Maurice A. Deane School Of Law: Crucial Facts
The Maurice A. Deane School of Law—commonly known as Hofstra Law—is a distinguished legal institution rooted in a legacy of justice and service. Founded in 1970 as part of Hofstra University in Hempstead, New York, it was renamed in 2011 to honor esteemed alumnus and former board chair Maurice A. Deane.
Part of a university ranked #196 nationally by U.S. News & World Report in 2025, Hofstra Law holds a national ranking of #125. It is especially celebrated for its hands-on clinical training and commitment to public interest law.
Table of Contents
Things To Know About Maurice A. Deane School Of Law
Students benefit from a dynamic blend of academic rigor and real-world exposure, with extensive networking opportunities, legal clinics, and externships that connect classroom learning to meaningful practice in one of the world’s top legal hubs.
Location And Campus
Maurice A. Deane School of Law is located at 121 Hofstra University, Hempstead, NY, 115491. The school’s campus is situated on the 244-acre Hofstra University campus, which offers a variety of facilities and resources for students, such as libraries, fitness centers, dining halls, and cultural events.
The school’s campus features a modern building that houses classrooms, offices, moot courtrooms, and a law library that contains over 600,000 volumes and electronic resources. The building also has a glass atrium that serves as a common area for students and faculty to interact and collaborate.
The school’s location offers proximity to legal institutions and opportunities for practical learning. The school is close to New York City, the legal capital of the world, where students can access courts, law firms, government agencies, and non-profit organizations.
Academic Programs And Curriculum
The Maurice A. Deane School of Law offers a range of academic programs, including the Juris Doctor (JD), Master of Laws (LLM), and dual-degree programs.
The JD program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive legal education, equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the legal profession. The LLM program allows students to specialize in specific areas of law, such as constitutional law, human rights, or environmental law.
Its unique pedagogical approach, particularly its clinical program, sets the Maurice A. Deane School of Law apart. Through clinical courses, students have the opportunity to work directly with clients, handling real legal cases under the supervision of experienced faculty. This hands-on experience enhances students’ practical skills and prepares them for the challenges of legal practice.
Admissions And Acceptance Rate
The admission process at the Maurice A. Deane School of Law is selective and holistic, evaluating applicants on various academic and personal factors. Required application materials typically include undergraduate transcripts, LSAT scores, letters of recommendation, and a compelling personal statement highlighting each candidate’s motivation to pursue law.
As of the 2024–2025 cycle, the law school received 2,104 applications and admitted 1,070 students, resulting in an acceptance rate of approximately 50.9%. This figure may fluctuate annually based on the size and strength of the applicant pool.
The entering class reflects a diverse and accomplished group, with students bringing a range of academic, cultural, and professional backgrounds. On average, admitted applicants present an LSAT score of 156 and a GPA of 3.58, reinforcing the school’s standards for academic excellence and its commitment to inclusive legal education.
Want to know about Top Law Schools In New York? Click the link to learn the details.
Rankings And Reputation
As of the 2025 U.S. News & World Report rankings, the Maurice A. Deane School of Law is ranked 125th among ABA-accredited law schools in the United States. The school is particularly well-regarded for its excellence in trial advocacy, where it ranks 8th nationally. It has also received praise for its programs in health law, family law, and alternative dispute resolution.
Hofstra Law’s reputation is further strengthened by its dedication to public interest law and social justice. The school has earned prestigious accolades, including the E. Smythe Gambrell Professionalism Award from the American Bar Association, recognizing its outstanding professionalism programs and ethical training initiatives.
Career Prospects And Alumni
Graduates of the Maurice A. Deane School of Law continue to demonstrate strong professional outcomes, with approximately 90% of graduates securing employment within ten months of graduation, according to 2025 data. These outcomes reflect the school’s focus on practical training and career readiness, preparing students to thrive in a range of legal environments.
Alumni pursue careers across diverse sectors, including law firms, government institutions, nonprofits, corporations, and judicial clerkships. Hofstra Law’s close proximity to New York City offers valuable access to internships, externships, and employment opportunities in one of the nation’s most competitive legal markets.
The school actively supports professional development through career counseling, job fairs, on-campus recruiting, and networking events. Notable alumni include Steve Acquario, executive director of the New York State Association of Counties, and Katie Phang, legal contributor at MSNBC. The school’s strong alumni network plays a pivotal role in mentoring students and fostering long-term career growth.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Maurice A. Deane School Of Law
1. What Is The Acceptance Rate For Maurice A. Deane School Of Law?
As of the 2024–2025 admissions cycle, the Maurice A. Deane School of Law at Hofstra University’s acceptance rate was approximately 50.9%. Out of 2,104 applicants, 1,070 were admitted. The law school maintains a selective admissions process, emphasizing academic achievement and a commitment to public service.
2. What Is Maurice A. Deane School Of Law Ranked?
As of the 2025 U.S. News & World Report rankings, the Maurice A. Deane School of Law (Hofstra Law) is ranked 125th nationally among ABA‑accredited law schools. It also achieved notable recognition, placing 8th in trial advocacy and earning commendations for its health, family, and ADR programs.
Conclusion
Maurice A. Deane School of Law at Hofstra University stands out for its commitment to academic excellence, public service, and experiential learning. With competitive admissions, nationally recognized clinical programs, and strong employment outcomes, it equips students with the skills and values essential for impactful legal careers. Its strategic location near New York City, diverse community, and influential alumni network further enhance its appeal, making it a compelling choice for aspiring legal professionals seeking a meaningful, practice-ready education.