The University of South Dakota

High Quality Legal Education  

Dean's Welcome

"He borrowed books..., took them home with him, and went at it in good earnest. He studied with nobody." That's how Abraham Lincoln, in an autobiographical sketch written in 1860, described himself and his legal education.   

Although legal education has changed greatly since Lincoln's time, some things remain the same. Law Students still borrow to pay for books, tuition, and other expenses. Students, at least those who succeed, still study "in good earnest," but they don't have to do it alone.  

A high quality legal education at an affordable cost, in a small, friendly school with many opportunities for specialized instruction and personal assistance. With a total student enrollment of approximately 220, our student-faculty ratio is one of the best in the United States.  

Our faculty is a diverse and highly accomplished group of dedicated teachers and scholars selected from across the country. Our students also come from many states and, upon graduation and admission to the Bar, enter law practice not only in South Dakota but also throughout the nation.  

Strong support from its graduates and members of the South Dakota Bar. The Law School Foundation provides many scholarships and awards for student achievements. Strong ties with graduates and members of the Bar facilitate our efforts to assist students and graduates in obtaining employment through the career services office.  

I hope you will consider carefully the many advantages available to you as a student of the University of South Dakota School of Law. I also hope you can visit our campus in Vermillion. The faculty, staff, and I would be pleased to talk with you about legal education generally and how our school and its programs might fit your plans and needs. 
                                                                                                                                                                                             Dean Barry Vickrey