2026 Rankings 2026 Rankings: UMass Law repeats strong national ranking for practical training

Continued recognition highlights School of Law's commitment to practice-ready graduates

The University of Massachusetts Dartmouth's School of Law (UMass Law) has once again been recognized for excellence in hands-on legal education, earning a top national ranking for practical training in the 2026 preLaw Magazine rankings.

UMass Law ranked 69^th out of all U.S. law schools and continues to stand out regionally as the 3^rd best in Massachusetts and 7^th best in New England.

The rankings, published by National Jurist, evaluate law schools based on their commitment to experiential learning, including clinics, field placements, simulation courses, and other opportunities that prepare students to practice law effectively from day one. One hundred percent of UMass Law students are guaranteed an internship or clinic placement.

"Our students gain meaningful, real-world experience representing clients, working in the community, and developing the skills they need to succeed as attorneys. This recognition reflects the dedication of our faculty and staff to preparing practice-ready graduates who are committed to pursuing justice in their communities."

"Experiential learning is central to how we educate future attorneys at UMass Law," said UMass Law Dean Sam Panarella. "Our students gain meaningful, real-world experience representing clients, working in the community, and developing the skills they need to succeed as attorneys. This recognition reflects the dedication of our faculty and staff to preparing practice-ready graduates who are committed to pursuing justice in their communities."

UMass Law offers a robust portfolio of experiential learning opportunities that prepare students for the realities of legal practice. Through clinics, field placements, and simulation-based programs, students work directly with clients, tackle complex legal issues, and help advance access to justice across the region.

This hands-on approach is reflected in graduate outcomes. UMass Law ranked 26^th nationally and 17^th among U.S. public law schools for graduates entering public interest law in recent U.S. News & World Report rankings.

These recognitions underscore UMass Law's leadership in delivering an affordable, practice-focused legal education rooted in public service. Graduates leave the Commonwealth's only public law school equipped not only with a strong foundation in legal theory, but with the hands-on experience necessary to serve their communities and excel in their careers.