2024 Top Colleges for Legal Studies in New York

• 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

• 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

• Queens, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  3,126 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 3,126 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 85%

• Net price $26,655

• SAT range 1100-1310

• Rochester, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  596 reviews

Freshman: At Fisher there is always someone to go to, whether you need financial help, tutoring aids, or even just a shoulder to cry on every staff member and available student leaders will always help someone in need. The aura at Fisher is deemed by it's creed: Teach me Goodness, Discipline and Knowledge; being here for only a short four weeks has already helped me become a more well rounded individual than I was when I graduated high school. There are many faces of diversity here ranges from students, staff and alumni, the Fisher reputation is one to be proud of.... Read 596 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 71%

• Net price $27,325

• SAT range 1110-1270

• Rochester, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  846 reviews

Senior: Nazareth is my home away from home. Located in the beautiful Pittsford neighborhood of Rochester NY, Nazareth sports one of the most gorgeous campuses I’ve ever seen. You are surrounded by quaint, scholarly buildings, there’s a great fountain central to the campus, and you get all four seasons. The academics are good considering the scope and size of the campus. It is truly a liberal arts education, if that’s what you’d like. I have a major in data science with minors in math, psychology, and philosophy. I have only had an okay experience with a few professors, most are willing to meet with you often, are very personal, and create close professional relationships with their students. While not a research school, I have found a way to do some research projects through getting close with my professors, and this helped my successfully land an NSF funded REU at a D1 research school! The only complaint I have is with the food (it’s not good), but everything else is amazing!... Read 846 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 86%

• Net price $30,557

• SAT range —

• Ithaca, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.58 out of 5  2,064 reviews

Sophomore: I think that Ithaca is an amazing college! All the professors and faculty are lovely and genuinely care about the students. The classes are all taught well and there is no shortage of specialty classes (and general classes as well). The campus itself is beautiful and the surrounding area is as well, with lots of different things to do and places to go to - especially if you like to be outdoors. I do have to say, that I wish the campus was more accessible for those who are disabled though. And the food in the dining halls aren't the best. And the wifi can be spotty. But most of these can be overlooked (not the lack of accessibility), because overall there isn't a place that I would rather be in. And nowhere will be perfect, but the people I've met and the overall net positive of this school make it great for me.... Read 2,064 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 78%

• Net price $35,327

• SAT range —

• Amherst, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.52 out of 5  491 reviews

Senior: I have had an amazing experience at Daemen throughout my past 3.5 years here. The professors are excellent in some departments, while others could not care less. The clubs and student activities are lower than average universities due to the more academics driven atmosphere. Becoming involved on campus is an easy process with over 54 clubs and organizations. There are also some leadership positions available. Many offices on campus want to support you in whatever you need. I suggest that if you stay focused in your courses, pay attention in class, and manage a work-school-life balance, you will thrive here. I am proud to be a student here.... Read 491 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 78%

• Net price $20,180

• SAT range —

• Canton, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.6 out of 5  357 reviews

Freshman: Staff, very welcoming, friendly that sort of deal. Campus is pretty easy to navigate, feels like walking 2-3 neighborhood blocks. All the professors I dealt with were super approachable, reasonable with deadlines, and they were really cool to talk to. You should definitely explore the local area in your free time and make friends with upperclassmen so that they can show you around. Loads of activities going around campus, community movie nights, sports games, sledding in winter to name a few. The hot food is GREAT 95% of the time but they have loads of other options too so you'll too disapointed in your dinner. Sandwich station? Life saver on those nights and just a good lunch in general. Our classmen are really friendly so if you ever feel lonely look around for a group and ask to join in to whatever they're doing. They'd love to accommodate you. It's a really awesome time up there, and I didn't want to leave.... Read 357 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 95%

• Net price $11,529

• SAT range 1000-1160

• Dobbs Ferry, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.52 out of 5  1,347 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 1,347 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  5,670 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 5,670 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 13%

• Net price $50,991

• SAT range 1450-1570

• Buffalo, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  3,093 reviews

Alum: Overall pretty satisfied with my undergraduate experience, but SUNY Buffalo is definitely a school that might not appeal to everybody. If you're a fan of big schools like myself, then it's great; plenty of campus activities and sports, absolutely amazing food choices (the dorm even has a grocery store), different campuses with different vibes for different people, and so many groups of people from all different walks of life. However, it's definitely huge party school (a pro and a con), and there's some safety issues outside of South campus to be aware of. Likewise, due to the massive class size, it's essential to be self-reliant/driven in your studies, and I could definitely see the 500 person lecture halls and greater difficulty connecting with professors turning-off people from UB. Parts of North campus itself does look a bit visually unappealing, and parking is a constant issue among students as well. However, if you're looking for a city within a school feel, UB is the way to go!... Read 3,093 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 70%

• Net price $17,954

• SAT range 1180-1360

• Syracuse, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  3,540 reviews

Alum: Syracuse University is medium sized American university located in upstate New York with much to offer. Best known for its sports teams, such as basketball, football and lacrosse, the best part about the school was it's diversity in activities, fields of study and student body. Though the winters are cold, the School of Architecture is ranked top 5 in the country, and the hard work from students and faculty shows. With it's deeply historical roots founded in the fundamentals of architecture, the program prepares students to think critically, develop important skills, solve creatively and curates a network of alumni to set students up for career success. The five-year program offers a variety of exciting classes and allows for students to explore outside of the school of architecture - namely taking business courses at Whitman, learning about colors, spaces and psychology or dip their toes clothing design at the fashion school. Overall, the (orange) juice is worth the squeeze!... Read 3,540 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 59%

• Net price $43,545

• SAT range 1220-1400

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.55 out of 5  1,831 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 1,831 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 64%

• Net price $4,213

• SAT range 1050-1260

• Selden, NY•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  1,129 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 1,129 reviews

• grade C

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $5,707

• SAT range —

• Brooklyn, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.36 out of 5  1,011 reviews

Junior: I love the classes are based on the time you are able too! The professors are great at teaching and making sure students are understanding the topic during class. Staff and faculty assisting students where they are suppose to be at wether at registrar, FAFSA office, or cafeteria. The community is full of ambition and great integrity.... Read 1,011 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  1,099 reviews

Sophomore: Although the many buildings can be daunting to a new coming student, the environment remains warm and welcoming. The professors are fluent in their field and very accommodating to all kinds of circumstances and are genuine in their attempt to reach out to any student that may be struggling. There is a plethora of clubs, programs and other extracurricular activities available to every student - including an accessible gym and a swimming area. In my year and a half attending, it is clear that I made the right choice in picking a school accommodating of those who seek flexibility and opportunity. Despite my major (political science) not being prolific or popular, it is very easy to maintain and build connections with other students in classes or in the general campus area. The area is also accommodating of students by maintaining multiple places to eat or grab a drink if needed - in fact, there are starbucks located inside multiple buildings. LaGuardia is a great school for everybody!... Read 1,099 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $8,344

• SAT range —

• Garden City, NY•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  1,109 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 1,109 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,730

• SAT range —

• Troy, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.59 out of 5  1,094 reviews

Sophomore: RPI is an esteemed technical school that offers an excellent environment for learning engineering. The faculty members at RPI are knowledgeable and provide thorough explanations of each topic, with abundant resources to aid. Many of my teachers were inspiring, such as Professor Uchida, Professor Patterson, and Professor Kiehl, fueling my passion to pursue a career in engineering. While my first year at RPI was primarily focused on academics, I also had the time to socialize with my peers. However, it would be great to see more social activities to enhance campus life and allow students to unwind from their studies. Additionally, I believe there is room for improvement in the variety of food served in RPI's dining halls. While there are always hamburgers and pizza available, incorporating a greater selection of healthier and appetizing options on a daily basis would be beneficial. Despite these suggestions for improvement, RPI remains an exceptional institution for acquiring a degree.... Read 1,094 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 53%

• Net price $40,070

• SAT range 1360-1520

• Brookville, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.43 out of 5  1,837 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 1,837 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 93%

• Net price $22,620

• SAT range 1100-1320

• 4 Year (Online)

• •
  Rating 4.57 out of 5  316 reviews

Freshman: This is my first year at Bryant & Stratton in the ADN program. This is a career change for me and I am going full time. I absolutely love this school! I was very apprehensive and was accepted to MATC, Carroll and Alverno but chose BSC because of the location, ADN program and location. I am so happy with my choice and excited to start clinicals! The teachers are amazing too. They really do care and invest a lot of time into this program. Don’t listen to the bad reviews! Don’t hesitate to go here. It is work, but worth it!:)... Read 316 reviews

• grade D minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $16,388

• SAT range —

• Poughkeepsie, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  1,194 reviews

Senior: Marist College gave me an amazing education. I was able to get heavily involved on campus through clubs and activities while also managing my school work and being a D1 athlete. In addition, I was an RA on campus. The professors at Marist care deeply about students and want them to take away a variety of important skills in class and life. Like most colleges, freshman-year housing and food aren't the best, but it gets better as you get older. The campus is also beautiful and they are always working on updating buildings and adding new things!... Read 1,194 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 60%

• Net price $37,868

• SAT range —

• Buffalo, NY•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.63 out of 5  580 reviews

Freshman: This college is good for people looking to save money but still get all of the required classes done so they can succeed with their full potential at other colleges. Overall the college remains clean and there are great people to connect with if you can approach and talk with people. The food is ok in the cafeteria but i would recommend against it most of the time unless you are trying to stay on campus. The classes are small most of the time and are better if you go in person rather than online learning, the online learning feels disconnected and is not easy to get things fixed in a timely manner when you run into issues online. In person the professors are really nice and easy to get along with while helping you reach your goals. Overall the environment at the north campus is great except for the outdated areas of the campus with a lot of construction going on most of the time so they can get everything updated. They are actively maintaining and continuing to grow the campus. Great... Read 580 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $5,271

• SAT range —

• Rochester, NY•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  649 reviews

Freshman: I took a gap year after graduating high school, and from there, entered Monroe Community College. I decided to attend MCC because I had no clue as to what I wanted to major in. Finishing up my first year at MCC, I enjoyed all the classes I took and have finally decided on my future course of study: Radiology Tech. I won't be able to begin RadTech until Fall 2024 but I am already very excited! I truly love MCC and am glad I decided to attend here.... Read 649 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $7,150

• SAT range —

• Bronx, NY•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  1,067 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 1,067 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $5,326

• SAT range —

• Valhalla, NY•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  658 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 658 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $10,536

• SAT range —