University of Iowa

The University of Iowa College of Law was founded in 1865 and has one of the smaller student populations with just under 500 enrolled. The school is known for having accessible faculty members and a very flexible curriculum. After their first year, students can choose from over 200 classes to complete their degree, allowing them to focus on their specific areas of interest.

Students can choose to complete a regular J.D. degree or select a J.D. /M.B.A through the Henry B. Tippie School of Management, or a J.D. /M.P.H. (Master of Public Health) or a J.D. /M.H.A. (Master of Health Administration) through the College of Public Health. Students can get real-life experience outside the classroom through the In-House Clinic. Student interns run the organization like a law firm, which allows them to gain experience in areas like consumer rights and criminal defense. Other off-campus opportunities include externships in court systems and offices around the country. Iowa Law is also a part of the London Law Consortium which allows students to spend a semester studying in England. This is just one of the many study abroad programs offered.

Most students choose to write for one of the four academic journals: the “Iowa Law Review,” “Journal of Corporation Law,” “Transnational Law and Contemporary Problem,” and “Journal of Gender, Race, and Justice.” These journals are read by legal minds around the world. For extracurricular activities, there are more than 20 student organizations on campus including several legal fraternities.

The University of Iowa College of Law, though not as well-known as some bigger schools, has been able to produce strong legal candidates for decades. Students who are more comfortable in a less metropolitan setting should look into Iowa Law’s programs. The tight-knit community and strong team of faculty members help make the school appealing to many. It also doesn’t hurt that the law program is considered to be one of the most affordable in the country!