Are you pursing a law degree? The TopSchoolsintheUSA.com has generated the latest ranking of best law schools in Vermont that provides Master of Legal Studies (MLS), Master of Dispute Resolution (MDR), Juris Doctor (JD), Master of Laws (LLM), or Doctor of Juridical Science (SJD). You can use the following list to pick a school that fits your needs. These law schools in Vermont are ranked based on the student reviews, alumni surveys, assessment of peer institutions, and official data reported by each law college. In addition, we also provide average LSAT scores, GPA and acceptance rates for each of these law schools in Vermont.
Top ABA-Approved Law Schools in Vermont
| National Ranking | Best Law Programs |
| 125 | Vermont Law School (South Royalton, VT) Acceptance rate: 69.0% LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 151-159 GPA (25th-75th percentile): 3-3.54 Tuition & Fees: Full-time: $43,468 per year Enrollment (full-time): 566 Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 77.2%
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All Law Schools in Vermont
Vermont, known for its natural beauty and progressive values, is home to one notable law school: Vermont Law and Graduate School (formerly Vermont Law School). This institution has a strong national reputation, particularly in environmental law, public policy, and social justice.
1. Vermont Law and Graduate School (formerly Vermont Law School)
Overview
Vermont Law and Graduate School (VLGS), located in South Royalton, Vermont, is widely recognized for its leadership in environmental law and public policy. Founded in 1972, VLGS has developed a reputation as one of the best law schools for environmental law in the United States, consistently ranking at or near the top for this specialization.
In addition to environmental law, VLGS is known for its commitment to public service, social justice, and its hands-on, practical approach to legal education. The school’s location in rural Vermont provides a serene and focused environment for students to engage with issues that affect the planet and society.
Degree Programs
Vermont Law and Graduate School offers a diverse array of degree programs that cater to different interests within the legal and environmental sectors. Students have the option to pursue traditional law degrees as well as specialized programs related to environmental law and policy.
- Juris Doctor (J.D.): The J.D. program provides a solid foundation in traditional legal education while allowing students to focus on areas such as environmental law, energy law, and criminal law. VLGS emphasizes practical learning through clinics, externships, and internships.
- Master of Environmental Law and Policy (MELP): This non-J.D. degree is designed for individuals who want to work in environmental policy, advocacy, or other roles that don’t necessarily require a J.D. Students gain expertise in environmental regulations and the intersection between law and policy.
- Master of Energy Regulation and Law (MERL): Focused on energy policy and regulation, this program is ideal for those interested in the legal aspects of energy markets, renewable energy development, and sustainable energy law.
- LL.M. in Environmental Law: This advanced legal degree is intended for students who already hold a J.D. but want to specialize further in environmental law. It is ideal for lawyers looking to become experts in environmental issues and policy.
- LL.M. in Food and Agriculture Law: This program is designed for lawyers interested in food systems, food policy, and agriculture law. It covers topics such as food safety, agricultural sustainability, and food security.
- Dual Degree Programs: VLGS offers several dual degree programs that allow students to combine their J.D. with other graduate degrees, such as:
- J.D./MELP: Combining legal education with environmental policy expertise.
- J.D./MERL: A dual focus on law and energy regulation.
- Clinical and Externship Programs: Vermont Law offers students hands-on experience through its various clinics, which include:
- Environmental Advocacy Clinic
- Energy Clinic
- Farm and Agriculture Clinic
- Environmental Justice Clinic
These programs allow students to work directly on real-world legal cases, providing invaluable experience in the areas of environmental and public interest law.
Admission Requirements
Vermont Law and Graduate School has a holistic admissions process, focusing on applicants who have a passion for environmental advocacy, public service, and social justice. While academic performance and LSAT scores are important, the school places a strong emphasis on an applicant’s commitment to making a positive impact through law and policy.
- Average LSAT Score: 153
- Average GPA: 3.25
- Application Components:
- Completed application via the Law School Admission Council (LSAC)
- Personal statement outlining the applicant’s interest in law, particularly environmental or public interest law, and why VLGS is a good fit for them
- Two to three letters of recommendation
- LSAT score (GRE scores are also accepted for certain programs)
- Resume highlighting academic, professional, and volunteer experience
- Optional diversity statement
Vermont Law encourages applicants with a strong sense of purpose, especially those who are interested in working in environmental law, social justice, or public policy. Applicants with relevant work experience in these fields often have an advantage in the admissions process.
Starting Salaries
Graduates of Vermont Law and Graduate School pursue a wide range of careers, particularly in environmental advocacy, nonprofit organizations, government agencies, and private law firms that focus on environmental law, energy law, and public policy. While starting salaries for VLGS graduates vary depending on the sector they enter, the school’s strong reputation in environmental law ensures that graduates are in demand.
- Private Sector: $75,000 – $120,000
- Public Sector: $50,000 – $70,000
- Nonprofit Organizations: $45,000 – $60,000
- Judicial Clerkships: $55,000 – $65,000
While some graduates go on to work in traditional law firms, many pursue careers in nonprofit advocacy, government policy work, or public interest law. Graduates who focus on environmental or energy law often find positions in state and federal agencies, NGOs, or international organizations focused on climate change, sustainable development, and environmental protection.