Class of 2017 FAQs on Separate Accreditation

Last year, The Dickinson School of Law of the Pennsylvania State University asked the Council of the American Bar Association’s Section of Legal Education and Admissions to the Bar (the ABA) to authorize the  law school's two campuses in Carlisle and University Park to operate as separate, fully-accredited laws schools. The ABA has approved the request.

What does this mean for me as a member of the class entering in fall 2014?

J.D., LL.M., and S.J.D. students entering Penn State's Dickinson School of Law in fall 2014 will not be affected by the change.  You may choose to attend classes in University Park or Carlisle, take AV electives, and participate in clinics and externships at either location in the same manner as students in the unified classes that preceded your class. The change in operations will take effect for students starting law school in fall 2015.

Why did the law school ask for approval to change from a unified, two-campus school to two separately accredited schools?

Having two separately accredited law schools will provide applicants with clearer options for legal education at Penn State and allow the faculty at each school to develop an individualized curriculum that builds on the strengths of each school.

Will each school remain a part of Penn State?

Yes. 

Will I be required to transfer campuses at any point?

No. Students entering in fall 2014 will continue to have the option of completing all three years of law school in one campus or transferring between campuses before any semester after their first year.

Will I be part of both the Penn State and Dickinson School of Law alumni networks?

Yes. Current and incoming students will continue to benefit from a worldwide alumni network and outstanding name recognition.  

Will one of the two separate schools be higher ranked or have better job prospects than the other?

It is impossible to predict how any law school will fare in the rankings or with employment prospects in the future. You have made a great choice for law school today by choosing our unified program, and the quality and reputation of both separate schools will continue to be a priority in the future.

Is separate accreditation part of a plan to close one of the separate law schools?

No. Penn State has committed unprecedented resources to support the unified law school as well as the future separately accredited law schools in Carlisle and University Park.

I have a question that wasn’t answered by these FAQs.Where can I go for answers?

Any incoming or prospective students are encouraged to contact the admissions office with any questions about our request for separate accreditation.

Amanda DiPolvere - Assistant Dean of Admissions & Financial Aid - 814-865-8978 - ajd7@psu.edu