ABA Accredited Law Schools in Massachusetts

Harvard Law School

Harvard Law School, located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is one of the most prestigious law schools in the world. Known for its rigorous academic programs, influential faculty, and extensive alumni network, Harvard Law offers a comprehensive legal education that prepares students for leadership roles in law, business, government, and academia.

School History

Harvard Law School was founded in 1817, making it the oldest continuously operating law school in the United States. Throughout its history, Harvard Law has been at the forefront of legal education and scholarship, influencing legal theory and practice worldwide. The school has produced numerous Supreme Court justices, legal scholars, and political leaders. Harvard Law’s commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and public service has solidified its reputation as a global leader in legal education.

Degrees Offered (including Joint Degrees)

Harvard Law School offers a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, as well as several joint degree programs. These include JD/MBA (Master of Business Administration) with Harvard Business School, JD/MPP (Master of Public Policy) with the Harvard Kennedy School, and JD/MD (Doctor of Medicine) with Harvard Medical School. The school also offers advanced degrees such as LL.M. (Master of Laws) and SJD (Doctor of Juridical Science). These programs are designed to provide a comprehensive and interdisciplinary legal education that equips students with the skills needed to tackle complex legal and policy issues.

Tuition and Fees

For the 2023-2024 academic year, tuition at Harvard Law School is approximately $70,430 per year. Additional fees, including health insurance, student activity fees, and technology fees, total about $4,000 annually. Financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans, are available to help students manage these expenses. Harvard Law offers a generous financial aid program that meets the demonstrated need of all students.

Scholarships

Harvard Law School provides a variety of scholarships to assist students financially. These include need-based scholarships, merit-based scholarships, and specialized scholarships for students pursuing public interest law careers. Additionally, the school offers fellowships and loan repayment assistance programs for graduates entering public service. Scholarships are awarded based on financial need, academic achievement, leadership potential, and commitment to public service.

Acceptance Rate

The acceptance rate at Harvard Law School is approximately 12%, reflecting its highly selective admissions process. The school seeks to admit students who demonstrate exceptional academic potential, leadership qualities, and a commitment to contributing positively to the legal profession and society.

Average LSAT Score

The average LSAT score for admitted students at Harvard Law School is around 173. This high score reflects the competitive nature of the admissions process and the school’s rigorous academic standards.

Admissions Requirements

Admissions requirements for Harvard Law School include a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, a competitive LSAT score, a strong GPA, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a resume. The school values diversity and seeks applicants with varied backgrounds and experiences who have demonstrated a commitment to public service and leadership.

Famous Alumni

1. Barack Obama – 44th President of the United States.
2. Ruth Bader Ginsburg – Former Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court.
3. Mitt Romney – U.S. Senator and former Governor of Massachusetts.
4. Elena Kagan – Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court.
5. John Roberts – Chief Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court.

Top Companies or Organizations that Hire the Most Graduates in Recent Years

1. Cravath, Swaine & Moore LLP – A major law firm known for hiring many Harvard Law graduates.
2. Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP – Another leading law firm with significant hiring from Harvard.
3. Goldman Sachs – Corporate legal positions within this major financial institution.
4. U.S. Department of Justice – A significant employer for graduates pursuing public service careers.
5. Harvard University – The university itself hires many graduates for various legal and academic positions.

Averaged Starting Salaries

Graduates from Harvard Law School can expect high starting salaries. Those entering private practice often start with salaries around $190,000 per year. Public service and government roles typically offer starting salaries of approximately $70,000 per year, while corporate positions can provide starting salaries averaging around $160,000 annually.

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Boston College Law School

Boston College Law School, located in Newton, Massachusetts, is known for its strong emphasis on public service, academic excellence, and supportive community. The school offers a comprehensive legal education that prepares students for successful careers in various legal fields.

School History

Founded in 1929, Boston College Law School has developed a reputation for its commitment to intellectual rigor, social justice, and ethical practice. The school is part of Boston College, a Jesuit university, and its values are reflected in the law school’s mission. Over the years, Boston College Law has produced numerous distinguished alumni who have made significant contributions to the legal profession and public service. The school’s history is marked by a dedication to fostering a sense of community and providing a transformative educational experience.

Degrees Offered (including Joint Degrees)

Boston College Law School offers a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, as well as several joint degree programs. These include JD/MBA (Master of Business Administration) with Boston College’s Carroll School of Management, JD/MSW (Master of Social Work) with the Boston College School of Social Work, and JD/MA in Urban and Environmental Policy and Planning. The school also offers an LL.M. (Master of Laws) program for international lawyers and U.S. lawyers seeking specialized legal knowledge. These programs are designed to provide a comprehensive and interdisciplinary legal education.

Tuition and Fees

For the 2023-2024 academic year, tuition at Boston College Law School is approximately $60,700 per year. Additional fees, including health insurance, student activity fees, and technology fees, total about $2,500 annually. Financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans, are available to help students manage these expenses. The school is committed to making a legal education accessible and offers a variety of financial aid packages.

Scholarships

Boston College Law School offers a variety of scholarships to assist students financially. These include merit-based scholarships, need-based scholarships, and specialized scholarships for students pursuing public interest law careers. Additionally, the school provides fellowships and loan repayment assistance programs for graduates entering public service. Scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership potential, and financial need, ensuring that students who have the potential to excel are able to attend regardless of their financial background.

Acceptance Rate

The acceptance rate at Boston College Law School is approximately 30%, reflecting its selective admissions process. The school seeks to admit students who demonstrate strong academic potential, leadership qualities, and a commitment to contributing positively to the legal profession and society.

Average LSAT Score

The average LSAT score for admitted students at Boston College Law School is around 164. This score reflects the competitive nature of the admissions process and the school’s rigorous academic standards.

Admissions Requirements

Admissions requirements for Boston College Law School include a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, a competitive LSAT score, a strong GPA, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a resume. The school values diversity and seeks applicants with varied backgrounds and experiences who have demonstrated a commitment to public service and leadership.

Famous Alumni

1. Ed Markey – U.S. Senator from Massachusetts.
2. Martha Coakley – Former Attorney General of Massachusetts.
3. Scott Brown – Former U.S. Senator from Massachusetts.
4. John F. Tierney – Former U.S. Representative from Massachusetts.
5. Terry McAuliffe – Former Governor of Virginia and Chairman of the Democratic National Committee.

Top Companies or Organizations that Hire the Most Graduates in Recent Years

1. Ropes & Gray LLP – A major law firm known for hiring many Boston College Law graduates.
2. WilmerHale – Another leading law firm with significant hiring from Boston College.
3. Goodwin Procter LLP – Prestigious law firm known for hiring graduates.
4. Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court – A major employer for graduates pursuing judicial clerkships.
5. State Street Corporation – Corporate legal positions within this major financial services company.

Averaged Starting Salaries

Graduates from Boston College Law School can expect competitive starting salaries. Those entering private practice often start with salaries around $160,000 per year. Public service and government roles typically offer starting salaries of approximately $60,000 per year, while corporate positions can provide starting salaries averaging around $90,000 annually.

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Boston University School of Law

Boston University School of Law, located in Boston, Massachusetts, is renowned for its outstanding faculty, rigorous academic programs, and vibrant legal community. The school offers a comprehensive legal education that prepares students for successful careers in various legal fields.

School History

Founded in 1872, Boston University School of Law has a long tradition of excellence and innovation in legal education. The school was one of the first in the nation to admit women and minorities, reflecting its commitment to diversity and inclusion. Over the years, Boston University Law has built a reputation for its exceptional faculty, who are leaders in their fields, and its strong emphasis on practical skills training. The school’s history is marked by a dedication to producing graduates who are well-prepared to excel in the legal profession and contribute to society.

Degrees Offered (including Joint Degrees)

Boston University School of Law offers a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, as well as several joint degree programs. These include JD/MBA (Master of Business Administration) with the Boston University Questrom School of Business, JD/MPH (Master of Public Health) with the Boston University School of Public Health, and JD/MA in International Relations. The school also offers advanced degrees such as LL.M. (Master of Laws) in Taxation, Banking and Financial Law, and Intellectual Property Law, and a Doctor of Juridical Science (SJD) for those interested in advanced legal research. These programs are designed to provide a comprehensive and interdisciplinary legal education.

Tuition and Fees

For the 2023-2024 academic year, tuition at Boston University School of Law is approximately $63,600 per year. Additional fees, including health insurance, student activity fees, and technology fees, total about $2,500 annually. Financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans, are available to help students manage these expenses. Boston University Law is committed to making legal education accessible and offers a range of financial aid packages.

Scholarships

Boston University School of Law offers a variety of scholarships to assist students financially. These include merit-based scholarships, need-based scholarships, and specialized scholarships for students pursuing public interest law careers. Additionally, the school provides fellowships and loan repayment assistance programs for graduates entering public service. Scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership potential, and financial need, ensuring that talented students have the opportunity to attend.

Acceptance Rate

The acceptance rate at Boston University School of Law is approximately 25%, reflecting its selective admissions process. The school seeks to admit students who demonstrate strong academic potential, leadership qualities, and a commitment to contributing positively to the legal profession and society.

Average LSAT Score

The average LSAT score for admitted students at Boston University School of Law is around 167. This score reflects the competitive nature of the admissions process and the school’s rigorous academic standards.

Admissions Requirements

Admissions requirements for Boston University School of Law include a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, a competitive LSAT score, a strong GPA, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a resume. The school values diversity and seeks applicants with varied backgrounds and experiences who have demonstrated a commitment to public service and leadership.

Famous Alumni

1. Edward Brooke – First African American elected to the U.S. Senate by popular vote.
2. David E. Kelley – Emmy Award-winning television writer and producer.
3. John F. Tierney – Former U.S. Representative from Massachusetts.
4. William S. Cohen – Former U.S. Secretary of Defense and U.S. Senator.
5. Maura Healey – Attorney General of Massachusetts and Governor-elect of Massachusetts.

Top Companies or Organizations that Hire the Most Graduates in Recent Years

1. Ropes & Gray LLP – A major law firm known for hiring many Boston University Law graduates.
2. WilmerHale – Another leading law firm with significant hiring from Boston University.
3. Goodwin Procter LLP – Prestigious law firm known for hiring graduates.
4. Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court – A major employer for graduates pursuing judicial clerkships.
5. Fidelity Investments – Corporate legal positions within this major financial services company.

Averaged Starting Salaries

Graduates from Boston University School of Law can expect competitive starting salaries. Those entering private practice often start with salaries around $160,000 per year. Public service and government roles typically offer starting salaries of approximately $60,000 per year, while corporate positions can provide starting salaries averaging around $90,000 annually.

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Northeastern University School of Law

Northeastern University School of Law, located in Boston, Massachusetts, is known for its strong emphasis on experiential learning, social justice, and public service. The school offers a comprehensive legal education that prepares students for successful careers in various legal fields.

School History

Northeastern University School of Law was founded in 1898 and has a rich history of academic excellence and innovation. The school was closed during World War II but was reopened in 1968 with a renewed focus on experiential education and social justice. Over the years, Northeastern Law has built a reputation for its co-op program, which integrates classroom learning with real-world experience. The school’s history is marked by a commitment to public service, practical skills training, and a strong sense of community.

Degrees Offered (including Joint Degrees)

Northeastern University School of Law offers a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, as well as several joint degree programs. These include JD/MBA (Master of Business Administration) with the D’Amore-McKim School of Business, JD/MPH (Master of Public Health) with the Bouvé College of Health Sciences, and JD/MA in Sustainable International Development. The school also offers an LL.M. (Master of Laws) program for international lawyers and U.S. lawyers seeking specialized legal knowledge. These programs are designed to provide a comprehensive and interdisciplinary legal education.

Tuition and Fees

For the 2023-2024 academic year, tuition at Northeastern University School of Law is approximately $56,940 per year. Additional fees, including health insurance, student activity fees, and technology fees, total about $2,000 annually. Financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans, are available to help students manage these expenses. Northeastern Law is committed to making legal education accessible and offers a variety of financial aid packages.

Scholarships

Northeastern University School of Law offers a variety of scholarships to assist students financially. These include merit-based scholarships, need-based scholarships, and specialized scholarships for students pursuing public interest law careers. Additionally, the school provides fellowships and loan repayment assistance programs for graduates entering public service. Scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership potential, and financial need, ensuring that students who have the potential to succeed are able to attend.

Acceptance Rate

The acceptance rate at Northeastern University School of Law is approximately 40%, reflecting its selective admissions process. The school seeks to admit students who demonstrate strong academic potential, leadership qualities, and a commitment to contributing positively to the legal profession and society.

Average LSAT Score

The average LSAT score for admitted students at Northeastern University School of Law is around 160. This score reflects the competitive nature of the admissions process and the school’s rigorous academic standards.

Admissions Requirements

Admissions requirements for Northeastern University School of Law include a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, a competitive LSAT score, a strong GPA, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a resume. The school values diversity and seeks applicants with varied backgrounds and experiences who have demonstrated a commitment to public service and leadership.

Famous Alumni

1. Michael Dukakis – Former Governor of Massachusetts and Democratic presidential nominee.
2. Ralph D. Gants – Chief Justice of the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court.
3. Sonia Chang-Díaz – Massachusetts State Senator.
4. Thomas M. Menino – Longest-serving Mayor of Boston.
5. Ayanna Pressley – U.S. Representative from Massachusetts.

Top Companies or Organizations that Hire the Most Graduates in Recent Years

1. Mintz Levin Cohn Ferris Glovsky and Popeo PC – A major law firm known for hiring many Northeastern Law graduates.
2. WilmerHale – Another leading law firm with significant hiring from Northeastern.
3. Foley Hoag LLP – Prestigious law firm known for hiring graduates.
4. Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office – A major employer for graduates pursuing public service careers.
5. Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center – Corporate legal positions within this major healthcare organization.

Averaged Starting Salaries

Graduates from Northeastern University School of Law can expect competitive starting salaries. Those entering private practice often start with salaries around $100,000 per year. Public service and government roles typically offer starting salaries of approximately $55,000 per year, while corporate positions can provide starting salaries averaging around $80,000 annually.

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Suffolk University Law School

Suffolk University Law School, located in Boston, Massachusetts, is known for its strong emphasis on practical training, public service, and a supportive learning environment. The school offers a comprehensive legal education that prepares students for successful careers in various legal fields.

School History

Founded in 1906, Suffolk University Law School has a long-standing tradition of academic excellence and a commitment to practical skills training. The school is located in downtown Boston, providing students with access to a vibrant legal community and numerous opportunities for internships and employment. Over the years, Suffolk Law has developed a reputation for its strong emphasis on public service, practical training, and academic excellence. The school’s history reflects a dedication to producing graduates who are well-prepared to meet the challenges of the legal profession.

Degrees Offered (including Joint Degrees)

Suffolk University Law School offers a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, as well as several joint degree programs. These include JD/MBA (Master of Business Administration) with the Suffolk University Sawyer Business School, JD/MPA (Master of Public Administration), and JD/LLM in Taxation. The school also offers advanced degrees such as LL.M. (Master of Laws) in Global Law and Technology and an SJD (Doctor of Juridical Science) for those interested in advanced legal research. These programs are designed to provide a broad and interdisciplinary legal education that equips students with the skills needed to tackle complex legal issues.

Tuition and Fees

For the 2023-2024 academic year, tuition at Suffolk University Law School is approximately $53,800 per year. Additional fees, including health insurance, student activity fees, and technology fees, total about $2,500 annually. Financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans, are available to help students manage these expenses. Suffolk Law is committed to making legal education accessible and offers a range of financial aid packages.

Scholarships

Suffolk University Law School offers a variety of scholarships to assist students financially. These include merit-based scholarships, need-based scholarships, and specialized scholarships for students pursuing public interest law careers. Additionally, the school provides fellowships and loan repayment assistance programs for graduates entering public service. Scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership potential, and financial need, ensuring that students who have the potential to excel are able to attend.

Acceptance Rate

The acceptance rate at Suffolk University Law School is approximately 65%, reflecting its moderately selective admissions process. The school seeks to admit students who demonstrate strong academic potential, leadership qualities, and a commitment to contributing positively to the legal profession and society.

Average LSAT Score

The average LSAT score for admitted students at Suffolk University Law School is around 151. This score reflects the competitive nature of the admissions process and the school’s rigorous academic standards.

Admissions Requirements

Admissions requirements for Suffolk University Law School include a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, a competitive LSAT score, a strong GPA, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a resume. The school values diversity and seeks applicants with varied backgrounds and experiences who have demonstrated a commitment to public service and leadership.

Famous Alumni

1. John F. Kerry – Former U.S. Secretary of State and U.S. Senator from Massachusetts.
2. Bill Keating – U.S. Representative from Massachusetts.
3. John E. Sweeney – Former U.S. Representative from New York.
4. James Bamford – Noted author and journalist specializing in intelligence and national security.
5. Paul Cellucci – Former Governor of Massachusetts and U.S. Ambassador to Canada.

Top Companies or Organizations that Hire the Most Graduates in Recent Years

1. Foley Hoag LLP – A major law firm known for hiring many Suffolk Law graduates.
2. Ropes & Gray LLP – Another leading law firm with significant hiring from Suffolk.
3. WilmerHale – Prestigious law firm known for hiring graduates.
4. Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court – A major employer for graduates pursuing judicial clerkships.
5. State Street Corporation – Corporate legal positions within this major financial services company.

Averaged Starting Salaries

Graduates from Suffolk University Law School can expect competitive starting salaries. Those entering private practice often start with salaries around $85,000 per year. Public service and government roles typically offer starting salaries of approximately $55,000 per year, while corporate positions can provide starting salaries averaging around $75,000 annually.