Legacy in Law: The New England Law Boston Story For more than a century, New England Law Boston has carried forward a legacy of revolution, evolution, and excellence in legal education. Founded in 1908 as Portia Law School, it was the only law school in the country dedicated exclusively to educating women at a time when most institutions refused to admit them. Many of its early students came from working-class and immigrant backgrounds, entering law school with only a high school education, as a college degree was not then required to study law in Massachusetts. For decades, the majority of women who passed the Massachusetts bar were proud graduates of Portia Law School. Over the years, the school has undergone a significant transformation, introducing new facilities, evolving its name and identity, welcoming a diverse student body of both men and women, and expanding its curriculum to reflect the demands of a global legal landscape. Yet through all this change, the school has remained committed to its founding mission: providing a rigorous, opportunity-driven legal education for those prepared to work hard and create meaningful careers in the law.
Members of the graduating class of 1939 (Courtesy of the Boston Public Library).
A Legacy Built on Opportunity In 1908, the Portia Law School was founded as the first institution to offer legal education exclusively to women. More than a century later, the school—now co-educational and known as New England Law Boston—thrives, as does its commitment to creating new opportunities and expanding access to the legal profession.
James H. Kennedy III Chief Executive Officer & Dean
Speak to our students and alumni, and you’ll learn that New England Law is an extraordinary place to study law. And we do it all from the heart of downtown Boston, with access to the city’s robust legal marketplace and courthouses, and a multitude of opportunities to expand skills and impact the community. These include multiple clinic and externship options, summer fellowship programs, pro bono and public service opportunities, judicial internships, a world-class international program, and more. Within these pages, you’ll discover some of the exceptional experiences and perspectives that our students, professors, and staff members bring to the school each day, creating a uniquely dynamic environment that encompasses a full spectrum of legal interests and backgrounds. New England Law students are empowered to lean into their career development, leverage the deep wealth of experience across the campus and the city, and pursue their legal passions with confidence and purpose. We invite you to join our community and take full advantage of what makes New England Law Boston an extraordinary institution where your success is our sole mission.
James H. Kennedy III CEO and Dean
Surrounded by History. Preparing for the Future. Located in the heart of Boston, New England Law offers unmatched access to courts, law firms, and government agencies—all key employers of our students and alumni.
Employment & Internship Opportunities With state and federal courts, government agencies, Fortune 500 businesses, and countless law firms and nonprofits, Boston is the perfect city to launch your legal career. New England Law students take full advantage through internships, clerkships, and full-time employment upon graduation.
Where Our Students and Graduates Work Attorney General Offices Federal Reserve Bank Securities and Exchange Commission Massachusetts State House Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court U.S. District Court Environmental Protection Agency U.S. Attorney’s Office
797
Employers Recruiting with New England Law
Your Law Degree, Your Schedule Degree Programs New England Law Boston offers four distinct JD programs, designed around the unique needs of students at various stages in their lives and careers. They include full-time, evening part-time, day part-time, and flexible part-time law school options.
Full-Time New England Law’s Full-Time Program allows students to dedicate themselves full-time to their studies and complete their JD in three years.
Evening Part-Time New England Law is the only Boston school offering part-time law programs in both daytime and evening sessions. Our Evening Part-Time Program lets you work during the day while attending classes at night. Admission requirements and academic expectations are the same for both programs, with the same faculty teaching in each.
Day Part-Time New England Law is among a select group of law schools offering a part-time day JD program. This distinctive schedule provides students with a traditional law school experience extended over a longer period, allowing greater flexibility. Convenient daytime hours give students easy access to events, clinics, and experiential opportunities, making this program ideal for those seeking balance and flexibility without compromising their engagement.
Flexible JD This special part-time program enables select students to spend up to six years earning their JD, tailoring their law school schedule to accommodate an existing career, family responsibilities, or other work-life balance needs.
Faculty Who Teach, Guide & Inspire At New England Law, our professors do not just teach law; they are fully invested in your success. With a singular focus on legal education, our faculty is dedicated, approachable, and deeply involved in every aspect of the student experience. You will find professors who bring top-tier academic credentials, years of hard-won legal victories, influential research, and a proven ability to communicate their expertise and enthusiasm. Here, you are never just a number. You are part of a community where faculty are partners in your growth every step of the way.
Committed to Your Success Our professors prioritize your success, bringing a passion for teaching that reaches far beyond the classroom. They serve as dedicated mentors, accomplished scholars, and active supporters of studentled publications, moot court, and a wide range of law-focused organizations. From sharpening your legal analysis to preparing for exams or the bar exam, you will find a strong network of academic support. Our faculty is here to guide and empower you, helping you thrive in law school and enter the legal profession with confidence and purpose.
Academic Support Law school is demanding, but at New England Law, you will have the support you need every step of the way. Our Academic Excellence Program is designed to provide personalized guidance and resources to help you navigate challenges, build strong study habits, and achieve your full potential from your first semester through the bar exam. “The faculty are deeply invested and committed to students’ success. They are active mentors in aiding us to become the best lawyers possible.” ~Stephanie Niles, New England Law graduate
Opportunity. Support. Excellence. Students choose New England Law for its rigorous academics, practical experience, and supportive community. Our dedicated faculty, comprehensive curriculum, and extensive network of alumni provide a foundation for success in various legal fields. At New England Law, students are empowered to excel and make a meaningful impact from day one. “One of the first attorneys I ever met in Massachusetts was the Honorable Judge Roberto Ronquillo, former Chief Justice of the Boston Municipal Court and NELB alumnus and faculty. He and other NELB alumni that I’ve worked with since have been examples of what good attorneys are. I want to continue on that path and become an attorney who can serve as they do.”
“I first heard about New England Law from one of my advisors during undergrad. Knowing that I wanted to be in Boston for law school and have incredible opportunities for internships and externships, I decided to tour New England Law before my senior year. I absolutely loved it and was really intrigued by the Summer Fellowship Program for 1L’s. Overall, my experience has been incredible and I enjoy the community here.”
~Maximo Sterling ‘26
~Fernando Cordova-Vizuete ‘26
Practice-Ready for a Purpose-Driven Career Our three law centers let you apply your classroom learning to real-world situations in diverse and growing areas of the law: business law, social responsibility, and international law and policy. Starting as early as your first year, you will have opportunities to join professors and classmates on projects that will hone your skills, strengthen your résumé, and provide a foundation for your career after graduation.
Center for Business Law
Center for Law & Social Responsibility
The Center for Business Law offers students opportunities to explore the intersection of law and business, addressing emerging issues such as compliance, commercial law, corporate governance, securities practice, federal tax planning and practice, estate planning, intellectual property, health law, and sports law.
The Center for Law and Social Responsibility empowers law students to pursue their interest in public service through legal advocacy, pro bono opportunities, and other real-world projects, as well as special networking and other center events.
Center for International Law & Policy If your goal is to become an international lawyer, you can launch your career with the Center for International Law and Policy. Through sought-after international externships, research projects, and academic offerings, you will gain invaluable experience and exposure to real-world international legal issues.
“At New England Law, practical training is closely tied to the curriculum and classroom learning. You can gain hands-on legal experience every semester you’re here.” ~Russell Engler Professor of Law and Director of Clinical Programs, and Member of the Executive Committee, Massachusetts Access to Justice Commission
Concentration & Certificate Programs Showcase your strengths and distinguish yourself by pursuing a concentration or legal certificate at New England Law Boston. These focused programs equip you with practical skills and real-world experience, enabling you to launch your legal career with confidence. Not sure where to begin? Discover your interests through more than 100 elective courses or get personalized guidance through our Pathways to the Profession program. Concentrations
Concentrations
Family Law As a top-ranked school in Family Law, we attract students passionate about supporting families and offer extensive opportunities to develop the skills necessary to serve them effectively.
Intellectual Property Law With IP law touching everything from tech and science to sports, entertainment, and the arts, demand for skilled attorneys is high. At New England Law, students dive into this dynamic field to explore its significant impact.
International Law Our International Law concentration is both a distinct academic path and a complement to related practice areas like immigration, tax, and business law.
Immigration Law Our Immigration Law concentration will prepare you for the many roles and settings related to immigration, from private practice to government to nonprofits.
Public Interest Law We are a top-ranked law school for Public Interest Law, and working toward a better, more just world is important to our students.
Trusts and Estates Prepare for a career helping individuals and families in the planning and administration of their estates, as well as representing executors and trustees.
Business Law Our proximity to Boston’s Financial District means unparalleled access to the corporations driving the local and national economy.
Tax Law Our Tax Law concentration program offers specialized courses in taxation, allowing students to increase their employment opportunities in the tax field.
Compliance and Risk Management Launch your career in one of law’s fastest-growing fields. In downtown Boston, you will gain real-world experience across industries like finance, health care, and technology.
Litigation If you are drawn to the excitement of the courtroom, New England Law Boston’s Litigation concentration equips you with practical trial skills and hands-on experience to become a confident, effective advocate from day one.
Small Firm Practice New England Law Boston’s Small Firm Practice concentration prepares you for a rewarding career in a small firm or solo practice. With hands-on training, faculty support, and a focus on real-world skills, you will graduate ready to serve clients and build your own path.
Certificate Criminal Practice and Procedure Train in Boston’s venerable courthouses, and graduate from law school, ready to navigate the challenges of becoming a trial lawyer.
“The curriculum simulates real-life practice, and you learn exactly how to think like a lawyer and address various legal issues.” ~Gayla Martin, New England Law graduate
Transform Theory Into Practice Clinics & Externships Clinical law courses provide hands-on experience in real-world legal settings, allowing you to apply your classroom learning in practical settings. You will develop critical lawyering skills and represent real clients, earning academic credit in the process. Law clinics also provide excellent opportunities to engage in public service and public interest legal work.
15
CLINICS/EXTERNSHIPS
3
ACADEMIC CENTERS
“With all the clinical experience I gained, I was able to secure a position as an Honors Attorney with the Department of Justice.” ~Jessica Rodenhiser, New England Law graduate
Spend Your Summers Practicing with Purpose Summer Fellowship Program Our innovative Summer Fellowship Program for first-year (1L) students is designed to help jumpstart your legal career. Summer Fellows work at law firms and legal organizations across the country and around the world for eight to ten weeks. This program offers opportunities to develop practical skills, gain real-world experience, establish professional connections, and receive a stipend of $4,500.
Where You Will Work Through our Summer Fellowship Program, students have the opportunity to work anywhere in the world in positions that align with their goals, strengths, and passions. Past participants have gained experience in the offices of attorneys general and public defenders across states such as Massachusetts, Maryland, Missouri, New York, Rhode Island, and Washington state. Others have held positions with private law firms, NGOs, and corporations, ranging from Texas to Portugal.
Think Globally. Practice Confidently. Through its diverse student body and faculty, our institution fosters a global perspective, preparing students to navigate the complexities of an interconnected world. New England Law’s commitment to social justice and public service extends beyond national borders, with students and alumni engaging in international human rights advocacy, cross-border legal transactions, and global legal research initiatives. Our partnerships with international organizations and law schools further enhance our global reach, facilitating knowledge exchange and collaboration on issues that affect us all. Through our innovative programs, scholarly contributions, and commitment to fostering global citizenship, New England Law continues to make a meaningful impact on the worldwide legal landscape.
Summer Fellowships
International Externships
Attorney general, district attorney, and public
The International Criminal Court in
defender offices across the U.S.
The Hague, Netherlands
National and international NGOs
U.S. State Department in
Private law firms and corporations in
Washington, D.C.
the U.S. and abroad
International Bar Association in London, U.K.
40% OF 1LS PARTICIPATE IN SUMMER FELLOWSHIPS
“If you’re drawn to international human rights law, our summer program in Galway is for you. In addition to the world-renowned resident professors, our visiting faculty has included U.S. Supreme Court Justices Antonin Scalia, Anthony M. Kennedy, and Chief Justice John G. Roberts, Jr.” ~Ben Golden, Assistant Professor of Law Summer Program on International and Comparative Human Rights Law Galway, Ireland
Litigate with Purpose. Compete with Passion. Advocacy and Skills Teams New England Law Boston’s Advocacy and Skills Competitions Program allows students to sharpen skills that will prove invaluable throughout their legal careers. Participants learn from and with their classmates as they present arguments, test approaches, take risks, and discover how to succeed in regional and national competitions. New England Law fields strong advocacy and skills teams in a variety of legal interest areas. In recent years, we have consistently placed highly in national and international competitions, claiming first place in Oral Advocacy and securing major awards in the categories of Best Advocate, Best Oralist, Top Speaker, and Legal Briefs.
Precision, Prestige, Purpose Law Review Since 1965, the student-run New England Law Review has published a journal featuring cuttingedge legal scholarship by both professional and student authors. This platform allows students to enhance their legal writing and research skills. Over the years, articles published in the Law Review have been cited in numerous statutes, federal regulations, cases, books, other law reviews, and academic journals. Positions on the Law Review are highly respected and sought after. Selection for the Law Review staff is based on a writing competition and academic performance. Staff members are responsible for editing manuscripts submitted for publication, writing commentaries on various areas of law, and organizing symposia. Being part of law review offers an excellent opportunity to significantly improve your legal research, writing, and editing skills while still in law school. Entering the legal profession as a strong writer enhances your ability to persuade or dissuade others effectively.
Justice Sandra Day O’Connor Honors Program The Justice Sandra Day O’Connor Honors Program provides students with unique academic, advising, and extracurricular opportunities that can enrich their law school experience. Eligible honors students may also receive a full-tuition scholarship, worth more than $198,000 over their law school tenure.
Unique Academic Offerings The Honors Program is facilitated by a full-time member of the law school faculty who serves as the Honors Program advisor. There is no additional coursework required, but students are welcome to participate in special events and programming. Upon graduation and successful completion of the Honors Program, members receive Honors notations on their transcripts. This credential can also be a meaningful addition to a résumé.
Where YOU Belong From Day One Mentorship Programs Since our founding in 1908 as the first law school dedicated solely to educating women, New England Law has worked diligently to make the legal community more inclusive. Today, you will find a coeducational student body that is exceptionally supportive, welcoming, and diverse. New England Law Boston emphasizes mentorship because the best advice you can get about law school often comes from those who have been there before you. Our legal mentoring program connects first-year students to mentors to support you as you acclimate to law school.
Student Organizations Our wide range of student organizations offers students numerous opportunities to gain valuable experience while serving the community, making new friends, and having fun.
Some of our student organizations include: Student Bar Association OUTlaws Black Law Students Association Phi Alpha Delta Women’s Law Caucus Business Law Society National Lawyers Guild Debate Club Tax Law Society Public Interest Law Association
“Students gain the wonderful perspective that their hard work today will lead to results in the future.” ~Sean Nabi, New England Law graduate
“The First Generation Program brings together a community within a community. It has supported me through gaps that first-generation students experience the most in the legal community. " - Farnaz Daneshvaran, New England Law graduate
First Generation Students The First-Generation Students Program at New England Law Boston is dedicated to welcoming, empowering, and celebrating students who are the first in their families to attend law school. Created to foster a strong sense of belonging, the program connects students from diverse socioeconomic and educational backgrounds with the resources they need to thrive academically, professionally, and personally. Through events and community-building opportunities, the program offers practical guidance tailored to first-generation law students. You will get support for everything from your first law school exam to landing a dream internship or fellowship. The program’s resources evolve to meet student needs, offering connections with fellow first-gen peers, faculty, and accomplished alumni who have successfully navigated law school as first-generation students.
27%
of our 2026 incoming students identified as first-generation
Where Our Graduates Work Where do our 12,000+ law school alumni work? Anywhere you can imagine! You will find New England Law graduates in virtually every legal sector, as well as government, business, and nonprofit positions. Law Firms Ropes & Gray LLP Nutter McClennen & Fish LLP Morrison Mahoney LLP Mintz
Judicial Clerkships U.S. Department of Justice Massachusetts Appeals Court Supreme Court of Guam New Jersey Superior Court
Public Interest
State Government
Volunteer Lawyers Project Family Law Center of Rhode Island Legal Aid Society Greater Boston Legal Services
Massachusetts State Senate Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office Massachusetts Department of Revenue Mass. Bay Transportation Authority
Federal Government
Corporate
Federal Bureau of Investigation First Circuit Court of Appeals United States Attorney’s Office U.S. Department of Homeland Security
JP Morgan Chase Allstate CVS Health Biogen
“The Career Services Office has everything you need to get a great job or internship. They will not rest if you need help, and they will introduce you to a huge variety of opportunities that you would otherwise not even know existed.” ~Hailey Manfredi, New England Law graduate
Meet Your Classmates Student Demographics for the 2026 Academic Year At New England Law Boston, our incoming class reflects the richness and diversity of the legal profession’s future. Students come from across the United States and around the world, representing a wide range of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. A majority identify as women, and nearly onethird are students of color. Many are first-generation college or law students, and a significant portion join us with real-world experience or advanced degrees. This dynamic community fosters an inclusive, collaborative environment where all voices are valued and diverse insights shape legal education.
20-56 63% AGE RANGE
OUT OF STATE
44
32%
STATES
12
FOREIGN COUNTRIES
DIVERSE BACKGROUND
253 UNDERGRAD SCHOOLS REPRESENTED
LSAT & GPA: OVERALL INCOMING CLASS PERCENTILE
LSAT
GPA
75TH
158
3.67
MEDIAN
155
3.35
25TH
151
2.98
VISIT & APPLY
LEARN MORE
POLICY OF NONDISCRIMINATION It is the policy of New England Law Boston to provide equality of opportunity in legal education for all applicants for admission, enrolled students, and graduates, without discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin or ethnicity, sex, age, handicap or disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression, or military status. The law school complies with all applicable federal, state, and local nondiscrimination laws, including Title IX. Please contact the Director of Student Services at 154 Stuart Street, Boston, MA 02116 (617-422-7401) with any inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policy.
Office of Admissions, 154 Stuart Street, Boston, MA 02116 (617) 422-7210 admit@nesl.edu nesl.edu