Dr. David Thronson

Professor

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Biography

David Thronson is a Professor at the Michigan State University College of Law, where he has been a faculty member since 2010. He has served as the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and the Associate Dean for Experiential Education. Thronson focuses his research on the intersection of family law and immigration law, particularly the impact of immigration law on children. In addition to his teaching role, he is Co-President of the Society of American Law Teachers. Thronson graduated from the University of Kansas with degrees in mathematics and education and has experience teaching mathematics and science in Nepal as a Peace Corps volunteer. He completed a master's degree at Teachers College, Columbia University, and earned his JD from Harvard Law School, where he was Co-Editor-in-Chief of the Harvard Human Rights Journal. Thronson has previously clerked for the Honorable Wallace Tashima in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California and has provided legal services to at-risk youth in New York City through various fellowships. He has taught at New York University School of Law, Seton Hall University School of Law, Hofstra University School of Law, and has been a visiting professor at several law schools, including the University of Michigan Law School and the University of Iowa College of Law. Thronson has received numerous awards for his teaching, including the Elmer Fried Excellence in Teaching Award and the Donald F. Campbell Outstanding Teaching Award.

Research Interests

Experience

Professor

2010-01-01 — Present

Michigan State University College of Law • East Lansing, MI

Teaching law courses with a focus on family and immigration law.

Requirements for Michigan State University College of Law

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3.73
TOEFL
Listening
Required:17
Reading
Required:17
Writing
Required:17
Speaking
Required:17
Total
Required:79
IELTS
Listening
Required:6
Reading
Required:6
Writing
Required:6
Speaking
Required:6
Overall
Required:6.5
Duolingo
Overall Score
Required:110
Overall
Required:110
PTE
Listening
Required:48
Reading
Required:48
Writing
Required:48
Speaking
Required:48
Overall
Required:53
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree from a 4-year accredited institution
Application Checklist
  • LSAC Credential Assembly Service (CAS) registration
  • LSAT Score (Valid within 5 years)
  • Official Transcripts
  • Personal Statement (2-3 pages)
  • Professional Resume
  • Two letters of recommendation (up to four accepted)
  • Application Fee ($75)
  • Character & Fitness Disclosures
Specialization Notes

The Juris Doctor (JD) is the primary professional degree. Admission is based on LSAT scores, academic record, and professional accomplishments. Median LSAT for Fall 2025 was 162.