Welcome

Greetings from the Boyd Law Building! For 155 years, Iowa Law has built a legacy of excellence, shaping generations of leaders who make a difference in the world. Today, our distinguished faculty, dedicated alumni, and strong tradition of collegiality continue to define our community. In challenging times, the need for principled leadership has never been greater—and at Iowa Law, we embrace our responsibility to uphold that legacy and prepare the next generation for the future.

Our Place
Iowa City is a friendly and vibrant Big Ten college town with the conveniences of a large city and the heart of a small town. Iowa Law is a great place to earn a legal education or excel as a legal scholar. Not only does it house the largest public law school library in the United States, the research staff is first-rate and students have their own carrels bathed in natural light located in a soaring space with windows looking out over the Iowa River.

Our People
Iowa Law has a unique culture that values collaboration more than competition. It is a warm and congenial community where students hail from across the country and possess views across the political spectrum. But they come together here civilly and constructively to debate controversial topics and learn to solve thorny problems. They become collaborative colleagues and often lifelong friends. When they graduate, our students take with them a desire and a commitment to lead our world to a better future. And they go far. Our 10,500+ alumni network spans the state, the nation, and the world. 

Our Programs
Iowa Law is a small school with big advantages: a collegial environment built around the power of teamwork, highly regarded faculty who can teach students to analyze issues from all angles, and hands-on opportunities that turn theoretical concepts into actual experience. Iowa Law is one of only two US law schools with a federal criminal defense clinic. We have four well-known law journals, a robust field placement program, and a storied legal writing program. These are just a few ways Iowa Law sets up students for success.

Jean de Fiennes Statue in Front of the Boyd Law Building

Who is Jean de Fiennes?

Learn why we commemorate this captain

This bronze sculpture that appears in the front of the Boyd Law Building is an original work of art but François Auguste René Rodin.

1869

History of Iowa Law

Founded in 1865

Iowa Law is said to be the oldest law school west of the Mississippi River. Learn more about our rich 100+ year history.