The DePaul University College of Law's highly respected faculty members and comfortable atmosphere have placed it among the nation’s most outstanding law schools, according to a recent survey by the Princeton Review.

DePaul was cited by the New York-based education services company, which surveyed students, in the 2008 edition of its guidebook “Best 170 Law Schools,” which is currently on newsstands.

The rating was based on a survey of more than 18,000 students attending 170 American Bar Association approved law schools that were profiled in the book, and on institutional data provided by the schools. The survey asked students questions about themselves, their career plans and their school’s academics, student body and campus life. Surveys were conducted during the course of the 2004-2005, 2005-2006 and 2006-2007 academic years.

DePaul was recognized for its professors, who students said provide a unique academic resource, and for its satisfied students. In the survey, students reported that DePaul’s law professors represent a “global viewpoint” and are “distinguished practitioners within the Chicago legal community.” Students also praised the College of Law’s administration, distinguishing it as being “extremely helpful and always available.”

Students also said that the faculty and administration seem to value their input, pointing to the professor review conducted at the end of each semester as a tool that is taken very seriously and that helps keep faculty at the top of their game.

The College of Law was also noted for its friendly atmosphere where students speak fondly of each other and claim not to engage in “fierce and undue competitiveness.” According to the survey, students reported that “you won’t find anyone hiding a book in the library so only they have access to it.”

While the Princeton Review survey does help illustrate the law school experience at DePaul, it is just one device that students should use when deciding on a law school that will best suit their needs, according to Glen Weissenberger, dean of the College of Law.

“This type of survey is especially helpful for those trying to decide on a law school that will best meet their needs because it is based in large part on feedback from law school students,” said Weissenberger. “However, students should consider a range of factors when looking for the best law school fit. To make the most informed choice, students should evaluate their individual needs and goals, the distinct personality and attributes of an institution, and rankings and surveys.”

Established in 1912, the College of Law enrolled 1,024 students during the 2007-2008 academic year. The law faculty consists of some 55 full-time and an estimated 55 part-time lawyers, who are scholars, international affairs experts or accomplished corporate, civil and public interest attorneys.