Photograph: Dome of the Kansas State Capitol building.

Law School in the Capital City

Photograph: Statue inside the Kansas Judicial Center.One of three law schools in the greater Kansas City metropolitan area, Washburn Law's prime location in the capital city of Kansas offers advantages only a state capital can provide with unique opportunities within the halls of justice. The Kansas Judicial Center, Capitol, and state office complex are located only minutes from the law school, providing students with unique opportunities, including:

  • Externships with political leaders, lobbyists, and state agencies;
  • Broad employment opportunities; and
  • Unmatched opportunities to meet and interact with alumni and other key community and state leaders.

With a metropolitan population of 150,000, Topeka maintains its "small town" qualities rooted in Midwestern values, a strong work ethic, and hospitality. Businesses, schools, and churches make students and their families feel welcome. The area enjoys a moderate climate with four distinct seasons and more than 250 days of sunshine a year. Convenient housing is readily available and affordable, keeping the cost of living well below that of other cities. (See: "Topeka housing market lauded" in the Topeka Capital-Journal, January 6, 2010.)

The community provides a variety of cultural and recreational activities, including theater, symphony, chorus, and jazz workshops. The area offers art galleries, museums, and a variety of sporting events. Other entertainment venues are available in Kansas City, a one-hour drive from Topeka.

Photograph: Sculpture outside Mulvane Art Museum on the Washburn campus.The Washburn University Campus

The School of Law is part of Washburn University, a vibrant master's-level university located on a beautiful 160-acre campus. The University is a center of activity and a cultural hub for students and other Topekans. Washburn hosts events, including the Sunflower Music Festival, the Mulvane Mountain/Plains Art Fair, and the Sunflower State Games.

The University's theater and arts center presents numerous cultural events annually, including plays and concerts of all types. The student union, campus library, and museum are all available to students.

The Student Recreation and Wellness Center, which opened in 2004, is free for full-time students.