Southwestern Law School

Southwestern Law School stands as a beacon of legal education in Los Angeles, distinguished not only as the city's second oldest law school but also for its enduring commitment to inclusivity and innovation. Founded in 1911 by John J. Schumacher with a clear vision to extend legal education to women and minorities, Southwestern has consistently broken barriers. Today, it continues this pioneering spirit by offering the nation's first fully-online Juris Doctor program to receive accreditation from the American Bar Association, marking a significant milestone in accessible legal studies.

From its humble beginnings as the Southwestern College of Law in the Union Oil Building, the institution quickly expanded, even briefly holding a university charter. Despite facing the immense challenges of the Great Depression and World War II, which saw many other disciplines close, the law school persevered. Its resilience led to a resurgence in interest from returning veterans, culminating in a move in 1974 to its vibrant Westmoreland Avenue campus in the heart of Los Angeles. This historical journey underscores a legacy of adaptability and dedication to legal education.

In 1994, Southwestern further solidified its presence by acquiring and renovating the iconic Bullocks Wilshire building, a historic landmark now serving as the stunning backdrop for its law library, modern classrooms, faculty offices, and state-of-the-art advocacy center. This unique blend of historic architecture and contemporary learning spaces offers an inspiring environment for students. Academically, Southwestern is a respected member of the Association of American Law Schools (AALS) since 1974 and the North American Consortium on Legal Education, affirming its commitment to high standards and collaborative scholarship.

Students at Southwestern are immersed in a dynamic academic community within a truly unique setting. Studying amidst the grandeur of the renovated Bullocks Wilshire building, with its rich history (even featuring in an Aerosmith music video!), provides an unparalleled backdrop for rigorous legal training. The school's location in the Wilshire Center area of Los Angeles offers access to a thriving legal market and a vibrant city experience, preparing graduates not just with legal knowledge but with practical experience in a historically significant and forward-thinking institution.