When it comes to legal education, Massachusetts is a shining example of academic quality and legal proficiency. The region is home to a number of prestigious universities that have continuously produced some of the best legal brains in the country.
In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the top 12 law schools in Massachusetts, providing prospective students and legal enthusiasts with a detailed look at the educational beacons that define the legal landscape in Massachusetts.
So, if you’ve been looking for the best school to study law, the institutions in this article offer a variety of programs and specializations to help you achieve success as you chase your career goals.
Alongside the top 12 best law schools in Massachusetts, we will also discuss factors to consider when choosing a law school and provide tips for prospective law students. Without further ado, let’s get right into it.
Related: Top 12 Best Law Schools in Minnesota
Table of Contents
Best Law Schools in Massachusetts
The best law schools in Massachusetts include:
1. New England Law Boston
Address: 154 Stuart Street, Boston, MA 02116
New England Law | Boston is a private, independent law school located in Boston, Massachusetts. It is the only independent law school in Boston, and its mission is to prepare students to be successful lawyers and leaders in the public and private sectors.
New England Law is known for its strong focus on practical legal education. The school offers a variety of clinics and externships that allow students to gain real-world experience working with clients and lawyers. New England Law also has a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, and its student body is one of the most diverse in the country.
Unique features:
- Strong focus on practical legal education
- Diverse student body
- Commitment to social justice
- Convenient location in downtown Boston
Bar passage rate and employment outcomes:
- New England Law’s bar passage rate is consistently above the state average.
- Over 90% of New England law graduates are employed within six months of graduation.
Curriculum and programs:
- New England Law offers a Juris Doctor (JD) degree as well as a Master of Laws (LLM) degree in American Law.
- The JD program is three years long and includes a variety of courses in core legal subjects as well as electives in specialized areas of law.
- The LLM program is one year long and is designed for foreign lawyers who want to learn about the American legal system.
Website: https://www.nesl.edu/
2. Suffolk University School of Law
Address: 120 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02108, United States
The next school on our list is Suffolk University School of Law. This is a private law school located in Boston, Massachusetts, and it is one of the oldest law schools in Massachusetts. The school’s mission is to prepare students for successful careers in law and public service.
Suffolk Law is known for its strong focus on experiential learning and its commitment to diversity and inclusion. The school offers a variety of clinics and externships that allow students to gain real-world experience working with clients and lawyers.
Suffolk Law also has a diverse student body, and its alumni are leaders in a variety of fields, including law, government, business, and education. Whether it’s traditional practice skills or the innovative skills demanded by 21st-century legal professionals, Suffolk Law remains a steadfast leader in legal education and training.
Strengths and unique features:
- Strong focus on experiential learning
- Commitment to diversity and inclusion
- Location in the heart of Boston
- Top-ranked legal skills specialties in clinics, dispute resolution, legal writing, and trial advocacy
- Consistently ranked among the best schools in the nation for legal technology
Bar passage rate and employment outcomes:
- Suffolk Law’s bar passage rate is consistently above the state average.
- Over 90% of Suffolk Law graduates are employed within six months of graduation.
Curriculum and programs:
- Suffolk Law offers a Juris Doctor (JD) degree (3 years) as well as a Master of Laws (LLM) degree (1 year) in American Law.
Website: https://www.suffolk.edu/law
3. Boston College Law School
Address: 885 Centre St, Newton Centre, MA 02459, United States
Boston College Law School is one of the most prominent law schools in Massachusetts, rooted in the Jesuit tradition of service to others. The goal of the school includes rigorous research, high-quality training, and a critical analysis of legal institutions.
They are similarly committed to fostering moral and ethical values in their pupils, preparing them to be caring professionals rather than just competent lawyers.
The school is committed to social and economic justice, as seen by its academic programs and extracurricular activities. They cultivate a diverse and friendly community that promotes growth and learning, as well as a model of intellectual and professional interaction.
Strengths and unique features:
- Strong academic reputation
- Commitment to social justice
- Diverse student body
- Jesuit tradition
- Convenient location in the Boston metropolitan area
Website: https://www.bc.edu/bc-web/schools/law
4. Northeastern University School of Law
Address: 416 Huntington Ave., Boston, MA 02115, United States
With over 50 years of experience, Northeastern University School of Law has secured a spot on our list of the best law schools in Massachusetts. Northeastern University School of Law is a vibrant institution that prides itself on innovation, experiential learning, and a commitment to social justice.
With a rich history, this school has continually evolved to meet the changing demands of the legal profession. The school’s unique co-op program provides students with hands-on experience, ensuring they are well-prepared for the legal world upon graduation.
Social justice is at the core of Northeastern Law, and it’s reflected in their curriculum and the work of their faculty and students. The school offers a range of programs and clinics focused on public interest law and advocacy, allowing students to engage with real legal issues and make a positive impact on their communities.
Strengths and unique features:
- Innovative curriculum that integrates theory and practice
- Focus on experiential learning through co-ops and internships
- Strong alumni network
- Convenient location in downtown Boston
Website: https://law.northeastern.edu/
5. Harvard Law School
Address: 1585 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02138, United States
Harvard Law School is one of the best law schools in Massachusetts that offers a diverse and dynamic legal education, underscored by its commitment to academic excellence and innovative experiential learning.
With a global reach and an interdisciplinary approach, the school’s curriculum empowers students to tailor their education to their interests and career aspirations.
Harvard Law School is renowned for its clinical programs, which provide hands-on legal experience, and its exceptional faculty, consistently ranking among the best law schools in the US.
Harvard Law’s commitment to public service and access to a vast network of accomplished alumni enrich the student experience. The school’s historical significance and strong ties to Harvard University ensure that graduates go on to become successful lawyers both in academia and other fields.
Strengths and unique features:
- Rigorous academic programs
- Diverse student body
- Strong alumni networks
- World-renowned faculty
- Access to Harvard University’s resources
Website: https://hls.harvard.edu/
6. Boston University School of Law
Address: 765 Commonwealth Ave., Boston, MA 02215, United States
Founded in 1872, Boston University School of Law stands as a distinguished institution known for its rich history and commitment to legal excellence. Their faculty are celebrated for their exceptional teaching, influential scholarship, and dedicated mentorship, making it a hub of legal education.
The school boasts an extensive alumni network, with over 25,000 graduates spanning all 50 states and more than 100 countries. This global network is a valuable asset for professional growth and networking opportunities.
BU Law is committed to diversity and inclusion, and its student body is one of the most diverse in the country. The school has state-of-the-art facilities, including the Sumner M. Redstone Building, which is one of the most sustainable law school buildings in the country. They also have a vast global network of alumni who are always willing to help current students and graduates.
Strengths and unique features:
- Strong academic reputation
- Commitment to diversity and inclusion
- Location in the heart of Boston
- State-of-the-art facilities
- A vast global network of alumni
Website: https://www.bu.edu/law/
7. Western New England Law School
Address: 1215 Wilbraham Rd., Springfield, MA 01119, United States
Founded in 1919, Western New England University School of Law is a distinguished private institution with ABA accreditation, situated in Western Massachusetts. With a rich history, it has nurtured a strong alumni network of approximately 8,000 individuals who have established themselves across the United States and internationally.
The school provides flexible options for students through both full-time and part-time programs, accommodating a range of career goals. As a college within Western New England University, it benefits from a broader educational community and resources, enhancing the overall learning experience.
WNE Law is known for its strong focus on practical legal education. The school offers a variety of clinics and externships that allow students to gain real-world experience working with clients and lawyers. WNE Law also has a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, and its student body is one of the most diverse in the country.
Strengths and unique features:
- Strong focus on practical legal education
- Diverse student body
- Commitment to diversity and inclusion
- Affordable tuition
- Convenient location in Western Massachusetts
Website: https://wne.edu/law/
8. University of Massachusetts School of Law (UMass)
Address: 333 Faunce Corner Rd., Dartmouth, MA 02747, United States
The next institution on our list of the best law schools in Massachusetts is the University of Massachusetts’s School of Law. Popularly known as UMASS Law, this school is renowned for its in-depth educational curriculum, strong academic reputation, and commitment to diversity and inclusion.
UMASS Law is committed to providing excellent, affordable, and accessible legal education to both local and international students. The school is also known for its collegial community, its focus on diversity and inclusion, and its commitment to social justice.
Strengths and unique features:
- A public law school with affordable tuition
- Commitment to diversity and inclusion
- Collegial community
- Focus on experiential learning
- Strong ties to the legal community
Programs
You can fulfill your dream of becoming a lawyer with one of UMass Law’s Juris Doctor (JD) degree programs:
- full-time day program
- part-time day program
- part-time evening/weekend program
- joint degree programs, including fast-track 3+3 baccalaureate/Juris Doctor programs
Website: https://www.umassd.edu/law/
9. Massachusetts School of Law Andover
Address: 500 Federal St, Andover, MA 01810, United States
The Massachusetts School of Law (MSLAW) in Andover is one of the few law schools in Massachusetts that is dedicated to offering a robust and affordable legal education, with a strong emphasis on ethics, advocacy, leadership, and professional skills.
Their mission is to provide accessible legal education to the next generation of leaders in law, business, and technology who aspire to make a positive impact on their communities as advocates, lawyers, and leaders.
MSLAW recognizes the profound influence that lawyers have on society and, therefore, prepares its graduates to utilize their legal expertise to assist their clients while also bestowing upon them the societal advancement and influence that come with a law degree.
To achieve this mission, MSLAW assembles a diverse and accomplished group of scholars, judges, expert practitioners, and other professionals to offer a rigorous, cost-effective legal education, making it accessible to individuals from all walks of life, thereby improving their lives and strengthening their communities.
The institution’s open-door policy welcomes everyone, particularly those who have traditionally faced barriers to higher education. MSLAW is dedicated to non-discrimination, welcoming students regardless of factors like race, religion, gender identity, and more.
Strengths and unique features:
- Affordable tuition
- Diverse student body
- A welcoming environment for students of all backgrounds
- Focus on ethics, advocacy, leadership, and professional skills
Website: https://www.mslaw.edu/
10. Belhaven University
Address: 1500 Peachtree St, Jackson, MS 39202, United States
Belhaven University is another law school in Massachusetts known for its commitment to providing a well-rounded legal education in a Christian worldview.
Their curriculum, deeply rooted in faith-based principles, aims to prepare students not only for a legal career but also for a life of ethical leadership and service.
Belhaven’s legal studies program stands out by blending traditional legal education with a strong emphasis on ethical and moral values. This holistic approach equips students with the skills to make a difference not only in the legal profession but also in their communities and beyond.
The university’s faith-based foundation creates a supportive and values-driven environment that fosters personal and professional growth. It’s a place where aspiring lawyers can gain the knowledge, skills, and ethical foundation needed to make a meaningful impact in a world that craves legal professionals who uphold the highest standards of integrity and justice.
Strengths and unique features:
- Faith-based curriculum that emphasizes ethical and moral values
- Supportive and values-driven environment
- Focus on personal and professional growth
- Preparation for a legal career and a life of ethical leadership and service
Website: https://www.belhaven.edu/
11. Roger Williams University School of Law
Address: 10 Metacom Ave., Bristol, RI 02809, United States
Roger Williams University School of Law is not just one of the best law schools in Massachusetts but also the only law school in Rhode Island. Established in 1993 as the university’s first graduate degree program, it has grown to become an accredited institution recognized by the American Bar Association (since 1997) and a member of the Association of American Law Schools (since 2006).
This law school stands out for its focus on maritime law, a distinctive feature among American law schools. Students are offered guaranteed clinical hands-on experience, preparing them for the legal profession.
Furthermore, the school is regarded as the most affordable ABA-accredited private law school in the Northeast, with a tuition rate of $44,834 for the 2023–2034 academic year.
Roger Williams University School of Law’s commitment to accessible legal education extends to its second experiential campus located in the heart of Providence, Rhode Island. The school’s impressive placement record is exemplified by a 78% bar passage rate in 2020, and it ranks #10 in federal and state clerkships.
Strengths and unique features:
- Affordable tuition
- Guaranteed clinical, hands-on experience
- Strong maritime law program
- Second experiential campus in the heart of Providence, Rhode Island
- The high bar passage rate
- Strong clerkship placement rate
- Faculty accessibility
Website: https://law.rwu.edu/
12. Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy
Address: 160 Packard Ave., Medford, MA 02155, United States
The last on our list of law schools in Massachusetts is Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy. The Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University is a globally renowned institution that offers a unique blend of legal education and diplomacy training.
Established in 1933, this institution stands as one of the oldest law schools in Massachusetts and has consistently maintained its stature as one of the leading schools in international affairs.
Fletcher stands out for its multidisciplinary approach, where law and diplomacy intersect. Its innovative curriculum and renowned faculty equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate complex global challenges.
With a strong focus on international relations, Fletcher is a prime destination for those seeking to make an impact on the world stage.
Strengths and unique features:
- Strong academic reputation
- Focus on interdisciplinary studies
- Global focus
- Experienced faculty
- Diverse student body
Website: https://fletcher.tufts.edu/
FAQs
What is the easiest law school to get into in Boston?
Suffolk University and New England Law Boston are the easiest law schools in Massachusetts to get into. Both of these schools have a median LSAT score of 154.
How much is law school in MA?
The price of every law school varies; however, the average law school in Massachusetts costs around $39,550 annually for their JD degree programs.
How long is law school in Massachusetts?
The average law school in Massachusetts offers a 3-year JD program and a 1-year LLM program.
What is the cheapest law school in the US?
The prices of each of these universities can fluctuate; however, the cheapest law school in the US at the time of writing this article was the University of the District of Columbia. The tuition fees at this university cost $13,438 for in-state students and $25,874 for international students.
What is the highest law degree?
Doctor of Juridical Science (SJD) A Doctor of Juridical Science degree is considered the highest level of a law degree and is designed for professionals who are looking to gain an advanced legal education after earning their JD and LLM.
Read also: Best Law Schools in Canada: Top 16
CONCLUSION
Massachusetts is a hub for legal education, with several accredited law schools to choose from. These schools offer a variety of programs and specializations, so students can find the right law school for their interests and career goals.
From the venerable halls of Harvard Law School to the dynamic programs at Boston University School of Law, Massachusetts provides a rich tapestry of legal education opportunities.
Each of these institutions contributes to the vibrant legal community of the state, equipping students with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in the ever-evolving field of law.
Whether you’re a prospective student looking for your ideal law school or a legal enthusiast interested in the academic institutions shaping the future of the legal profession, the law schools in this article will serve as your compass on the path to legal excellence in Massachusetts.