2024 Top Colleges for Legal Studies in the New York City Area

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  1,385 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 1,385 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 45%

• Net price $5,077

• SAT range 1020-1160

• Queens, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  3,115 reviews

Freshman: After finishing my first year as a freshman, I'd say that St. John's University is a top level amazing school. The environment of campus is perfect, you have a wide open great lawn surrounded by buildings of all varieties. HUGE diversity, you get to meet people from all over the country! Even though St. John's is a catholic school, they have a church is for all religions. Residence Halls are set in a village like area, all having different names and surrounding locations like the Montigoris Dining Hall and Public Safety. Dorms in the residence halls have their own setup, whether it's a suite or traditional, double room or single room. Speaking of Public Safety, I feel safe being on campus. They have guards at each gate and are on the scene if something goes down. Food at the dining hall is amazing, they have a different varieties of food, such like Grill and Hibachi. Overall, I am very proud to pick such a school.... Read 3,115 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 85%

• Net price $26,655

• SAT range 1100-1310

• Newark, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.48 out of 5  1,241 reviews

Sophomore: My experience at NJIT has been rewarding, both academically and socially. The courses are challenging but fulfilling, each offering unique material that has helped me grow. Professors are approachable and dedicated, adding value to the educational experience. On the social front, I've met incredible friends and peers who have become an integral part of my daily life. We've formed a close-knit community that enriches my overall well-being. However, there's room for improvement. I'd recommend adding diverse food options like Chinese cuisine to the commuter's lounge. Also, bringing back the couches in the basement would enhance the student experience by providing a comfortable space for relaxation and socializing.... Read 1,241 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 69%

• Net price $16,878

• SAT range 1180-1430

• Mahwah, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.43 out of 5  1,023 reviews

Freshman: The college overall was an excellent experience. The program I was a part of, however, was new and undeveloped. I felt as though I wasn't given a path that made me feel confident in following. The offices responded in a timely manner and were always willing to help. All of the professors that I encountered in my time at this college were very pleasant. This college sold me when I saw their housing, commitment to their students' safety, diversity, and welcoming community. The small campus allows for a close community between students and professors, and aids in lessening confusion as you learn to navigate campus. This college provides unlimited extracurricular opportunities and hosts a multitude of events weekly! I was also surprised to find that the TWO dinning halls were always preparing amazing food. Both the atrium and standard dinning hall offered excellent, diverse, options; this includes those who are vegetarian and vegan. They also have Dunkin' and Starbucks as great options!... Read 1,023 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 70%

• Net price $12,251

• SAT range 1100-1280

• Woodland Park, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  248 reviews

Graduate Student: Berkeley helped me finally graduate by making it accessible for me with scheduling classes while still keeping my full time job. While being grandfathered into a curriculum I couldn’t finish due to scheduling, availability of classes and a tough financial status, I found myself in a “no way out” situation at the other college I was in prior to Berkeley. Berkeley made it easy for me to finish in a reasonable amount of time and awarded me with scholarships to help me graduate!... Read 248 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $17,322

• SAT range —

• Wayne, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.48 out of 5  954 reviews

Alum: Overall, I felt that William Paterson University was an exceptional institution for my undergraduate career. For a student who feels more comfortable in smaller, community-based institutions, like myself, WPU is a great choice. There are many opportunities for students to get involved in including Greek Life; D3, club, and intramural sports; musical ensembles; and a plethora of clubs. The location is about 35 minutes away from NYC and is located within the trees, making it available for many types of terrains based on what you prefer. I personally really enjoyed my time within the Psychology Department at WPU. All professors were extremely helpful and were very passionate within their fields. What I would like to see change within WPU is a more integrated and promoted campus social life. Living on campus, there was never much to do around unless you left campus. I would like to see an influx in opportunities on campus to get students of all years more involved.... Read 954 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 83%

• Net price $15,762

• SAT range 890-1090

• Montclair, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.57 out of 5  3,121 reviews

Freshman: As someone who is freshly graduated from high school, I was really anxious and scared about going to college. Thankfully everyone at Montclair was super helpful, kind, and patient with me. The actual campus itself is gorgeous, and at least gets me a bit of exercise every time I have class since it's on a hill. There are so many amenities on the grounds and after a few months, everything become relatively close and easy to find. Overall, I've really enjoyed my freshman year at Montclair, and hope to have an even better Sophomore year!... Read 3,121 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 91%

• Net price $12,026

• SAT range 1010-1210

• Dobbs Ferry, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.52 out of 5  1,334 reviews

Freshman: Mercy College is a great school for students looking for affordable tuition, small classes, and a connected campus with faculty. Mercy offers many great programs where the staff is aimed to help you succeed, having multiple support systems available at all times. Mercy offers many resources that will help you throughout your four years in college, internships that pertain to your career, and campus life!... Read 1,334 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 86%

• Net price $15,027

• SAT range 910-1190

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  5,647 reviews

Junior: To start, living on my own in the city has been an authentic experience that has helped me grow as a young adult, taking on new responsibilities and meeting different people! Overall, college is what you make it. There are so many resources and opportunities, some clearly offered and pushed, and some just found by research or who you know (so be friendly and make connections!). Regarding classes, my professors are very inspiring, with expertise and experience. With the educational aspect, you'll learn the concrete information (rules and details of a concept) by studying and reading; you have to put in your own effort if you want to learn, either on your own time out of class, or for an assignment. Discussions and work in class with the professor are more on the abstract side of things, regarding ideals and philosophies, making you think about the world around you and how you can make a positive impact. Content and work differs by class, but your education relies on your effort!... Read 5,647 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 13%

• Net price $50,991

• SAT range 1450-1570

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.54 out of 5  1,826 reviews

Alum: AMAZING education, amazing people, amazing environment. I just graduated with my bachelors and will go back for masters! If you are looking for a warm, welcoming university that emphasizes the importance of education in adults, I would recommend this college.There are various degrees and oppourtunite to succeed at CUNY CCNY. You will never feel like you are alone and you can always reach out to their amazing staff who is always there whenever you need them. The advising department as well as the financial aid department are super helpful and attentive to students. As far as student life goes, there are multiple events and clubs one can attend and become a part of. There is also a piano in the NAC building that is free for students to stop and play during their free times. Everyone I've met here are wonderful, kind hearted people and those are the ones that I will cherish forever. I have made many of my lifelong friends here and I am thankful for everything this college gave me.... Read 1,826 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 64%

• Net price $4,213

• SAT range 1050-1260

• Selden, NY•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  1,121 reviews

Sophomore: Suffolk Community College is the ultimate gateway towards your field of study. As a conglomerate of buildings throughout Long Island, it’s like they have almost everything that someone would like to study. It is nice to have professors that are very passionate. I was just disappointed with the lack of classes that they had when compared to the amount they presented in DegreeWorks. I would’ve really loved to take a Caribbean Studies class like they listed but it was not available across all campuses. I also think a more diverse cast of professors would be great as well!... Read 1,121 reviews

• grade C

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $5,707

• SAT range —

• Brooklyn, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.36 out of 5  1,007 reviews

Senior: I made an excellent choice in choosing NYCCT over Hunter! Very welcoming environment, great professors and a whole bunch of resources.... Read 1,007 reviews

• grade C

• Acceptance rate 82%

• Net price $5,457

• SAT range 843-1030

• Long Island City, NY•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  1,095 reviews

Graduate Student: LaGuardia Community College has been an exceptional institution that has provided me with a well-rounded education and an enriching college experience. Its commitment to diversity, dedicated faculty, supportive student services, career-focused programs, and engaging extracurricular activities are commendable. While there are areas for improvement, such as infrastructure upgrades, enhanced communication channels, expanded scholarship opportunities, and strengthened transfer pathways, LaGuardia remains a remarkable place for personal and academic growth. I am grateful for the opportunities and experiences it has offered me, and I would highly recommend LaGuardia Community College to anyone seeking a quality education in a diverse and inclusive environment.... Read 1,095 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $8,344

• SAT range —

• Newark, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  1,201 reviews

Junior: I give 5 stars based on programs that help with tuition. I was told I was eligible so when fall starts, I should be covered. However, I do think as a state school, the cost of tuition should drop. Additionally, if it stays at the cost now, there should be significant upgrades and renovations. The bathrooms are total crap, they smell like urine and all the stall hinges are broken. Just leave the door open because it won’t close. Wave when someone walks past. There are roaches crawling in hill hall in real-time. Printers always breaking. Computer labs are old. Chairs have stains. Teachers barley have supplies! my god, the amount of times my professor had to beg his colleague for chalk or a marker. Projectors never work. I could go on, but it’ll put you to sleep. Overall, 16k, I should have pride in my school. (Sometimes I tell people I go to New Brunswick because of the stare a get when I say Newark ). I could use that MacBook though. I need a computer for fall ! Help me out! :)... Read 1,201 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 77%

• Net price $11,364

• SAT range 1030-1270

• Garden City, NY•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  1,105 reviews

Alum: I had a really good first semester at Nassau Community College but unfortunately, I didn't get to experience my full year at Nassau Community College as the pandemic had hit and everything was shifted to online. Most of my professors that I had were very accommodating and patient to the transition. My only complaint would be that the advisors can sometimes be rude and not in the slightest bit helpful. I have one advisor that help me with a specific issue and basically told me to go to her for any help that I needed but then turned her back on me after I came to her in regards to another issue that had to do with my financial aid. Overall, this is a great community college to get your feet wet into transferring into a senior college and I miss this school very much. I owe this school my success!... Read 1,105 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,730

• SAT range —

• Paramus, NJ•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.78 out of 5  841 reviews

Sophomore: I'm in the nursing program and this is the best 2 years program in NJ I know. This college is very affordable, All the faculty are helping students succeed and they provide good lectures and help us prepare for NCLEX. Highly recommend this college for nursing!... Read 841 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $9,138

• SAT range —

• Brookville, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.43 out of 5  1,827 reviews

Junior: LIU Post is a great school with a gorgeous campus. They did an especially great job in keeping all students and faculty safe during the COVID-19 pandemic and that really made me feel good to be a student there. Professors are all qualified and know their stuff, too. There is never a dull moment and they do a great job at creating a comfortable social setting as well. Only thing I would change is the faculty that works in the Promise Office. They are not always the most helpful and tend to make students feel like they need to fend for themselves in order to do things for themselves like building a schedule. But over all, great school and I'm happy to go there!... Read 1,827 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 93%

• Net price $22,620

• SAT range 1100-1320

• Bronx, NY•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  1,066 reviews

Freshman: CUNY Bronx Community College is honestly better than I had expected in my viewpoint! It’s a great school with people that provides such great opportunities to us students. I can genuinely tell that the staff members and (most) professors care about students’ successions. Additionally, the college supplies students with various academically supportive resources. Overall, it’s a fairly good option if you are looking for an all around good (2 year) college.... Read 1,066 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $5,326

• SAT range —

• Valhalla, NY•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  654 reviews

Alum: There are so many opportunities for growth, wonderful and knowledgeable professors, a great sense of community, and exceptional facilities and resources. The Science Tutorial was my best resource for improving my grades. All profs offered office hrs and ensured their students do well. WCC offers refunds on dropped classes before a certain date. Take advantage if the class or professor doesn’t align with them. Take time to read testimonials of your professors before signing up for their class. I am still in contact with many of my professors and they have given me support and encouragement through my current career. It’s a great feeling to know they still want to see you succeed even after you leave the classroom. Diversity on campus is lively! WCC is a large commuter school including HS grads, transfers, and grad students. Pool offered open swim hrs which were fun to go to in between classes. Student life is what you make of it. You can be as active or inactive as you’d like.... Read 654 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $10,536

• SAT range —

• Lincroft, NJ•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 4.11 out of 5  1,419 reviews

Freshman: Brookdale Community College is an exceptional institution that I absolutely love. The college provides a welcoming environment for all students, with a wide variety of clubs and organizations to join. The community at Brookdale is diverse and inclusive, providing opportunities for students from all backgrounds to engage and connect with one another. In addition to its vibrant student life, Brookdale also offers an extensive range of academic programs to meet the needs and interests of its students. Whether you're looking to pursue a degree or certification, or just want to take some courses to develop new skills, Brookdale has something for everyone. Overall, I highly recommend Brookdale Community College to anyone seeking a supportive and inclusive environment, a wide range of academic programs, and opportunities to engage with a diverse community of students. Thank you, Brookdale, for providing me with an outstanding college experience!... Read 1,419 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $8,559

• SAT range —

• Edison, NJ•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  648 reviews

Alum: They were able to give me the classes I needed to teach me how to understand certain aspects of social work and understand how important learning sociology is. The majority of the professors I had really did their best to work with me so I can have a good experience, especially in the language department my asl teacher helped me grasp the language!... Read 648 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $11,738

• SAT range —

• Cranford, NJ•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  583 reviews

Alum: At the time I attended and graduated, it was called UCC for short. In non abbreviated terms, Union County College. This college and their professors were fixing and truly innovating their school and uplifting to students. I really became close to many professors and I can attest, you can't find that elsewhere. This warmth made me felt how much they cared. Believe me it wasn't just their surroundings and how rich it looks but their students. Alerts from the school was majority of the time accurate, most of the professors were professional. Although, you will find some that aren't. The cafeteria is always clean the food always delicious! I enjoyed their events, the clubs and trips they offered. The only thing I would like to see change, would be the catalogs as I can remember. They had many for example as an education major. It was hard to select one, even with an advisor. Also, how expensive it was, however still affordable. I missed all the hardships and reward at the college.... Read 583 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $12,757

• SAT range —

• Jersey City, NJ•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  490 reviews

Freshman: Hudson County Community College, both the Union City and the Jersey City campus, provided me with an opportunity that wasn’t in my life before. I am 26 years old, and I never thought I would be going back to college after leaving almost seven years ago. Going back was scary, but I was excited to go to college for me instead of my parents. It was a challenging experience I will continue to go through and wouldn’t have it any other way. Professors I had during my first freshman semester pushed me and saw something in me that I did not see myself. I am grateful for that. I’m persuading a major that I love and that I’m continuing to learn about every single day. Hudson County Community College is a stepping stone in my academic career, and I’m grateful for it to be my first step into achieving my goals and receiving both of my degrees. I would change the North Hudson campus to have some of what the Jersey City campus has to offer. I am eternally grateful for Hudson Community College!... Read 490 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $5,179

• SAT range —

• Toms River, NJ•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  689 reviews

Sophomore: It's not the most enjoyable experience to attend a community college, especially when you watch all of your friends at colleges having a good time, making new friends, partying, joining sororities, and doing other things you might be losing out on. Since I was unable to have the same experience that I watched everyone else having, I began to feel really upset and lonely. I didn't start to really appreciate it until the beginning of spring semester at Ocean County College. In the English class I was enrolled in, I met someone. Due to the fact that we were in a comparable situation, we quickly became the best of friends. She had a significant influence on my life and encouraged me to see the good in everything. I am quite happy that I went to community college because I know I would have never met her otherwise.... Read 689 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $10,765

• SAT range —

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.61 out of 5  482 reviews

Sophomore: This course follows the year of General Biology with a focus on the human body. It provides the background for comprehension of many of the elective Biology courses. During this semester we will study human anatomy, physiology and some pathologies with emphasis on the regulation of physiological processes. This first semester we will be concerned with the structural organization of the body from molecules to basic tissue types and the structure and function of the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems, including sense organs. Throughout our discussions we will explore the mechanisms available to the body for maintaining a steady state, i.e. homeostasis.... Read 482 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 77%

• Net price $23,038

• SAT range —