The LSU Law Experience
About 60 percent of the world uses some version of civil law; about 40 percent relies on a form of common law. Of all of the 181 law schools in the nation, only LSU gives each of its students extensive study in each — and a degree in each to prove it. LSU Law Center’s curriculum requires seven semesters, including one summer. Many students choose to spend that summer studying in LSU Law's program in Lyon, France. Because of the constant presence of two law systems, a comparative environment and an international flavor characterize the campus.
Approachable Faculty
The 40 full-time faculty at the Law Center are active researchers known nationally for their contributions to knowledge. They are also dedicated teachers whose doors are open to their students. "You feel comfortable about going to them and asking questions or asking for help in whatever you need, whether it be looking for a job, understanding a concept in class, or working on a paper," says recent grad Mary Beth Balhoff." As a student, I could just shoot my professors an e-mail and ask them a question, and I feel I can do that for years to come."
A Place to Enjoy
LSU law students are active in all sorts of organizations — and events such as crawfish boils, Assault & Flattery, and golf tournaments that show they know how to have a good time. The campus of a state flagship university offers many opportunities along with the excitement of SEC football. Beautiful lakes are a stone's throw away, and New Orleans is just 90 miles down I-10.
Prepared to Practice
The Law Center's focus on the two systems means LSU attorneys have the background to succeed in Louisiana, throughout the nation, and in dealing with global legal issues that may arise close to home or in an international environment. The school's winning moot court teams, the professional skills training in research and writing, the extensive externships and pro bono opportunities— combined with LSU law students' energy and willingness to work hard — mean that LSU law grads hit the ground running, wherever their careers take them.
