Founded in 1911 as a night school for working students, Southwestern Law School is an independent, ABA-accredited law school located in the historic Bullocks Wilshire building in Koreatown, Los Angeles. It has long been recognized for its strengths in entertainment and media law, trial advocacy, and a practical, skills-based legal education. The school is also known for its commitment to access, offering full-time, part-time, and accelerated degree tracks.
Southwestern's campus culture is diverse and career-oriented, with many students balancing work, family, and study. Distinctive offerings include the Biederman Entertainment and Media Law Institute, the Trial Advocacy Honors Program, and extensive externship and clinic opportunities in Los Angeles's legal, entertainment, and public interest sectors. Its central location puts students near courts, studios, and major law firms, and its alumni network is deeply embedded in the Southern California legal community.
| Type | Private |
| Location | Los Angeles, California |
| Founded | 1911 |
| Total students | 900 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 11:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 55% |
| Graduation rate | 72% |
| Average starting salary | $85,000 |
| In-state tuition | $60,000 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $60,000 |
| Room & board | $25,000 |
| Average financial aid | $25,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 85% |
| SAT range | N/A |
| ACT range | N/A |
| Average GPA | 3.40 |
| Regular deadline | April 1 |
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.