Established in 2006 the Drexel University Thomas R Kline School of Law stands as a testament to innovative legal education. Initially known as the Earle Mack School of Law it quickly made its mark. The school’s unique cooperative education program sets it apart. This program allows students to gain real-world experience. They work in various legal settings before graduation.
The decision to create Drexel Law was bold. Philadelphia already boasted five other law schools. Drexel’s president Constantine Papadakis envisioned graduates ready to contribute immediately. Employers favored candidates with practical experience. This innovative approach proved successful. The inaugural class in 2006 exceeded expectations. It welcomed 183 students. Their median LSAT score was 156 and GPA 3.4.
Construction delays hampered the school’s early years. Hurricane Katrina’s impact on building materials caused setbacks. Classes were initially held on Drexel’s main campus. They also utilized the Jenkins Law Library and the National Constitution Center auditorium. Despite these challenges Drexel Law persevered. It received provisional accreditation from the American Bar Association in 2008. This allowed its first graduating class to sit for the bar exam.
Substantial donations shaped the school’s trajectory. A $15 million gift from Earle I Mack led to a name change. Later a record-breaking $50 million gift from Thomas R Kline secured the school’s future. This transformative donation supported scholarships and enhanced the Trial Advocacy Program. The Kline Institute of Trial Advocacy occupies a historic Horace Trumbauer-designed building. It facilitates courtroom simulations and continuing legal education programs.
Today Drexel Law flourishes. It offers Juris Doctor LLM and Master of Legal Studies degrees. Joint-degree programs with other Drexel departments broaden students’ options. The school boasts full accreditation from the American Bar Association. It achieved this in 2011. Students benefit from a dedicated faculty a well-stocked library and extensive career services. They participate in a renowned Trial Advocacy program and numerous clinics. Drexel University Thomas R Kline School of Law exemplifies a modern and forward-thinking approach to legal education. Its graduates are well-prepared to meet the challenges of the 21st-century legal landscape. The school’s commitment to experiential learning and its vibrant community create a unique and rewarding educational journey for its students.