| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Law & Legal Studies | |
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Law & Legal Studies | |
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
Campus and Location:
The campus is located in the heart of Los Angeles, making it ideal for students interested in entertainment law, given its proximity to Hollywood.
The school is housed in the Bullocks Wilshire Building, a historic Art Deco structure that is both a Los Angeles landmark and a functional space for modern legal education.
Programs Offered: Southwestern Law School offers several legal education pathways to cater to different student needs, including:
Juris Doctor (JD): The traditional law degree with multiple options for full-time and part-time students.
Full-Time Day Program: For students who want to complete their JD in three years.
Part-Time Evening Program: Designed for working professionals, this program typically takes four years.
Part-Time Day Program (PLEAS): Aimed at students with family obligations, this program allows for a flexible schedule.
2-Year JD Program (SCALE): Southwestern’s SCALE program is an accelerated JD program, one of the few of its kind in the U.S.
LLM in Entertainment and Media Law: A specialized postgraduate degree designed for lawyers who want to work in the entertainment industry.
Dual-Degree Programs: Southwestern partners with other institutions, like the Drucker School of Management, to offer joint degrees, such as JD/MBA.
Specializations and Strengths:
Southwestern is particularly well-regarded for its entertainment and media law programs, making it an excellent choice for students aiming to work in Hollywood or related industries.
The school offers hands-on training through its Entertainment and the Arts Legal Clinic, which allows students to work with real clients in the entertainment industry.
Other areas of specialization include criminal law, intellectual property, public interest law, and business law.
Student Life and Organizations:
Southwestern has a diverse student body and a strong emphasis on inclusivity. It has a history of breaking barriers in legal education, being one of the first law schools to admit women and minorities.
There are numerous student organizations, including the Southwestern Law Review, Moot Court Honors Program, and specialized clubs such as the Entertainment Law Society and the Public Interest Law Committee.
Bar Passage and Employment:
Southwestern provides extensive bar preparation resources to help students pass the California Bar Exam, which is one of the most challenging in the U.S.
The school’s Career Services Office supports students and alumni with job placements, internships, and networking opportunities.
Notable Alumni:
Southwestern has a network of accomplished alumni, including judges, legislators, entertainment lawyers, and public interest advocates. Some notable graduates include:
Barry Gordy (Founder of Motown Records)
Diana S. Phillips (CEO, Lionsgate Entertainment)
Numerous judges and prominent attorneys in Los Angeles and beyond.
Tuition and Financial Aid:
Tuition costs for the JD program range around $56,000 - $60,000 per year, depending on the program.
The school offers merit scholarships, need-based grants, and federal student loan options to assist students with the cost of attendance.
Accreditation:
Southwestern is accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA) and is a member of the Association of American Law Schools (AALS).
If you’re interested in entertainment and media law, Southwestern is one of the top schools in the nation for this specialty.
The location in Los Angeles provides excellent networking opportunities in both the legal and entertainment sectors.
Flexible scheduling options (full-time, part-time, accelerated) make it accessible for a wide range of students, including those with work or family commitments.
The JD is the primary degree for students pursuing a career in law. Southwestern offers several JD pathways to provide flexibility and accommodate different student needs.
Full-Time JD Program (3 Years)
A traditional three-year program designed for students who can commit to full-time legal studies.
Classes are held during the day, typically Monday through Friday.
Part-Time Evening JD Program (4 Years)
Designed for working professionals or students who need a more flexible schedule.
Classes are held in the evenings, Monday through Thursday.
The program typically takes four years to complete.
Part-Time Day JD Program (PLEAS) (4 Years)
PLEAS (Part-Time Legal Education Alternative at Southwestern) is designed for students with significant family responsibilities.
Provides flexibility with daytime classes spread over a longer period (four years).
2-Year Accelerated JD Program (SCALE)
The SCALE (Southwestern's Conceptual Approach to Legal Education) program is one of the few two-year JD programs in the country.
An intensive, accelerated program designed for highly motivated students who wish to complete their JD in less time.
It provides hands-on learning opportunities through externships and practical training.
Concurrent Degree Programs
JD/MBA: Southwestern offers a joint JD/MBA program in partnership with the Drucker School of Management at Claremont Graduate University. This program allows students to earn both a Juris Doctor and a Master of Business Administration degree.
Students can complete the dual degree in as few as four years.
Southwestern offers advanced legal training for students who have already earned a JD or its international equivalent.
LLM in Entertainment and Media Law
A one-year program (can also be taken part-time) designed for lawyers interested in pursuing a career in entertainment, media, and intellectual property law.
Students gain specialized knowledge in film, television, music, sports, and digital media law.
Courses include Copyright Law, Entertainment Contracts, Music Industry Law, and more.
General LLM
This program allows students to design their own curriculum by choosing courses based on their specific interests and career goals.
Ideal for both domestic and international students who want to explore a wide range of legal topics.
Southwestern also offers specialized certificate programs for students who want to focus on a particular area of law.
A certification designed to complement a JD degree for students who plan to work in entertainment or intellectual property law.
Courses focus on topics such as trademark law, entertainment industry transactions, and digital media law.
For students passionate about social justice and public service.
Offers a combination of coursework and practical experience in areas such as immigration law, civil rights, and criminal defense.
Southwestern provides practical, hands-on legal training through its extensive externship and clinical programs. These are not degree programs but are part of the JD curriculum and help students gain real-world experience.
Legal Clinics
Children’s Rights Clinic: Provides legal assistance to children and youth in the areas of education, immigration, and dependency law.
Immigration Law Clinic: Offers students experience in representing clients in immigration matters.
Street Law Clinic: Students teach practical law lessons to local high school students.
Externships
Southwestern offers one of the largest externship programs in the country, placing students in courts, government agencies, law firms, and entertainment companies.
Examples of externship placements include the California Court of Appeal, the United States District Court, the Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office, and entertainment companies like Warner Bros. and Universal Studios.
Southwestern offers international legal education opportunities through summer abroad programs. These programs allow students to study law in a global context and gain cross-border legal perspectives.
Examples of Study Abroad Locations:
London, United Kingdom: Focuses on international entertainment and media law.
Buenos Aires, Argentina: Focuses on human rights and international business transactions.
JD students at Southwestern have the option to concentrate their studies in specific areas of law, which provides a focused legal education and enhances their career prospects. Popular academic concentrations include:
Entertainment and Media Law
Criminal Law
Business Law
International Law
Labor and Employment Law
Public Interest Law
Southwestern also offers CLE courses for practicing attorneys who need to meet state bar requirements or enhance their skills in specific areas of law.
The law school offers a variety of resources, including bar preparation courses and workshops, to help students prepare for the California Bar Exam.
Southwestern’s Bar Advantage Program is a comprehensive set of services, including practice exams, individual feedback, and academic counseling.
Program Name |
Program Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Juris Doctor (JD) (Full-Time Program) |
3 Years |
$59,090/year |
|
Juris Doctor (JD) (Part-Time Program) |
4 Years |
$39,670/year |
|
Two-Year JD Program (SCALE) |
2 Years |
$70,310/year |
|
Master of Laws (LLM) |
1 Year |
$36,858/year |
| Course Name | Duration | Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| LLM in Entertainment and Media Law | 1 year (Full-Time) / 2 years (Part-Time) | $52,300 (approx.) |
| General LLM (Customized Program) | 1 year (Full-Time) / 2 years (Part-Time) | $52,300 (approx.) |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Juris Doctor (JD) (Full-Time Program) |
3 Years |
$59,090/year |
|
Juris Doctor (JD) (Part-Time Evening Program) |
4 Years |
$39,670/year |
|
Two-Year JD Program (SCALE) |
2 Years |
$70,310/year |
|
Master of Laws (LLM) |
1 Year |
$36,858/year |
Southwestern offers several programs suitable for international students, depending on their academic and professional background:
Master of Laws (LLM) in Entertainment and Media Law
Duration: 1 year (full-time) or 2 years (part-time)
This program is ideal for international lawyers and law graduates who want to specialize in the U.S. legal aspects of the entertainment and media industries.
General Master of Laws (LLM)
Duration: 1 year (full-time) or 2 years (part-time)
Allows international students to design their own curriculum based on their interests and career goals, including courses in U.S. business law, international law, and intellectual property.
Juris Doctor (JD)
Duration: 3 years (full-time) or 4 years (part-time)
International students with a non-U.S. undergraduate degree can pursue this degree to qualify for bar exams and practice law in the U.S.
Two-Year Accelerated JD Program for International Lawyers (SCALE)
Duration: 2 years
Designed for international students who already hold a law degree and want to qualify to practice law in the United States through an accelerated program.
International Student Support
Southwestern provides services to help international students transition to life in Los Angeles and adapt to studying in the U.S. These include visa assistance, orientation programs, and academic support.
Bar Exam Eligibility
Both the JD and certain LLM programs at Southwestern can help international students meet eligibility requirements for the California Bar Exam and other U.S. state bar exams.
Networking Opportunities in Los Angeles
The school’s location in the heart of Los Angeles provides international students with unique networking opportunities, particularly in the entertainment and media industries.
Legal English Support
For students whose first language is not English, Southwestern offers support to improve legal writing and research skills, ensuring they can excel in their studies.
For LLM Programs:
A law degree (LLB or equivalent) from a recognized institution in the student’s home country.
Official transcripts and certified English translations (if applicable).
Proof of English proficiency:
TOEFL: Minimum score of 100 (iBT).
IELTS: Minimum score of 7.0.
Personal statement and letters of recommendation.
For JD Programs:
A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution (in any field).
LSAT scores (Law School Admission Test).
Personal statement and letters of recommendation.
The JD program is designed for students who want to practice law in the United States. It includes several program options: Full-Time Day, Part-Time Evening, Part-Time Day (PLEAS), and 2-Year Accelerated JD (SCALE).
Complete a Bachelor’s Degree
Applicants must have a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution (in any field of study).
Register with the LSAC
Southwestern requires applicants to apply through the Law School Admission Council (LSAC).
Register for the Credential Assembly Service (CAS) via LSAC, which consolidates academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and LSAT scores for law schools.
Take the LSAT (Law School Admission Test)
A valid LSAT score is required for admission.
LSAT scores range from 120 to 180, and competitive scores for Southwestern generally fall in the 150-160 range.
Submit an Online Application via LSAC
Include the following required documents:
Completed application form
Personal Statement: A 2-3 page essay detailing your motivations, background, and goals for pursuing a legal education.
Resume: Highlighting academic, professional, and extracurricular experiences.
Letters of Recommendation (typically 2): These should come from academic or professional sources.
LSAT scores and CAS report.
Pay the Application Fee
A non-refundable application fee of $60 must be submitted through LSAC. (Fee waivers may be available for eligible applicants.)
Interviews (Optional)
In some cases, the Admissions Committee may request an interview to better understand the applicant’s background and goals.
Priority Deadline: April 1 (for Fall admission).
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, but early submission is encouraged.
The LLM program is designed for U.S. and international law graduates who want to gain advanced legal knowledge in specialized areas such as Entertainment and Media Law or U.S. Legal Studies.
Steps for LLM Admissions:
Hold a Law Degree (LLB or Equivalent)
International applicants must have a first degree in law (LLB or equivalent) from a recognized institution.
Complete the Online Application via Southwestern's Website or LSAC
Submit the following documents:
Completed application form
Personal Statement: Explaining your interest in the LLM program, career goals, and reasons for choosing Southwestern.
Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Official Transcripts: From all colleges and universities attended (translated into English if applicable).
Letters of Recommendation (usually 2): From academic or professional references.
For international students: Proof of English Proficiency (TOEFL or IELTS).
TOEFL: Minimum score of 100 (iBT).
IELTS: Minimum score of 7.0.
Pay the Application Fee
The non-refundable LLM application fee is $60.
Visa Application (for International Students)
Once admitted, the school will issue the I-20 form, which is required to apply for an F-1 Student Visa.
Application Deadlines:
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, but early submission is recommended.
Southwestern Law School has different application deadlines for its programs, as detailed below:
Program |
Intake Season |
Application Deadline |
Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Juris Doctor (JD) (Full-Time) |
Fall (August) |
Priority Deadline: April 1 Regular: Rolling |
Early application is recommended for better chances. |
|
Juris Doctor (JD) (Part-Time) |
Fall (August) |
Priority Deadline: April 1 Regular: Rolling |
Available for evening program students. |
|
SCALE Two-Year JD Program |
Fall (August) |
Priority Deadline: April 1 Regular: Rolling |
An accelerated 2-year JD program. |
|
Master of Laws (LLM) |
Fall (August) |
Applications Accepted Year-Round |
Students are encouraged to apply early. |
Note: Rolling admissions mean applications are reviewed and accepted until seats are filled, but early submission is strongly encouraged to secure a spot.
The JD program is Southwestern Law School’s primary offering. Eligibility criteria include:
Eligibility Criteria |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Educational Background |
A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in any field is required. |
|
LSAT Scores |
A valid LSAT (Law School Admission Test) score is required. Competitive scores are recommended. |
|
Undergraduate GPA |
A strong undergraduate GPA is considered. No specific cutoff, but competitive GPAs are preferred. |
|
Personal Statement |
A well-written personal statement outlining your goals, background, and reasons for pursuing a JD. |
|
Letters of Recommendation |
Two letters of recommendation are required (academic or professional references). |
|
Resume |
A professional resume detailing your academic and professional achievements. |
GRE Scores: Southwestern Law School accepts GRE scores as an alternative to the LSAT, but applicants must choose one test only.
Work Experience: Though not required, work experience is considered an advantage for applicants.
The SCALE program is an accelerated JD program that condenses the standard three-year JD into two years. The eligibility criteria are the same as the traditional JD program:
Bachelor's degree, LSAT or GRE scores, letters of recommendation, personal statement, and resume are required.
SCALE applicants must demonstrate strong academic ability and commitment due to the program’s rigorous pace.
The LLM program is designed for students with a law degree (JD or equivalent). It allows for specialization in areas like Entertainment Law or International Law.
Eligibility Criteria |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Law Degree |
Applicants must hold a Juris Doctor (JD) or an equivalent first degree in law (LLB or equivalent). |
|
Transcripts |
Official transcripts from all previous law schools attended are required. |
|
English Proficiency (for International Students) |
TOEFL (minimum score: 100 iBT) or IELTS (minimum score: 7.0). |
|
Resume |
A detailed professional resume is required. |
|
Personal Statement |
A statement explaining your reasons for pursuing the LLM degree and your professional goals. |
|
Letters of Recommendation |
Two letters of recommendation from academic or professional sources. |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Award Amount (USD) |
Renewable? |
Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Merit Scholarships |
Awarded to incoming JD students based on LSAT scores, GPA, and academic achievements. |
Partial to Full Tuition |
Yes (With GPA Requirements) |
Automatically considered during the admission process. |
|
Public Interest Law Scholarships (PILS) |
For students dedicated to pursuing a career in public interest law. |
Full Tuition |
Yes |
Separate application and commitment to public service required. |
|
Diversity Scholarships |
For students who contribute to the diversity of the legal profession. |
N/A |
Yes |
Designed to support underrepresented students in law school. |
|
Dean’s Academic Excellence Scholarships |
Awarded to high-performing first-year students based on academic performance. |
N/A |
Yes (Based on GPA) |
Recipients must maintain a specific GPA for renewal. |
|
SCALE Program Scholarships |
Merit-based scholarships specifically for students in the accelerated 2-year SCALE JD program. |
Partial to Full Tuition |
Yes |
Considered automatically for SCALE applicants. |
|
Need-Based Scholarships |
Awarded to students with demonstrated financial need. |
N/A |
Yes |
FAFSA required for U.S. students; international students must submit financial documentation. |
|
Public Service Grant |
For students involved in public service during the summer. |
Up to $5,000 |
No |
Competitive application process; encourages pro bono and nonprofit work. |
Accommodation Type |
Features |
Cost per Year (USD) |
Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
|
The Residences at 7th Street (On-Campus Housing) |
|
|
|
|
- Studio Apartments |
- Fully furnished studio with private bathroom and kitchenette. |
$16,700–$19,300/year |
Utilities (water, electricity, internet) included. |
|
|
- High-speed internet, cable, and secure key card access. |
|
|
|
- One-Bedroom Apartments |
- Fully furnished one-bedroom apartment with separate bedroom and living space. |
$20,900–$22,500/year |
Utilities included. Priority given to students with families or specific needs. |
|
- Two-Bedroom Apartments (Shared) |
- Two bedrooms, shared living area, kitchen, and bathroom. |
$14,400–$15,800/year (per person) |
Designed for roommates; costs split between tenants. |
|
|
- Furnished with beds, desks, dressers, and kitchen essentials. |
|
Accommodation Type |
Features |
Estimated Cost (Per Month in USD) |
Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Private Apartments |
- One-bedroom apartments with private bathroom and kitchen. |
$1,800–$2,500/month |
Located within 1–3 miles of campus. Costs vary based on location and amenities. |
|
Shared Apartments/Houses |
- Shared housing with roommates (2–4 students sharing an apartment or house). |
$800–$1,200/month (per person) |
Ideal for students looking to save on living expenses. |
|
Studio Apartments |
- Small, single-occupancy units with a kitchenette and bathroom. |
$1,500–$2,000/month |
Popular choice for solo residents; usually unfurnished. |
|
Luxury Apartments |
- High-end apartments with amenities such as pools, gyms, and gated security. |
$2,500–$4,000/month |
Best for students with higher budgets or families. |
Cost Type |
Amount (USD) |
Notes |
|---|---|---|
|
Security Deposit (On-Campus) |
$500 (refundable) |
Required to secure a spot in on-campus housing. |
|
Utilities (Off-Campus) |
$100–$200/month |
Includes electricity, water, internet, and trash services. Costs depend on usage and location. |
|
Parking Fee (On-Campus) |
$950/year |
For students with vehicles. On-campus parking is secure and gated. |
|
Laundry |
$1.50–$2.00 per load |
Laundry facilities are available in on-campus housing. |
|
Meal Costs (Off-Campus) |
$300–$500/month |
Southwestern does not have meal plans; students cook or eat at nearby restaurants. |
1. Academic and Professional Development
Rigorous Legal Training: Southwestern’s programs, such as the Juris Doctor (JD) and Master of Laws (LLM), provide a strong foundation in legal theory and practice with a focus on real-world application.
Specialized Centers:
The Donald E. Biederman Entertainment and Media Law Institute offers unique opportunities for students interested in entertainment law.
The Trial Advocacy Honors Program (TAHP) helps students develop litigation and courtroom skills.
Externships and Clinics:
Southwestern provides hands-on experience through partnerships with law firms, courts, government agencies, and entertainment companies in Los Angeles.
Clinics include Children’s Rights, Immigration Law, Street Law, and Housing Advocacy.
Bar Preparation Support:
Students receive extensive resources for bar exam preparation, including workshops, mock exams, and personalized feedback.
2. Campus Facilities
Bullocks Wilshire Building: Southwestern's iconic art deco campus building houses modern classrooms, courtrooms, and the Leigh H. Taylor Law Library, which is one of the largest private law libraries in the country.
Residences at 7th Street: On-campus housing provides a convenient living option for students, fostering a sense of community.
Leigh H. Taylor Law Library:
Open 24/7 during finals, the library offers vast resources for legal research and comfortable study spaces.
3. Clubs and Organizations
Southwestern Law School offers over 50 student organizations, catering to a wide range of interests, including academics, culture, social justice, and professional development. Examples include:
Entertainment and Sports Law Society (ESLS): For students interested in legal careers in entertainment, sports, and media industries.
Public Interest Law Committee (PILC): Focuses on pro bono work and advocacy for underserved communities.
Black Law Students Association (BLSA) and Latinx Law Students Association (LLSA): Promote diversity and support for underrepresented groups in the legal profession.
Student Bar Association (SBA): Acts as the voice of the student body, organizing events, advocating for students, and fostering community spirit.
4. Events and Traditions
Southwestern hosts numerous events and traditions throughout the academic year, which enhance the student experience:
Orientation and Welcome Week: New students are introduced to the campus, faculty, and peers through networking and orientation programs.
Barrister’s Ball: Known as the "law school prom," this is a formal gala that allows students to socialize and celebrate their achievements.
Public Interest Law Week: A week dedicated to raising awareness about public service opportunities and encouraging student participation in pro bono work.
Networking Events: Frequent events connect students with practicing attorneys, judges, and alumni from the extensive Southwestern network.
5. Los Angeles Advantage
Location: Southwestern’s location in the heart of LA provides unparalleled access to courts, law firms, and entertainment companies.
Legal Opportunities: Students have opportunities to work with prestigious organizations like the Los Angeles Superior Court, ACLU of Southern California, and top entertainment companies like Warner Bros. and Sony.
Cultural Diversity: Los Angeles offers a vibrant, multicultural environment with diverse cuisines, cultural festivals, and artistic events.
6. Networking and Alumni Connections
Strong Alumni Network: With over 15,000 alumni, Southwestern graduates are active in fields such as entertainment law, public interest, private practice, and government service. Alumni frequently mentor students and provide career guidance.
Career Services Office:
Offers resume reviews, interview prep, and job fairs to connect students with employers.
Hosts annual events like "Treks to Success", which include visits to law firms, corporate legal departments, and public interest organizations.
7. Diversity and Inclusion
Southwestern is committed to fostering a welcoming environment for students from diverse backgrounds:
Diverse Student Body: Students come from across the U.S. and the world, with representation from various cultures, ethnicities, and career paths.
Diversity Scholarships: The school offers scholarships to underrepresented groups to promote diversity in the legal profession.
Inclusive Programs: Organizations like the Asian Pacific American Law Students Association (APALSA) and Outlaw (LGBTQ+ group) ensure that all voices are heard and supported.
8. Support Services
Southwestern provides robust support systems to ensure student well-being and success:
Academic Support Program (ASP): Offers workshops, tutoring, and guidance to help students succeed academically.
Counseling and Wellness Services:
Free and confidential counseling services are available for all students.
Wellness initiatives include yoga classes, stress management workshops, and mindfulness programs.
Mentorship Programs: Pair students with experienced legal professionals, alumni, or upper-year students for guidance.
9. Volunteer and Public Interest Opportunities
Southwestern emphasizes giving back to the community:
Students are encouraged to participate in pro bono legal work through partnerships with local organizations and legal aid clinics.
The Public Interest Law Committee (PILC) organizes annual fundraisers and provides summer grants for students pursuing unpaid public interest internships.
10. Social Life and Balance
Fitness and Recreation:
The campus gym and nearby fitness facilities in Los Angeles provide students with ways to stay active.
The law school organizes intramural sports leagues and wellness activities.
Student Lounges and Social Spaces:
Comfortable spaces for studying, socializing, or relaxing are available on campus.
Exploring LA:
Students often explore nearby attractions such as Santa Monica Beach, Griffith Park, Hollywood, and the Arts District.
11. International Students
Welcoming Environment: Southwestern is home to many international students pursuing the LLM program.
Support Services:
Guidance for visa applications, cultural adaptation, and academic success.
International students are encouraged to join student organizations to build connections and feel at home.
12. Employment and Career Preparation
Southwestern provides strong placement support, ensuring students are well-prepared for their legal careers:
Externship Opportunities: Partnerships with law firms, entertainment companies, and public service organizations help students gain practical experience.
Bar Exam Support: Programs and resources are designed to help students pass the bar exam on their first attempt.
1. Placement Highlights
High Employment Rates: A significant percentage of Southwestern Law School graduates secure employment within 10 months of graduation. For the Class of 2022:
82% of graduates were employed in jobs requiring a JD or where a JD is an advantage.
Most graduates secure positions in California, particularly in Los Angeles due to its thriving legal, entertainment, and business industries.
Diverse Career Fields: Graduates work in a variety of sectors:
Private law firms (small, mid-sized, and large firms)
Government agencies (state and federal)
Public interest and nonprofit organizations
Judicial clerkships
In-house legal departments at corporations
Entertainment and media companies
2. Career Development and Support
Southwestern Law School's Career Services Office (CSO) provides students with tools and resources to navigate the legal job market effectively. Key services include:
a) Career Counseling
One-on-one career counseling sessions to help students explore career options, set goals, and develop a personalized career plan.
b) Resume and Cover Letter Assistance
Expert guidance on drafting professional resumes and tailored cover letters for legal positions.
c) Mock Interviews
Practice interview sessions with feedback to prepare students for legal job interviews.
d) Networking Events
Frequent events connect students with practicing attorneys, judges, and legal professionals. Events include:
Networking Nights
Employer Information Sessions
Alumni Panels
e) Job Fairs and On-Campus Interviews (OCI)
On-Campus Interviews (OCI): Southwestern hosts law firms, corporations, and government employers for interviews directly on campus.
Public Interest/Public Sector Career Day: A major event where public interest organizations and government agencies recruit students for jobs and internships.
3. Externships and Internships
Southwestern emphasizes experiential learning through its externship programs, which help students gain hands-on legal experience. These placements often lead to full-time employment. Notable externship opportunities include:
Judicial Externships: Work with judges in federal and state courts.
Corporate Externships: Opportunities at companies like Warner Bros., NBCUniversal, and Sony Pictures.
Public Interest Externships: Work with nonprofits and legal aid organizations.
Government Externships: Placements at agencies like the Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office, U.S. Department of Justice, and California Attorney General’s Office.
4. Fields of Employment
Southwestern graduates secure positions in a wide variety of legal fields:
Field |
Percentage of Graduates (Approx.) |
Examples of Employers |
|---|---|---|
|
Private Practice |
50% |
Small, mid-sized, and large law firms specializing in litigation, corporate law, IP law, etc. |
|
Public Interest |
20% |
ACLU, Bet Tzedek Legal Services, Public Counsel. |
|
Government |
15% |
Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office, U.S. Department of Justice, IRS. |
|
Corporate/In-House |
10% |
NBCUniversal, Warner Bros., Sony Pictures Entertainment, and startups. |
|
Judicial Clerkships |
5% |
Federal and state courts. |
5. Specialized Career Tracks
Southwestern Law School offers unique career development opportunities for students pursuing specific fields of law:
a) Entertainment and Media Law
Southwestern’s Donald E. Biederman Entertainment and Media Law Institute is a recognized leader in entertainment law education.
Graduates secure positions at major entertainment companies such as:
Warner Bros.
Paramount Pictures
NBCUniversal
Sony Pictures
Placements also include boutique entertainment law firms specializing in intellectual property, contracts, and talent representation.
b) Public Interest Law
Southwestern’s commitment to public interest law is evident in its Pro Bono Public Service Program and Public Interest Law Committee (PILC).
Students gain experience with legal aid organizations, nonprofit advocacy groups, and public defense agencies.
c) Business and Corporate Law
Southwestern graduates work in-house at corporations or in law firms specializing in mergers and acquisitions, securities law, and compliance.
d) Government and Policy
Many graduates work in federal and state government agencies, including:
California Attorney General’s Office
Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
U.S. Department of Homeland Security
6. Alumni Network
Strong Alumni Network: With over 15,000 alumni, Southwestern’s graduates hold influential positions in law firms, corporations, government, and the judiciary.
Alumni frequently mentor students, provide job referrals, and offer networking opportunities.
7. Placement Support for International Students
Southwestern supports international LLM students with resources tailored to their unique needs:
Assistance with Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Curricular Practical Training (CPT).
Networking opportunities with alumni working in international law and global legal markets.
8. Employment Outcomes (Class of 2022)
Employment Rate: Approximately 82% employed within 10 months of graduation.
Median Salary:
Private Practice: $90,000–$120,000 (varies by firm size and location).
Public Interest/Government: $50,000–$70,000.
Corporate/In-House: $80,000–$100,000.
Bar Passage Rate: Southwestern provides strong bar preparation support, and many graduates pass the bar exam on their first attempt, which boosts employment opportunities.
9. Bar Preparation and Success
Southwestern offers extensive resources to help students succeed in the bar exam:
Bar Readiness Workshops: Provide tips and strategies for passing the bar.
Individualized Support: Personalized study plans and feedback.
Mock Exams: Practice exams to simulate real bar testing conditions.
10. Notable Employers of Southwestern Graduates
Here are examples of organizations that regularly hire Southwestern alumni:
Law Firms
Latham & Watkins LLP
Greenberg Traurig LLP
Manatt, Phelps & Phillips LLP
O'Melveny & Myers LLP
Entertainment Companies
Warner Bros.
NBCUniversal
Sony Pictures
Lionsgate
Public Interest Organizations
Bet Tzedek Legal Services
Public Counsel
Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles
Government Agencies
Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office
U.S. Department of Justice
California Attorney General’s Office
Federal Public Defender’s Office
Southwestern Law School evaluates applicants holistically, considering various factors beyond just numerical scores. Below are the major components of the admission process:
1. Academic Performance
Undergraduate GPA: While there is no strict cutoff, competitive applicants typically have an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher.
The admissions committee looks for a strong academic record and upward trends in performance.
2. LSAT/GRE Scores
Applicants must submit LSAT scores, though Southwestern also accepts GRE scores as an alternative.
Competitive applicants usually have an LSAT score in the 150+ range. However, Southwestern values a holistic approach and considers other qualities if an applicant has lower LSAT scores.
3. Personal Statement
A compelling personal statement is a critical part of the application. Applicants must articulate their motivations for studying law, career aspirations, and how they will contribute to the legal profession.
4. Letters of Recommendation
At least two letters of recommendation from academic or professional sources are required.
These letters should highlight the applicant's intellectual ability, work ethic, and character.
5. Work Experience and Extracurricular Activities
Relevant professional experience, leadership roles, and extracurricular achievements are highly valued.
Applicants with unique backgrounds or experiences, such as military service, volunteer work, or public interest commitments, are given consideration.
6. Diversity and Inclusion
Southwestern actively seeks a diverse student body and encourages applications from individuals with unique perspectives, life experiences, or backgrounds.
7. Holistic Review
The admissions process takes into account the applicant's potential to succeed in law school and contribute meaningfully to the legal profession.
Factors like overcoming adversity, leadership skills, and a demonstrated commitment to service are also considered.
Southwestern Law School
3050 Wilshire Boulevard,
Los Angeles, CA 90010,
United States.
