Top Law Schools in Minnesota: Best Colleges & Universities for Legal Studies
Why Study Law in Minnesota?
Minnesota is home to highly respected law schools that provide top-tier legal education, bar exam preparation, and strong job placement opportunities. The state has a thriving legal industry, with major law firms, government agencies, and corporate legal departments offering career opportunities.
This guide highlights the best law schools in Minnesota, helping students choose the right program for their career goals.
Top Law Schools in Minnesota
Best Law Schools in Minnesota
University of Minnesota Law School
Location: Minneapolis, MN
Website | Scholarships & Financial Aid
The University of Minnesota Law School is the top-ranked law school in the state and one of the best in the Midwest. It offers a rigorous curriculum, distinguished faculty, and strong employment outcomes.
Key Features:
- Programs: J.D., LL.M., Joint Degrees (MBA, MPA, etc.)
- Specializations: Business Law, Environmental Law, Human Rights, Intellectual Property, Criminal Law, and more
- Bar Passage Rate: Consistently high
- Career Opportunities: Strong placement in top law firms, judicial clerkships, and government agencies
Students benefit from hands-on learning through clinics, externships, and legal research centers, making it a top choice for aspiring lawyers.
Mitchell Hamline School of Law
Location: St. Paul, MN
Website | Scholarships & Financial Aid
Mitchell Hamline School of Law is known for its practical, hands-on approach to legal education and the nation’s first hybrid J.D. program.
Key Features:
- Programs: J.D. (Traditional & Hybrid), LL.M., and Online Legal Studies
- Specializations: Health Law, Dispute Resolution, Intellectual Property, Indian Law, Business Law
- Flexible Learning: Offers online and part-time J.D. options
- Career Placement: Strong regional law firm and corporate law connections
This school is a great option for working professionals and students looking for a flexible J.D. program.
University of St. Thomas School of Law
Location: Minneapolis, MN
Website | Scholarships & Financial Aid
The University of St. Thomas School of Law emphasizes ethics, social justice, and practical experience in its legal education.
Key Features:
- Programs: J.D., LL.M., and Joint Degrees (JD/MBA, JD/MSW, JD/LL.M.)
- Specializations: Public Interest Law, Business Law, Compliance, Elder Law, and Criminal Defense
- Hands-On Learning: Strong clinical programs and externships
- Bar Passage Rate: Above national average
This school is ideal for students interested in ethical law practice, social justice, and community engagement.
Hamline University – Legal Studies Program
Location: St. Paul, MN
Website | Scholarships & Financial Aid
While Hamline University does not have a J.D. program, it offers strong legal studies and pre-law programs for students planning to attend law school.
Key Features:
- Programs: Legal Studies Major, Pre-Law Advising, Paralegal Certificate
- Pathway to Law Schools: Graduates frequently attend law schools like Mitchell Hamline, St. Thomas, and U of M
- Internship Opportunities: Partnerships with local law firms and government agencies
Hamline is a great choice for students looking for a strong undergraduate legal foundation before applying to law school.
Choosing the Right Law School in Minnesota
Each law school in Minnesota offers unique strengths based on career goals and learning preferences:
Best Law Schools for Different Career Goals:
- Best Overall Law School: University of Minnesota Law School
- Best for Online & Hybrid Learning: Mitchell Hamline School of Law
- Best for Ethics & Social Justice: University of St. Thomas School of Law
- Best Pre-Law & Legal Studies Program: Hamline University
Whether you want to work in corporate law, criminal defense, environmental law, or public interest law, these Minnesota law schools provide top-tier education, hands-on experience, and strong job placement opportunities.
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