The Best Law Schools For Environmental Law

Above the Law

by Staci Zaretsky

February 25, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Environmental law is no longer a niche field; it has become a critical area in legal practice, influencing high-stakes decisions and shaping careers. The National Jurist's preLaw magazine has released its ranking of top law schools for environmental law, highlighting institutions with strong programs that prepare students for this evolving field. This ranking emphasizes the growing importance of environmental law, driven by regulatory changes, litigation over climate issues, and corporate strategies. The methodology for selecting these schools considers factors like curricular breadth, clinics, centers, externships, journals, student groups, and certificates. Schools are graded based on their offerings, with a focus on practical training and academic resources that equip students to navigate complex legal landscapes. The top-ranked schools include Georgetown University Law Center, George Washington University School of Law, Harvard Law School, and Elizabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University. These institutions offer comprehensive programs that blend theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience through clinics, externships, and centers dedicated to environmental law. For instance, Georgetown’s Environmental Law Clinic provides students with opportunities to work on real cases, while Harvard offers extensive courses in climate change law and policy. These programs not only enhance academic understanding but also prepare graduates for leadership roles in addressing pressing environmental challenges. The demand for legal expertise in environmental law is rising due to increased regulatory scrutiny, corporate responsibility initiatives, and global climate efforts. Legal professionals specializing in this area are well-positioned to influence billion-dollar decisions, making it a resilient and rewarding career path. For students considering their legal education, focusing on environmental law can open doors to impactful roles in government, advocacy, or corporate sectors. In conclusion,

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Originally published on Above the Law on 2/25/2026