Northwestern University Law School Profile

Northwestern University School of Law, located in the heart of Chicago, stands as one of the premier law schools in the United States, consistently ranked among the top law schools in the nation. Known for its commitment to academic excellence, innovative programs, and a highly selective admissions process, Northwestern Law has established itself as a leader in legal education.

Programs and Degrees

At the core of Northwestern University School of Law's offerings is its Juris Doctor (JD) program, which provides a comprehensive legal education in a wide range of subjects, including constitutional law, contracts, criminal law, property, torts, and civil procedure. The JD program is designed to equip students with both theoretical and practical skills necessary for effective legal practice. The curriculum integrates academic rigor with experiential learning, offering numerous opportunities for students to engage with real-world legal issues through clinics, externships, and simulations. Northwestern Law’s emphasis on practical training is a hallmark of its approach to legal education, preparing students to excel in the legal profession from the moment they graduate.

In addition to the JD program, Northwestern offers a variety of advanced degrees, including the Master of Laws (LL.M.), Executive LL.M., and Tax Programs. The LL.M. program is designed for international lawyers and those seeking specialized legal training in areas such as intellectual property, international law, and tax law. It provides an opportunity for legal professionals to deepen their expertise in a specific field or expand their knowledge in other areas of law. The Executive LL.M. program is tailored for mid-career professionals, offering a flexible schedule that allows students to continue their careers while pursuing an advanced legal education.

Northwestern Law also offers specialized programs in Tax Law, which has earned the school a reputation as one of the top places in the nation to study tax law. The Tax Program at Northwestern provides students with the opportunity to specialize in one of the most complex and rapidly evolving areas of legal practice. Students in this program are prepared to work in a variety of sectors, including corporate law, public policy, and government, among others.

Student-Run Scholarly Journals

Northwestern University School of Law is home to a number of highly regarded student-run scholarly journals. These publications not only provide students with opportunities to engage in legal scholarship but also contribute to the development of legal thought and practice on a broader scale. Some of the most prominent journals at Northwestern Law include the Northwestern University Law Review, which publishes scholarly articles on a variety of legal topics, and the Journal of Criminal Law and Criminology, which focuses on issues related to criminal law and the justice system. Additionally, the Journal of International Law and Business examines the intersection of law and international business, while the Northwestern Journal of Technology and Intellectual Property is dedicated to legal issues in the rapidly evolving fields of technology and intellectual property. The Journal of International Human Rights provides a platform for the exploration of human rights issues around the world, and the Journal of Law and Social Policy addresses the intersection of law, policy, and social issues.

These journals not only enrich the academic environment at Northwestern Law but also offer students opportunities to publish their work and engage in meaningful discussions on current legal challenges. Through their involvement with these journals, students develop valuable research and writing skills that are essential for success in the legal profession.

Faculty and Academic Excellence

Northwestern Law is known for its distinguished faculty, which includes scholars and practitioners who are leaders in their respective fields. The faculty’s expertise spans a wide range of legal areas, from constitutional law and criminal justice to international business and tax law. The faculty’s commitment to research and scholarship is matched by their dedication to teaching and mentoring students. Professors at Northwestern Law are not only academics but also active practitioners, often engaging with real-world legal issues and bringing their experience into the classroom.

The law school’s faculty is regularly cited in major legal publications, and many faculty members serve as consultants to government agencies, international organizations, and private firms. This combination of scholarly expertise and practical experience creates a dynamic learning environment where students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical insights into the legal profession.

Rankings and Reputation

Northwestern University School of Law consistently ranks among the top law schools in the United States. In the 2010 U.S. News & World Report rankings, the law school was placed 10th overall, a testament to its strong academic programs and faculty. The school excels in several key areas, with notable rankings in specialized fields such as Trial Advocacy (10th), Clinical Training (13th), Tax Law (4th), Legal Writing (10th), Dispute Resolution (15th), and International Law (19th). These rankings reflect Northwestern Law’s broad range of strengths, from its focus on litigation and trial advocacy to its expertise in tax law and international legal studies.

One of the most notable aspects of Northwestern Law’s reputation is its focus on career prospects. According to Princeton Review, the school ranked 1st for Best Career Prospects, reflecting its strong connections to major law firms, corporations, and public sector employers. Northwestern Law students benefit from an extensive alumni network, which helps them secure high-quality job placements in law firms, government agencies, corporations, and nonprofits. The school’s commitment to career services, along with its rigorous academic training, ensures that graduates are well-prepared for success in the competitive legal job market.

In addition to its strong rankings in traditional categories, Northwestern Law is also highly regarded for its Quality of Life. In the Princeton Review rankings, the school placed 9th for Best Quality of Life, an indication of the supportive and collaborative environment at the law school. Students at Northwestern Law have access to numerous resources, including academic advising, career counseling, and wellness programs, which contribute to a balanced and fulfilling law school experience.

Career Success and Employment Opportunities

Northwestern University School of Law also stands out for its impressive employment outcomes. According to the National Law Journal, Northwestern Law was ranked 5th in the percentage of graduates hired by NLJ 250 firms, a key indicator of the school’s success in placing its graduates in top-tier law firms. The school also ranks highly in the placement of graduates in federal clerkships, with 5th place in the percentage of graduates securing federal appellate clerkships for the 2008-2009 term.

The school’s emphasis on practical training, through its extensive clinical programs and internship opportunities, further enhances its graduates’ employability. Northwestern Law students regularly participate in high-profile legal internships, working with prestigious law firms, government agencies, and public interest organizations, gaining invaluable real-world experience that sets them apart in the job market.