HBCU Pre-Law Programs: Requirements and Opportunities

For individuals considering a career in law, the potential for high earnings is a significant attraction. The legal field continues to offer some of the highest-paying jobs, from entry-level positions to roles for seasoned professionals. Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) play a crucial role in preparing students for law school and careers in the legal profession. This article explores the requirements for pre-law programs at HBCUs, the unique advantages they offer, and how aspiring lawyers can prepare for this challenging but rewarding path.

The Role of HBCUs in Legal Education

HBCUs were established in response to the systematic exclusion of African Americans from predominantly White institutions during segregation. These institutions have been instrumental in providing higher education to African Americans for over a century. According to John Pierre, Chancellor of the Southern University Law Center, HBCU law schools produce approximately 25% of the law degrees earned by Black students in the United States, despite representing only 3% of law schools nationwide.

Pre-Law Advising and Support

Pre-law advising is critical in helping students forge a path for success. For example, Dillard University has demonstrated a strong commitment to pre-law education. Ninety-three percent of Dillard students who applied to law schools in 2021 were admitted, a 160% increase from 2020. This success reflects the university's dedication to providing careful and consistent advising, built on personalized attention. Pre-law advisors get to know each student individually, offering application assistance for internships, summer programs, and law school.

HBCU Law School Programs

There are over 100 HBCUs, a subset of which offer law school programs. Here's essential information about the six HBCU law school programs, including the estimated annual cost of attendance, the law degree programs offered, and the median undergraduate GPAs and LSAT scores for successful applicants:

Howard University School of Law

Location: Washington, D.C.
Type: Full-time
Estimated Annual Cost of Attendance: \$71,710
Law Degree Programs: JD, JD/MBA, Master of Law (LL.M.)
2022 Median Undergraduate GPA: 3.49
2022 Median LSAT Score: 154
2022 Acceptance Rate: 31.16%

Founded in 1869, Howard University School of Law was the first historically Black law school in the United States. It has played a pivotal role in the civil rights movement, producing influential lawyers and judges, such as Charlotte E. Ray, the first black woman lawyer.

Thurgood Marshall School of Law at Texas Southern University

Location: Houston, Texas
Type: Full-time
Estimated Annual Cost of Attendance: \$45,072 (Texas residents); \$52,295 (non-residents)
Law Degree Programs: JD, Master of Law (LL.M.)
2022 Median Undergraduate GPA: 3.12
2022 Median LSAT Score: 151
2022 Acceptance Rate: 35%

Founded in 1947, the Thurgood Marshall School of Law at Texas Southern University has a rich history of promoting diversity and equality in legal education. It is deeply committed to addressing critical urban issues and honors the legacy of Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall.

Florida A&M University College of Law

Location: Orlando, Florida
Type: Part-time and full-time options available
Estimated Annual Cost of Attendance: \$31,180-\$42,440 (Florida residents, off-campus); \$50,440-\$61,700 (non-residents, off-campus)
Law Degree Programs: JD
2023 Average Undergraduate GPA: 3.52
2023 Median LSAT Score: 151
2022 Acceptance Rate: 35.48%

Established in 1949, Florida A&M University College of Law is committed to providing an exceptional legal education to a diverse student body. Its mission emphasizes serving historically underserved communities and nurturing future legal professionals dedicated to equitable justice and the rule of law.

Southern University Law Center

Location: Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Type: Part-time and full-time options available
Estimated Annual Cost of Attendance: \$40,378-\$45,682 (Louisiana residents); \$52,978-\$59,282 (non-residents)
Law Degree Programs: JD, JD/MPA, JD/MBA
2022 Median Undergraduate GPA: 3.13
2022 Median LSAT Score: 146
2022 Acceptance Rate: 59.71%

Established in 1947, the Southern University Law Center was founded in response to a lawsuit by an African-American man seeking to attend law school at a Louisiana academic institution. The Law Center’s mission is to provide access and opportunity to a diverse group of students from underrepresented racial, ethnic, and socio-economic groups to obtain a high-quality legal education with training in both civil and common law.

North Carolina Central University School of Law

Location: Durham, North Carolina
Type: Part-time and full-time options available
Estimated Annual Cost of Attendance: \$44,572 (North Carolina residents); \$67,243 (non-residents)
Law Degree Programs: JD, JD/MBA, JD/MLS/MIS, JD/MPA, JD/MPP
2022 Median Undergraduate GPA: 3.32
2022 Median LSAT Score: 148
2022 Acceptance Rate: 35.73%

Established in 1939, North Carolina Central University School of Law has a rich history of delivering quality, personalized, practice-oriented, and affordable legal education to historically underrepresented students from diverse backgrounds. They aim to enhance diversity within the legal profession and empower graduates to become highly competent and socially responsible lawyers committed to public service.

The University of the District of Columbia David A. Clarke School of Law

Location: Washington, D.C.
Type: Part-time and full-time options available
Estimated Annual Cost of Attendance: \$47,111 (D.C. residents); \$53,829 (D.C. residents)
Law Degree Programs: JD

Founded in 1972, the University of the District of Columbia David A. Clarke School of Law is committed to public interest and community service, providing hands-on experience to ensure graduates are well-trained to practice law, promote justice, and change lives.

Read also: Soaring to New Heights

Admission Requirements for HBCU Law Schools

Admission requirements for law schools at HBCUs are generally similar to other law schools. Applicants typically need to:

Complete an Undergraduate Degree: To enter the field of law, students must, at minimum, earn a bachelor’s degree.
Take the Law School Admission Test (LSAT): The LSAT Survey Course (300-level) is a suggested/supportive elective offered during the spring semester to prepare juniors to take the June and/or October LSAT in their senior year. The course emphasizes traditional exercises and simulated tests to improve reading comprehension, analytical reasoning, logical analysis, and writing skills necessary to obtain competitive scores on the LSAT.
Submit Transcripts: Provide official transcripts from all undergraduate institutions attended.
Obtain Letters of Recommendation: Secure letters of recommendation from professors or professionals who can attest to your academic abilities and character.
Write a Resume: Highlight your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and work experience.
Compose a Personal Statement: Craft a compelling personal statement that showcases your passion for law, your unique experiences, and your goals for the future.

Preparing for Law School

For high school students interested in attending an HBCU for law, it's a good idea to start preparing early. Focus on achieving strong grades in your undergraduate courses and engaging in activities that demonstrate your commitment to the field of law, such as participating in a debate club, interning at a law firm, or volunteering in legal aid societies. Also, consider taking classes that will develop your critical thinking, writing, and analytical skills, which are crucial in law school. Majoring in political science, history, English, economics, criminal justice, or philosophy for an undergraduate degree is not uncommon for future law students.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Attending an HBCU Law School

When deciding whether to attend an HBCU law school, consider the advantages and disadvantages. The right choice will align with your career goals, personal values, and priorities.

The Pros

Diverse and Inclusive Environment: HBCUs offer a unique and inclusive environment where students from diverse backgrounds come together. This diversity can enrich your legal education by exposing you to various perspectives and cultivating a strong sense of community.
Commitment to Social Justice: HBCU law schools have a historical and ongoing commitment to social justice and civil rights. Their curricula often reflect this dedication, providing a strong foundation for those interested in pursuing careers in public interest law, civil rights, and related fields.
Focused Approach to Diverse Perspectives: HBCU law schools are well-known for their emphasis on issues related to racial justice and inequality. This focused approach can be particularly valuable if you have a strong interest in these areas and want to make a difference through your legal practice.
Contribution to Diversity: By attending an HBCU law school, you contribute to the ongoing effort to diversify the legal profession, which is crucial for addressing systemic disparities and promoting equity.

The Cons

Smaller Alumni Networks: Compared to larger institutions, HBCU law schools may have smaller alumni networks, which can affect post-graduation job placement and professional connections.
Perceptions and Biases: Some employers may be less familiar with the prestige and quality of education offered by HBCU law programs, potentially impacting the recognition of your qualifications.
Limited Specialized Programs: If you're interested in a highly specialized field of law, some HBCU law schools may not offer as broad a range of courses or resources compared to larger institutions.
Financial Considerations: The cost of attendance can vary, so it's essential to research and compare the financial aid options available at different HBCU law schools.

Overcoming Obstacles and Finding Support

Pursuing a law degree is an intellectually enriching endeavor that prepares individuals to navigate the complexities of legal systems and advocate for justice. However, incorporating more professionals of color into the country’s legal system comes with obstacles. It is very important to be resourceful. Instead of thinking “I can’t”, start asking the question “How can I?” Then, consider your options for finding a way.

If you are a student and don’t have any personal income, there are people who would be willing to help you. Talk to your school if you are still an undergraduate. Talk to your pre-law advisor, instructors, deans, etc. Ask your school if there are funds available to sponsor your trip. Remember that nothing is free, so you want to give an exchange. We also encourage you to ask family members, friends, associates, and people you know, as well as organizations you are a part of to be your sponsors. Tell them that you are an aspiring lawyer and are raising funds for a trip to a national conference in Atlanta. Let them know the amount of money you need to raise. You must be relentless, especially since you are interested in pursuing a profession that does not reward passivity. Also, ask local lawyers’ groups and law firms. Ask. Ask. Ask. Don’t get discouraged if you get no response or a “no”. Someone will be willing to help you, even if they can only contribute a few dollars.

Read also: Summer Opportunities at HBCUs

Additional Resources and Opportunities

Jackson State University’s Legal Studies program exists to engage students in the readiness process for successful law school admission and retention. Each Jackson State University student with an interest in attending law school, regardless of major, degree, or discipline, is eligible to participate in the Legal Studies program.

The Fannie Lou Hamer Pre-Law Society, a University-recognized organization, is the service arm of the Legal Studies program and furthers student interest in the law through activities and events designed to educate and empower. Students are strongly encouraged to join the Pre-Law Society as a component of their academic, social, leadership, and professional development.

The Division of Social Sciences sponsors the Reuben V. Anderson Pre‑Law Program. This rigorous, highly selective, life‑changing, interdisciplinary program is designed for incoming freshmen who are interested in attending law school, or pursuing careers within the legal profession, or who simply desire to learn more about the enduring impact of the law on the moral, social, legal, and economic institutions of our society and how it affects people from every socioeconomic corner. The program is also open to Tougaloo sophomore students who possess the same commitment to interdisciplinary study through the lens of the law.

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