Duke University School of Law
- Acceptance Rate
- 65.0%
- SAT Range
- 1050–1250
- ACT Range
- N/A
- Avg GPA
- 3.25
- Size
- N/A
- Type
- N/A
- Student:Faculty
- N/A
- Setting
- N/A
- Graduation Rate
- N/A
- Retention Rate
- N/A
- Tuition (In-State)
- N/A
- Tuition (Int'l)
- N/A
Student Life & Environment
Student life at Duke Law reflects the school's moderate size, residential setting, and collaborative culture. The law school enrolls approximately 650 JD students, large enough to offer diverse perspectives and activities but small enough for students to know their classmates. The culture emphasizes cooperation rather than competition, with students readily sharing notes, forming study groups, and supporting each other through the challenges of legal education. Most law students live off campus in Durham, with popular areas including downtown Durham, Trinity Park, and other neighborhoods within easy reach of the law school. Housing costs are moderate compared to major metropolitan areas. The campus setting provides access to Duke's extensive recreational facilities, including sports venues, fitness centers, and outdoor spaces. Duke Forest offers trails for running, hiking, and cycling. Student organizations span professional interests, public service, affinity groups, and recreational activities. Legal publications provide scholarly opportunities, while moot court, trial advocacy, and negotiation competitions develop practical skills. The law school sponsors numerous speakers, panels, and conferences that bring practitioners and scholars to campus. Pro bono programs connect students with service opportunities in the community. Social events, including the legendary Barristers Ball, build community across the law school. Career services support students pursuing varied paths from large firms to public interest work. The Research Triangle location offers access to a growing legal market and quality of life that many students appreciate.
Location & Surroundings
Duke Law School is located on Duke's West Campus in Durham, North Carolina, sharing the Gothic architectural heritage of the broader university. The campus provides a self-contained academic environment with tree-lined walkways, stone buildings, and the iconic Duke Chapel as a landmark. Durham has transformed from its tobacco and textile industry origins into a component of the Research Triangle, one of the nation's leading technology and research regions. Transportation in Durham and the Triangle relies primarily on automobiles, though bus services connect Duke to downtown Durham and other Triangle locations. Many students drive, with parking available on campus. The area is increasingly bike-friendly, particularly on campus and in downtown Durham. Raleigh-Durham International Airport provides domestic and international connectivity. The climate features mild winters, typically with limited snow, and hot, humid summers. Spring and fall provide pleasant weather ideal for outdoor activities. The cost of living in Durham is moderate by national standards and low compared to major metropolitan areas, making graduate education more affordable. The Triangle's technology and research economy provides employment opportunities beyond traditional legal markets. Durham's downtown has experienced substantial revitalization, with a growing restaurant scene, arts community, and professional sports presence. The natural environment includes state parks, lakes, and the coast within reasonable driving distance.
Costs & Career Outcomes
Tuition at Duke Law exceeds 70,000 USD annually, placing it among the most expensive law schools nationally. Living expenses in Durham are moderate compared to major metropolitan areas, with students typically budgeting 20,000-25,000 USD annually. The total three-year cost of attendance approaches 275,000-300,000 USD. Duke provides significant financial aid through both merit scholarships and need-based grants. Approximately half of students receive scholarship support. Named scholarships, including full-tuition awards, recognize exceptional applicants. Loan repayment assistance programs support graduates pursuing public interest careers. Despite available aid, many students graduate with significant debt. Career outcomes for Duke Law graduates are strong, reflecting the school's elite reputation. Graduates enter positions at major law firms, federal and state clerkships, government agencies, public interest organizations, and corporations. Starting salaries at large law firms exceed 200,000 USD, while government and public interest positions typically pay 60,000-100,000 USD. Duke places a significant percentage of graduates in federal clerkships, an indicator of academic success. The alumni network provides connections throughout the Southeast and nationally. Career services support job searches through counseling, recruiting programs, and alumni networking. Duke's employment statistics consistently rank among the top law schools nationally.
Campus Location
Explore More
See your match score for Duke University School of Law
Find out how you compare to admitted students with a personalized admission assessment.
See your match score — Sign up free