An In-Depth Look at Law Schools and Their Programs
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LA Times Studios presents the 25 largest law schools operating in California. The 25 largest law schools awarded more than 4,100 juris doctor degrees last year.
In Los Angeles, entertainment law is an important concentration for both the UCLA School of Law and USC Gould School of Law. At UCLA, entertainment attorney and university alumnus Ken Ziffren announced the largest ever gift in the law school’s 76-year history. Ziffren’s gift builds on prior gifts that included a donation to establish the Ziffren Institute 10 years ago, focusing on media, entertainment and sports.
At USC Gould School of Law, the Center for Sports, Entertainment, Media & Technology Law was launched last fall to prepare students for careers at the intersection of film, music, sports, gaming and emerging technology.
Many law schools are accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA), which maintains a level of uniformity in education that allows students to sit for the bar exam in any state. Law schools approved by the ABA must maintain a 75% two-year cumulative pass rate. In California, some schools are accredited by the State Bar of California.
Most law schools responded to questionnaires for this list, but in some instances, information from accreditation reports was utilized. Overall, the 25 largest law schools in California have more than 15,000 students enrolled as of January 1.
Southern California’s law schools are helping redefine what it means to prepare for a legal career, pairing rigorous academics with hands-on, real-world experience. With forward-thinking curricula, accomplished faculty and deep ties to the region’s legal and business communities, the two programs on the following pages equip students to navigate an increasingly complex profession. From clinical opportunities and externships to strong alumni networks, they offer a dynamic path for those looking to make an impact in law and beyond.
