Why Notre Dame Law? Apply NowRequest Info
Why Notre Dame Law?
Whether your immediate career goal is working as an associate at one of the nation’s leading law firms, a judicial clerk, a prosecutor, or a public interest attorney, Notre Dame will serve you well. A Notre Dame law degree is recognized by employers nationwide and provides an open door into all sectors of legal employment. You can shape public policy as a practicing lawyer, public servant, judge, innovator in business or in the non-profit world, among many other career options. The strength of the Law School’s academic programs – in both legal theory and practical skills training, the proactive approach of the Career Development Office, the extensive and extremely dedicated alumni network, and the reputation of the Law School and the University all combine to make a Notre Dame legal education an outstanding foundation for achieving your personal and professional goals.
> Read more
> View the online Notre Dame Law School Viewbook (PDF verision)
Educating a Different Kind of Lawyer
Ann Merchlewitz ‘83 J.D.
“Educating a Different Kind of Lawyer”
Time 0:42
With its focus on heritage and tradition, faith and values, and community service, the Notre Dame experience inspires students to examine their practice of law within the context of their responsibilities as members of the bar, as participants in an active faith community, and as citizens of the world. We believe that academic development does not occur in a vacuum, and we strive to provide resources that allow students to broaden their social, spiritual, and emotional lives, along with honing their intellectual and professional skills. The Notre Dame Law School educational experience focuses on professional excellence inspired by enduring values. A Notre Dame lawyer embodies the characteristics of exceptional moral and ethical standards, extraordinary ability, and a compassion for others. With the honor of a Notre Dame degree comes the responsibility to maintain this distinct reputation.
An Outstanding Alumni Network
One of Notre Dame Law School’s greatest strengths—and something that distinguishes it from other top-tier law schools—is its alumni network. The Notre Dame Law Association boasts a membership of over 8,000 alumni and supporters practicing around the world. The Notre Dame Law School alumni play a significant role in the life of the Notre Dame Law School student. They give generously of their time and talents to help the Admissions Office recruit the finest future Notre Dame lawyers, they help prospective students gain a better understanding of the Law School, its academic programs, career opportunities, culture, and mission, and they assist many current students who seek employment in a wide range of public and private sector positions.
> Watch video
Dedicated Career Development Office
Our exceptional Career Development Office provides programs, resources, and counseling to assist students in managing their careers in public- and private-sector positions at law firms, government offices and organizations throughout the United States. Students are provided with a wide range of services including on and off campus interview programs, judicial clerkship application support, career fairs and conferences, and collaboration with student organizations on career related programming, allowing them to achieve success in securing employment. > Read More
Interdisciplinary Programs and Programs of Study
To address the increasingly interdisciplinary dimensions of law and legal practice, the Law School faculty has teamed up with leading professors from other Notre Dame colleges and departments to create five Interdisciplinary Programs. > Read More
The Law School also provides five guided Programs of Study for students who wish to concentrate on particular legal fields and problems. These programs enable students to study established and emerging areas of law in light of modern challenges and developments. > Read More
Practical Skills Training Opportunities
Students are given a variety of opportunities to apply classroom knowledge in practical settings. Acquiring a unique combination of practical training and job skills through Clinical, Trial Advocacy, Externship, and Pro-Bono programs, students are prepared to succeed in every sector of the legal job market. > Read More
> Watch Video
A Global Perspective of the Law
The Notre Dame London Law Centre, located in Trafalgar Square in central London, operates the Concannon Program of International Law, the only ABA-approved, year-long overseas program offered by an American law school. The program presents a unique opportunity for students interested in international law to study abroad under the instruction of prominent American, British, and other European faculty. The Program also includes summer and semester study abroad options. > Read More > Watch video
Faculty as Scholars and Mentors
A defining characteristic of a Notre Dame legal education is the collegial relationship that exists between and among faculty and students. Our preeminent law school faculty consistently publish scholarship in top legal journals, yet are just as committed to providing an excellent professional education while encouraging students to understand how the study and practice of law fit into a life that also includes family, friends, and service.
> Watch Video
A Collegial and Vibrant Community
The word “community” is often used by alumni and current students when describing their Notre Dame law school experience. The sense of community that exists among Notre Dame law students, faculty, and staff is fostered by a culture that encourages students to do their personal best, while supporting classmates in their development as professionals. Students are greeted warmly, treated collegially, and challenged intellectually, all within an environment of cooperation and faith, which will form the basis of life-long friendships and professional relationships. > Watch Video
Great Location – Affordable Living
South Bend enjoys four distinct seasons, and close proximity to Chicago and Indianapolis without the big-city congestion and high cost-of-living. In addition to taking advantage of the many sources of recreation on Notre Dame’s campus—from athletics to the performing arts—you will have easy access to plenty of places for food and fun in downtown South Bend: The Morris Performing Arts Center features top-billed music and theatre performances; the St. Joseph River is popular for canoeing and kayaking; museums and the zoo entertain kids and adults alike; and a multitude of restaurants suit every palate. Learn more at the following locations:
St. Joseph County Convention and Visitor’s Bureau
City of South Bend
City of Mishawaka
