There are so many jobs for people who hold a law degree from a Minnesota school. From civil law to criminal litigation to business negotiations, lawyers are in high demand. Law schools generally accept students who hold a Bachelor's degree in any major, but they prefer students who majored in business, political science or something similar during their undergraduate years.

Different Minnesota law schools have different requirements, but being the best student you can be will only help your chances. Remember to research each school's admission requirements before applying.

1. Look into attending the public MN law school. This school is bustling with life and social opportunities.

2. See if perhaps one of the private law schools in MN are right for you. These schools cost a bit more but the quality of education is known for being of the highest quality.

3. Find a Minnesota school of law that is accredited by the ABA. Attending an American Bar Association accredited school ensures that you'll be eligible to sit for the Bar Exam.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Check out a public MN law school

Public schools can be just as good as private schools, but for a fraction of the cost. They have large student bodies and foster a feeling of community. The opportunities for networking are great, and after you graduate, you'll be glad you made those contacts.

I recommend: The University of Minnesota Law School offers 18 different clinic programs for students to participate in and improve their education. This is the only public law school in Minnesota. Save a stamp and apply online. See how it ranks at the Internet Legal Research Group.

Consider earning your law degree in MN at a private school

Private schools may cost more but each has its own advantages. For example, some colleges use rolling admissions (and thus, no application deadlines) and offer part-time classes as well as full-time schedules.

I recommend: Consider enrolling in the part-time weekend program at Hamline University. University of St. Thomas, a Catholic law school, offers an externship program for hands-on experience. Take an online tour of William Mitchell, a law school in St. Paul, MN.

Find a reputable and ABA accredited Minnesota school of law

The American Bar Association (ABA) approves schools that offer a proper law education, and guarantees that the student can sit for the Bar Exam upon graduation. Laws vary from state to state, but going to an accredited school is a good idea no matter what. Also, checking out the rankings of different schools can help you find top law schools in Minnesota.

I recommend: Find accredited schools in your area at the American Bar Association. Find rankings for Minnesota schools on Top-Law-Schools.com.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Carefully compare MN law schools before you make a decision to apply to one. You'll want to find the school that's right for you; some schools may offer law programs that don't appeal to you. Also, consider the professors' experience before deciding.