What are the key benefits of attending Howard University School of Law?
Howard University School of Law is the oldest historically Black law school in the United States, established in 1869, which means it has a long tradition of educating legal professionals who contribute to civil rights and social justice.
The school has produced notable alumni, including Thurgood Marshall, the first African American Supreme Court Justice, and Pauli Murray, a civil rights activist and co-founder of the National Organization for Women, underscoring its impact on American legal history.
The school's mission emphasizes social justice and leadership, aiming to prepare students not only for legal practice but also for roles as advocates for change within their communities.
Approximately 71% of Howard Law graduates enter private practice, while 30% secure clerkships, showing a diverse range of career paths available to graduates.
Median starting salaries for Howard Law graduates can reach $177,635 in the private sector, significantly higher than the public sector average of about $71,000, highlighting the financial prospects for those pursuing corporate law.
Howard Law offers a robust public interest law program, which allows students to engage in pro bono work and gain practical experience, fostering a commitment to serving underrepresented communities.
The school's curriculum includes unique courses such as "Race and the Law," which examines the intersection of race and legal systems, providing a critical perspective that is often overlooked in traditional legal education.
Howard Law has a strong emphasis on experiential learning, with clinics and externships that allow students to work on real cases under the supervision of experienced faculty and practitioners.
The school's faculty includes distinguished legal scholars and practitioners, many of whom have held significant positions in government or non-profit organizations, enhancing the educational experience with their practical insights.
Howard Law is located in Washington, D.C., providing students with access to numerous legal and governmental institutions, which can be advantageous for networking and internship opportunities.
The school has a diverse student body, with a significant percentage of students coming from historically underrepresented backgrounds, contributing to a rich learning environment that values different perspectives.
Howard Law is known for its commitment to diversity and inclusion, which is reflected in its admissions policies and initiatives aimed at supporting students from various backgrounds.
The law school offers various joint degree programs, such as JD/MBA and JD/MPH, allowing students to combine their legal education with other fields, enhancing their versatility in the job market.
Howard Law's moot court competitions and trial advocacy programs provide students with opportunities to develop their litigation skills in a competitive environment, preparing them for real-world court experiences.
The school has a strong alumni network that actively supports current students through mentorship programs, job placements, and networking events, which can be pivotal for career advancement.
Howard Law places a strong emphasis on ethical practice and social responsibility, encouraging students to consider the broader implications of their legal work on society.
The school has received significant funding and grants to support its mission, including initiatives aimed at enhancing legal education and providing scholarships for underrepresented students.
Howard Law’s location allows for unique partnerships with organizations engaged in civil rights advocacy, providing students with opportunities to work alongside influential movements and legal challenges.
The curriculum is designed to meet the demands of contemporary legal practice, incorporating emerging areas of law such as technology and intellectual property, which are increasingly relevant in today's legal landscape.
Howard Law's commitment to innovation in legal education includes the use of technology in the classroom, providing students with access to modern legal research tools and resources that enhance their learning experience.