Law School
Rigorous Preparation. Relevant Practice.
Drake University Law School is driven by a clear purpose: to prepare outstanding legal professionals who promote justice, serve their communities, and uphold ideals of ethics and professionalism. And, as one of the nation’s 25 oldest law schools, we provide a well-established and proven pathway to get there.
Building on a rigorous foundation of legal theory, Drake Law School emphasizes practical training through opportunities like the First-Year Trial Practicum and a thriving legal clinic that equips you with direct client experience. Supported by an extensive network of relationships and robust career development, you’ll have everything you need to join more than 7,000 alumni across the globe who are making a profound impact on the profession.
About the Law School
For over 150 years, Des Moines’ only law school has graduated legal professionals who roll up their sleeves to advocate on behalf of others. At Drake Law, students find a career-shaping experience that benefits from our top-ranked clinic and our longstanding relationships with Iowa’s courts, businesses, government, and legal organizations.
%
Of students graduate with real-world legal experience.
%
Of first-year students receive scholarships.
%
Of Drake Law School faculty have practiced law.
Experiential Learning
Classroom concepts come to life through unmatched practical experiences. From observing a live trial from start to finish, to advocating in our legal clinics, to gaining hands-on training through internships in Des Moines and across the country, you’ll put the law in action. You’ll also hone your skills on competition teams and through specialized programs that prepare you to enter the profession with confidence and impact.
Drake Legal Clinic
For more than 50 years, Drake Law has led the way in clinical legal education, giving students the opportunity to work directly with real clients on real legal matters. The Drake Legal Clinic offers enough opportunities to provide every student with a clinical placement. Under the close guidance of expert faculty, you’ll take the lead in all aspects of a case—from client counseling and negotiation to courtroom advocacy and trial work. In these small, intensive settings, you’ll build essential lawyering skills while serving clients.
Centers and Institutes
Drake Law School's four unique centers of excellence provide opportunities for students to pursue their professional interests while also serving the community. From drafting legislation to improving the lives of children to researching new and emerging issues in constitutional law, Drake's centers offer a wide range of opportunities for practical experience.
Institute for Justice Reform and Innovation (IJRI)
The Institute for Justice Reform and Innovation (IJRI) promotes justice in courts and the legal profession through scholarship and action connecting law to the humanities and social sciences. By adopting the norm of justice, not rule of law alone, the IJRI seeks increased legitimacy of the judicial system and the profession, that they may warrant public trust.
Getting Involved
Your law school experience is more than classes and casebooks—it’s also about the community you build along the way. At Drake Law, you’ll find more than 25 active student organizations and competition teams where you can connect with classmates, expand your network, and put your legal interests into practice. Whether you’re passionate about advocacy, public service, diversity, or wellness, there’s a place for you to get involved, sharpen your skills, and make an impact. These activities don’t just enrich your time in law school—they help shape the lawyer you’ll become.
Meet Our Faculty
At Drake Law School, you’ll learn from professors who are both accomplished scholars and seasoned lawyers. Every member of our faculty has practiced law—and they bring that firsthand experience directly into the classroom. With expertise spanning a wide range of practice areas, they don’t just teach theory; they show you how the law works in real life. Just as importantly, our professors pride themselves on being accessible mentors. With a low faculty-to-student ratio, you’ll benefit from personal guidance and support as you prepare for your career.
Student Testimonials
News and Events
Take the Next Step
Experience law in action. Access premier classroom instruction paired with an exceptional career-building education at Drake University Law School.
Contact
Office of Admission and Financial Aid
Phone: 515-271-2782
Email: law-admit@drake.edu
