Arizona Supreme Court Approves Grand Canyon University Law School

The Arizona Supreme Court has granted unanimous approval for Grand Canyon University (GCU) to establish a new law school. This decision allows the university’s future graduates to sit for the State Bar of Arizona exam before the institution achieves formal accreditation from the American Bar Association (ABA). Under this arrangement, students must still pass the bar exam and meet all character and fitness requirements to practice law in the state.

GCU President Brian Mueller stated that the ruling is a vital step toward opening the school, with a target launch date set for either fall 2027 or spring 2028. The university intends to pursue full ABA accreditation once it becomes eligible after the school has been in operation for at least one year. James Williams, dean of the College of Law, described the approval as a historic milestone that provides a new pathway for students seeking a legal education rooted in Christian values.