Overview
Founded in 1779 as the first law school in the United States, William & Mary Law School traces its origins to a chair of law established by Thomas Jefferson at the College of William & Mary. It has long been known for producing distinguished jurists, public servants, and practitioners, with an emphasis on constitutional law, legal history, and civic engagement. The school's small size fosters close faculty-student relationships and a strong sense of tradition rooted in the broader university's colonial-era heritage in Williamsburg, Virginia.
At a Glance
| Type | Public |
| Location | Williamsburg, Virginia |
| Founded | 1779 |
| Total students | 700 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 8:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 35% |
| Graduation rate | 95% |
| Average starting salary | $85,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $34,000 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $47,000 |
| Room & board | $14,000 |
| Average financial aid | $20,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 80% |
Admissions
| SAT range | N/A |
| ACT range | N/A |
| Average GPA | 3.70 |
| Regular deadline | March 1 |
Top Programs
- Constitutional Law
- Election Law
- Environmental Law
- Litigation & Dispute Resolution
- Public Service Law
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.