain hands-on experience through internships at local law firms or legal aid organizations. Some community colleges have transfer agreements with four-year universities, allowing students to continue their education if desired.
Graduates with associate degrees in legal studies may find employment as legal assistants or in other support roles within the legal system.
Paralegal Programs
Paralegal programs provide specialized training for those interested in supporting lawyers and legal teams. These programs are available at various institutions, including universities, community colleges, and vocational schools.
Courses typically cover legal research, writing, ethics, and specific areas of law such as contracts or torts. Many programs offer certificates or associate degrees, with some bachelor’s degree options available.
Paralegal certification, while not always required, can enhance job prospects. Organizations like the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) offer certification exams.
Paralegals play crucial roles in law firms, corporate legal departments, and government agencies. They often handle tasks such as document preparation, case management, and client communication.
Online Legal Education Options
Online legal education has expanded significantly, offering flexible alternatives to traditional law school programs. These options range from individual courses to full degree programs.
Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs):
- Providers like Coursera and edX offer law-related courses from top universities
- Topics include constitutional law, intellectual property, and international law
- Often free or low-cost, with optional certificates available
Online Legal Certificate Programs:
- Focus on specific areas of law or legal skills
- Can be completed in shorter timeframes than full degree programs
- May be recognized by employers as valuable credentials
Some online programs offer bachelor’s degrees in legal studies or related fields. These can provide a strong foundation for those interested in law-adjacent careers or further legal education.