Law | Native American law emphasis
Juris Doctor
Where tribal, federal and state law intersect
With more than 500 federally recognized tribes and at least 35 states with sovereign tribal nations, there is an ever-growing demand for legal professionals with specialized knowledge in tribal law.
In this program, you will study three core areas of Native American law: tribal law, federal Indian law, and the intersection of state law. You will explore a variety of topics, including tribal civil jurisdiction, criminal jurisdiction, sovereignty, natural resources management, tribal economic development and many others.
Native law students choose a track in economic development, family law, governance or natural resources management.
Listed in the nation's top 50 law schools for public interest and clinical opportunities, the college offers valuable practical experiences through the college’s nine legal-aid clinics, the rigorous pro bono program, the Native American Law Student Association and the Native American Law Emphasis Externship program. You could work with a tribal nation or tribal court, assist a private law firm with a native law related case, or spend a summer in a federal agency working on Native American issues.
Overview
Related Topics
Lead the future in Native American law
Degree fit
This program could be a good fit if you:
- Hold an undergraduate degree
- Are interested in Native American rights
- Have a strong work ethic and are detail-oriented
- Have solid negotiation and communication skills (written and oral)
- Have a strong academic background
- Can think critically and analytically about complex problems
Career outcomes
Current job openings
1,905 in ID, WA, OR, MT and HIPotential careers and mid-career salaries
- Postsecondary Law Teachers
$82,691 - Lawyers
$130,719 - Judges, Magistrate Judges, and Magistrates
$143,183 - Administrative Law Judges, Adjudicators, and Hearing Officers
$97,079 - Arbitrators, Mediators, and Conciliators
$113,831
* Career data provided by Lightcast.
Financial aid and scholarship opportunities
Financial aid
Paying for college can feel overwhelming, but U of I’s Financial Aid Office is here to help. Our experienced financial aid counselors can assist you in exploring financial aid options, making informed financial decisions and addressing common concerns.
To maximize aid and scholarship possibilities, be sure to complete your FAFSA. For information on FAFSA deadlines and answers to common questions, visit the University of Idaho FAFSA website.
Plan ahead — estimate your cost of attendance with U of I’s Cost Calculator.
Clubs and involvement opportunities
Hands-on learning
- Live client clinics
- Externship program
- Pro bono program
Student Organizations
- Multicultural Law Student Association
- Federalist Society
- American Civil Liberties Union
- Board of Student Advocates (Moot Court and Mock Trial)
- Business Law Society
Internships
- Idaho Legal Aid Services
- Ada County Prosecutor’s Office
- Holland & Hart LLP
- Stoel Rives LLP
- St. Lukes Health Systems
Application information
University of Idaho College of Law requires electronic applications via the LSAC Online Services website. The application is available after Labor Day each year.
Explore admission requirements and apply on our Law admissions website.