Juris Doctor
Our J.D. program is distinctive in that we embrace the importance of relationships as well as the traditional aspects of a legal education. It’s because of this that the University of St. Thomas School of Law has earned top rankings nationally for practical training, clinical programs and externships. We also have an exceptional faculty who are thought leaders in their fields. At the same time, our students report a remarkable quality of life that truly embodies our commitment to community.
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School of Law Overview
Get More Than A Career. Get A Mission.
St. Thomas provides all students with abundant opportunities for practical experience and reflection along with unparalleled individual support across all three years of law school. We assist each student in the development of their professional identity and help them find a path into the legal profession that is meaningful and fulfilling for them.
Juris Doctor Degree
As a lawyer you will have the power to change lives.
As a St. Thomas lawyer, you will change them for the better.
Joint Degree and Concentration Programs
J.D. + MBA: Master of Business Administration
The J.D./MBA program, offered in partnership with the St. Thomas Opus College of Business, builds students’ business acumen and understanding of the legal framework in which organizations operate.
J.D. + M.S.W.: Master of Social Work
The J.D./M.S.W. program provides students with both a social and legal perspective to meet the social work and legal challenges in many areas of professional practice.
J.D. + M.A.: Master of Arts in Catholic Studies
The J.D./MA program fosters the intellectual, spiritual and personal growth of students and diversifies their career opportunities.
J.D. + Concentration: Immigration Law
The J.D. plus a concentration in immigration law teaches students to navigate complex and evolving statutes and policies, while developing the problem-solving ability, cultural competence and interpersonal skills essential for success as an immigration attorney.
J.D. + Concentration: Law, AI & Evolving Technologies
Rapidly developing AI technologies are making fundamental changes to the practice of law. Earning the Law, AI and Evolving Technologies concentration will show employers that you understand both the legal and technical elements of technology innovations and can advise on the complex legal, ethical and regulatory challenges they raise.
J.D. + Concentration: Org. Ethics & Compliance
The J.D. plus a concentration in ethics and compliance equips students with the skills to become stewards of corporate behavior and help organizations navigate industry and government regulations.
J.D. + MBA: Master of Business Administration
The J.D./MBA program, offered in partnership with the St. Thomas Opus College of Business, builds students’ business acumen and understanding of the legal framework in which organizations operate.
J.D. + M.S.W.: Master of Social Work
The J.D./M.S.W. program provides students with both a social and legal perspective to meet the social work and legal challenges in many areas of professional practice.
J.D. + M.A.: Master of Arts in Catholic Studies
The J.D./MA program fosters the intellectual, spiritual and personal growth of students and diversifies their career opportunities.
J.D. + Concentration: Immigration Law
The J.D. plus a concentration in immigration law teaches students to navigate complex and evolving statutes and policies, while developing the problem-solving ability, cultural competence and interpersonal skills essential for success as an immigration attorney.
J.D. + Concentration: Law, AI & Evolving Technologies
Rapidly developing AI technologies are making fundamental changes to the practice of law. Earning the Law, AI and Evolving Technologies concentration will show employers that you understand both the legal and technical elements of technology innovations and can advise on the complex legal, ethical and regulatory challenges they raise.
J.D. + Concentration: Org. Ethics & Compliance
The J.D. plus a concentration in ethics and compliance equips students with the skills to become stewards of corporate behavior and help organizations navigate industry and government regulations.
A Mentor for Every Law Student
St. Thomas Law’s award-winning Mentor Externship Program pairs you, each year of law school, with a lawyer or judge working in your area of interest who will help you gain work experience, develop relationships and navigate the legal field. The program combines opportunities in the field with thoughtful reflection to give each student a personal view of the legal profession.
Support and Resources
St. Thomas is committed to helping you succeed during law school and after you graduate.
Career & Professional Development
The Office of Career and Professional Development leads a law school-wide program that helps students and alumni navigate the path to meaningful employment by providing individualized resources and support.
Academic Support
The law school’s Director of Academic Achievement and Bar Success offers personalized services and leads our academic success program that begins at orientation and continues beyond graduation.
Law Student Wellness
Faculty and staff work to foster an environment where each student feels connected and supported and understands the importance of making wellness a professional priority.
Areas of Study
Among the strengths of St. Thomas Law's program is a vast catalog of courses that can be tailored to fit your professional aspirations and personal goals. Below are a few of the areas in which you can study.
The Twin Cities - Minneapolis & St. Paul
With large business and legal communities and its blend of natural beauty and urban sophistication, the Twin Cities is a great place to attend law school and somewhere you will want to consider staying. The area boasts high marks for its employment opportunities and overall quality of life.