Western State College of Law
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A Legacy of Legal Excellence in Southern California
Founded in 1966, Western State College of Law is the oldest law school in Orange County, California.
As a fully ABA-approved, private for-profit institution, the college has built a strong reputation for its academic focus, accessible faculty, and real-world legal preparation.
Why Students Choose Western State
Western State College of Law has been preparing students for legal careers since 1966. As the oldest law school in Orange County, it offers a strong foundation in legal education with the flexibility and support students need to succeed.
Why should you choose Western State?
Prime Location:
Situated in Irvine, the campus offers proximity to major courts, law firms, and legal institutions throughout Southern California.
Accredited Programs:
Fully approved by the American Bar Association, ensuring a curriculum that meets national standards.
Intimate Learning Environment:
Small class sizes promote personalized instruction and meaningful faculty engagement.
Distinguished Alumni Network:
Join a community of over 12,000 alumni, including more than 150 California judges.
Public Service Impact:
Approximately 15% of Orange County’s public defenders and district attorneys are Western State graduates.
Accomplished Faculty:
Our professors combine real-world experience with strong academic backgrounds, offering personalized support and bar exam preparation in a low student-to-faculty ratio environment.
Merit Scholarships:
High-achieving students are automatically considered for scholarships covering up to 100% of tuition, with opportunities for increased awards based on academic performance.
Opportunities and Community
Western State students have easy access to legal, tech, business, and finance sectors all throughout Southern California. The campus is located near major courts, public agencies, and law firms, and within commuting distance of Los Angeles and the Inland Empire. Nearby attractions include Disneyland, Knott’s Berry Farm, and national sports teams like the Angles and the Ducks.
The college has a strong focus on inclusion, mutual respect, and freedom of expression. Students are part of a diverse, justice-focused, professional learning environment that values academic knowledge, personal integrity, and growth.
Supportive Environment
Western State is known for its collaborative, supportive culture. Students, faculty, and staff encourage a community built on mentorship and connection – from orientation through graduation. Professors maintain open-door policies, and many students describe the school as a second family.
Real-World Learning
Practical experience is built into the classroom. Courses often feature real legal documents, case simulations, and instruction from practicing attorneys.
Certificates offered in areas like:
Business Law
Criminal Law
Family Practice
Immigration Law
Real Estate Practice
Preparing Students from Day One
Western State’s S.T.E.L.L.A.R. Program helps incoming 1Ls with a prep course before classes begin. It focuses on core skills like case reading, outlining, and exam prep.
Flexible Part-Time Evening Program
Western State has offered part-time evening study for over 40 years:
- Available for both Spring and Fall start terms
- Students take 9-10 units per term (5 in summer)
- Electives and required courses scheduled for evenings or weekends
- Full access to law review, clinics, externships, and student orgs
Explore More
Discover how Western State College of Law can help you achieve your legal career aspirations.
Ready to Begin?
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