Michigan Law School Rises to No. 8 Amid DEI Cuts Controversy

News Summary

The University of Michigan Law School has achieved eighth place in the U.S. News rankings for 2025, a rise from ninth last year. However, the school faces backlash from alumni over cuts to its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. The changes in ranking methodology emphasize diversity and affordability, making the amendments to DEI operations particularly contentious. Alumni express concerns that these decisions undermine the values of justice and inclusion expected from a top law institution.

Michigan Law School Climbs to No. 8 in U.S. News Rankings Amid DEI Cuts Controversy

Ann Arbor, Michigan – The University of Michigan (UM) Law School has once again proven that it stands tall in the legal education landscape by climbing to eighth place nationally in the latest U.S. News & World Report rankings for 2025. This is an improvement from last year, where it held the ninth spot, and it proudly retains its title as the top law school in Michigan.

The rankings were unveiled on April 8, 2025, and represent data collected from nearly 200 accredited law schools across the country by the American Bar Association. The evaluation took into account essential elements such as student grade point averages, LSAT scores, and bar passage rates, along with assessments from legal professionals. It’s clear that UM law is doing something right, showcasing not just academic excellence, but a commitment to preparing its students for a successful career in law.

A Rocky Road for Other Michigan Law Schools

While UM Law is celebrating, the news isn’t as bright for other institutions in the area. Wayne State University (WSU), unfortunately, saw a significant drop from 55th to 71st on the national list, tying with the University of Richmond. In addition, Michigan State University’s law school fell seven spots, landing at 115th, while the University of Detroit Mercy managed a slight boost, rising two spots to 134th. Meanwhile, Cooley Law School was not ranked at all after it chose not to provide the necessary information to U.S. News.

Changes in Ranking Methodology

The new rankings come on the heels of changes in methodology by U.S. News, which shifted its focus in response to criticism and a boycott from certain Ivy League schools. The new approach emphasizes self-reported data relating to diversity and affordability, making it essential for law schools to demonstrate their commitments in these areas.

Alumni Outcry Over DEI Cuts

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. The university made the contentious decision to dismantle its Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and to discontinue its DEI 2.0 Strategic Plan effective March 27. Over 330 alumni banded together to express their disappointment, highlighting a perceived disregard for foundational principles they learned during their time at the law school.

Many alumni feel that the decision to eliminate DEI initiatives fiercely contradicts the education they received, particularly in regards to advocating for justice and the rule of law. They argue that cutting DEI programs, which are often designed to support marginalized students, undermines the school’s reputation as a leader in legal education. Moreover, with Michigan’s history surrounding affirmative action bans in higher education, alumni find it perplexing that such a decision was made.

The Future of DEI at UM Law

student-centered programs, such as improving financial aid and mental health resources. This move has left alumni and advocates worried about how these cuts might affect the school’s environment and ability to foster an inclusive atmosphere.

As Michigan Law School rides high in the rankings, it simultaneously faces the challenge of navigating these critical conversations around DEI, raising the important question of how it can maintain its esteemed reputation while also promoting a truly inclusive community for all students.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• MLive: U of M Law Alumni Blast DEI Cuts
• Crain’s Detroit: U of M Law Ranking Rises
• Crain’s Grand Rapids: Michigan Law Schools Ranking
• Above the Law: Michigan Law Listserv Hijacked
• Times of India: Michigan Law Sees Record Applications