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.

Student Life
Career Placement and Bar Passage
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.

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.
