The formal study of law has been part of Wake Forest since 1894. Over the years, Wake Forest has evolved as a small Baptist college for men located just north of Raleigh, North Carolina, to an independent, multi-dimensional, nationally recognized university located in Winston-Salem. Wake Forest Law has grown along with and at times led the development of the institution of which it is a part. The law school, which has worked to meet the needs of a changing legal profession as well as the changing needs of students, continues to be a leader in legal education by modeling engagement and professionalism through academic excellence and a thorough commitment to service.

Wake Forest Law has been committed to producing broadly educated citizen lawyers for more than 100 years. Our liberal arts heritage can be found through all of our graduate degrees.

Wake Forest University School of Law is committed to your education by pairing the traditional classroom with experience and service-based learning. Our mission is to develop successful citizen lawyers who turn their curiosities and passions into legal practice. We are a tight-knit, supportive community where you can develop meaningful relationships with fellow students, faculty, and alumni.

Our JD program lets you design your own path with both traditional and unique course offerings. At Wake Forest University School of Law, we want you to explore areas of the law that matter to you. Our faculty ensure your education is taught at the highest level in classes that are intentionally small and foster a collegial learning environment.

First-Year Curriculum

Build legal foundations in small classes that demand more of you. We pair a traditional first-year course schedule with our Professional Development course. Professional Development links legal theory to legal practice and helps you discover your individual strengths and interests.

Second- and Third-Year Curriculum

You’ll design your own path with a faculty mentor who will help you craft your upper-level course plan to support your career goals. Whether you’re in the classroom or engaged in a hands-on learning experience, you can immerse yourself in traditional courses of study or more nuanced areas of the law.