Texas Southern University – Thurgood Marshall School of Law
Description
1. Introduction
Texas Southern University – Thurgood Marshall School of Law (TMSL) is the American Bar Association (ABA)-accredited law school of Texas Southern University, a historic public university in Houston, Texas. TMSL has a long tradition of training lawyers and leaders, particularly from diverse communities. It offers professional legal education with a focus on public service, civil rights, and leadership.
2. Important Details & Highlights
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Institution Name | Texas Southern University – Thurgood Marshall School of Law |
| Parent University | Texas Southern University (Public HBCU) |
| Established | 1946 |
| Location | Houston, Texas, USA |
| Accreditation | ABA-Accredited |
| Programs Offered | Juris Doctor (J.D.), Master of Laws (LL.M.) |
| Student Body | Approx. 551 students |
| Ranking (USNWR 2025) | 178-195 nationally |
| Bar Pass Rate (Texas) | 75.91% (Texas Bar 2024) |
| Main Campus Address | 3100 Cleburne St., Houston, TX 77004, USA |
3. Law Programs & English Language Requirements
Note: TMSL offers professional law degrees, not integrated Indian-style five-year LL.B. programs. The available degrees align with U.S. legal education (J.D. and specialized LL.M.).
| Program | Duration | Key Focus / Notes | English Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Juris Doctor (J.D.) | 3 years (full-time) | Professional law degree; prepares students for U.S. bar exams. | TOEFL iBT, IELTS, or Duolingo if English not first language (see language scores below) |
| Master of Laws (LL.M.) – Immigration & Naturalization Law | 1–2 years (FT/PT) | Specialized LL.M. focusing on immigration law; first of its kind nationally. | TOEFL iBT, IELTS, or Duolingo if applicable |
English Language Test Requirements (International Applicants):
-
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 85 (Writing ≥24; Reading & Listening ≥15)
-
IELTS: Minimum 6.5 overall (preference for no section below 6.5)
-
Duolingo English Test: Minimum 110 total
4. Entrance Exam
| Exam Name | Purpose |
|---|---|
| LSAT (Law School Admission Test) | Required for J.D. admissions; score submitted via LSAC CAS. |
| None (LL.M.) | LL.M. applicants are not required to submit LSAT, though if taken, it may be included. |
5. Top 5 Reasons to Choose TMSL
-
Historic & Diverse HBCU Law School: Strong tradition of educating African-American, Hispanic, and diverse legal professionals.
-
ABA-Accredited J.D. & Unique LL.M.: Offers a full J.D. program and a specialized LL.M. in Immigration & Naturalization Law — a rare academic niche.
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Strategic Urban Location: Houston’s legal, governmental, and business opportunities benefit students seeking internships and employment.
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Commitment to Public Service & Diversity: A core mission to prepare lawyers committed to public interest and underserved communities.
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Employment & Bar Preparation Focus: Programs emphasize bar readiness and career development support.
6. Grade & Ranking
| Ranking / Metric | Detail |
|---|---|
| U.S. News & World Report (2025) | Ranked 178-195 nationally (bottom tier among ABA law schools) |
| Bar Passage Rate | 63.45% (all jurisdictions, 2023); 75.91% (Texas Bar 2024) |
| Median LSAT (Entering Class) | 150 (25th-75th: 148-152) |
| Acceptance Rate | 35.6% |
7. Documents Required for Admission
| Document | Required / Notes |
|---|---|
| Completed LSAC CAS application | Required for JD applicants |
| LSAT score report | Required for JD |
| Official undergraduate transcripts | Required |
| Resume / Curriculum Vitae | Required |
| Personal statement | Required |
| Letters of recommendation | Required |
| Writing sample | Required for JD |
| English proficiency scores | TOEFL/IELTS/Duolingo if applicable |
| LL.M. degrees | JD/LL.B. (for LL.M.) with transcripts |
8. How to Apply for Admission
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Review Program Requirements (JD or LL.M.) |
| 2 | Register with LSAC (for JD & CAS processing) |
| 3 | Complete Online Application |
| 4 | Submit Supporting Documents (Transcripts, Resume, Personal Statement) |
| 5 | Submit Test Scores (LSAT for JD; TOEFL/IELTS for international) |
| 6 | Pay Application & CAS Fees |
| 7 | Await Decision (Rolling admissions) |
| 8 | Accept Offer & Complete Enrollment |
Tips: Apply early (applications open Sept 1; priority for scholarships is advised).
9. Contact Details – Law Department
| Office / Department | Contact |
|---|---|
| Thurgood Marshall School of Law – Main Office | 📞 Phone: +1 713-313-4455 |
| ✉️ Email: Use admissions portal or official contacts via tsulaw.edu | |
| Law School Address | 📍 3100 Cleburne Street, Houston, TX 77004, USA |
| Official Website | https://www.tsulaw.edu |
Students exploring similar institutions can browse our College Directory for Law Colleges to compare courses, fees, and admission requirements.
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