Preparing Practice-Ready Lawyers
At the UA Little Rock William H. Bowen School of Law, legal education starts with purpose and leads to practice. Our Juris Doctor curriculum combines doctrinal courses, hands-on legal training, and professional development that prepare students to lead in courtrooms, boardrooms, and communities across Arkansas and beyond.
With support from faculty mentors and direct access to the state’s legal system, Bowen students gain the skills, knowledge, and experience to serve clients and shape the future of the legal profession.
Graduation Requirements
Full-time students usually graduate in 3 years (six semesters) and part-time students usually graduate in 4 years (eight semesters). All students must complete degree requirements within seven years.
Base Requirements
Students must complete 90 credit hours, with 60 hours in residence, and maintain a GPA of 2.30 or higher.
Upper-Level Research
Students must complete an Advanced Level Research Course to satisfy the Upper-level research requirement.
Upper-Level Writing
Students must complete a substantial piece of legal writing to satisfy this requirement.
Policy & Perspective
Each student must complete at least one course that explores the broader impact of law through history, policy, or theory.
Experiential Learning
Students gain hands-on legal experience through required skills courses, clinics, externships, or practicum programs.
Bar Preparation Skills
To support bar exam readiness, students complete core courses focused on legal reasoning, writing, and test preparation.
Meet the Associate Dean of Academic Affairs
Dean Lindsey Gustafson oversees all academic matters at Bowen, from course schedules and registration to academic policies, bar prep, and student support. She works closely with faculty and students to ensure academic success and uphold the school’s standards.
Students with questions about academic rules, transfer credits, or academic standing can reach out to Dean Gustafson for guidance.
Student Resources
Academic Advising
Academic Rules
Academic Forms
Course Descriptions