University of Nebraska—Lincoln - College of Law

The University of Nebraska College of Law offers a high-quality education at an unbeatable price. With costs and tuition totaling far less than comparable schools, one student incredulously declares, “Where else can you get a top-rate legal education for that cheap?” Students say that Nebraska offers a first-rate education with a “brilliant and very approachable” faculty and staff. “Not only are the professors walking through the library, talking to the students and answering questions, but the staff throughout the college is amazing.”
The administration, faculty, and research staff undoubtedly serve as the law school’s greatest assets. One student remarks, “Honestly, I don’t think that one could find a better school administration or research librarians. They always meet you with a helpful smile,” and are willing to do all that they can to assist students. Another notes, “The faculty and staff at Nebraska Law care about the success of each student,” and help “student[s] find their place within the law.” According to many, professors are “extremely engaging” and “are able to connect the subject matter to practical experience and real-life cases, which makes class more interesting.”
Students warn, “The first year is extremely demanding,” but one seasoned 3L reassures us, “During my three years at UNL, most of my classes have been very interesting. Some of them have changed my life and outlook on the world.” Students rave about Nebraska’s prosecutorial clinic, as it is one of the few of its kind amongst an array of defense clinics. One student emphatically declares it “the best class that I took at UNL. Another student is of the opinion that though “there are a lot of classes in varying subjects, [the law school] is lacking in public interest/pro bono–type classes or topics for students wanting a different type of experience,” though the school’s Pro Bono Initiative has helped ameliorate matters, including an Immigration Clinic where students work with low-income clients.
Students are divided when it comes to the subject of employment after graduation. One student expresses an appreciation for “how UNL is trying to branch out and help students land jobs outside of Nebraska.” Another argues that while “the school is great for finding jobs for students with higher grades that want to stay in Nebraska,” “there is not enough emphasis on employment after law school if a student wants to work in public interest.” One 3L would like “employers more involved in recruiting for clerkships,” but in the same breath concedes that “most [students] were able to get clerkships if they wanted them as a 2L.”
“It’s great having brand new classrooms and facilities, as well as complete access to technology anywhere in the building.” The almost fully renovated classrooms are “extremely comfortable” and “all have wireless access and plugs for laptops.” Overall, students seem content with the refurbished facilities and as one satisfied 1L affirms, “After six years on the East Coast, the beautiful library and outstanding professors made returning to the Midwest an easy decision.”

“UNL recruits some very intelligent and exceptionally talented students,” and students agree, “The law school does a really good job of creating community among the students.” Specifically, the small class size creates a “close-knit group mentality” and particularly helpful is the practice of scheduling first years “so they have at least one class with most of the students” in their cohort. One reassured student remarks from experience, “I know that if I need any help, albeit from a librarian, administrator, faculty member, or fellow law student, that I will receive it.”
There is no shortage of social opportunities at Nebraska. “People take the initiative to organize mixers and activities to help people get to know one another and to keep law school stress at bay as much as possible.” The SBA, Women’s Law Caucus and American Constitution Society and the law fraternities routinely host speakers, discussion panels and philanthropic events. Academic groups like Moot Court and Client Counseling also bring students together in social-academic environments that don’t revolve around the bar scene. The bottom line remains clear as expressed in one student’s words, “students aren’t just classmates—we’re friends.”