ABA Accredited Law Schools in New Hampshire

University of New Hampshire Franklin Pierce School of Law

The University of New Hampshire Franklin Pierce School of Law, located in Concord, New Hampshire, is renowned for its expertise in intellectual property law and strong emphasis on practical training. The school offers a comprehensive legal education that prepares students for successful careers in various legal fields.

School History

Founded in 1973 as the Franklin Pierce Law Center, the school has a strong tradition in intellectual property law and has consistently ranked among the top IP programs in the nation. In 2010, the law school became part of the University of New Hampshire, enhancing its resources and academic offerings. The law school was named in honor of Franklin Pierce, the 14th President of the United States, who was from New Hampshire. Over the years, the school has expanded its focus to include a broad range of legal disciplines while maintaining its leadership in intellectual property law.

Degrees Offered (including Joint Degrees)

The University of New Hampshire Franklin Pierce School of Law offers a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, as well as several joint degree programs. These include JD/MBA (Master of Business Administration), JD/MPH (Master of Public Health), and JD/LLM (Master of Laws) in Intellectual Property. The school also offers specialized LLM programs in Intellectual Property, Commerce and Technology, and International Criminal Law and Justice. Additionally, the school offers a Master of Commerce and Technology (MCT) for non-lawyers. 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 for in-state JD students is approximately $39,000 per year, while out-of-state students pay around $45,000 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.

Scholarships

The University of New Hampshire Franklin Pierce 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 careers in intellectual property law and public interest law. 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.

Acceptance Rate

The acceptance rate at the University of New Hampshire Franklin Pierce School of Law is approximately 60%, 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 is around 155. This score reflects the competitive nature of the admissions process and the school’s rigorous academic standards.

Admissions Requirements

Admissions requirements 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. David Kappos – Former Director of the United States Patent and Trademark Office.
2. Marcia Moody – Member of the New Hampshire House of Representatives.
3. Joseph N. Welch – Former Chief Justice of the New Hampshire Superior Court.
4. John Broderick – Former Chief Justice of the New Hampshire Supreme Court.
5. Karen Borgstrom – Director of Mediation and Arbitration at the American Arbitration Association.

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

1. Fish & Richardson P.C. – A leading intellectual property law firm.
2. US Patent and Trademark Office – Major employer for graduates specializing in IP law.
3. Nixon Peabody LLP – Prestigious law firm with significant hiring from UNH Franklin Pierce.
4. New Hampshire Supreme Court – A major employer for graduates pursuing judicial clerkships.
5. BAE Systems – Corporate legal positions within this major defense and aerospace company.

Averaged Starting Salaries

Graduates from the University of New Hampshire Franklin Pierce School of Law 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 $60,000 per year, while corporate positions can provide starting salaries averaging around $75,000 annually.