Some of the Top Law Schools in New York

The state of New York is home to some of the most prestigious and well-respected law schools in the United States. These institutions offer a range of legal programs and degrees that attract students from across the nation and the world. Some of the top law schools in New York include New York University School of Law, Cornell Law School, Columbia Law School, Albany Law School, Brooklyn Law School, New York Law School, and Fordham University School of Law.

New York University School of Law

New York University School of Law (NYU Law) is consistently ranked as one of the top law schools in the United States. Located in the heart of Manhattan, NYU Law offers students unparalleled access to a wealth of legal, business, and governmental opportunities in one of the most dynamic legal markets in the world. The law school is known for its diverse academic programs, distinguished faculty, and global reach.

NYU Law offers a variety of degree programs, including the Juris Doctor (J.D.), Master of Laws (LL.M.), and Doctor of the Science of Law (J.S.D.). The school has earned a particular reputation for its Graduate Tax Program, which has been ranked the No. 1 tax law program in the country by U.S. News & World Report since 1992. Beyond tax law, NYU is also known for its strength in fields like constitutional law, international law, environmental law, and public interest law. The school’s robust curriculum and opportunities for interdisciplinary studies ensure that students are well-prepared for careers in both the private and public sectors.

NYU Law also boasts an impressive record of placing its graduates at prestigious law firms, public interest organizations, government agencies, and corporations, making it a sought-after destination for ambitious students pursuing a legal career.

Cornell Law School

Cornell Law School, one of the five Ivy League law schools, is known for its rigorous academic programs and its commitment to preparing students for leadership roles in the legal profession. The school offers a range of degree programs, including the J.D., LL.M., J.S.D., and joint degree programs. Cornell Law’s LL.M. program has earned the distinction of being ranked 1st in the 2008 AUAP (Association of University Affiliated Programs) rankings, reflecting its global reach and academic excellence.

The law school is located in Ithaca, New York, providing a more tranquil setting than its counterparts in major metropolitan areas. This location allows students to engage closely with faculty, participate in research opportunities, and take advantage of Cornell’s interdisciplinary approach to legal education. The school is particularly strong in areas such as international law, intellectual property law, business law, and environmental law. Cornell Law graduates are highly sought after by top law firms, corporations, and government entities due to the school’s strong academic reputation and high standards of legal education.

Columbia Law School

Columbia Law School is another of New York's elite law schools, consistently ranked among the top law schools in the United States and internationally. Columbia is especially noted for its academic excellence and its proximity to Wall Street, which provides students with unique opportunities in business and corporate law. Columbia Law is also famous for its research contributions to legal theory and practice, with faculty members who are leading scholars in many areas of law.

Columbia Law School is highly regarded for its commitment to preparing students for both traditional legal careers and emerging fields within the legal profession. In particular, the law school’s program is known for its intellectual rigor and the ability to prepare students for leadership in global legal markets. Columbia Law School has earned the distinction of being rated No. 1 in the National Law Journal’s ranking of law schools that place the largest number of first-year associates at the 50 largest American law firms. This demonstrates Columbia's preeminent status in training the future leaders of the legal profession.

Students at Columbia Law have access to a vast network of alumni, top-tier internships, and unique opportunities to study law in a wide variety of global contexts, ensuring they are well-prepared for success in the competitive legal marketplace.

Albany Law School

Albany Law School, located in New York's state capital, offers a well-rounded legal education focused on public service, government law, and advocacy. Founded in 1851, Albany Law School has deep connections to the state government and the legal community in New York. The school’s location provides students with opportunities to intern and work with government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and private firms involved in public interest law.

Albany Law School offers the J.D., LL.M., and joint degree programs. It is also known for its advocacy programs, including trial and appellate competitions, and its focus on preparing students for careers in public law. Many Albany Law graduates go on to work in government agencies, the judiciary, and public interest organizations, making it an excellent choice for those who want to engage in public service and policy law.

Brooklyn Law School

Brooklyn Law School, located in the vibrant borough of Brooklyn, New York, has gained recognition for its diverse student body, commitment to experiential learning, and strong connections to the New York City legal community. The law school offers a range of degree programs, including the J.D. and LL.M., and emphasizes practical, hands-on learning experiences.

Brooklyn Law School is known for its emphasis on clinics, externships, and internships that allow students to gain real-world experience while still in school. The school’s proximity to New York City’s legal market provides students with numerous opportunities to network with professionals and secure positions at top law firms, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations. Brooklyn Law also offers strong programs in intellectual property law, real estate law, and corporate law, among other disciplines.

New York Law School

New York Law School (NYLS) offers students a robust legal education, with particular strengths in areas like intellectual property, business law, and real estate law. Located in Lower Manhattan, NYLS offers students access to a wealth of legal resources and opportunities in one of the world’s major legal hubs.

NYLS provides the J.D. and LL.M. degrees, along with joint degree programs in business and real estate law. The school is well-regarded for its emphasis on professional development, offering various externship programs, internships, and opportunities for students to gain practical experience in the legal field. Graduates of NYLS go on to work in a variety of sectors, from law firms to corporate legal departments to public interest organizations.

Fordham University School of Law

Fordham University School of Law, located in the heart of Manhattan, is one of the leading law schools in New York. Known for its focus on ethics, social justice, and public service, Fordham Law offers a wide range of legal programs, including the J.D., LL.M., and various dual-degree programs. Fordham Law has a strong reputation for preparing students for success in legal practice, with a particular emphasis on corporate law, intellectual property law, and international law.

Fordham’s location allows students to tap into a vast network of legal professionals and gain hands-on experience through its numerous legal clinics and externship opportunities. The law school is consistently ranked among the top law schools in the country and attracts students from all over the world who seek a rigorous academic program combined with practical legal training.