Top Law Schools Offering Exceptional Practical Training (2023)

By Marc Primo, Attorney

Many practicing lawyers share a common concern: despite the hefty price tag of law school, it often falls short in teaching the most vital skill for professional competence—how actually to be a lawyer. However, there are some forward-thinking law schools that are actively addressing this issue by recognizing the importance of practical skills in legal education. These schools go beyond the traditional curriculum and provide unique opportunities for their students to gain valuable hands-on experience in the legal field even before taking the bar exam. By offering clinics, internships, and practical training programs, these schools are equipping their students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their legal careers. So, which law schools are leading the way in offering the most exceptional training opportunities? Let's delve into the innovative programs and initiatives that set these schools apart and empower aspiring lawyers to thrive in the real world of legal practice.

The preLaw Magazine by The National Jurist has recently published its rankings of the top law schools for practical training. These rankings shed light on the institutions that excel in preparing their students for successful careers as lawyers. Here, we present the methodology employed in determining these rankings.

I evaluated schools based on various data points, with a special emphasis on their practical training offerings. These include clinics, externships, simulation courses, pro bono hours, and participation in moot trials.

Clinics were given the highest weight, accounting for 32% of the evaluation. We requested schools to provide the number of students who completed a clinic in the 2019-20 academic year. If a student was enrolled in multiple semesters, each enrollment was counted separately. Schools offering guaranteed or required clinic work received extra credit.

Externships contributed to 25% of the evaluation. We inquired about the number of students who participated in an externship during the 2019-20 academic year. It is important to note that each individual externship undertaken by a student was considered as a separate instance.

Simulation courses carried a weight of 20% in the overall score. We requested schools to provide the total number of students enrolled in these courses.

Moot court and pro bono hours accounted for 10% of the evaluation. Schools that mandated pro bono hours were given extra credit. Additionally, 10% was dedicated to supplementary practical training opportunities, including mandatory legal writing. We requested schools to furnish us with relevant information as they deemed appropriate.

In cases where schools did not reply, we relied on ABA data.

Without further ado, here are the top 10 law schools renowned for their practical training:

Northeastern University

University of St. Thomas (MN)

Baylor University

University of Denver

Elon University

University of Minnesota

UC Irvine

Pepperdine University

University of Georgia

Case Western Reserve University