Penn State Dickinson Law
Our Legacy is Your Opportunity
Penn State Dickinson Law combines the legacy of Pennsylvania's first law school with the reach and prestige of a globally recognized university. From here, your journey continues.
We are Pennsylvania’s public law school, providing unparalleled access to high quality education and public service through collaboration, interdisciplinary research, and experiential learning.
Building Your Legal Legacy
When you choose Penn State Dickinson Law, you’re becoming part of history. We are the oldest law school in Pennsylvania and one of the oldest in the nation. As an integral part of Penn State, you will also gain access to the resources, experiences and network of a top research university with global reach.
A Global Network
A degree from Penn State Dickinson Law offers access to a global network of over 8,000 Law School alumni and over 785,000 Penn State graduates. You’ll find Dickinson Law graduates working tirelessly across private practice, public interest, government, industry, and more.
Two Vibrant Locations
With locations in Carlisle and University Park, Penn State Dickinson Law provides access to an affordable, high-quality legal education and public service to support the citizens of the Commonwealth and beyond. Both locations offer rich experiential, social, and cross-disciplinary opportunities.
Antiracist Development Institute
Penn State Dickinson Law created the Antiracist Development Institute (ADI) to dismantle structures that support systemic racial inequality and intersectional injustice using a three-pillar system based on systems design, institutional antiracism, and critical pedagogy.
Learn moreLearning for the 21st Century Lawyer
A dynamic, hands-on approach to legal education. Be ahead of the curve by combining a robust knowledge of legal theory with profession-ready skills. Thrive in a challenging academic environment within a supportive community. Practice Greatness and play a critical role on the world stage or by serving your local community. At Penn State Dickinson Law, we empower you to choose your own path. From here, your journey continues.
At Penn State Dickinson Law, you will find:
Individualized Attention
As a student at our two-location law school, you’ll receive individualized attention and hands-on training at your home location with access to additional opportunities and resources at your companion location.
Generous Scholarships
Generous J.D. scholarships are available, including $60k Keystone Scholars Grants and significant merit awards.
A Strong Alumni Network
A degree from Penn State Dickinson Law offers access to a global network of over 8,000 Law School alumni and over 785,000 Penn State graduates – the largest dues-paying alumni network of its kind in the world.
A Leader in Antiracist Legal Education
Penn State Dickinson Law faculty and staff are paving a new path in antiracist legal education.
Convenient Locations
Both of our locations, Carlisle and University Park, support career-building opportunities in nearby major legal markets, including Harrisburg, Philadelphia, New York City, Pittsburgh, Baltimore, Wilmington, and Washington, D.C.
Career Success
Hands-on attention prepares our students for success. Over 90% of 2023 J.D. graduates were employed in long-term, full-time, J.D. required or J.D. advantage jobs within 10 months of graduation.
News
Featured
Antiracist Development Institute celebrates coalition-building at Mini Convening
The Antiracist Development Institute (ADI) at Penn State Dickinson Law hosted its second annual Mini Convening on May 15-16 at the Historic Hotel Bethlehem in Bethlehem, PA.
July 24, 2025
ADI continues coalition building with systems design workshop at Roger Williams University School of Law
July 19, 2025
Professor Cole quoted in The Harvard Crimson regarding government investigations into Harvard University
Events
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Annual Antiracist Development Institute Convening 2025
Dates: October 8 – October 10, 2025
Location: Carlisle
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Alumni Weekend 2025
Dates: October 24 – October 25, 2025
Location: Carlisle and University Park, PA