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Law Schools in Utah: What You Need to Know

October 8, 2024
4 min read
Contents

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Reviewed by:

David Merson

Former Head of Pre-Law Office, Northeastern University, & Admissions Officer, Brown University

Reviewed: 09/12/23

Are you interested in learning about law schools in Utah? Keep reading to explore your options, and learn how to get in. 

A smiling student in a library

The state of Utah has a lot to offer. You can ski on gorgeous mountain ranges, swim in the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere, and take in some of its breathtaking scenery. Utah also hosts the world’s premiere independent film festival, Sundance Film Festival, every year in Park City! 

Along with a vibrant cultural scene and magnificent outdoor attractions, Utah is home to two highly-ranked law schools. Brigham Young University (BYU) and the University of Utah (UU) are the only law schools in the state and are locked in a fierce rivalry as a result. Read on to learn all about them. 

If you’re serious about attending the best law schools in Utah, it’s key to understand how to get in. We’ll cover everything, from what scores you need to how to submit a standout application. 

Let’s get started!

List of Law Schools in Utah

Don’t let the lack of options in Utah dissuade you. Both Brigham Young University and the University of Utah are exceptional law schools. 

1. Brigham Young University

National Ranking: 89

Bar Passage Rate: 96.72%

Cost of Tuition: $53,428

Acceptance Rate: 59.2%

Median LSAT: 167 

Median GPA: 3.86-4.00

The J. Rueben Clark Law School, BYU’s graduate law program, came to be in 1973 and has since earned widespread acclaim for its emphasis on robust academic programs and personalized education. 

At present, more than 500 students attend the J. Rueben Clark Law School and its Juris Doctor (JD) program stands as the most common enrollment choice among students, which requires 90 hours to graduate. 

In addition to the JD and Master of Law programs, the J. Rueben Clark Law School offers four joint degree programs. Students can choose between the following options:

  • JD/Master of Education
  • JD/Master of Business Administration
  • JD/Master of Public Administration
  • JD/Master of Accountancy

It’s no secret that law school is expensive. Fortunately, BYU offers applicants a range of scholarship opportunities to help make law school more affordable. Scholarships surround the areas of law and social change, religious freedom, criminal justice, entrepreneurship, transactional design, or law and corpus linguistics.

2. University of Utah

National Ranking: 105

Bar Passage Rate: 96% 

Cost of Tuition: $30,488

Acceptance Rate: 95%

Median LSAT: 163 

Median GPA: 3.46–3.93

SJ Quinney College of Law, the graduate law program of the University of Utah, was established in 1913. As the first of its kind in the state, the S.J. Quinney College of Law holds historical significance. 

SJ Quinney College of Law currently has an enrollment of approximately 300 students. It boasts the third-lowest student-faculty ratio in the country and has earned national recognition for its high-caliber faculty.

It is also well known for its experiential approach to law, demonstrated by its integration of theoretical and practical law. Students are provided the chance to apply their knowledge and flex their skills in hands-on learning opportunities. 

The JD program requires 88 semester hours and a minimum grade-point average of 2.5 and is the most popular law degree among students. Utah Law also offers a range of single and dual-degree options, such as the following:

  • Master of Laws
  • JD/Master of Business Administration
  • JD/Master of Public Administration
  • JD/Master of Public Policy
  • JD/Master of Social Work
  • JD/Master of City and Metropolitan Planning
  • JD/Master of Real Estate Development
  • Global JD Program
  • Master of Legal Studies

The SJ Quinney College of Law also offers a variety of special programs. Students can delve into environmental law via the Wallace Stegner Center for Land, Resources, and the Environment, or even explore the connection between health care and law in the Center for Law and Biomedical Science. 

Students who attend UU Law also have the chance to participate in clinic opportunities, where they can gain insight into various facets of the legal profession. Between the Conflict Resolution Clinic, the Environmental Justice Clinic, and the Refugee Law Clinic, you’re bound to find one that aligns with your interests.

Tips for Getting Into Utah Law Schools

Two smiling law students on campus

If you’re interested in applying to Brigham Young University or the University of Utah, these pointers will help you along the way. 

Strengthen Your Resume 

Both schools want to know the person behind the application. So take some time to build a resume that reflects your achievements and interests. 

Describe your research accomplishments and any distinctions or awards you’ve received. If you lack experience, expand your resume with other achievements with any instances where you showed leadership. 

Focus on Perfecting Your Application

Making sure your application is in great shape is among the most important actions you can take when applying to law school. It’s your first chance to stand out, so make sure it’s clear, readable, and demonstrates your value.

Focus on writing personal statements and essays with nuance and weight. Be transparent, and don’t shy away from sharing personal stories. Adhere to the specific directions provided to you and write unique content for each application. 

Spend time carefully checking each detail of your application before submitting it, secure glowing letters of recommendation, and make sure your law school application is submitted on time

Prep for the LSAT

Along with a solid GPA, both BYU and the University of Utah are looking for applicants with strong LSAT scores

Setting up a study schedule well in advance of the LSAT is essential. You can better manage your time and keep up with your studies if you do this. By highlighting your target areas, you can make sure that you fill in any gaps in your knowledge.

If you need guidance, connecting with a tutor is a tried and true way to get ready for the LSAT. Juris' team of 99th-percentile LSAT tutors offers personalized, one-on-one sessions to help you achieve your goals and get into your dream law school!

FAQs: Utah Law Schools

See our commonly asked questions if you still have queries regarding law schools in Utah.

1. What Is the Best Law School in Utah?

Both Brigham Young University and the University of Utah are nationally ranked, and offer students a top-notch education in the legal profession. However, BYU has a higher ranking and is consequently considered the best law school in Utah. 

2. How Many Law Schools Are in Utah?

Utah is home to two law schools.

3. What Are Good Law Schools in Utah?

Brigham Young University and the University of Utah are the best law schools in Utah!

4. What LSAT Score Do I Need for the University of Utah?

The University of Utah has a median LSAT score of 163. So, it’s wise to try to achieve a score in that range or higher to be considered competitive. 

5. How Long Is Law School in Utah?

Both BYU and the University of Utah and full-time programs that take three years to complete. However, students can also choose to participate in a part-time law program. 

Final Thoughts

Whichever route you take, these law schools in Utah will help you on your way to becoming a first-rate lawyer. Both Brigham Young University and the University of Utah have exceptional faculties, resources, and a robust curriculum. 

Follow the tips in this guide to help you gain admission to the best law schools in Utah. Study hard, get organized, and do your best to set yourself up for success. Before you know it, you may be studying at one of these fine institutions. 

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