CUNY School of Law

The City University of New York (CUNY) School of Law, often referred to as CUNY Law, is a public law school located in Long Island City, Queens, New York City. It is known for its unique and innovative approach to legal education and its commitment to social justice and public interest law. Here are some key points about CUNY School of Law:

Founding Philosophy: CUNY Law was founded in 1983 with a mission to provide affordable, accessible legal education to individuals who are traditionally underrepresented in the legal profession, including minorities, immigrants, and those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Public Interest Focus: The school has a strong emphasis on public interest law and social justice. It is known for producing lawyers who are dedicated to serving the needs of underserved communities and advocating for social change.
Clinics and Externships: CUNY Law places a significant emphasis on experiential learning. Students have the opportunity to gain practical legal experience through the school’s numerous clinics and externship programs. These programs allow students to work on real cases and make a positive impact in the community.
Diverse Student Body: The student body at CUNY Law is known for its diversity. It typically includes students from various racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds who are committed to public interest and social justice issues.
Innovative Curriculum: The school offers a curriculum that combines traditional legal education with a focus on critical legal theory and practical skills. This approach is designed to prepare students for the complexities of legal practice in a diverse and changing world.
Bar Pass Rates: CUNY Law has worked to improve its bar pass rates over the years, and its graduates have been successful on the New York State Bar Examination.
Affordability: CUNY Law is recognized for its affordability compared to many other law schools. It offers competitive tuition rates and various scholarship opportunities to help students manage the cost of legal education.
Public Interest Law Center: The school has a Public Interest Law Center that supports students in pursuing careers in public interest law, provides resources for public interest work, and facilitates connections with potential employers in the field.
Community Engagement: CUNY Law encourages its students to engage with the community through various programs and initiatives. This includes community-based research, advocacy, and outreach.
Accreditation: CUNY Law is accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA) and is a member of the Association of American Law Schools (AALS).

CUNY School of Law’s dedication to social justice, its unique approach to legal education, and its commitment to serving marginalized communities make it a distinctive institution in the field of legal education. It attracts students who are passionate about making a difference in the legal profession and society as a whole.

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