Washington University School of Law was established in 1867, making it one of the oldest law schools west of the Mississippi River. The school has been an integral part of Washington University in St. Louis since its founding and has developed into one of the nation's premier legal education institutions. Throughout its history, WashU Law has maintained a commitment to preparing lawyers who combine intellectual rigor with professional responsibility and public service. The law school is housed in Anheuser-Busch Hall, a state-of-the-art facility that opened in 1997 and provides modern learning spaces, one of the finest law libraries in the country, and collaborative work areas.
WashU Law consistently ranks among the top 20 law schools in the United States and is particularly renowned for its corporate law, intellectual property, tax law, and dispute resolution programs. The school emphasizes a collaborative rather than competitive learning environment, with strong faculty-student relationships and extensive clinical opportunities. The Whitney R. Harris World Law Institute, the Negotiation & Dispute Resolution Program, and numerous legal clinics provide students with practical experience and specialized expertise. The school's relatively small size (approximately 750 students) allows for personalized attention and close mentorship from distinguished faculty who are leaders in their fields.
The culture at WashU Law is notably collegial and supportive, with students frequently citing the collaborative atmosphere as a defining characteristic. Student organizations are robust and active, covering everything from public interest law to business law societies. The school places strong emphasis on public service, with substantial loan forgiveness programs for graduates pursuing public interest careers. Career outcomes are excellent, with graduates securing prestigious judicial clerkships, positions at top law firms nationwide, government positions, and academic appointments. The St. Louis location provides a lower cost of living than coastal cities while still offering substantial legal market opportunities and close connections to major firms and corporations.
| Type | Private Research |
| Location | St. Louis, Missouri |
| Founded | 1867 |
| Total students | 750 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 9:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 25% |
| Graduation rate | 96% |
| Average starting salary | $190,000 |
| In-state tuition | $65,584 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $65,584 |
| Room & board | $18,500 |
| Average financial aid | $35,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 85% |
| SAT range | N/A |
| ACT range | N/A |
| Average GPA | 3.80 |
| Regular deadline | March 1 |
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.