Juris Education interviewed Dean Charles H. Rose, III at Ohio Northern University Pettit College of Law for an exclusive look at what sets the school apart.
What Makes Ohio Northern University Pettit College of Law Stand Out from the Competition?
In a legal education landscape filled with institutions promising practice-ready graduates, Ohio Northern University’s Claude W. Pettit College of Law sets itself apart with a distinctive, results-driven educational philosophy known as the “Tell, Show, Do” approach. This hands-on methodology, combined with personalized instruction and an unwavering commitment to student development, makes ONU Law a standout institution for aspiring attorneys seeking more than a traditional legal education.
“At ONU Law, learning by doing makes you a better lawyer—we see it here every day,” says Dean Charles H. Rose, III. This immersive, skills-based learning model emphasizes progressive engagement. In the first year, faculty tell students what to do and demonstrate how it’s done. By the second and third years, students are actively “doing” the work themselves—drafting advanced legal documents, engaging in simulations, and gaining real-world experience that cements their classroom learning.
ONU Law maintains an intimate student-to-faculty ratio, a key advantage of choosing a smaller law school. Whether students attend classes in person in Ada, Ohio, or opt for the innovative accredited online J.D. program, they receive close mentorship and consistent feedback from professors. According to Dean Rose, “Students are not only learning legal theory but applying it almost immediately, which accelerates their growth into capable practitioners.”
The result is a curriculum that prioritizes practical readiness, ensuring graduates are more than just legally knowledgeable—they’re prepared to practice.
ONU Law boasts 100% placement in its clinics and externships, a statistic that reflects both the school’s commitment to experiential learning and its strong network of legal professionals. Under faculty supervision, students gain firsthand experience working in legal clinics, where they meet with real clients, appear before judges, draft pleadings and legal motions and collaborate with opposing counsel.
All students have the chance to participate in 20+ student organizations, including its Nationally Ranked Trial Team - ranked #1 in Ohio and #24 nationally by U.S. News & World Report (2025). Likewise, the Moot Court program challenges students to navigate complex appellate issues, developing their research, writing, and oral advocacy skills.
Which qualities can students build during their time at Ohio Northern University Pettit College of Law?
For over 145 years, ONU Law has emphasized the development of advocacy, communication, and negotiation - the essential skills of a successful attorney. “It’s one thing to be a strong writer,” says Rose. “To be a persuasive storyteller—that’s what sets our graduates apart in courtrooms, boardrooms, and beyond.”
ONU Law cultivates lawyers who are ethical, professional, and competent, ready to take on complex legal challenges from day one. “Our graduates don’t just walk out with a diploma - they leave with confidence, competence, and a clear understanding of how to serve clients with integrity,” Rose emphasizes.
While national accolades and competition trophies are affirmations of success, Dean Rose stresses that impactful training is the true measure of a law school's value.
“The goal isn’t just to win competitions. We’re producing graduates who will one day represent real people in real situations,” says Rose. “The better the training, the more effective and compassionate their advocacy will be. That’s how they make a positive impact in their communities.”
Juris Education is proud to interview experts at the nation's most renowned law schools for insights on what makes them unique and how aspiring lawyers can stand out in their applications.
