In a state with very competitive law schools, Florida International University has climbed the national law school rankings by 38 spots, making them a top 60 law school in the country.
FIU has for a long time sat on the sidelines compared to other institutions such as University of Miami, University of Florida, and the Florida State University. U.S. News, which is responsible for ranking universities placed the south Florida school at number 60 among all law schools, and 32 among public law schools.
The 38 spot jump is now the second highest ranking improvement of all time and is reflective of the 2023-2024 school year. U.S. News Best Law Schools methodology to prioritize measures that “identify clear and transparent outcomes for prospective students,” according to U.S. News. The changes were made following the input and feedback of more than 100 law school deans and other experts in the legal field across the country.
“This updated methodology better reflects the return on investment students are looking for in selecting a law school,” said FIU President Kenneth A. Jessell. “I am proud of everyone who has helped build FIU Law’s track record of success.”
Usually bar exam passage is considered in these rankings, but FIU has managed to go one step further. In 2020, FIU Law reportedly ranked second in the nation in "overperformance" on the bar exam by alumni according to the American Bar Association.
The FIU Law staff has evidently invested time and effort to raise FIU into the national conversation in regard to prestigious law schools. FIU Law Dean Antony Page stated in regard to the recent success, "The new rankings methodology better aligns with FIU Law’s core values of rigorously preparing our graduates for the practice of law in a supportive, student-centered environment.” Dean Page added, “The rankings now better recognize the responsibility law schools have of ensuring that new lawyers are able to begin successful careers.”
