Overview
Founded in 1925, SMU Dedman School of Law has built a strong regional and national reputation for producing practice-ready attorneys, particularly for the Texas and broader Southwest legal markets. The school is renowned for its trial advocacy program, business law offerings, and a faculty that blends scholarly rigor with practical experience. Its location in Dallas provides deep connections to a thriving legal, financial, and corporate business community.
At a Glance
| Type | Private |
| Location | Dallas, Texas |
| Founded | 1925 |
| Total students | 900 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 8:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 45% |
| Graduation rate | 92% |
| Average starting salary | $95,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $62,000 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $62,000 |
| Room & board | $18,000 |
| Average financial aid | $30,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 80% |
Admissions
| SAT range | N/A |
| ACT range | N/A |
| Average GPA | 3.55 |
| Regular deadline | March 15 |
Top Programs
- Trial Advocacy
- Business & Corporate Law
- Tax Law
- International Law
- Intellectual Property Law
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.