2024 Top Colleges for Legal Studies in America

• Nashville, TN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.01 out of 5  1,342 reviews

Alum: I graduated summa cum laude from Vanderbilt University in 2021 with a Bachelor's degree in Neuroscience. I primarily chose to attend Vandy for its academic prowess, and it definitely lived up to that reputation. In retrospect, I loved the majority of my STEM classes, and I find that my education was well-rounded because of my required liberal arts classes. The campus is beautiful, the food is relatively good, and on-campus housing is average. Admittedly, I was excited to live off-campus for my last two years (but beware - living in Nashville is not cheap). Socially, I had a great time at Vandy, especially thanks to the liveliness of Nashville, but sadly not due to Vanderbilt sports - this is not their strong suit. I met lifelong friends at this school! Realistically, however, many students do come from wealthy backgrounds, which can be off-putting at times. Ultimately, while undeniably expensive, Vanderbilt is a great school that will certainly work to your advantage after graduation.... Read 1,342 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 7%

• Net price $27,553

• SAT range 1480-1570

• Evanston, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  1,470 reviews

Junior: Northwestern University is a great college for students hoping to find a wide array of academic and extracurricular opportunities. Northwestern offers a wide range of courses on many different topics and because of the number of courses required to complete most majors (12-16), students in the College of Arts and Sciences are able to explore classes outside their majors at their leisure. The Quarter System can feel intimidating at first because of how fast-paced the courses can be but it also allows students to take more classes each year than a semester system which means students get to learn even more! Campus is also beautiful, located right next to Lake Michigan, so students are able to spend time outside of class at the beach and walking on the Lakefill.... Read 1,470 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 7%

• Net price $29,999

• SAT range 1470-1570

• Coral Gables, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  3,027 reviews

Freshman: I'm having a great time at UM! Move-in is phenomenal; the school provides professional movers to help families unload their vehicles and get students' belongings to the rooms. Orientation programming is fun and includes a variety of activities for students and parents. Class registration for engineering students is completely stress-free. On top of it all, classes are going well. If I had to do all over again, UM would still be my #1 choice.... Read 3,027 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 28%

• Net price $34,492

• SAT range 1300-1460

• New Orleans, LA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  1,657 reviews

Freshman: Tulane University is so fun and lively. The classes are interesting and valuable, and the professors are very passionate and care about their students' success. The campus environment is amazing, and there is an abundance of student resources. The city of New Orleans is a blast, and uptown New Orleans is relatively safe. I may be biased as a student at Tulane, but I genuinely believe it is the best university, and I am so happy with my decision to attend. Tulane University is a community, and I encourage anyone interested to apply. Roll Wave!... Read 1,657 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 10%

• Net price $45,048

• SAT range 1360-1510

• Amherst, MA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  324 reviews

Senior: Amherst College is a great place to study! I switched my major in my sophomore fall, and the transition was super easy. Because Amherst does not have any graduate programs, all the professors are there primarily to teach, and it is much easier to get research experience with professors over summers or during the semester. Summer research at the college helped me figure out that I wanted to switch majors. The open curriculum still let me keep taking classes in my former major, as well as in pretty much any other department I wanted to. Pretty much my only complaints are that housing is a little tight, especially for freshmen and sophomores, and that the dining hall isn't great.... Read 324 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 9%

• Net price $18,809

• SAT range 1370-1550

• Berkeley, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.71 out of 5  4,426 reviews

Senior: It's a big school so it was a little difficult to transition into my freshman year, but once I looked at the different resources and organizations the university offered, I loved it! It's really important to get involved while you're there. I was involved in different pre-law organizations, ASUC, Cal Cheerleading, and others and it was a great experience. It's a little difficult getting classes especially in your first or second year, but once you declare your major it's a lot easier. My major advisor Lauri is the best. She's super helpful and has made my time at Berkeley a lot easier. I would like to see an easier way for students to enroll to classes they need easier. I would also like for the university to recognize cheer as a sport so cheerleaders can have access to academic accommodations, as they are at all the sports events and have hours of practice per week.... Read 4,426 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 14%

• Net price $17,652

• SAT range 1310-1530

• Seattle, WA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.78 out of 5  4,613 reviews

Senior: Hello All, I am a student at the University of Washington's Seattle's Foster School of Business. The school of business has its own separate departments from UW, and I'm sure other major options are the same. For example, Foster has its own career center and there is a University-wide career center. All the resources can be overwhelming for students, so I recommend clarifying which department a resource came from. I think the required classes are great and the major options are fantastic. The libraries are phenomenal and useful. There are always activities and events. However, because of its location and events, the UW does attract a lot of tourists, I would recommend avoiding the Quad and Red Square during Cherry Blossom Season. Although Suzzalo is the most well-known library, it also attracts the most tourists, and it's hard to study while people are having a photo shoot, the Allen library is a better place to have an uninterrupted study session. Thanks for reading!... Read 4,613 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 53%

• Net price $8,701

• SAT range 1200-1470

• University Of Richmond, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  766 reviews

Freshman: My experience at the University of Richmond has been one filled with incredibly understanding and motivating professors. Since my first semester I found that my mental health and well being in general has been put at the forefront and prioritized with accommodations regarding course work. There are a variety of activities, clubs, and sports that radiate inclusive and encouraging energy to any and all that join. There is constantly something to do on campus ranging from acapella performances , day of the dead celebrations, haunted houses, mechanical spider riding, just about anything! The resources on campus are also endless. There is a highly vocalized opportunity to engage in research alongside professors, and career services that help launch well prepared students into internships. Something that I would like to change around campus would perhaps be an upgrade in security. This meaning more patrol around the entrances of campus simply because it is so easy access to the public.... Read 766 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 29%

• Net price $28,881

• SAT range 1280-1460

• La Jolla, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  1,158 reviews

Freshman: My experience at Narional has been good overall! The classes are set at a really good pace. The professors are super helpful and invested in the students. The only feedback for change that I have is the administration/financial aid side of things is kind of tricky once you are a student. I’ve been at National for 7 months now and still haven’t received my financial aid. Granted the school hasn’t been demanding I pay for my classes right now, I just have Large bill. And advisors don’t know much about that. They did just recently do something where they cross trained the admin team so that they are able to help with everything so that should be really helpful. I love Narional university and I would recommend them to anyone!... Read 1,158 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 55%

• Net price $9,966

• SAT range 750-1170

• Madison, WI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.9 out of 5  3,413 reviews

Freshman: The student life here is amazing, and it's clear the university wants its students to feel comfortable on campus. TA's and professors have been mostly receptive to emails and eager to help out when needed. The location and surrounding resources are valuable and easy to take advantage of as a student. I wish professors were better equipped to use canvas or some other teaching website. Also, there should be a standardized attendance app or website that is used by all teachers rather than having to download two or three separate applications in a semester depending on which professors you have. Overall, a great experience!... Read 3,413 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 60%

• Net price $13,484

• SAT range 1320-1500

• Washington, DC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.59 out of 5  2,536 reviews

Freshman: Amazing professors with such interesting insight to their expertise. Clubs and involvement possibilities are plentiful for many different kinds of interests. Class sizes are perfect, there are some bigger lectures but most classes are capped at 35. Diverse selection of classes. What really drew me to American University is the CLEG major-communications, legal institutions, economics, and government. The variety of topics covered gives a full comprehensive education to plan for any path ahead, especially my goal of law school. Obviously being in the DC area is a large part of the American University experience, plentiful opportunities to work, intern, learn, and even just have fun. There are some struggles with freshman housing and food places receiving health code violations. There is a bit of a culture issue at American between some Greek life and general competitive nature of the University, but overall I have really enjoyed my time here. I can't wait to continue my education!... Read 2,536 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 64%

• Net price $28,622

• SAT range 1280-1440

• Omaha, NE•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.63 out of 5  219 reviews

Freshman: Overall I really love the atmosphere at College of Saint Mary and especially the atmosphere from the staff. The staff here are nothing more than amazing and very helpful. I have had nothing but a good experience except there are a couple of things that I wish were improved. Our campus security does not do the best job and there have been a handful of car break ins since school has started. I also wish the dorms were a bit more modernized. They are a bit outdated and I feel as if it is a big part of college so it's important to have these things updated. Other than that I have loved every bit of college so far!... Read 219 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 38%

• Net price $16,235

• SAT range —

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  1,394 reviews

Senior: John Jay is a great choice for many students. I can personally speak to my experience as a STEM student in the Forensic Science major. The class sizes are small, so students have a more meaningful relationship with their mentors. There are lots of clubs and campus activities for students to partake in, and it's not unusual to be on my way to class to randomly see goodie bags or free food for an event in hound square! John Jay does not have a traditional campus feel (most of the population is made up of commuters) but makes up for it with its facilities. The JayWalk is a gorgeous courtyard where students often relax between classes and enjoy the weather. Furthermore, there are so many hidden gems for food and recreational activities in the blocks surrounding campus, which feel very safe. In fact, a few food places (shout out to Justino's Pizza) gives student discounts for food! CUNY is fantastic with internship/externship/research programs for undergraduate students. Best of luck!... Read 1,394 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 45%

• Net price $5,077

• SAT range 1020-1160

• Pittsburgh, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  4,307 reviews

Freshman: University of Pittsburgh is a great school with many diverse tools students can utilize to get the best out of their time here. From a wide range of studies to a vast option of clubs, University of Pittsburgh allows students to instantly feel connected to the school. In addition, the University of Pittsburgh has fantastic resources especially for Pre-Health related careers. With the UPMC building nearby, you can obtain your medical hours right on campus! You can easily contact a faculty member within the Pre-Health department to discuss the best academic path for you. The campus holds a variety of recreational spots including restaurants, museums, and cafes to study at. However, in the future, I hope to see the university improve their communication with their students regarding Panther Central. Panther Central is Pitt's main communication line where students can ask anything from housing to transportation. Unfortunately, the faculty takes a long time responding to students' emails.... Read 4,307 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 67%

• Net price $22,996

• SAT range 1250-1470

• Orlando, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  22,251 reviews

Freshman: I am an early admittance student slated to begin my journey as a college freshman during my senior year of high school at UCF starting in August of 2023. My experience has been incredibly positive so far beginning with my initial tour of the campus, through the application and acceptance process and lastly checking off my "to do" checklist in order to be ready for orientation. Every campus employee that I have encountered has been welcoming, encouraging and informative which has alleviated much of the pressure of being a first time college student! I highly recommend this institution of higher education!... Read 22,251 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 36%

• Net price $11,575

• SAT range 1170-1350

• Tucson, AZ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.83 out of 5  6,987 reviews

Sophomore: The University of Arizona has been a transformative experience for me. My involvement in Greek life offered not only memorable social events but also emphasized leadership and community service. The campus boasts a lively social scene, ensuring every student finds their niche. Academically, the English and Business departments were exceptional. The English department nurtured my literary passion, while Business provided practical real-world experience. However, I'd love to see more interdisciplinary courses and expanded mental health resources. Overall, UoA offers a perfect blend of rigorous academics and enriching social life. Highly recommended!... Read 6,987 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 87%

• Net price $17,242

• SAT range 1120-1370

• Usaf Academy, CO•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.71 out of 5  291 reviews

Alum: The Air Force Academy challenges you and makes you better in every way possible. Cadets sacrifice many traditional college experiences compared to their peers at civilian colleges, but the unique opportunities the cadets get are unlike any other!... Read 291 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 12%

• Net price —

• SAT range 1210-1490

• West Point, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.63 out of 5  468 reviews

Junior: Even though the past year has been tough because of COVID restrictions, I have had overall a pretty good time at West Point. The people here are mainly what makes it worth it--I've made friends that I know will last a lifetime. There are also endless opportunities (both during the semester and summer), especially if you want to get involved with research as an undergraduate. I have been able to publish my research in well known journals and conduct research alongside experts professors in the field I hope to pursue graduate school. The academics are not too hard, but it is very hit or miss in the core classes, because the instructors are randomly assigned and you don't get to choose. You might end up with someone not that great. However, in the upper division classes in the major, instructors are amazing and passionate about the subject. I really enjoy most parts about West Point and I look forward to commissioning as an army officer!... Read 468 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 11%

• Net price —

• SAT range 1200-1440

• Virginia Beach, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.97 out of 5  1,015 reviews

Sophomore: Regent University exceeded my expectations with the content in the online biblical courses that was so insightful, and detailed surrounding the time that the Bible was actually written. I enjoyed the interactions with professors and my classmates. Overall Regent has the best online experience as navigating blackboard was easy, and communication tools were very effective! My professors usually responded the same day or the next day with answers to my questions. I absolutely loved the online courses at Regent. Also, my counselor often checked in to see how I was doing, to let me know if there was something they needed, and to let me know when I could choose more classes, unusually nice of them. Lastly, next semester I will be taking courses on campus in which I am looking forward to engaging. Regent University was a great choice of schools, and I am humbled by the experience thus far. I know that the campus will provide rich memories for my collegiate experience.... Read 1,015 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 41%

• Net price $16,579

• SAT range 960-1230

• Fort Lauderdale, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.85 out of 5  2,040 reviews

Other: As an online student, my experience thus far has been quite straightforward. I deem professors very respectable with regards to their assessments as well as very understanding of students. Despite minor complications with registration and advising at times, I would like for advisors to be more informed about the processes I billed when advising students in their particular positions in order to give the right guidance. Apart from this, NSU has been a splendid university for me to attend so far! I am very motivated to learn and complete assignments and I look forward to more in the near future!... Read 2,040 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 93%

• Net price $26,530

• SAT range 1040-1310

• Des Moines, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  983 reviews

Alum: The best part of my Drake experience is that they catered to the phase of my life I was in. For the first two years, I was provided a lot of hands-on experience and guidance from trusted advisors. They taught the importance of internships, networking, building a community on campus and finding close friendships to help me get through the challenges of being away at college. I thrived in this nurturing environment. Going into my third year, I found a passion for international business and language. It was encouraged to pursue passions beyond your major coursework and I can't say enough good things about the experiences I was able to have. I found leadership opportunities and found myself helping younger students achieve and build their passions. Upon graduation, I believe that helped me land my first position immediately in a field and role I love. I can't say enough good things about the curriculum, activities, advisors and peers at this university!... Read 983 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 69%

• Net price $29,507

• SAT range 1190-1410

• Carlisle, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.63 out of 5  697 reviews

Alum: As a science major, I enjoyed the close connections I was able to forge with professors and classmates at a small school. The ability to lead & design research projects while in undergrad was something I know I would not have gotten at a big school! I also loved the number of clubs and groups available on campus and I was able to try out new activities and skills I wouldn't have otherwise - like camping and volleyball. The school is pretty isolated so you will have to make most of your own fun on campus if you don't have a car. Carlisle is cute thought! By senior year, it was feeling quite small socially.... Read 697 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 48%

• Net price $20,913

• SAT range 1190-1365

• Chicago, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  3,089 reviews

Freshman: I really love how valued as a student I feel here. The esteemed faculty and other students continue to make me feel at home and reaffirm my choice to enroll here at Loyola. The one-on-one instruction that is provided here is unlike any other. Additionally, the opportunities offered are endless! The straight connection to the city of Chicago is immensely helpful for not only internships but the overall college experience. Loyola provides its students with the facilities to travel within the city safely and passes for the train. Loyola's emphasis on diversity inclusion is another feature that I value greatly and makes me proud to be a part of this establishment.... Read 3,089 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 77%

• Net price $29,371

• SAT range 1160-1360

• Lynchburg, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.12 out of 5  8,067 reviews

Senior: I transferred into Liberty University as a junior, I was excited to be on a campus that loved Jesus. I have been challenged by the coursework, professionally developed through leadership programs, and grown deeply in love with Jesus. As a behavioral sciences and religion major, the classes are practical and applicable to the field that I am going in. My professors have a wealth of knowledge in their areas and care deeply about their students. The classes are not insanely difficult, but the material is challenging and insightful. There is opportunity to be mentored and developed holistically as a student and as a leader through programs such as residential assistant and others. While Liberty is amazing, I would desire to see more leniency in their approach to rules. Liberty can be conservative on things like dress code and I think they should not have a say in certain things. Aside from that, Liberty is incredible and I would recommend the school for anyone!... Read 8,067 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 99%

• Net price $27,891

• SAT range 1040-1250

• Claremont, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.95 out of 5  469 reviews

Junior: I'm mostly writing this because my experience of Scripps feels incongruent with my experience here, and I want perspective students to know that Scripps can be a really lovely place. A lot of reviews talk about Scripps as a really cliquey school, which could be true to some people's experience, but I've found that everyone here is so friendly and welcoming if you make an effort to get to know them--I feel like it's easy to find community here, especially if you join clubs/have a job/talk to people in your classes. Also, a lot of the reviews said you need to find friends right away--but not true. I didn't find my main friend group until my second semester, and friends and such naturally change over time. I've also found such community in my major--I'm in a smaller, humanities department here, and all the profs are lovely--but I know some of my stem friends have had similar experiences. Scripps is by no means devoid of problems, but I definitely think things are improving post-pandemic.... Read 469 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 30%

• Net price $44,770

• SAT range 1380-1520