Boston University School of Law was founded in 1872 as one of the first law schools in the United States to admit students without regard to race, religion, or gender. Initially located in downtown Boston, the school moved to its current location on the Charles River Campus in 1964. BU Law has a rich history of progressive legal education and has produced influential legal scholars, judges, and practitioners who have shaped American jurisprudence.
BU Law is consistently ranked among the top 20 law schools in the nation and is particularly renowned for its programs in intellectual property law, health law, banking and financial law, and international law. The school's faculty includes leading scholars and practitioners who are regularly cited in courts and media. BU Law emphasizes both theoretical rigor and practical skills training, with extensive clinical programs, externship opportunities, and professional development resources that prepare students for diverse legal careers.
The law school community is characterized by its collaborative atmosphere and commitment to public service. Students benefit from Boston's vibrant legal market, with numerous opportunities for internships, clerkships, and networking with alumni working at prestigious firms, government agencies, and public interest organizations. The diverse student body of approximately 800 JD students creates a dynamic learning environment, enhanced by active student organizations, moot court competitions, and law journals that provide valuable experiential learning opportunities.
| Type | Private Research |
| Location | Boston, Massachusetts |
| Founded | 1872 |
| Total students | 850 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 10:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 28% |
| Graduation rate | 95% |
| Average starting salary | $190,000 |
| In-state tuition | $63,798 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $63,798 |
| Room & board | $21,000 |
| Average financial aid | $32,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 85% |
| SAT range | N/A |
| ACT range | N/A |
| Average GPA | 3.74 |
| Regular deadline | March 1 |
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.