Southern University Law Center

Breadcrumb Abstract Shape
Breadcrumb Abstract Shape

Southern University Law Center

  • Overview & Academics

    • Southern University Law Center (SULC) is a public, historically Black law school located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. It is affiliated with the Southern University System and offers a comprehensive legal education with a commitment to civil rights, social justice, and community advocacy. The principal degree awarded is the Juris Doctor (JD). SULC emphasizes practical skills, doctrinal knowledge, and a focus on serving traditionally underserved communities.

    • SULC’s curriculum includes core courses in legal analysis, civil procedure, contracts, criminal law, constitutional law, evidence, torts, property, professional responsibility, and electives in areas such as civil rights, family law, business law, environmental law, healthcare law, and more. Experiential learning is provided through clinics, externships, and moot court programs.

  • Admissions

    • Admissions at SULC seek a diverse group of students committed to service and leadership. Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree and complete the LSAT. The admissions process considers academic performance, LSAT score, letters of recommendation, personal statement, and community involvement.

    • Rolling admissions are generally offered. The application can be completed through the Law School Admission Council (LSAC).

  • Cost

    • For the 2023–2024 academic year:

      • Louisiana Residents: Approximately $16,490 per year (tuition and fees)
      • Non-Residents: Approximately $28,590 per year (tuition and fees)
      • Additional costs for books, supplies, personal expenses, and housing may bring the annual estimated total to $35,000–$45,000.

    • Scholarships, grants, and work-study opportunities are available. Financial aid counseling is provided to assist with loan and aid eligibility.

  • Student Population

    • Enrollment is typically between 800 and 900 JD students annually. SULC is recognized for its diverse student body, with a large percentage of African American students and many first-generation law students. The law center also attracts students from across the U.S.

  • Rankings & Distinctions

    • SULC is respected for its legacy in championing civil rights and legal education access for historically marginalized groups.

    • Consistently ranked among the top law schools nationally for producing African American JDs and attorneys serving in the public sector.

    • Ranked among top law schools for diversity, accessibility, and affordability.

  • Campus & Culture

    • The law center is located on Southern University’s main campus in Baton Rouge, near the Mississippi River. Facilities include modern classrooms, moot courtrooms, a comprehensive law library, student lounges, and study spaces. The SULC campus fosters collegiality and community service.

  • Athletics & Traditions

    • SULC is not affiliated with NCAA intercollegiate athletics. However, students participate in university-wide traditions and campus events, such as Homecoming, Bayou Classic (football rivalry), and social gatherings in collaboration with Southern University’s undergraduate programs.

  • Mission

    • The mission of SULC is to provide access and opportunity for a diverse population to become highly competent and ethical legal professionals committed to public service, social justice, and the improvement of law and society, particularly for historically underserved and minority communities.

  • Leadership & Current Developments

    • Southern University Law Center is led by a Chancellor, supported by deans, faculty, and staff with broad experience in legal education and community service. Recent developments include expanding clinic offerings, embracing hybrid and online learning, and evolving diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.

  • Programs

      • Juris Doctor (JD): The primary degree offered, with both full-time and part-time/evening options.
      • Clinical Programs: Immigration Law, Mediation, Criminal Law, Juvenile Justice, Elder Law, Domestic Violence, and more.
      • Centers & Initiatives: Louis A. Berry Institute for Civil Rights & Justice, Disaster Recovery & Resilience Initiative.
      • Joint Degree Options: Some partnerships allow JD/MPA, JD/MBA, and JD/MSW degrees in cooperation with other Southern University units.
      • Certificates: Specialized legal training and certificates may be offered in select practice areas.
  • Campus Life

    • SULC offers a vibrant campus experience, prioritizing academic rigor while promoting student support, health, and wellness. Facilities include a legal clinic, law library, technology resources, and dedicated study spaces. Students engage in moot court, trial advocacy, negotiation, and skills competitions.

    • Support services include career development, bar exam preparation, academic counseling, mentoring, and alumni networking.

  • Student Organizations

    • Dozens of student organizations offer leadership, academic, community service, and affinity group involvement, including:

      • Student Bar Association (SBA)
      • Black Law Students Association (BLSA)
      • Women’s Law Student Association
      • Phi Alpha Delta Legal Fraternity
      • Moot Court Board & Trial Advocacy teams
      • Criminal Law Society, Environmental Law Society, Family Law Society
      • Various local, state, and national professional association chapters
  • Admission Stats

    • For the most recent admission cycle:

      • Total applicants: Approximately 1,500
      • Class size: Approximately 250–300
      • Median LSAT: 146–149
      • Median undergraduate GPA: 2.7–3.3
      • Acceptance rate: ~46–50%
      • Notable for admitting applicants with potential to succeed, including those from diverse socioeconomic, educational, and personal backgrounds