FLORIDA’S FIRST LAW SCHOOL Tampa Bay, Florida
Discover the Stetson Difference
From the moment visitors step foot on our campus, they sense this is a different kind of place. Stetson is more than a law school. We are a community dedicated to our students and devoted to seeing their success. We are caring. We are passionate. We will challenge you every day to reach your potential. While at Stetson Law, there are three things you can count on:Y
A MESSAGE FROM DEAN ALEXANDRE First, congratulations on recognizing your calling to the law. It is an amazing field with myriad opportunities to find your niche, maximize your talents, and contribute to your community. The more pivotal decision is finding the law school that suits you – one that will provide the support, guidance, and space to help you realize your full potential. Our gorgeous campus should entice you, but it is our amazing faculty and staff that should convince you that Stetson Law is your destination. You will not find a group of professionals more dedicated – to the law, to making a difference, and to educating and training future lawyers – than those here at Stetson Law. We are passionate and driven. If you share our zeal, we invite you to join us in our work to build a better world.
You will not only be taught, but also mentored and guided toward achieving your goals. You will be practice-ready on day one after graduation, thanks to our commitment to experiential learning. You will be attending the law school that has what is arguably the most beautiful campus in the country.
A COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION Our entire law school community works to approach our higher education mission with diversity as a guiding principle. We strive to create a student body, faculty, and staff that reflects the wealth of backgrounds and experiences represented in the population. We believe our campus community should be reflective of the general community around us. Beyond that, we are a learning institution, thinking and engaging in work that will benefit society. Social Justice Advocacy is more than just theory taught at Stetson Law – it is the heart of who we are and what we do. • Fall 2020 incoming class: 22% diversity; 54% female; age range 20-52 • Recipient of the 2020 Higher Education Excellence in Diversity (HEED) Award from INSIGHT into Diversity magazine • Dean Michèle Alexandre spearheaded the creation of the Florida Law School Consortium for Racial Justice in spring 2020. • Recognized by the National Black Pre-Law Conference for an Outstanding Law School Diversity Outreach Award, 12 years in a row (2019)
Best of luck with your decision. I hope to see you on campus.
• Dean Michèle Alexandre received the John Mercer Langston Legal Education Leadership Award from the National Black PreLaw Conference (2019)
Michèle Alexandre
• Awarded the Law School Admission Council Diversity Matters Award for the Southern Region (2018)
Dean and Professor of Law 22
• Recognized as a Military Friendly® School, Victory Media (2020-2021)
A Culture Defined by Community
A UNIQUE CAMPUS
Stetson Law’s campus is unique in two ways. First, you can’t help but notice its breathtaking beauty. It is a Mediterranean Revival-style landmark, just minutes from the beach. Second, the entire 21-acre, palm-lined campus is devoted entirely to the law school. Unlike other institutions where the law school may be a building or two that are part of a larger campus, at Stetson Law, everyone is here for the same reason, sharing the same focus. For both students and faculty, it’s about one thing – the study of law. At Stetson, community is the operative word. We are a law school that is committed to our students, to taking an interest in their lives, and to helping them achieve their goals. Our faculty move beyond the theoretical to guide students through the real-world skills they will need to successfully practice law. We are a community dedicated to one another’s success.
ACCESSIBLE FACULTY
Yes, you will face a demanding curriculum, but you will always have support from our faculty. You will be regarded as a member of the legal profession beginning on your first day of law school. As such, you will consistently be challenged to meet your full potential. But, you will also be guided and nurtured throughout your tenure at Stetson.
A FOCUS ON PROFESSIONALISM
Stetson Law distinguishes itself not only in the kind of lawyers who graduate from here, but also the kind of people. They know the law, but they also know how to conduct themselves professionally, how to be respectful of all members of our community, responsible and accountable. Our graduates stand out within the profession and the community.
A BOND TO OUR NEIGHBORS
Our concept of community extends beyond the boundaries of our campus. Last year, Stetson Law students donated thousands of hours for the 2019/2020 school year of pro bono service to hundreds of organizations. Stetson’s commitment to community service includes a 60-hour pro bono requirement for all students to enhance their law school experience.
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Curriculum, Electives and Requirements
THE DEPTH AND EXPERTISE TO MAXIMIZE YOUR LEGAL EDUCATION Since 1900, Stetson Law has established an exceptional reputation for consistently educating smart, skilled, practice-ready graduates. Stetson Law offers a comprehensive J.D. curriculum that features more than 60 skills electives, 350-plus clinic and externship opportunities, and six J.D. Certificates of Concentration.
CURRICULUM Full-time J.D. Most full-time students complete the required curriculum in the sequence listed below.
First Semester (Fall) • • • •
Civil Procedure Contracts Criminal Law Research and Writing I
Second Semester (Spring) • • • •
Constitutional Law I Real Property Torts Research and Writing II
Third Semester (Fall) • Professional Responsibility TOTAL CREDIT HOURS REQUIRED: 88 TIME FOR COMPLETION: 3 years
Part-time J.D. All part-time students are required to take classes at both the Gulfport campus and Tampa Law Center. Typically, part-time students will take classes 3 or 4 nights per week.
First Fall Semester • Contracts • Torts
First Spring Semester • Real Property or Civil Procedure • Research and Writing I
First Summer Session • Real Property or Civil Procedure
Second Fall Semester • Criminal Law • Professional Responsibility • Research and Writing II
Second Spring Semester • Constitutional Law I TOTAL CREDIT HOURS REQUIRED: 88 ESTIMATED PART-TIME COURSE LOAD: 8-11 credit hours in fall and spring 4-7 credit hours in summer TIME FOR COMPLETION: (Part-Time) 4 years (including summers)
Part-time students who meet certain academic and other criteria may apply to transfer to the full-time program in any semester after completing 28 credit hours.
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Curriculum, Electives and Requirements
Area Requirements One course required from each category.
Administrative Law Administrative Law Administrative Law for Health Care Consumer Law Employment Discrimination Environmental Law Environmental Regulation of Water Florida Administrative Law Immigration Law Labor Law Land Use Law Poverty Law Securities Regulation
Code
Bankruptcy Commercial Transactions Federal Income Taxation I Federal Taxation of Estates, Trusts and Gifts International Sales Law and Arbitration Payment Systems Sales and Leases Secured Transactions
Experiential
Advanced Civil Trial Skills (including Damages and Voir Dire sections) Advanced Criminal Trial Advocacy Advanced Veterans Advocacy Clinic Appellate Practice and Advocacy (Civil and Criminal) Arbitration Bankruptcy Externship Bankruptcy Judicial Externship Caribbean Law Externship Child Advocacy Clinic Civil Legal Services Clinic Comparative Trial Advocacy Compassionate Release Practicum Consumer Protection Externship Disaster Law Externship Dispute Resolution Board
Documents of the Deal: Corporate Contracts Elder and Disability Law Externship Environmental Advocacy Environmental Law Externship Environmental Practice Employment and Labor Law Externship Family Law Externship Family Law Mediation Federal Judicial Externship Federal Litigation Externship Florida Circuit Court (Appellate) Externship Florida Circuit Court (Trial) Externship Florida District Court of Appeal Externship Homeless Advocacy Externship Human Trafficking Immigration Law Clinic Immigration Litigation and Advocacy Individual Externship In-House Counsel Externship Intellectual Property Externship Interviewing and Counseling Local Government Law Clinic Mediation Skills Training Military Justice Externship Moot Court Board Municipal and Administrative Law Externship Negotiation and Mediation Post-Trial and Appellate Practice Pre-Trial Practice Prosecution Clinic Public Defender Clinic State Litigation Externship State Supreme Court Externship Tampa Prosecution Clinic Trial Advocacy Trial Team Veterans Advocacy Clinic White Collar Advocacy
Writing The Writing Requirement may be satisfied by successfully completing a seminar paper, an Individual Research Project (IRP), or Law Review.
Stetson Law elevated my writing ability. This allows me to confidently operate across all facets of business whether writing persuasively to high level executives, drafting contracts for other lawyers, or communicating personnel strategy to coaches. I have my time at Stetson Law to thank.
The Resources to Help You Succeed As a first-year student, you can adapt quickly to the academic demands of law school through the Academic Success Program, which offers workshops in time management, note-taking strategies, critical thinking skills, and exam preparation.
Guidance in Preparing for the Bar Stetson’s Office of Bar Preparation Services assists students with every aspect of bar admission. Full-time staff attorneys provide individual counseling on bar preparation. Students benefit from a personalized study plan and a full simulated exam, with sample answers reviewed by bar preparation staff. For more information on bar passage, visit stetson.edu/law/ barpassage.
Steven Schwartz, J.D. ’15
Director of Basketball Operations, Utah Jazz
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Curriculum, Electives and Requirements
Electives Advocacy and Skills Advanced Civil Trial Skills: Damages Advanced Civil Trial Skills: Voir Dire Advanced Criminal Trial Advocacy Advanced Legal Research Advanced Legal Research, International Law Advanced Legal Writing: Advocacy in Agency Rulemaking Advanced Legal Writing: Contract Drafting Appellate Practice and Advocacy Arbitration Child Advocacy Clinic Civil Legal Services Clinic Compassionate Release Practicum Complex Litigation Conflict of Laws Criminal Procedure—Adjudication Criminal Procedure—Investigation Depositions: Deposing Medical Experts Dispute Resolution Board Elder Law Practice Management Environmental Advocacy Federal Courts and the Federal System Federal Litigation Externship Financial Advocacy Florida Civil Procedure Florida Criminal Procedure Immigration Litigation and Advocacy International Litigation and Advocacy Interviewing and Counseling
Real Property Finance
Antitrust Law
Remedies
Antitrust Seminar
Sales and Leases
Bankruptcy
Survey of Florida Law
Bankruptcy Seminar
Trial Advocacy
Bankruptcy Judicial Externship
Trusts and Estates
Business Entities
Criminal Law
Commercial Transactions Consumer Protection Law Copyright Law Cyberlaw Seminar Federal Income Taxation I Federal Income Taxation II Financial Advocacy In-House Counsel Externship
Advanced Criminal Trial Advocacy Criminal Procedure—Adjudication Criminal Procedure—Investigation Criminal Responsibility Seminar Cyberlaw Seminar Ethics and the Practice of Criminal Law Florida Criminal Procedure
Insurance
Impact of COVID-19 on the Criminal Legal System and Human Rights
International Banking and Financial Law
Juvenile Criminal Law and Practice
International Business Transactions
Prosecution Clinic
International Intellectual Property
Public Defender Clinic
International Sales Law and Arbitration
Scientific and Expert Evidence
Law Practice Management
Tampa Prosecution Clinic
Multijurisdictional Taxation Seminar
White Collar Advocacy
Patent Law
White Collar Crime
Perspectives on Debt Products Liability Real Property Finance Sales and Leases Secured Transactions Sports Law Trademarks and Unfair Competition White Collar Advocacy
Elder Law Administrative Law Arbitration Consumer Protection Externship Disability Law Elder and Disability Law Externship Elder Law Drafting and Practice
While Collar Crime
Elder Law Litigation
Judicial Externships
Civil Law (General)
Judicial Practice
Elder Law Seminar
Administrative Law
Labor Law Externship
Estate Planning
Law Practice Management
Advanced Contracts: Issues, Concepts and Methods
Federal Taxation of Estates, Trusts and Gifts
Local Government Law Clinic
Advanced Legal Writing: Contract Drafting
Local Government Law
Children and the Law
Military Justice Externship
Conflict of Laws
Moot Court Board
Consumer Protection Law
Journal of Comparative and International Aging Law & Policy
Multistate Strategies
Elder Law Seminar
Survey of Florida Probate
Negotiation and Mediation
Family Law
Trusts and Estates
Pre-Trial Practice
Federal Courts and the Federal System
Prosecution Clinic
Federal Income Taxation I
Public Defender Clinic
Federal Income Taxation II
Scientific and Expert Evidence
Florida Administrative Law
State Litigation Externship
Florida Civil Procedure
Stetson Journal of Advocacy and the Law
Impact of COVID-19 in the Civil Legal System
Stetson Law Review
Insurance
Technology Issues for Law Practice Management
Labor Law
Trial Advocacy
Law and Higher Education Policy
Trial Team
Media Law Seminar
Veterans Advocacy Clinic
Pre-Trial Practice
White Collar Advocacy
Products Liability
Introduction to the Physical Examination
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Business/Corporate Law
Elder Law Practice Management
Health Insurance Insurance Law Introduction to Aging and the Law
Environmental Law Administrative Law Animal Law Seminar Environmental Advocacy Environmental Hazards Associated with Real Property Environmental Law Environmental Law Externship Environmental Practice Florida Administrative Law International Environmental Law Journal of International Wildlife Law and Policy
Curriculum, Electives and Requirements
Land Use Law
International Intellectual Property
Federal Courts and the Federal System
Natural Resources Law Seminar
International Law
Homeless Advocacy Externship
Ocean and Coastal Law and Policy
International Litigation and Arbitration
Topics in Biodiversity
International Sales Law and Arbitration
Human Trafficking: National, International and Immigration Issues
Wetlands Seminar
Journal of Comparative and International Aging Law & Policy
Individual Externship Program International Law of Human Rights Seminar
Journal of International Wildlife Law and Policy
Labor Law Externship
Family Law Adoption Law Seminar Child Advocacy Clinic Children and the Law Family Law Family Law Externship Family Law Mediation Judicial Externship Juvenile Law Seminar
Jurisprudence and Legal History American Legal History History of Western Law and Legal Thought Honors Colloquium Jurisprudence Jurisprudence Honors Seminar Law and Religion
Land Use Law Law and the Civil Rights Movement Local Government Clinic Local Government Law Poverty Law Prosecution Clinic Public Defender Clinic Remedies Tampa Prosecution Clinic
Health Law
Law and the Civil Rights Movement
Administrative Law
Perspectives on Debt
Administrative Law for Health Care
Race and the Law Seminar
Arbitration
Administrative Law
Depositions: Deposing Medical Experts
Separation of Powers: Our Constitutional Systems
Disability Law
Labor and Employment Law
Antitrust Law
Elder Law Seminar Health Insurance Insurance Law Introduction to the Physical Exam Medical Jurisprudence
Higher Education Law
Employment Discrimination Labor Law Employment and Labor Law Externship Law and the Civil Rights Movement Worker Safety Law and Policy Seminar Workers’ Compensation
Veterans Advocacy Clinic
Public Law Administrative Law for Health Care Conflict of Laws Constitutional Litigation Environmental Law The First Amendment Florida Administrative Law Florida Constitutional Law
Property Law and Probate
Immigration Clinic
Consumer Protection Law
Immigration Law
Copyright Law
Immigration Litigation and Advocacy
Elder Law Drafting and Practice
Impact of COVID-19 in the Civil Legal System
Estate Planning
International Intellectual Property
Federal Income Taxation I
International Law
Federal Income Taxation II
Legislation
Federal Taxation of Estates, Trusts and Gifts
Military Justice Externship
Land Use Law
Military Law
Patent Law
The Mueller Investigation and Beyond
Real Property Finance
Municipal and Administrative Law Externship
Trademarks and Unfair Competition
Natural Resources Seminar
Patent Law
Trusts and Estates
Trademarks and Unfair Competition
Tax Law
Public Interest Law
Business Entities
International and Comparative Law
Animal Law Seminar
Estate Planning
Children and the Law
Federal Income Taxation I
Civil Elder Law Clinic
Federal Income Taxation II
Caribbean Law Externship
Civil Legal Services Clinic
Federal Taxation of Estates, Trusts and Gifts
Human Trafficking: National, International and Immigration Issues
Compassionate Release Practicum
Multijurisdictional Taxation Seminar
Consumer Protection Law
Tax Policy Seminar
Immigration Law
Disability Law
Immigration Litigation and Advocacy
Elder and Disability Law Externship
International Banking and Finance Law
Elder Law Seminar
International Business Transactions
Election Law Seminar
International Environmental Law
Family Law
International Law of Human Rights
Family Law Externship
Administrative Law Copyright Law Disability Law Employment Law In-House Counsel Externship Law and Higher Education Policy
Intellectual Property Law Copyright Law Intellectual Property Intellectual Property Externship International Intellectual Property
Admiralty
Courses subject to change
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Certificates of Concentration
EARN FURTHER DISTINCTION IN YOUR STUDIES At Stetson Law, students can further distinguish themselves by earning a Certificate of Concentration along with the J.D. degree, thereby demonstrating to potential employers a higher level of knowledge in a particular field of law.
Advocacy
• Ranked No. 1 in Trial Advocacy 22 times in 26 years by U.S. News (2021). • Recognized by practicing attorneys, judges and law professors around the country for producing lawyers with unparalleled skills and integrity. • The Advocacy Community, which includes the Veterans Law Institute, the Institute for the Advancement of Legal Communication, and Social Justice Advocacy, gives students every opportunity to develop as knowledgeable and ethical attorneys who are ready to advocate for others.
Business Law
• A new concentration designed to hone skills and knowledge for those interested in pursuing careers in business law, including courses in subjects such as commercial law, taxation, and international business.
AWARD-WINNING ADVOCATES Stetson’s winning record in dispute resolution, trial team, and moot court competitions over the past 36 years is unmatched. SINCE 1980, STETSON LAW HAS WON
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6
World Championships
Professionalism Awards
76 National Championships
92
1 Inaugural ABA Competition Award
Regional Championships
172
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Brief Oralist/Advocate Awards (including Best Oralist/ Advocate, Best Cross Examination, and Best Chair)
State Championships
57 Brief Awards
As of September, 2020
• Intense experiential curriculum includes opportunities in bankruptcy, in-house practice, intellectual property, documenting deals, and much more to develop real world skills. • Students will receive close mentoring from members of the faculty with experience in business law and can utilize Stetson Law’s partnerships with various financial, cybersecurity and other companies to further sharpen proficiencies and build relationships.
Elder Law
• The Center for Excellence in Elder Law is an internationally recognized program. • Students participate in the premier Elder Law Inn of Court in the U.S., offering them access to some of the nation’s distinguished Elder Law attorneys. • Select students attend the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys National Conference. • Students can become editors for The Journal of Comparative and International Aging, Law & Policy, a national journal that addresses global issues of aging.
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• Students may obtain a concentration in Elder Law by completing 25 hours of electives in the area of Elder Law or Estate Planning.
For our new Business Law concentration, we aim to help students find their niche within an incredibly broad area. They will focus on coursework to prepare them and have access to key experiences to make them successful in practice. That starts with a mentor and expands beyond the classroom to include clinics, externships, and networking. Our partnerships with area companies give students incredible opportunities to develop real world skills.
Theresa J. Pulley Radwan Transitional Business Administrator and Professor of Law
Environmental Law • Students have access to distinguished environmental professionals who visit campus to participate in the Edward and Bonnie Foreman Biodiversity Lecture Series, the Stetson International Environmental Moot Court Competition, and other environmental events. • Students may participate in prestigious national environmental law moot court and negotiation competitions. • Externship opportunities with environmental agencies and organizations are available throughout the year, with the Jacobs Environmental Law Externship Fund providing financial support for summer placements. • Students can become editors for the Journal of International Wildlife Law and Policy. • Students may work with the Institute for Biodiversity Law and Policy on research projects and amicus briefs on behalf of scientific organizations.
International Law • Designed for students who want to advance their studies in either private or public international law. • Students have the opportunity to learn from faculty specializing in international human rights, international arbitration, and international business, who are highly respected and well-known in their fields. • Students who have completed at least 30 credit hours but no more than 45 credits, may apply. • Competitive program designed to admit no more than five students per year.
Social Justice Advocacy • Stetson Law leverages its strong Advocacy core to prepare students to serve the causes that matter to them. • Deliberate Coursework: Students choose elective courses with a career path in mind. • One-on-One Mentoring: Each student works closely with a faculty mentor who has experience in the field of Social Justice Advocacy. • Experiential Learning Opportunities: The Constitutional Law and the Civil Rights Movement Travel Course takes students to six cities associated with the Civil Rights Movement. 9
Specialized Coursework
Intellectual Property Exchange • Open to select students interested in specializing in intellectual property law. • Available after the first year. • Participate in a semester exchange program with the University of New Hampshire School of Law’s Franklin Pierce Center for Intellectual Property.
Honors Program • High-achieving students may be invited to join Stetson’s fullyear Honors Program after their first year (or second year, if enrolled part-time). • Honors Program students participate in an Honors Colloquium with several faculty members. • Program students take a special Honors Jurisprudence Seminar.
Law and the Civil Rights Movement Travel Course • An experience-based course on Law and the Civil Rights Movement. • Students travel to six cities to visit museums, institutes, universities and historic sites identified with the legal history of the 1964 Civil Rights Act and the 1965 Voting Rights Act. • Offered each summer.
Academic Center and Institutes • Stetson’s Centers for Excellence in Advocacy, Elder Law, and Higher Education Law and Policy, sponsor conferences, workshops, scholarships, and research projects within their areas. • Conferences are open to students on a space-available basis (usually with a tuition waiver). • Stetson is also the home to
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The Institute of Biodiversity Law and Policy
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The Institute of Caribbean Law and Policy
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The Institute for the Advancement of Legal Communication
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Veterans Law Institute
Civil Rights Movement Travel Course
Specialized Coursework
Legal Research and Writing • Stetson is ranked No. 3 in legal writing for 2021 by U.S. News & World Report. • Required courses taught by tenured and tenure-track faculty. • Students can choose first-year advocacy courses focused on specific topics like Environmental Law, International Law, and Social Justice.
LL.M. in International Law • An intensive two-semester, 24-credit program. • Prepares graduates to enter the legal marketplace. • Thorough preparation in the skills and knowledge necessary to practice international law.
Online LL.M. in Advocacy • Builds upon Stetson’s national reputation as the leader in advocacy education. • Students master methods of persuasion from theoretical and practical perspectives. • Students may focus on advanced criminal litigation skills, civil litigation skills and advocacy teaching techniques.
Online LL.M. in Elder Law • A three-semester, 25-credit program. • Covers issues ranging from long-term care planning, guardianship, retirement, veterans, health care, tax and more.
AREAS OF DISTINCTION The Center for Excellence in Higher Education Law and Policy Advances the field of higher education law and policy by conducting quality research and presenting interdisciplinary conferences and special programs.
Legal Communication Legal Research and Writing program ranked No. 3 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report (2021). Stetson is a national leader through its Institute for the Advancement of Legal Communication.
Veterans Law The Veterans Law Institute serves as a center for student veterans and student pro bono activities for members of the military and veterans. The Veterans Advocacy Clinic provides legal help for activeduty military and veterans wounded in their service to our nation. Stetson Law actively participates in the Yellow Ribbon Scholarship Program to help reduce law school tuition and fees for eligible veterans.
Online Master of Jurisprudence Programs M.J. in Aging, Law and Policy • Four semester, 25-credit online program. • The program covers in-demand areas of study such as disability law, gerontological healthcare, guardianship, taxes and estate planning, and ethics in elder care. M.J. in Healthcare Compliance • Four semester, 30-credit online program. • Students gain the experience and skills needed to assume a leadership role in healthcare and regulatory compliance.
Applicants for Stetson’s LL.M. programs must have received their first law degree at a law school accredited by the ABA or approved by the appropriate authority in their country. Florida and most other states require a J.D. degree from an accredited U.S. law school before an individual 11 may sit for the bar examination.
Specialized Coursework
Specialized coursework provides yet another opportunity for Stetson students to deepen their knowledge and broaden their prospects upon graduation. My JD from Stetson has allowed me to do all sort of creative things, including leadership roles in nonprofit and philanthropic sectors. Additionally, it prepared me to continue as a social entrepreneur by launching my own consulting company that helps businesses create diversity and inclusion to ensure a fair and just workplace. Nirupa Netram, J.D. ’98 Founder, Lotus Solutions LLC
J.D./LL.M. in Advocacy • Only need to take 12 more hours (or one full-time semester) to finish the LL.M. after earning J.D. • Allows application of up to 12 hours of prescribed J.D. courses toward the 24-credit LL.M. degree. • Offered online. Program can be completed wherever you choose to practice.
J.D./M.B.A. • The College of Law and Stetson’s AACSB-accredited School of Business Administration offer an accelerated course of study leading to both J.D. and M.B.A. degrees. • Broadens career opportunities in law and business. • Students must be admitted to both programs. • Full-time students typically complete both degrees within three years, including at least one summer session.
International Dual Degrees • Select students are permitted to spend a full academic year in Stetson’s foreign exchange programs in France or Spain. • Earn a second degree from our partner institutions upon successful completion of a year of academic work. • Students may earn – A Master in International Economic Law (MINTEC) from Université Toulouse 1 Capitole, Toulouse, France – A Master in International and European Business Law (MIEBL) from the Universidad Pontificia Comillas, Madrid, Spain
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Externships and Clinics
Externships American/Caribbean Law Bankruptcy Bankruptcy Judicial Disability Law Externship
The Florida Bar Foundation held the 2020 Florida Pro Bono Law School Challenge, and Stetson Law won for the most law school clinic engagement.
Elder and Disability Law Environmental Law
Michèle Alexandre
Employment and Labor Law Externship Family Law Federal Judicial Federal Litigation Florida Circuit Court (Appellate) Florida Circuit Court (Trial) Florida District Court of Appeal Homeless Advocacy Individual - ACLU - Conviction Review Unit - Federal Public Defender
EXPERIENCE THAT LAYS THE FOUNDATION FOR YOUR CAREER With more than 300 opportunities available, you will find the right fit for you and your areas of interest. • One of the few law schools across the country that guarantees every student can participate in a clinic or externship during law school. • Any student with the proper prerequisites may participate in clinical education involving real-world experience.
In-House Counsel Intellectual Property Military Justice Externship Municipal and Administrative Law State Litigation State Supreme Court
Clinics Child Advocacy Civil Legal Services Immigration Law Local Government Prosecution Public Defender Tampa Prosecution Veterans Advocacy Advanced Veterans Advocacy Clinic
Sixth Circuit State Attorney and Public Defender Clinic Participants
I had my very first jury trial at the Prosecution Clinic last week, and it was such an incredible and surreal experience. Words cannot describe how I felt that day. It was definitely reassurance that this is where I want to start my legal career, and that everything I have done and worked toward the past two years is finally within reach! 10/10 times I recommend this clinic to anyone who has an interest in trial experience, or specifically wants to become a prosecutor.
2018 Prosecution Clinic, 3L 13
A Track Record of Success
START BUILDING A SUCCESSFUL CAREER ON DAY ONE
Our Current Success Class of 2019, Status of 252 Graduates
Your legal career begins on your first day at Stetson Law. We immediately work to position you for success. Our Office of Career and Professional Development guides, coaches, and provides support throughout your law school experience and beyond.
252
Total Graduates*
252
• We help you establish a valuable network through our connections with employers, alumni and legal organizations.
Graduates whose employment status is known**
• Stetson lawyers work in every sector of the legal profession, including government agencies, the judiciary and the military, as well as large, medium and small law firms.
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Pursuing graduate degree full-time
• Beyond the legal arena, our graduates have achieved success in business, public and private education, health care, sports management and broadcasting.
230
Employed
183
Law firms (114) Business & industry (45) Government (29) Public interest † (28) Judicial clerkship (5) (federal, state, other) Academia (7)
Employed/bar passage required
35
Employed/J.D. Advantage
*** Employment Type
5
Employed/professional
* The employment numbers for the class of 2019 are for December 2018, May 2019, and August 2019 graduates. ** Employment outcomes data is as of March 15, 2020, and reported to the American Bar Association in the required format. For more information regarding Stetson’s post-graduation employment rates, visit Stetson.edu/law. *** Of the 230 employed. †
Includes Public Defenders
For more information, visit employmentsummary.abaquestionnaire.org 14
Talented Professors and Deans
Kristen David Adams Professor of Law and Director, Dispute Resolution Board B.A., Rice University J.D., Emory Law School LL.M., Yale Law School Michèle Alexandre Dean and Professor of Law B.A., Colgate University J.D., Harvard Law School Linda Anderson Professor of Law A.B., College of Holy Cross J.D., Franklin Pierce Law Center Andrew Appleby Assistant Professor of Law B.S., Florida State University M.B.A., University of Massachusetts - Amherst J.D., Wake Forest University School of Law LL.M., Georgetown University Law Center Roy Balleste Assistant Professor of Law and Director of the Dolly & Homer Hand Law Library B.A., Jacksonville University J.D., St. Thomas University School of Law MLIS, University of South Florida LL.M., Intercultural Human Rights, St. Thomas University School of Law LL.M., Air and Space Law, McGill University J.S.D., Intercultural Human Rights (Internet Governance), St. Thomas University School of Law Mark D. Bauer Professor of Law B.A., University of Chicago J.D., Emory University Dorothea A. Beane Professor of Law and Co-Director, Institute on Caribbean Law and Policy B.A., Drew University J.D., Rutgers - The State University of New Jersey, Newark Jason R. Bent Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and Professor of Law B.A., Grinnell College J.D., University of Michigan Elizabeth Berenguer Associate Professor of Law B.B.A., Mercer University J.D., Mercer University School of Law Elizabeth Boals Assistant Professor of Law and Director, Center for Excellence in Advocacy B.S., Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University J.D., Antonin Scalia School of Law, George Mason University Paul Boudreaux Professor of Law B.A., University of Virginia J.D., University of Virginia LL.M., Georgetown University
Brooke J. Bowman Professor of Law and Director, Moot Court Board B.S., Indiana University, Bloomington M.S., University of Illinois, UrbanaChampaign J.D., Stetson University College of Law Catherine J. Cameron Professor of Law B.A., University of Florida M.A., University of Florida J.D., University of Florida Christine Cerniglia Associate Professor of Law and Director of Clinical and Experiential Education B.A., Loyola University New Orleans J.D., Loyola University College of Law Lee Coppock Visiting Professor of Law B.A., University of South Florida J.D., Stetson University College of Law Kirsten K. Davis Professor of Law and Director of the Institute for Advancement of Legal Education B.A., The Ohio State University J.D., Michael E. Moritz College of Law at The Ohio State University Ph.D., Arizona State University Hugh Downs School of Human Communication Kelly M. Feeley Professor of Law B.S., Florida State University J.D., Stetson University College of Law Michael S. Finch Professor of Law B.A., Oberlin College J.D., Boston University School of Law S.J.D., Harvard Law School Roberta K. Flowers Professor of Law and Director, Center for Excellence in Elder Law B.A., Baylor University J.D., University of Colorado James W. Fox Jr. Professor of Law B.A., University of North Carolina J.D., University of Michigan Law School Royal C. Gardner Professor of Law and Director, Institute for Biodiversity Law and Policy A.B., Georgetown University J.D., Boston College Cynthia G. Hawkins Professor of Law B.A., Wellesley College J.D., Harvard University Alicia Jackson Assistant Professor of Law and Director of Academic Success and Bar Preparation B.S., Grambling State University Master of Public Administration from Grambling State University J.D., Nova Southeastern University, Shepard Broad College of Law School
Bruce R. Jacob Dean Emeritus and Professor of Law B.A., Florida State University J.D., Stetson University LL.M., (Criminal Law) Northwestern University LL.M., (Taxation) University of Florida S.J.D., Harvard University LL.D., Stetson University College of Law Marco J. Jimenez Professor of Law B.A., University of Southern California B.S., University of Southern California J.D., Yale Law School Timothy S. Kaye Professor of Law LL.B., University of Sheffield, United Kingdom Ph.D., University of Warwick, United Kingdom Peter F. Lake Professor of Law and Charles A. Dana Chair and Director, Center for Excellence in Higher Education Law and Policy B.A., Harvard University J.D., Harvard Law School Lance N. Long Professor of Law and Coordinator of Legal Research and Writing B.A., Brigham Young University J.D., Brigham Young University Rebecca C. Morgan Professor of Law, Boston Asset Management Chair in Elder Law and Director, M.J. in Healthcare Compliance B.S.B.A., Central Missouri State University J.D., Stetson University College of Law
Ellen S. Podgor Gary R. Trombley Family White-Collar Crime Research Professor B.S., Syracuse University M.B.A., University of Chicago J.D., Indiana University at Indianapolis LL.M., Temple University Robyn Powell Bruce R. Jacob Visiting Assistant Professor B.S., Bridgewater State University J.D., Suffolk University Law School M.A., Brandeis University Ph.D., Brandeis University Theresa J. Pulley Radwan Transitional Business Administrator and Professor of Law B.A., University of Dayton J.D., College of William and Mary Susan D. Rozelle Professor of Law B.A., University of Central Florida J.D., Duke University Judith A.M. Scully Professor of Law B.A., University of Chicago J.D., George Washington University National Law Center James A. Sheehan Distinguished Practitioner in Residence B.A., State University of New York J.D., Stetson University College of Law Stacey-Rae Simcox Professor of Law, Director, Veterans Law Institute, and Director, Veterans Advocacy Clinic B.S.C./B.A., Ohio University J.D., William & Mary School of Law M.Div., Liberty University
Joseph F. Morrissey Professor of Law B.A., Princeton University J.D., Columbia University
Ciara Torres-Spelliscy Professor of Law A.B., Harvard University J.D., Columbia School of Law
Anne E. Mullins Professor of Law A.B., Dartmouth College J.D., University of Chicago Law School
Stephanie A. Vaughan Professor of Law B.A., University of Alabama J.D., Stetson University College of Law
Luz Estella Nagle Professor of Law LL.D., Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana M.A., University of California at Los Angeles LL.M., University of California at Los Angeles J.D., College of William and Mary
Louis J. Virelli III Professor of Law B.S.E., Duke University M.S.E., University of Pennsylvania J.D., University of Pennsylvania
Jason Palmer Professor of Law and Leroy Highbaugh Sr. Research Chair B.A., University of Virginia J.D., George Washington University Law School Ann M. Piccard Wm. Reece Smith Jr. Distinguished Professor of Law B.A., Florida State University J.D., Stetson University College of Law LL.M., University of London, United Kingdom
Darryl C. Wilson Associate Dean for Faculty and Strategic Initiatives, Attorneys’ Title Insurance Fund Professor of Law and Co-Director, Institute on Caribbean Law and Policy B.F.A., Southern Methodist University B.B.A., Southern Methodist University J.D., University of Florida LL.M., The John Marshall Law School Candace Zierdt Professor of Law B.A., University of Kansas J.D., University of Kansas LL.M., Temple University
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International Programs
The Stetson community comprises a diverse student body from all over the country, working together in academic collegiality. Exceptional access to an outstanding faculty makes Stetson a wonderful academic environment for the rigorous study of law.
Luz Estella Nagle Professor of Law
Professor Nagle’s scholarship, which has appeared in three languages on four continents, addresses many topics of international law, international criminal law, judicial reform, and regional security. She is a highly regarded international voice in the fight against human trafficking and modern-day slavery.
BROADEN YOUR PERSPECTIVE. EXPAND YOUR KNOWLEDGE. In an increasingly global society, Stetson enables students to discover new lands and gain experience in a variety of foreign legal systems.
Summer Abroad Programs • Learn about international law, meet high-level officials, and tour legal and government institutions in one of Stetson’s summer abroad programs. • Available in Oxford, England; The Hague, Netherlands; Cape Town, South Africa; or Granada, Spain. • Schedule allows students the freedom to experience local culture.
Cayman Islands Fall Intersession Program • A two-week program between the fall and spring semesters. • Hosted by the Truman Bodden Law School in George Town.
Foreign Exchange Programs Stetson has formal agreements for students to attend law school for up to one year at one of these institutions: • University of Granada in Spain • Victoria University in Melbourne, Australia • University College Dublin, Ireland • Université Toulouse 1, Capitole in France • Comillas Pontifical University in Madrid, Spain
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k of a great law school is an involved, active student body. 50 law student events are planned each year, so on any given d interesting speakers, community service projects, wellness mpetitions and other activities coordinated by student s.
dent Bar Association has been recognized as one of the most nt government organizations in the nation by the American on Law Student Division, and Stetson has produced many regional ABA/LSD officers in the past five years — including a chair. During spring break, Stetson students may participate spring break travel experiences to meet national leaders or bono service to an area in need.
tramural program includes team sports, competitions and es. A spacious fitness center and temperature-controlled pool n the Gulfport campus, which is also a short distance from c beaches and bike trails.
International Dual-Degrees Stetson exchange students also may pursue dual degrees from the following law schools: • Universidad de Granada, Spain – J.D./Master of Legal Practices in Granada • Université Toulouse 1 Capitole in Toulouse, France – J.D./MINTEC – Master in International Economic Law • Universidad Pontificia Comillas, Madrid, Spain – J.D./M.I.E.B.L. – Master in International and European Business Law
Graduate Degrees
• Master of Jurisprudence International and Comparative t organizations, leadership opportunitiesinare abundant on campus. Business Law. • A two-semester, 24-credit-hour program for non-lawyers located on our Gulfport campus.
The practical, theoretical and experiential knowledge I gained from Stetson Law has enabled me to spread my wings in the legal arena in ways I could not have fathomed before beginning law school.
“The practical, theoretical and experiential knowledge I gained from This knowledge, and the passion for public interest Stetson in me, Stetson Law hascultivated enabled have allowed me to pursue international me tolaw spread mya wings public in Africa with complete in confidence that has been unlocked the legal arena in ways I through my legal education. could not have fathomed Jessica Falkner, J.D. ’14 The International Justice law before beginning Mission Legal Fellow, Kampala Field Office, Uganda school.
This knowledge, and the passion for public interest Stetson cultivated in me, has allowed me to pursue international public law in Africa with a complete confidence that has been unlocked through my legal education.” Jessica Falkner ’14 The International Justice Mission Legal Fellow, Kampala Field Office, Uganda
• Enhances practical and theoretical knowledge of law in the global marketplace.
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Student Organizations
Umbrella Organizations
Hispanic Bar Association (HBA)
American Bar Association – Law Student Division (ABA/LSD)
Human Rights Committee
Calvin A. Kuenzel Student Bar Association (SBA)
Immigration Law Student Association
Florida Bar Young Lawyers Division Law School Affiliates
Innocence Initiative: Reform and Education Division
Stetson Ambassadors
Intellectual Property Law Society (IPLS)
Student Leadership Development Committee
Student Organizations Advocates for Health Law American Civil Liberties Union American Constitution Society Anti-Trafficking Coalition Asian American Law Student Association (AALSA) Black Law Students Association (BLSA) Child Advocates of Stetson Law Christian Legal Society (CLS) Dream Defenders
Insurance Law Association International Law Society (ILS) Investment and Finance Law Association Jewish Law Student Association (JLSA) Labor & Employment Law Association Lambda Legal Society National Organization for Women Part-Time Student Society Phi Alpha Delta (PAD) Phi Delta Phi The Pillars Public Service Fellows (PSF)
Education Law Association
Real Property, Probate, and Trust Law Section of the FL Bar: Stetson Law Chapter (RPPTL)
Elder Law Society
Second Amendment Society
Entertainment, Arts, and Sports Law Society (EASL)
Space Law Society
Environmental Law Society (ELS)
Stetson Law Democrats
Federal Bar Association
Stetson Law Republicans
Federalist Society
Student Animal Legal Defense Fund (SALDF)
Florida Association of Women Lawyers at Stetson (FAWLS)
Student Veterans Organization (SVO)
Food Law Society
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If/When/How
Student Wellness Society Tax Law Society
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A Vibrant Campus Life
BECOME ENGAGED BEYOND THE CLASSROOM To say that Stetson Law has an involved and active student body is an understatement. Each year, there are more than 450 law student events that you can choose to participate in and further both your professional and personal growth. Many events focus on wellness, a reflection of Stetson’s belief that our students’ overall well-being is as important as their academic success.
Mind Your passion for the law can be fulfilled in many ways. • In addition to our other award-winning student organizations, Stetson’s Student Bar Association has been recognized as one of the most vibrant student government organizations in the nation by the American Bar Association Law Student Division • Stetson has produced many national and regional ABA/LSD officers in the past five years — including a past national chair • During spring break, Stetson students may participate in alternative spring break travel experiences to meet national leaders or provide pro bono service to an area in need
Body Law school is rigorous. Sometimes you need to give your mind a rest and de-stress. • Our active intramural program includes team sports, competitions and exercise classes • A well-equipped fitness center • A temperature-controlled pool is located on campus • Several public beaches and bike trails within a short walk from the campus
Soul On any given day, there are a number of events that can motivate you and deepen your relationship with the Stetson community. • Inspiring and interesting speakers • Community service projects • Wellness programs • Competitions and other activities coordinated by student organizations 19 19
Stetson Profile
26 STATES 2020 Entering Class
LSAT
GPA
75th Percentile
157
3.66
Median
155
3.44
25th Percentile
153
3.18
Represented in Fall 2020 J.D. entering class, plus 5 foreign countries
101
87.3%
Undergraduate colleges and universities represented
New J.D. students receiving scholarships
Data as of August 28, 2020
2020 TOTAL J.D. STUDENTS
2020 ENTERING CLASS
159
2020 J.D. ENTERING CLASS 22%
47
PART TIME
DIVERSITY
PART TIME
746
FULL TIME
54%
FEMALE
275
FULL TIME
361 average number of sunny days per year in St. Petersburg, FL nicknamed the “Sunshine City”
81° Average year-round temperature
20 20
Our Location
.
Stetson University DeLand, FL
.
Clearwater Beach
Clearwater
Tampa International Airport
Tampa Tampa Law Center
St. Pete - Clearwater International Airport
Gulfport, FL
St. Petersburg
Tampa Bay
St.Pete Beach
Gulf of Mexico
In 1954, the College of Law moved from Stetson University’s historic campus in DeLand to a 1924 Mediterranean Revival-style landmark in Gulfport. Stetson’s residential law school campus, located in the beachfront community of Gulfport, is contiguous with the City of St. Petersburg. Stetson’s Tampa Law Center, housing evening classes for the law school’s part-time J.D. program, is near downtown Tampa.Both Tampa Bayarea campuses are accessible to area businesses and legal communities where students and alumni work, and are close to the incredible beaches and thriving downtowns.
Where are Stetson Alumni?
100–275 Alumni 100–275 Alumni 75–99 Alumni
75–99 Alumni
50–74 Alumni 25–49 Alumni 10–24 Alumni
Florida: 80%
100–275 Alumni
<10 Alumni
50–74 Alumni 25–49 Alumni
75–99 Alumni
10–24 Alumni
50–74 Alumni
<10 Alumni
25–49 Alumni
Stetson Law has Alumni nearly 50 states, 10–24in Alumni D.C., U.S.V.I. and Puerto Rico, +56 countries. <10 Alumni Statistics are as of July 2020
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Financial Planning
Entering Student Scholarships
Federal Financial Aid
Stetson Law awards multiyear scholarships to selected entering students. All admitted students are considered for scholarships; no special application is required. Scholarships are awarded based on academic excellence, a range of other personal accomplishments and experiences, and the ability to further the mission of the College of Law. Applicants who wish for their unique circumstances and backgrounds to be considered may include an addendum with their application. Scholarships are awarded on a rolling basis. For Fall 2020, 87.3% of incoming students received a scholarship ranging from partial to full tuition. Detailed information about the selection process, scholarship retention data, and scholarships from Stetson and outside sources can be found at stetson.edu/lawfinaid.
Students seeking financial aid must submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each year they wish to receive federal student funds. The FAFSA is available every year on October 1st and can be completed online at www.studentaid.gov. Make sure to include Stetson College of Lawâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s federal school code (E00342) in order to have your application sent to us electronically.
Assistance for Continuing Students Several programs provide financial assistance to students after they enroll, including a number of partial-tuition scholarships based on first-year academic performance, leadership, public service and need. Scholarships to recognize public service are also available through endowed and university funds. Stetson offers a full-tuition scholarship for a student entering his or her final year with a record of public service who plans to continue that path for three years after graduation. Stetson participates in the Veterans Affairs Yellow Ribbon Program, offering tuition assistance to student veterans or eligible dependents. Teaching assistantships and faculty research assistantships are available on a competitive basis to upper-level students who have a strong academic record and an interest in scholarly research and writing. Teaching assistants support faculty teaching (but do not teach courses themselves), and research assistants support professors with their scholarly publications and other projects.
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Once we receive your application, we will process it for your full eligibility and send you an award letter. Your award letter will detail the funds being offered, any applicable fees and interest rates, and the additional steps you will need to take in order to insure timely disbursement of your aid. More information about federal student aid can be found at www.studentaid.gov or by visiting our website at www.stetson.edu/law/admissions/financial. Also, be sure to check out our scholarship page www.stetson. edu/law/admissions/financial/scholarships.php. Students interested in meeting with one of our friendly financial planning counselors may contact our office by calling 727-562-7813 or by emailing us at finaid@law. stetson.edu
Tuition and Fees
Living Expenses Living expense budget projections based on double-occupancy living arrangements are available at stetson.edu/lawfinaid. Students who complete the FAFSA will be offered a financial aid package to cover the full cost of attendance (including living expenses), although many students choose not to accept the full amount of loan aid offered. Students will be given a sample monthly budget showing local living expense averages, and should reduce expenses wherever possible. Stetson financial planning counselors are ready to offer support via Teams, by phone or in person, including some designated evening hours. HOUSING (Fall 2020â&#x20AC;&#x201C;Spring 2021) ON-CAMPUS Standard w/shared bath $2,606/sem. Premium w/shared bath* $2,916/sem. Special needs w/private bath $2,916/sem. *includes living area, sleeping area, and small dinette. OFF-CAMPUS Rosa Apartments (2 bed, 1 bath units) $975/month Stetson Houses $735-$1,310/month Stetson housing is available on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information, visit stetson.edu/law/housing.
FULL-TIME TUITION & FEES Fall/Spring
$46,076
FALL 2020 Tuition per semester Student activity fee Student Bar Association fee
$22,790 $198 $50
SPRING 2021 Tuition per semester Student activity fee Student Bar Association fee
$22,790 $198 $50
PART-TIME TUITION & FEES Fall/Spring/Summer
$38,249
FALL 2020 Tuition per semester Student activity fee Student Bar Association fee
$14,988 $161 $50
SPRING 2021 Tuition per semester Student activity fee Student Bar Association fee
$14,988 $161 $50
SUMMER 2021 Tuition Student activity fee Student Bar Association fee
$7,771 $30 $50
MISCELLANEOUS FEES (Nonrefundable) Application fee Confirmation fee/seat deposit Transient student application fee Tuition late fee
$55 $500 $50 $200
Tuition and fees are subject to change.
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IMPORTANT DATES
SCHEDULE A CAMPUS VISIT More than a campus tour, you’ll visit a real class, talk to professors and students, and discover life at Stetson firsthand. Contact the Office of Admissions and Student Financial Planning at (877) 529-7838 or (727) 562-7802 to schedule your appointment. Stetson’s Gulfport campus is smoke-and tobacco-free.
Spring Open House February 2021
Application Deadline for New Students May 15, 2021
Admitted Student Open Houses
April and 2021 The College of Law is partMay of Stetson University, with a College of Ar and Sciences, School of Business Administration, and School of Mus in DeLand, Florida. A university satellite center in Celebration offers Application Deadline advanced degrees.
for Fall Transfers July 15, 2021
Dates are subject to change.
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CONTACT STETSON LAW ADMISSIONS AND STUDENT FINANCIAL PLANNING
IMPORTANT DATES
Phone: (877) 529-7838 or (727) 562-7802 SPRING OPEN HOUSE STETS Fax: (727) 343-0136 February 23, 2019 stetso 1401 61st Street South | Gulfport, FL 33707 727-5 ADMITTED STUDENTS OPEN HOUSES 877-5 Admissions April 6, 2019 and May 31, 2019 lawad Email: lawadmit@law.stetson.edu APPLICATION DEADLINE FOR NEW STUDENTS Website: stetson.edu/lawadmissions STETS May 15, 2019 (727) 562-7802 stetso APPLICATION DEADLINE FOR FALL TRANSFERS 727-5 Student Financial Planning August 1, 2019 finaid Email: finaid@law.stetson.edu Website: stetson.edu/lawfinaid © 2018 Stetson University College of Law. All rights reserved. Stetson University is an equal opportunity ed (727) 562-7813 24
©2020 Stetson University College of Law. All rights reserved. Stetson University is an equal opportunity educational institution.