Entrance to the University of South Carolina School of Law at dusk.

University of South Carolina Joseph F. Rice School of Law

The information on this page was provided by the law school.

Official Guide to ABA-Approved JD Programs


Established in 1867, the University of South Carolina Joseph F. Rice School of Law is centrally located in the capitol city of Columbia with an easy drive to the mountains and the coast. As the seat of state government, Columbia is home to the South Carolina Supreme Court, Court of Appeals, and more. South Carolina Law is part of a major research university where law students benefit from rich interdisciplinary opportunities and a lively social and athletic scene.  

The JD Program

South Carolina Law has provided outstanding preparation for law students since its founding, offering a full-time-only day program leading to the Juris Doctor degree. Advanced course offerings include corporate and commercial law, tax and estate planning, environmental law, family law, international law, and litigation.  

Learn more about the JD program at University of South Carolina Joseph F. Rice School of Law

Student Life

Career Placement and Bar Passage

Career & Professional Development serves as a liaison between students and legal employers, equipping students with the skills, resources, and knowledge necessary to navigate their professional development and career path. In addition to individual advising, résumé, and cover letter review, Career and Professional Development participates in job fairs; hosts on-campus interviews; and offers seminars and workshops on topics like presentations, networking, and practice area panels. 

Tuition and Aid

Expense Cost
Tuition
$23,722.00
Expected Cost of Attendance
$44,458.00

While many students depend on federal and private student loans to help finance their legal education, the School of Law offers scholarship assistance based both on merit and financial need. Merit-based scholarships may range from $500 to full tuition. There is no separate application for merit-based scholarships. Applicants who wish to be considered for need-based scholarships or loans should submit the FAFSA. 

Please note: The table above reflects the tuition rate and expected cost of attendance for South Carolina residents. Non-resident tuition rates can be found on the law school's website. 

Learn more about tuition & aid at University of South Carolina Joseph F. Rice School of Law

Admission Decisions: Beyond the Numbers

The law school seeks to enroll qualified students who will enhance and embrace the school’s rigorous educational environment and, as graduates, make positive societal contributions to South Carolina, the country, and the world. 

Although undergraduate GPA and the Law School Admission Test are important, the committee’s decision is influenced by all available information about an applicant including any graduate study, military service, leadership and community service, employment or other life experience, residency, letters of recommendation, and potential for contribution to a diverse educational environment. 

Learn more about admission at University of South Carolina Joseph F. Rice School of Law

Admitted Applicant Profile

25-75% UGPA Range at South Carolina:

3.48 to 3.91

25-75% LSAT Score Range at South Carolina:

159 to 163

25-75% UGPA Range at South Carolina:

3.48 to 3.91

25-75% LSAT Score Range at South Carolina:

159 to 163

25-75% UGPA Range at South Carolina:

3.48 to 3.91

25-75% LSAT Score Range at South Carolina:

159 to 163