California (Clovis) -- San Joaquin College of Law -- Accreditation: California -- Year Founded: 1969

San Joaquin College of Law (SJCL) is a private, non-profit law school in Clovis, California. It was founded in Fresno in 1969 by a group of San Joaquin Valley judges and attorneys because no accredited law school existed in the area. The school began instruction in 1970.



In December 1996, SJCL relocated to a new facility, the original Clovis High School building, which was built in 1920. Melding the old and the new, the renovated historic building allows the school to expand. The new facility includes a new courtroom and lecture hall, greatly enlarged library and computer facility, and modern classrooms, while retaining the campus feel of the school campus. There remains no comparable institution for 120 miles in any direction.

Accreditation

The San Joaquin College of Law is now concentrating its efforts on obtaining American Bar Association (ABA) accreditation. SJCL is currently approved by the Committee of Bar Examiners of the State Bar of California, and accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), The school expects to seek ABA accreditation in the near future. During 2003-2006, its first time bar passage rate ranged from 28 to 49 percent. Thus far, 88% of its graduates have eventually passed the California Bar examination.



Frequently Asked Questions

• How do I start the application process?
• Can I complete your program while working a normal 40 hour work week?
• How much is the tuition for the law program?
• What are the requirements to be admitted to the Law Program?
• If I have less than 60 units of College education can I still be accepted to SJCL?
• Are there scholarships available?
• What are the requirements to qualify for student loans?

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FAQ - The Answers

Contact the School

San Joaquin College of Law
901 5th Street, Clovis
CA 93612

559-323-2100

www.sjcl.edu

Admissions

Several academic factors influence the admission decision: undergraduate grade point average (GPA), Law School Admission Test (LSAT) score, a record of improvement in undergraduate study, graduate education, additional training, and continuing education. Honors, publications, and community service are also relevant.

SJCL attempts to discover students who show the capacity to succeed in law. The School’s broad policy includes consideration of community involvement, life experience, employment history and accomplishments, motivation, and maturity – factors which indicate the applicant will add a unique perspective to the student body.

The Law School prefers applicants who hold a bachelor’s degree or the equivalent from an accredited college or university. In some instances, particularly outstanding individuals without a four-year degree will be considered for admission, provided other requirements are met. (See Special Students.)

Preparation for Law School

Because strong analytical and communication skills are vital to the practice of law, students are urged to incorporate writing, logic, philosophy, and research courses into their pre-law curriculum. Please contact the SJCL Director of Admissions for additional guidance.

Pre-Admission Counseling

Interviews with the Director of Student Services, Dean, and Director of Admissions can be scheduled to explore admission criteria, procedures, finances, and career options. Also, meetings can be arranged with current students or faculty who can share insight into the rewards and demands of law school.

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San Joaquin College of Law - Admissions