Caruso School of Law

About the school

The Caruso School of Law at Pepperdine University, located in scenic Malibu, California, offers a unique blend of academic excellence and personal development for a fulfilling student experience. Providing a variety of legal programmes, including Juris Doctor (JD), Master's degrees, dual degrees, a variety of online programmes, and international study options, the school is committed to academic excellence.

The Institution's diverse student body and global focus equip graduates for international legal practice. The global perspective is evident through study abroad opportunities and international law courses. The Caruso School of Law stands as a place where the pursuit of legal knowledge meets a broader understanding of life and society.

Where is the school located?

The Caruso School of Law is located in Malibu, Los Angeles in the United States.

Life at Caruso School of Law

Artistic and cultural exposure is a major part of the student experience at the Caruso School of Law. The university’s Lisa Smith Wengler Centre for the Arts offers music, theatre, and fine arts opportunities to students. For those seeking more active pursuits, sports and recreation facilities are abundant, catering to interests ranging from basketball and swimming to hiking and beach activities.

Housing and accommodations at Pepperdine University provide a comfortable living environment. Apartment-style living options, including single and shared choices, cater to various preferences. Dining plans ensure a diverse and delightful dining experience, from on-campus dining halls to local cafes, accommodating different tastes and dietary needs.

The University emphasises physical well-being, with accessible fitness centres available in most residential complexes, along with a dedicated fitness and recreation centre for all students. A university-operated shuttle service ensures easy transportation within the campus and to nearby locations, and public transportation is readily available.

Additional benefits of studying at Caruso School of Law

• Practical Learning: The Caruso School of Law emphasises experiential learning through various programmes such as the Global Justice Programme, Straus Institute for Dispute Resolution, and Palmer Center for Entrepreneurship and the Law. Upon graduation, international students join a prestigious legal community that draws academics and professionals from throughout the world.

• Real-world Exposure: Students can also take part in summer programmes like the London Programme, which provides in-depth exposure to international law. These courses integrate academic study with field visits, exposure to the legal system, and professional networking.

• Career Development: The student experience includes career development and professional progress as essential components. To assist students in reaching their professional objectives, the School's professional Development Office hosts job fairs, workshops, networking opportunities, and one-on-one career counselling.

Admissions criteria

The admission fees and requirements are based on the individual programmes offered by the School. Some of the requirements are listed below:

Transcripts from any colleges, universities, or law schools attended CV/resume 2 recommendation letters required; preferably from academics or employers LSAT: Required for JD programme Minimum scores/GPA: Median LSAT score of 163 and median GPA of 3.64 for JD (2021) Application fee: Non-refundable fee of $50 for JD application

International students must submit additional requirements to complete a graduate studies application:

• F-1 Student Visa Status
• Transcripts through an evaluation agency
• English proficiency: TOEFL or IELTS for international students whose first language is not English

Fees and other expenses

Approximate cost for attending Pepperdine University - Caruso School of Law’s JD programme:

• Annual technology fee: $125
• Student bar association fee: $250
• Cost of books/course materials: $1,500–2,000
• Food and housing: $22,000–24,000 (on-campus housing available)
• Transportation: $2,000–4,000
• Personal expenses: $2,500–4,500

Job placements

Graduates of the Caruso School of Law programme benefit from internships, real-world experience, and career support, enhancing prospects. Some of the initiatives students can access are as follows:

• Real-world Experience: Law students are given opportunities to work on real cases in various legal settings, including public interest law, judicial clerkships, and corporate law.

• Internship Opportunities: Graduate students are encouraged to apply for various internships available through the School's Career Development Office (CDO). These internships provide hands-on experience, often leading to permanent positions.

• Diverse Job Listings: A range of employment opportunities are available, including part-time jobs, work-study programmes, research assistance, and positions as teaching assistants. The CDO is instrumental in helping students find these opportunities.

• Comprehensive Career Guidance: The school regularly hosts legal experts from different fields for talks, seminars, and workshops where students can discuss career options and receive guidance. Additionally, career fairs and employer information sessions are routinely organised to allow interactions between students and potential employers.