Boston University - School of Law

Many students choose Boston University School of Law for its “reputation for excellence in teaching and the wide array of experiential opportunities available,” which includes clinics and practicums, externships, and courses that simulate real-life legal work. As one student elaborates, the “variety of doctrinal and experiential classes offered…allowed me to gain substantive knowledge in my practice area [and]…gave me insight into the practical realities of transactional practice.” Another student adds, “I have had a phenomenal academic experience through extensive corporate law courses and practice courses, including contract drafting, a VC simulation course, and a start-up clinic.”

For many students, the real standout is the professors. Most of the professors “make efforts to get to know students and really help them along their law school journey.” Another student adds that “at BU, the professors aren’t just there to do their research or gain clout; they are there to teach.” Other frequently cited benefits of the school are the facilities and campus. Students note that “the facilities are great,” including the “practice courtrooms and brand-new lecture halls.” In addition, the “library is robust” and students praise the knowledgeable library staff who “are able to answer any question.” Among the school’s strengths is “access to Boston-area employers.” BU has a “good reputation with law firms,” which can help lead to “a well-paying job after graduation.” It also “has an extensive alumni network” with over 25,000 people.

Some students say the school “tends to be cliquey,” while others find it to be a “collaborative atmosphere” that “is not overly competitive.” One student explains the dynamic by saying, “Of course, some students can be a little less friendly, but for the most part, both upperclassmen and 1L students are more than willing to support each other by sharing encouragement, resources that they find, and time for conversations and mentorship.” Another adds, “The social life is available to those who want to participate, but many students are comfortable being friendly in the classroom and living their own lives on the weekends.” Students appreciate that the school “does an excellent job of providing spaces and times to mix with the entire school body, allowing people to mingle and meet.” The school also hosts multiple professional networking events with “an array of employers from Big Law firms to PI offices.” Overall, the school has a “collegial, cooperative culture” and is “focused on skills development.”