Boston College Law School Profile

Boston College Law School, founded in 1929, is a prominent institution with a long history of academic excellence and a commitment to shaping the next generation of legal professionals. As one of the most respected law schools in the United States, it is known for its rigorous academic programs, a strong focus on public service, and its emphasis on producing highly qualified graduates who go on to succeed in prestigious law firms, government agencies, and a variety of other legal careers.

The school offers a full-time Juris Doctor (J.D.) program, which is the only mode of study offered. This full-time commitment ensures that students engage fully in their legal education, benefiting from the comprehensive curriculum that Boston College Law has to offer. The school also offers several dual degree programs that provide students with opportunities to expand their expertise beyond the law. These include the J.D./M.B.A. program in collaboration with Boston College’s Carroll School of Management, the J.D./M.S.W. program with the Graduate School of Social Work, and the J.D./M.Ed. or M.A. programs with the Lynch School of Education. These joint degrees allow students to gain expertise in areas that complement the legal profession, providing them with the skills to approach legal challenges from a broader perspective.

One of Boston College Law School’s distinguishing features is its commitment to public service and social justice. The school was one of the first to establish a law review dedicated to addressing the legal issues of underrepresented populations. This law review is dedicated to examining the legal and social challenges faced by marginalized communities, both in the United States and abroad. This commitment to social justice is further reflected in the school’s curriculum, which emphasizes the importance of legal practice that serves the public good, alongside corporate and private legal practice. Students are encouraged to engage in pro bono work and public service projects, providing them with opportunities to make a positive impact during their legal education.

In terms of academic rigor and quality, Boston College Law consistently ranks among the top law schools in the United States. According to the 2010 edition of The Princeton Review’s Best 172 Law Schools, Boston College is recognized for its "great research resources" and "great library staff," highlighting the excellent academic support available to students. This recognition is particularly significant as it underscores the resources that students have access to while pursuing their legal education at BC Law, enabling them to engage in extensive research, collaborate with faculty, and contribute to the development of legal scholarship.

The law school is also highly regarded for its exceptional faculty, many of whom are leading scholars in their respective fields. Boston College Law is consistently ranked among the top ten law schools for "Professors Rock (Legally Speaking)" by The Princeton Review, demonstrating the high level of respect and admiration that both students and colleagues have for the faculty members. The faculty is known for its collegiality and dedication to teaching, providing students with a supportive and collaborative learning environment. This strong faculty-student relationship is one of the key reasons why BC Law has earned a reputation for fostering a positive and supportive academic community.

Boston College Law's J.D. program is highly respected for its strong legal writing curriculum, which is ranked 9th in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. Legal writing is an essential skill for all lawyers, and BC Law's program equips students with the ability to draft clear, concise, and persuasive legal documents. This emphasis on legal writing is complemented by the school’s strong tax program, which is ranked 23rd nationally. BC Law’s tax program is one of the best in the country, offering students the opportunity to specialize in the complex field of tax law, which is crucial for careers in both corporate law and public service.

In addition to its academic strengths, Boston College Law School has an excellent track record of graduate employment. According to the National Law Journal, BC Law is among the top 20 law schools in terms of the number of graduates hired by large law firms. This ranking is a testament to the school’s ability to prepare students for successful careers in the legal profession. The school’s graduates are highly sought after by top-tier law firms, and many go on to work at prestigious firms in major legal markets across the country. BC Law’s strong connections to these firms, as well as its excellent academic programs and dedicated career services, help ensure that students are well-positioned for success in the job market.

Another area where Boston College Law excels is its commitment to diversity and inclusion. For two consecutive years, the BC Law Black Law Students Association (BLSA) was awarded the Northeast Black Law Students Association Chapter of the Year award, recognizing the school’s efforts to foster an inclusive and supportive environment for students of all backgrounds. The school’s commitment to diversity is further reflected in the variety of student organizations and affinity groups that provide students with opportunities to connect with others who share their experiences and interests. This diverse and inclusive environment is an essential part of the school’s community and contributes to the overall positive experience that students have during their time at BC Law.

Boston College Law School is also renowned for producing a high number of successful alumni. The school is ranked #1 for producing the most "Super Lawyers" in New England, according to Super Lawyer Magazine. This recognition highlights the significant contributions that BC Law graduates make to the legal profession, as many of them go on to become leading figures in law, business, government, and public service. The success of BC Law’s alumni is a direct result of the school’s commitment to providing a top-tier legal education that prepares students to excel in the competitive legal field.

In terms of rankings, Boston College Law School consistently places among the top law schools in the United States. In the 2010 U.S. News & World Report rankings, BC Law was ranked 26th, reflecting its strong academic reputation and its ability to provide students with a high-quality legal education. The school’s ranking also reflects the high number of graduates who secure positions in prestigious law firms, government agencies, and public interest organizations. Additionally, the school’s strong focus on legal writing and tax law, as well as its commitment to diversity and public service, further contribute to its strong standing in national rankings.