University of California - Berkeley Reviews of Doctorates in Law

"I think Berkeley Law is a terrific school! Law school will be difficult wherever you go, but Berkeley has a great environment where students can feel at home. There are always very important and interesting judges/people that come and talk to us! I don't think I would pick any other school!"

"It was a wonderful place to go to law school. Not only were you surrounded by some of the most brilliant minds in the country, but the school set out to create a cooperative environment in which to learn."

"While law school is still law school, UC Berkeley is a better place than others to go through that painful process. If you are hoping to pursue a public interest career, Berkeley is a great school to consider because you won't be alone in that choice. It is true that the majority of law grads go into firm work, but Berkeley has a sizable group of students who will be entering the public sector. Finding a supportive, like-minded community is the key to surviving law school, and I have been blown away by some of the people I've met here. While Berkeley still has a way to go in terms of increasing diversity, I know that the school is attentive to this issue. Prop 209 has hit the school hard and you see the effects not only in the composition of the student body, but also in the faculty. That being said, the faculty are engaged and students are super involved, so it is often an inspiring place to learn."

"Berkeley offers a truly unique focus on law in society that shapes the student body's worldview. I cherish each and every interaction with classmates, faculty, and visiting scholars."

"Amazing faculty. I am impressed everyday by the quality of instruction and the dedication to students shown by professors. Faculty are accessible and supportive. Constant opportunities for learning, networking, career exploration, etc. Classmates are impressive and passionate - they are also great to learn from. Berkeley Law has a really strong alumni network. Plus, it is sunny and 75 degrees everyday!"

"Pros: Great quality of education and renowned reputation. Cons: Noncompetitive financial aid package."

"Pros: Well renowned school Cons: Poor financial aid package"

"Great atmosphere. Classmates are pretty friendly and workload is better than I expected."

"Pro: Like all law schools, there is a competitive spirit at Boalt. However, unlike most law schools, Boalt still manages to offer a collegial and supportive work environment among classmates. Prior to law school, I had heard horror stories about students tearing out the pages of library casebooks and materials, so the other students would not have access to them. Therefore, I freaked out when I was out sick for a week within my first month of law school. I was shocked and pleasantly surprised when people I barely knew or did not know at all were offering me their notes when I returned. Pro/Con: The Boalt grading system can be perceived as both a pro and a con. Boalt does not utilize the typical "A, B, C" grading system nor provide students with their class rank. As such, the school work environment is not nearly as cutthroat as other schools. Furthermore, unlike most schools, students do not have to provide their class rank to potential employers and thus gain access to more job opportunities. Boalt's grading system may not be commonplace, but students do still in fact receive grades. However, some employers do not understand or like the system, and thus may view it negatively against another school. As such, this can sometimes adversely affect employment opportunities."

"Excellent program, excellent people in the beautiful bay area"

"Berkeley Law has great, smart, non-competitive students, a strong public interest community and a plethora of opportunities to connect with work that social justice-driven students care about."