ABA Accredited Law Schools in New Jersey

Rutgers Law School

Rutgers Law School, with campuses in Camden and Newark, is known for its rigorous academic programs, commitment to public service, and strong emphasis on diversity and inclusion. As one of the leading public law schools in the country, Rutgers offers a comprehensive legal education that prepares students for successful careers in various legal fields.

School History

Founded in 1926 in Newark and 1950 in Camden, Rutgers Law School has a long history of academic excellence and innovation in legal education. The merger of the two campuses in 2015 created one of the largest law schools in the country. The school’s history is marked by a commitment to social justice, public service, and a diverse student body. Over the years, Rutgers Law has produced numerous distinguished alumni who have made significant contributions to the legal profession and public service.

Degrees Offered (including Joint Degrees)

Rutgers Law School offers a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, as well as several joint degree programs. These include JD/MBA (Master of Business Administration), JD/MPA (Master of Public Administration), and JD/MSW (Master of Social Work). The school also offers an LL.M. (Master of Laws) in areas such as Corporate Law, Criminal Law, and Health Law. Additionally, Rutgers offers a Master of Studies in Law (MSL) for non-lawyers seeking legal knowledge. These programs are designed to provide a comprehensive 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 for in-state JD students is approximately $29,560 per year, while out-of-state students pay around $42,758 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.

Scholarships

Rutgers 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.

Acceptance Rate

The acceptance rate at Rutgers Law School is approximately 47%, 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 158. 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. Elizabeth Warren – U.S. Senator from Massachusetts and former presidential candidate.
2. Robert Menendez – U.S. Senator from New Jersey.
3. Stuart Rabner – Chief Justice of the New Jersey Supreme Court.
4. Andrew Napolitano – Former judge and Fox News legal analyst.
5. Patricia Smith – Former U.S. Solicitor of Labor.

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

1. Gibbons P.C. – A major law firm known for hiring many Rutgers Law graduates.
2. McCarter & English, LLP – Another leading law firm with significant hiring from Rutgers.
3. New Jersey Supreme Court – A major employer for graduates pursuing judicial clerkships.
4. Prudential Financial – Corporate legal positions within this major financial services company.
5. State of New Jersey – Various state government agencies are significant employers for graduates pursuing public service careers.

Averaged Starting Salaries

Graduates from Rutgers Law School can expect competitive starting salaries. Those entering private practice often start with salaries around $90,000 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 $80,000 annually.

Seton Hall University School of Law

Seton Hall University School of Law, located in Newark, New Jersey, is renowned for its strong emphasis on health law, intellectual property law, and compliance. The school offers a comprehensive legal education that prepares students for successful careers in various legal fields.

School History

Founded in 1951, Seton Hall University School of Law has built a reputation for academic excellence and a commitment to public service. The law school is part of Seton Hall University, a private Roman Catholic institution. Over the years, Seton Hall Law has developed a strong focus on health law, intellectual property, and corporate compliance. The school’s location in Newark provides students with access to a vibrant legal community and numerous opportunities for internships and employment.

Degrees Offered (including Joint Degrees)

Seton Hall 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), JD/MPA (Master of Public Administration), and JD/MS in Jurisprudence. The school also offers an LL.M. (Master of Laws) in Health Law, Intellectual Property Law, and Financial Services Compliance. Additionally, Seton Hall offers a Master of Science in Jurisprudence (MSJ) 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 issues.

Tuition and Fees

For the 2023-2024 academic year, tuition at Seton Hall University School of Law is approximately $57,580 per year. Additional fees, including health insurance, student activity fees, and technology fees, total about $3,000 annually. Financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans, are available to help students manage these expenses.

Scholarships

Seton Hall 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 careers in health law, 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 Seton Hall University School of Law is approximately 48%, 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 160. 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. Chris Christie – Former Governor of New Jersey.
2. Kathleen Sebelius – Former U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services.
3. Michael Chertoff – Former U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security.
4. Dennis Lynch – Former U.S. Attorney for the District of New Jersey.
5. Sheila Oliver – Lieutenant Governor of New Jersey.

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

1. Gibbons P.C. – A major law firm known for hiring many Seton Hall Law graduates.
2. McCarter & English, LLP – Another leading law firm with significant hiring from Seton Hall.
3. New Jersey Supreme Court – A major employer for graduates pursuing judicial clerkships.
4. Johnson & Johnson – Corporate legal positions within this major healthcare company.
5. State of New Jersey – Various state government agencies are significant employers for graduates pursuing public service careers.

Averaged Starting Salaries

Graduates from Seton Hall University School of Law can expect competitive starting salaries. Those entering private practice often start with salaries around $95,000 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 $85,000 annually.