Since 1865, the University of Iowa College of Law has been a leader in legal education, proudly holding the distinction of being the oldest law school west of the Mississippi River. Throughout its storied history, Iowa Law has remained committed to excellence in the education and training of the highest caliber of legal professionals and scholars.
The College of Law offers a Juris Doctor (JD) program grounded in legal doctrine and practice that is well known for its emphasis on legal writing, research, and analysis. The curriculum is designed to cultivate critical thinking, ethical practice, and a deep understanding of the law’s role in society. Students can explore a variety of career paths through elective courses and gain leadership experience through active student organizations, including four student-run journals and an award-winning appellate advocacy program. In addition to the traditional three-year JD program, Iowa Law offers a Master of Laws (LLM) program and a Doctor of Juridical Science (SJD) program.
With a vibrant community of more than 500 students, Iowa Law maintains a low student-to-faculty ratio, ensuring personalized attention and mentorship. The college’s distinguished faculty are deeply engaged in teaching, research, and service—creating a dynamic intellectual environment.
The College of Law is part of the University of Iowa, one of the nation’s premier public research universities. Founded in 1847, it is the state’s oldest institution of higher education and is located alongside the picturesque Iowa River in Iowa City.
Iowa is known for excellence in both the arts and sciences, offering world-class undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs in a variety of fields.
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Academic Excellence
The College of Law is home to four academic journals, including the prestigious Iowa Law Review, and features innovative programs like the Hubbell Environmental Law Initiative. The college focus on developing leadership skills and providing hands-on learning experiences though its seven legal clinics, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to pass the bar and practice after graduation.
Hands-On Experience
Iowa Law emphasizes practical training through its seven legal clinics and extensive externship offerings. Students gain experience in federal and state courts, immigration tribunals, and other legal forums. The college’s legal clinics cover a wide range of topics including technology, immigration, federal criminal defense, human rights—and much more.
Scholarship and Innovation
Faculty are committed to impactful and innovative legal scholarship within disciplines such as civil litigation, environmental law, and legal analysis, writing and research. Faculty members collaborate with national and international partners to advance legal scholarship and practice.
Campus Facilities
The Boyd Law Building features updated technology, collaborative learning spaces, and a comprehensive law library with over a million volumes and equivalents, one of the largest collections in the nation. The building is just steps from the Iowa River and Iowa City’s vibrant downtown.
100 %
Class of 2025
Top 3
American Bar Association Journal
Class of 2024
# 32
U.S. News and World Report
507
Fall 2025