In the world of legal education, achieving upward mobility and finding meaningful opportunities can be challenging. Western State College of Law, the oldest law school in Orange County, California, has consistently risen to that challenge. Building on a history of accomplishments, including high rankings for faculty diversity, strong support for underrepresented students, and a reputation as a minority-majority institution, Western State is proud to share two new accolades that demonstrate its commitment to progress and excellence in legal education.
Improved Graduate Employment Outcomes Elevate Western State’s Rankings
When it comes to preparing students for life in the legal field after graduation, Western State focuses on student success. The law school has established itself as a leader in improving employment prospects employment prospects for its graduates. Hailed as the 4th law school in the nation for improved graduate employment rates by National Jurist’s preLaw Magazine, the institution demonstrates its dedication to preparing students for legal practice well beyond the classroom. “Western State’s number one priority is our students’ success,” said Western State Dean and Professor of Law, Marisa Cianciarulo.
Featured in the magazine, James Gilliam, Western State’s Director of Career Development, emphasized the importance of early goal-setting for students. He explained that students should begin reflecting on their professional goals starting in their first year of law school. This approach ensures that externships and networking opportunities align with their goals. Additionally, Western State offers a Summer Honors Program for top students and hosts targeted on-campus interviews with law firms. Through these initiatives, Western State ensures that its graduates are prepared for success in an increasingly competitive legal job market.
A Champion of Diversity and Access to Legal Education
At Western State, diversity and inclusion are deeply woven into the fabric of campus life. Recognized by preLaw Magazine as one of the nation’s most diverse law schools for 2025, the institution has maintained a minority-majority environment since 2015. This commitment to diversity is evident at all levels. Women make up 67% of the full-time faculty, and ensures students have role models reflecting the values of equity and representation. Among the student body, 58% identify as racially or ethnically diverse. Additionally, half of the students are women, 41% are first-generation students, and 13% identify as LGBTQ+. Championing opportunity and access to legal education, Western State awarded 67% of its JD degrees in 2023–2024 to people of color. This further solidifies its dedication to diversifying the legal field.
Western State students range in age from 21 to 58. They come from eight states and eleven countries, bringing a rich variety of perspectives and cultures to the academic environment. As one of the first institutions in Southern California to offer a part-time program, Western State makes legal education accessible for veterans, working professionals, and parents who require flexible scheduling. “Our highly diverse group of students, many of whom are pursuing law while raising and supporting a family, go on to successful careers in the legal profession upon graduation,” notes Dean Cianciarulo. Western State is also one of the most affordable law schools. It stands as a school of opportunity, firmly believing that everyone deserves access to a strong legal education. This commitment opens doors for people who might not have otherwise considered pursuing a law degree.
A Growing Portfolio of Hands-On Legal Clinics
Western State is dedicated to improving employment prospects for its students. The school prepares them with a strong foundation for real-world legal practice. To this end, the institution has expanded its hands-on learning programs by opening two new clinics: Criminal Defense and Probate Law. These additions complement the existing Immigration & Deportation Defense Clinic and the Entrepreneurship Clinic. Together, these four clinics offer students invaluable experience working on real cases under expert supervision, helping them develop the practical skills and professional insights that are increasingly in demand by law firms, public service agencies, and corporate legal departments.
Building on a Legacy of Recognition and Impact
Last year, we achieved significant recognition. This recognition included top rankings from the Princeton Review and preLaw Magazine. These rankings highlighted faculty diversity and support for minority and women students. These accomplishments have laid a strong foundation for our ongoing upward trajectory. The distinctions received last year highlight Western State’s recent honors. They also emphasize the law school’s unwavering commitment to equity, academic excellence, and preparing our students for successful careers.
Western State College is dedicated to fostering an environment where students can thrive academically, personally, and professionally. The institution boasts an impressive record of boosting graduate employment rates. It also has a longstanding history as a welcoming and diverse institution. With innovative clinics and academic programs, Western State is at the forefront of defining what it means to be a modern and inclusive law school of opportunity. “Western State is known for its alumni’s dedication to the profession and active engagement with local bar associations,” Dean Cianciarulo proudly points out. “We are committed to diversifying the bench and bar, and are honored to be recognized by preLaw Magazine for our efforts.”
