Knudson School of Law Profile
The University of South Dakota Knudson School of Law was established in 1901. Approved since 1923, the Law School is accredited by the Council of the Section of Legal Education and Admissions to the Bar of the American Bar Association, 321 North Clark Street, Chicago, IL 60654, 312-988-6738. It has also been a member of the Association of American Law Schools since 1907. The Law School combines a practical curriculum with a uniquely personal and engaging learning environment. With strong job placement rates and affordable tuition, students maximize their return on investment.
Employment Statistics
We strive to provide accurate and reliable employment information to our prospective students, with the goal in mind of advancing your career. Our Career Services Office works with students from day one to provide career advice, guidance, internship/externship opportunities and job placement after graduation.
Class of 2023
Employment Summary for 2023 Graduates
Class of 2022
Employment Summary for 2022 Graduates
Class of 2021
Employment Summary for 2021 Graduates
Class of 2020
Employment Summary for 2020 GraduatesClass of 2019
Employment Summary for 2019 GraduatesClass of 2018
Employment Summary for 2018 GraduatesBar Passage Rates
USD Law First-Time Bar Passage Data for February and July 2023| Jurisdiction | Takers | Passers | USD Pass % | State Pass % for ABA-Approved Law Schools |
| South Dakota | 38 | 29 | 76.32% |
77.59% |
| 8 Remaining Jurisdictions | 17 | 8 | 47.06% | 78.28% |
Bar Passage Rates - First Time Bar Passage (2024) and Ultimate Bar Passage Rates (2022).
Required ABA Disclosures
This site brings together in one place the consumer information policies of particular relevance to the American Bar Association Standard 509 developed by the Standards Review Committee of the Section of Legal Education and Admissions to the Bar.
J.D. Curriculum and Transfer Credit Information
Required Courses
The J.D. curriculum during the first year of law school is comprised of 32 required credit hours. Three courses are required in the upper-division curriculum, as well as courses in two elective areas, a writing requirement and a third-year bar preparation course. Finally, students round out the degree by choosing among a range of elective courses. In order to earn a J.D., you must complete all academic requirements and earn a total of 90 credit hours.
First-Year Curriculum
During the 1L year, you will be introduced to the common law, procedure, legal research and writing, and a short overview course which exposes you to key theoretical concepts which will inform much of the learning you will experience during the first year.
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Upper-Divison Required Courses
You must enroll in Constitutional Law, Evidence and Professional Responsibility during the 2L year. Thereafter, you must complete at least one code course from the list of approved courses, earn a minimum of six experiential learning credits, complete your upper-division writing requirement and enroll in the 3L bar preparation course.
View Upper-Division Required Courses
