Ready to delve into a century of legal innovation? We are standing before Southwestern University School of Law. Founded in 1911 as Southwestern College of Law, this institution’s story is one of inclusion and groundbreaking programs.
Southwestern University School of Law is the second oldest law school in Los Angeles. Its founder, John J. Schumacher, envisioned a nonprofit institution accessible to women and minorities. It received a university charter in 1913. It expanded to include disciplines beyond law.
Originally located in the Union Oil Building, Southwestern University School of Law moved to South Hill Street. The Great Depression and World War II severely impacted enrollment. By the late 1930s, only the law school remained.
In 1974, Southwestern University School of Law relocated to its current Westmoreland Avenue campus. It joined the Association of American Law Schools that same year. In 1994, the school acquired the Bullock Wilshire building. This art deco landmark now houses the library and court room.
Southwestern University School of Law’s campus now includes the Westmoreland Building and the Bullocks Wilshire Building. The Leigh H. Taylor Law Library is in the Bullocks Wilshire Building. It holds over 470,000 volumes.
Did you know Southwestern University School of Law was unranked in 2013? Despite this, it maintains a strong reputation. Its part-time program was ranked 34th in 2013 by U.S. News and World Report. In 2008, its moot court team ranked 11th nationally.
Southwestern University School of Law offers multiple J.D. programs. These include full-time, part-time, and an accelerated two-year option. The SCALE program is the oldest accelerated J.D. program in the U.S.
Southwestern University School of Law is committed to diversity. It has been recognized for its multiculturalism and access. It has a welcoming community. Students come from diverse backgrounds and represent many cultures.
The faculty includes passionate educators and eminent scholars. Many have clerked for judges. They are experts in various legal fields. The adjunct faculty includes judges and law firm partners.
The Bullocks Wilshire Building is a campus centerpiece. It provides internet access. It has dining facilities and student lounges. There are terraces with city views.
Southwestern University School of Law offers concentrations in several areas. These include Entertainment and Media Law. The school was the first to establish a center for entertainment and media law.
The Biederman Entertainment and Media Law Institute is internationally recognized. It prepares students for careers in creative industries. The school offers an LL.M. degree in Entertainment and Media Law.
Southwestern University School of Law has a rich tradition in advocacy. The Julian Dixon Courtroom and Advocacy Center supports this. Students excel in moot court and negotiation competitions.
The school promotes public interest involvement. Students contribute thousands of hours to pro bono service. The Career Services Office helps students secure legal employment. Alumni can be found in various legal sectors.
Southwestern University School of Law has produced numerous prominent alumni. These include public officials and judges. Susan Westerberg Prager is the Dean and Chief Executive Officer.
So, as we conclude our visit, remember Southwestern University School of Law. It stands as a beacon of legal education. It is a place where tradition meets innovation.