Academic programs/curriculum

How many years does it take to complete law school?

Most full-time students usually complete their degree in three years. Part-time students usually take four years. A student must graduate within six years of their enrollment date, according to an American Bar Association rule.

What kinds of degrees does William Mitchell offer?

We offer the Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree. For high school and undergraduate college students, we offer special summer, non-degree programs.

How many credits do I need to take to get a degree?

To complete a J.D. degree, you need a total of 86 credits. Read more about graduation requirements

What is the academic year schedule?

William Mitchell has a fall and spring semester. Students can take courses during the summer as well. View our academic calendar.

What time are classes?

Mitchell has both day and evening classes. During the first year, part-time students usually have courses scheduled sometime between 5:30 and 9:20 p.m., and full-time students attend classes scheduled sometime between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Read about enrollment options.

What different types of enrollment options do you offer? Can I go full or part time and switch between the two?

Mitchell offers several enrollment options. First-year students enroll either part time or full time and take a set schedule of required courses.  After your first year, you can move between full and part time at the start of each semester. Read more about enrollment options.

How much will I have to study?

The usual rule of thumb is that for every hour you are in the classroom, you will spend two to three hours outside the classroom on work for that class. Full-time students spend about 14 hours in class each week and 28-42 hours outside of class. Part-time students spend about 8 or 11 hours in the classroom and 16-24 hours outside of the classroom if taking 8 credits, and to 22-33 hours outside the classroom if taking 11 credits.

Admissions

Do I need a college degree to enroll at William Mitchell?

Yes, you need to have your undergraduate degree from an accredited institution before you can enroll at William Mitchell. Read about our admission requirements.

Do I need to have a specific undergraduate major?

No, our students have degrees ranging from criminal justice and political science to math and dance.

What test(s) do I need to take before I apply to William Mitchell?

You must take the LSAT in order for our Office of Admissions to review your application. Visit LSAC.org for more information.

What is the minimum/average LSAT score and GPA for entering students?

We do not have automatic cut-offs for admission. See our student profile for LSAT and GPA information on this year's class.

How old can my LSAT score be?

Applicants must have taken the LSAT within five years of entering William Mitchell. We require that applicants take the LSAT no later than February of the year in which they plan to enroll.

What other factors do you consider for admission?

We consider non-academic factors such as your life and career goals; particular experiences or background applicable to law school; academic abilities or special skills, talents, or strengths; and leadership and interpersonal skills. Read more about our admission requirements.

Will my credit from other graduate schools or vocational program transfer?

No, we do not grant law school credit for any non-law school academic work.

When can I apply?

Although our application deadline is May 1, it is advisable to apply earlier, rather than later, in the admissions process. As we admit students on a rolling basis, scholarship funds and seats in the class become more limited as the deadline date approaches.

Students

What is your enrollment?

Approximately 1,100 students attend Mitchell. Each entering class has about 320-350 students.

What is the average age of students?

William Mitchell has a unique mix of students. Many come right from undergraduate school; while others enroll after pursing a career. See our student profile for our age range.

What is the ratio of men to women?

The ratio changes slightly from year to year. See our student profile for this year's ratio.

Financial Aid

How much is tuition?

Please see our tuition schedule for full-time and part-time tuition..

Do you have scholarships and financial aid?

Yes, we have merit and need-based scholarships. All first-year students' admission applications are reviewed for merit scholarship eligibility. No additional application is needed to be considered for a merit-based scholarship, and you will be notified if you qualify. Read more about scholarships and financial aid.

Miscellaneous

Can I work and go to law school?

The American Bar Association limits the number of hours full-time students can work to 20 hours a week. Part-time students’ work hours are not limited.

What is your job placement rate?

Our graduates have a history of finding successful careers. Read our most recent job placement report.

Where is Mitchell located?

William Mitchell is located in St. Paul, Minnesota, home to large law firms, Fortune 500 corporation, and many cultural and social organizations. Our Summit Hill neighborhood is close to the unique shops and restaurants of Grand Avenue. Get directions or view our online tour of the neighborhood.

Do you have on-campus housing?

Mitchell does not have on-campus housing. However, a substantial number of students find housing in the two zip codes surrounding the college, where there are hundreds of rentable apartments within walking distance.. Use our housing bulletin to find a place nearby.

What about parking?

Students can purchase a parking permit for the main lot next to the building and overflow lots. There is also free street parking available.

How many alumni do you have?

Mitchell has 10,000 alumni across the country. Our alumni mentoring program connects you with networking opportunities.

Are you accredited?

William Mitchell has been accredited by the American Bar Association since 1938. The college is also a member of the Association of American Law Schools.