2026 Rankings 2026 Rankings: UMass Law earns national recognition for public interest law placement

University of Massachusetts Dartmouth
2026 Rankings 2026 Rankings: UMass Law earns national recognition for public interest law placement
UMass Law earns national recognition for public interest law placement

U.S. News & World Report ranking underscores UMass Law's commitment to justice and public service

Best Law Schools for Public Interest Employment 16x9 Main Image

The University of Massachusetts Dartmouth's School of Law (UMass Law) has once again earned national recognition for its commitment to public service and social justice, ranking No. 26 in the nation for public interest law employment by U.S. News & World Report. Among public law schools, UMass Law ranked No. 17 nationally and No. 1 in New England.

The ranking highlights the institutions that send the highest percentage of recent graduates into full-time public interest roles for at least one year. Also recently ranked among the nation's leading law schools for practical training by National Jurist, UMass Law continues to distinguish itself through its mission-driven approach to legal education, experiential learning opportunities, and strong commitment to access to justice.

"Being recognized among the top programs in the nation for placing graduates in public interest law speaks directly to our mission," said UMass Law Dean Sam Panarella. "As Massachusetts' only public law school, we are committed to expanding access to legal education and preparing our students to make a meaningful difference in their communities and the broader legal profession."

UMass Law offers students extensive opportunities to engage in public interest work through clinics, externships, pro bono initiatives, and partnerships with courts, nonprofits, and government agencies. The law school's emphasis on affordability and service helps graduates pursue careers focused on advocacy and community impact.

As the only public law school in Massachusetts, UMass Law is nationally recognized for its commitment to providing an accessible legal education rooted in justice, experiential learning, and public service.

Back to top of page