Why Willamette Law | School of Law Program Strengths

Our Culture

Our supportive community creates an environment where students and faculty encourage one another to excel, creating a law school experience that stands apart from the cutthroat culture found at many other institutions. Here, we understand that when everyone succeeds, we all do better.

Experience

Hands-On Learning

Whether in the classroom, the courtroom, the legal clinic, or the community, Willamette Law students find numerous opportunities for growth and success. From the moment you begin your law school journey with us, you’ll benefit from a close-knit community that prioritizes personal connections and professional development.

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Our Law School

Stands Out

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Excellent Employment Outcomes

Willamette Law graduates consistently achieve strong employment outcomes, thanks to the comprehensive preparation provided by our Office of Career Planning & Development. Starting early in your academic career, you’ll engage in activities designed to hone your skills and prepare you for job interviews. Our graduates’ success is also reflected in their strong bar exam performance.

As you transition to the workforce, our office continues to support you, connecting you with a vast network of alumni and attorneys. This network opens doors to advice, job opportunities, and professional connections - no matter how long it’s been since you graduated.

Career Planning and Development

Bar Exam Performance

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Small-School Connections, Big Alumni Outcomes

At Willamette Law, you’ll build strong relationships that last a lifetime. Our small size means you’ll develop close connections with faculty, staff, and fellow students, creating a supportive learning environment. From day one, you’ll begin building a professional network through our attorney-mentor program, extensive professional training opportunities, and over 20 student organizations. As a Willamette Law graduate, you’ll find yourself among alumni in leading law firms, state capitals, and corporate boardrooms across the U.S. and around the world.

Attorney Mentor Program

Student Organizations

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School-Life Balance in the Pacific Northwest

We understand that law school is demanding, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Located in the heart of the Pacific Northwest, Willamette Law offers a unique balance of rigorous academics and opportunities to recharge in nature. Whether it’s exploring nearby hiking trails, enjoying the Oregon coast, or taking a weekend to ski in the Cascades, you’ll find plenty of ways to unwind and maintain your well-being outside of class.

Life in the PNW

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Powerful Proximity

Our location across the street from the Oregon State Capitol, Supreme Court, and multiple state agencies provides access to government-related opportunities. Whether you’re interested in government work, legal clinics, externships, or practical skills programs, Willamette’s proximity to these institutions gives you a distinct advantage.

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Life in Salem

Salem offers a unique blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities, making it one of the most affordable cities on the West Coast. Centrally located in the Willamette Valley, you’re just a short drive from Portland, the Cascade Mountains, and the Oregon coast. Whether you’re into outdoor adventures or world-class food and drink, Salem has something for everyone when you’re ready to take a break from your studies.
Award-Winning Faculty

Our faculty includes nationally recognized legal scholars who are not only experts in their fields but are deeply committed to your success. With small class sizes, you’ll work directly with professors who serve as mentors, helping you sharpen your legal skills and prepare for your career.
Lifelong Learning for Willamette Law Graduates

At Willamette Law, we believe that education doesn’t end at graduation. Our JD for Life program is designed to provide our alumni with continued opportunities for professional growth and development. Whether you're looking to explore new areas of law, stay current with changes in the legal profession, or enhance your resume for a career change, JD for Life offers a supportive path to lifelong learning.

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Ready to see for yourself what makes Willamette Law unique? Schedule a campus visit or a video chat to learn more.

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Why Willamette Law?

Our Culture

Hands-On Learning

Life in Salem

Award-Winning Faculty

Lifelong Learning for Willamette Law Graduates

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