Top Law Schools in Arizona in 2025

Whether your interests lie in corporate law, criminal law, or taxation, becoming a successful lawyer means knowing the law inside and out, and that all begins with a top law school.

As an MFA grad and researcher, I’ve spent time digging into what makes an academic program truly worthwhile. For this article, I’ve explored national rankings, student reviews, and admissions details to help future law students navigate their options with confidence. What I found is that Arizona offers several top law school programs, each with its own strengths, depending on what you're looking for.

In this guide, you'll find:

• Top law schools in Arizona, their national rankings, average tuition costs, and programs
• Everything you need to know about the admissions process
• Factors to consider when applying to law school

So, if you're anything like me and believe that good law practices begin in the classroom, this guide will help you sift through the best law schools in Arizona. Now, let's lock in and see what the Southwest has in store for future lawyers.

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Top Law Schools in Arizona

Becoming a lawyer is a lot of work, but when you love what you do, you hardly work a day in your life! And it all starts in the classroom.

Interestingly, there are only two ABA-accredited law schools in Arizona: Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law and James E. Rogers College of Law. Here are the two top law schools in Arizona that will provide students with an intellectually challenging atmosphere.

1. Arizona State University Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law

• Ranking: #36 in the nation, #1 in the state
• Acceptance Rate: 21.3%
• Average Cost of Tuition: $29,037 (in-state); $51,359 (out-of-state)

Located in Tempe, Arizona, the Arizona State University Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law (ASU Law) is arguably the best law school in Arizona. ASU Law was founded in 1965 and renamed in 2006 after Justice Sandra Day O'Connor. Not only is ASU Law highly regarded for its focus on community, but it is also the first law school in the country to be named after a woman. (YES!)

Why ASU Law Stands Out

ASU Law is consistently ranked among the top law schools in the United States by the U.S. News & World Report and is committed to public service, social justice, and community-focused programs.

ASU Law offers a variety of programs designed to prepare the next generation of practicing attorneys for real-world settings. Since its beginning, ASU Law has been known to support the Navajo Nation legal community and integrate technology and practical experience into its curriculum.

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ASU Law Key Programs:

• J.D. (Juris Doctor)
• LL.M. (Master of Laws)
• M.L.S. (Master of Legal Studies)
• Dual degree programs (i.e., J.D./M.B.A, J.D./M.P.H.)

ASU Law also offers law students 13 clinics where they can gain hands-on experience in real-world legal scenarios.

These clinics include:

• Immigration Law & Policy Clinic
• Lodestar Mediation Clinic
• Civil Justice Clinic
• Post-Conviction Clinic
• Indian Legal Clinic
• Public Defender Clinic
• Lisa Foundation Patent Law Clinic
• Prosecution Clinic
• Technology Ventures Services Group

2. University of Arizona James E. Rogers College of Law

• Ranking: #55 in the nation, #2 in the state
• Acceptance Rate: 30.38%
• Average Cost of Tuition: $27,000 (in-state); $31,360 (out-of-state)

The University of Arizona James E. Rogers College of Law is in Tucson, Arizona. Rogers College of Law provides students with smaller program sizes, making it a great option for those who prefer an intimate learning environment.

Why Rogers College of Law Stands Out

The Rogers College of Law stands out for its focus on research, innovation, and public service. Committed to providing a top legal education, the school offers programs that cater to a spectrum of legal interests and aspirations. While the law school offers a range of specialized programs, its strengths lie in environmental law, intellectual property law, and international law.

The Rogers School of Law also offers unique opportunities to study abroad through international programs, where students can strengthen and broaden their global legal perspectives.

Rogers College of Law Key Programs:

• Advocacy
• Business law
• Environmental Law, Science, & Policy
• Criminal Law & Policy
• Internal Trade & Business Law
• The Indigenous Peoples Law & Policy
• Legal Writing
• Juris Doctor Program
• Tax Law & Policy

It’s important to know which area you want to practice law in so you know what law degree is right for you. Take a look at the best majors for law students to get a better idea of what you want out of your education.

ASU Law isn't the only law school that offers exclusive clinical programs and externship opportunities. Roger's College of Law allows students to gain hands-on experience with real clients and cases.

The Roger College of Law Clinics include:

• Arizona Attorney General’s Office Clinic
• Child & Family Law Clinic
• Immigration Law Clinic
• Education Advocacy Clinic
• Criminal Defense Clinic
• Tribal Justice Clinic
• Worker’s Rights Clinic
• Domestic Violence Law Clinic

What Happened to Arizona Summit Law School?

For those who may or may not know, the Arizona Summit Law School (formerly the Phoenix School of Law) is no longer running. Open from 2005 to 2018, it is the only private law school in Arizona that was closed due to its low bar exam pass rates.

Check out the full list of the best law schools in the country!

7 Tips on How to Get into Law School in Arizona

With only two law institutions in Arizona, the admissions process, as you can imagine, is highly competitive. But with some guidance and a solid strategy, you’re a shoo-in to practice Arizona law.

Here are some useful tips to use for your admission into law school:

1. Start Early and Research Schools

Start researching law schools as soon as possible because understanding what different law schools offer will help you make a decision. This means considering factors like location, reputation, and legal specialization. Some law schools have stronger reputations in some studies than others, so research is critical.

2. Complete Your Bachelor’s Degree

In the U.S., law schools require applicants to complete their undergrad, so if you want to get your first law degree, you must have your bachelor’s first. There's no specific major required to get into law school, which offers you flexibility in education. 

Take a look at the requirements for pre-law students to prepare for law school!

3. Maintain a High GPA

Because getting into law school is so competitive, the higher the GPA, the better. It’s one of the most important aspects of your application and probably one of the most determining factors of admissions. A competitive GPA will set you apart in the admissions process, especially for top-tier schools.

4. Prepare for the LSAT or GRE

The Law School Admission Test (LSAT) is the more commonly required standardized test for law school admission; however, a few schools take the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) into consideration. These tests measure reading comprehension, logical reasoning, and critical thinking levels. You should start studying early and use prep courses, practice tests, and online resources to prepare. Consistent, focused study can help you improve your score.

5. Get Relevant Experience

Though it’s not required for law school, getting some legal experience can also make you a standout. Consider internships, jobs, or volunteer opportunities in the legal field or other areas that build skills transferable to law school.

6. Gather All Documents Required

Law schools require letters of recommendation from 2 or 3 people who can vouch for your work ethic, character, and passions. These letters should come from professors, employers, or others who know you well. Choose your recommenders wisely. Select people who can write strong, detailed letters about your academic abilities, work ethic, and personal qualities. Ideally, choose professors who know you well enough to speak to your intellectual capabilities and potential as a law student.

You will also need a personal statement. Find out how to write a personal statement for college here.  

7. Prepare Your Resume

Law school applications will also require you to submit your resume. To be considered a high candidate, your resume should include your academic background, extracurricular activities, work experience, any leadership roles, volunteer work, and any honors or achievements.

Check out these resume tips for college students!

Once you've completed your application, you'll be ready to submit it. Keep track of application deadlines so you don’t miss your opportunity to attend a top law school in Arizona.

Things to Consider When Choosing the Right Law School

When choosing a law school, you want to make sure you know what you’re investing your time and efforts into. Here are some factors to consider:

• Location
• Academic offerings
• Cost of Tuition
• Ranking
• Career Support
• Class body size

When you’re weighing your options, you may even want to visit some of your schools to get a sense of the campus life and culture. Join forums and speak with alumni or even current faculty or students. Whatever it is, make sure you have everything you need to make an informed decision.

Happy applying!

Frequently Asked Questions About Law Schools in Arizona

What is the best law school in Arizona?

According to the U.S. World News Report, the top-ranked and best law school in Arizona is the Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law at Arizona State University. Students applying for ASU Law can expect a variety of programs designed to prepare future lawyers for their legal profession.

What is the best legal specialization for me?

The right specialization (i.e., environmental law, tax law, healthcare law, etc.) or area of study for you depends on your legal interests, academic leanings, and career goals. Whether you want to become a partner at a law firm or have your own private practice, your concentration in law needs to match the kinds of cases you want to work on in the future.

How can I afford to go to law school in Arizona?

Yes, law school is expensive, but there are a few options students have that afford them the ability to attend a top law school in Arizona, such as financial aid, scholarships, and grants. Make sure you maintain a high GPA and excel on the LSAT and/or GRE. These scores can help increase your chances of getting funding.

For more resources, browse our blog for free college guides and check out hundreds of funding options.