Over 25 Law Schools to Require AI Literacy Courses by 2026

Top law schools require AI literacy courses, impacting over 25 institutions by 2026.

With artificial intelligence gaining traction in legal practices, law schools across the United States are making AI literacy mandatory for incoming students. This move is critical as AI tools become essential for legal research, analysis, and other functions traditionally performed by junior lawyers.

Case Western Reserve University School of Law was among the first to enforce this change, requiring first-year students to attain AI certification by February 2025. Mississippi College School of Law has followed suit, announcing AI course requirements will begin in spring 2026.

Additionally, a Bloomberg Law survey from March 2026 shows that 25 of 28 surveyed ABA-accredited schools are offering AI-related courses. This trend indicates a significant shift towards technology-focused legal education, preparing students for a rapidly evolving job market.

These initiatives come as the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School expanded its curriculum in the 2025-2026 academic year, making AI tools like ChatGPT EDU widely accessible to 1Ls.

The demand for AI proficiency is not just a trend but a necessity, as emphasized by Vanderbilt University's Thomas Turner, who noted, "These are the skills that will define the next generation of legal professionals." These educational programs are equipping new lawyers to harness AI for efficiency in compliance and legal processes, vital in today's tech-driven landscape.

Yes, but: While notable strides are being made, some institutions have yet to adopt AI curricula, which may place their graduates at a disadvantage.

What's next: By 2026, more ABA schools are expected to incorporate AI into their mandatory coursework.