As the world becomes more concerned about climate change and environmental sustainability, there is an increasing need for lawyers with specialized knowledge in environmental law. Environmental law is a complex area, which deals with diverse topics such as climate change, land use, water rights, and pollution control, among others.
If you are considering pursuing a career in environmental law, it is essential to attend a law school that offers a robust curriculum in this area. However, with so many law schools to choose from, it can be challenging to know which ones excel in teaching environmental law. That is why we have put together a list of some of the best law schools in the country that specialize in environmental law.
1. Vermont Law School
Vermont Law School is widely regarded as the premier law school for environmental law in the country. Located in South Royalton, Vermont, it offers a range of courses and clinics related to environmental law, including environmental advocacy, climate change law and policy, and public land management.
Vermont Law School also has an Environmental Law Center that works on cutting-edge research and policy initiatives. This Center provides students with hands-on experience in environmental law by collaborating with academic experts, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations.
2. University of California – Berkeley
The University of California at Berkeley is a top-ranked law school that has a long-standing reputation for academic excellence in environmental law. Located in Berkeley, California, the school offers a variety of courses and clinics in environmental law, including Climate law and Policy, Environmental Law Practice, and International Environmental Law.
UC Berkeley’s Environmental Law Clinic provides students with opportunities to work on real-world environmental legal issues. The clinic covers a wide range of environmental law topics, including clean energy, climate change, and environmental justice.
3. Lewis and Clark Law School
Lewis and Clark Law School, located in Portland, Oregon, was one of the first law schools to specialize in environmental law. The school offers a broad range of environmental law courses, including Animal Law, Energy Law, and Marine and Coastal Law. The school also has several centers and institutes dedicated to environmental issues, including the Center for Animal Law Studies and the Natural Resources Law Institute.
Lewis and Clark’s Environmental Law Program allows students to gain hands-on experience in environmental law through its legal clinics, externships, and moot court competitions.
4. Harvard Law School
Harvard Law School is one of the most prestigious law schools in the country and offers top-notch courses in environmental law. Located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the school offers a variety of environmental law courses, including Climate Law and Policy, Environmental Law and Policy, and Wildlife Law.
Harvard also has several environmental law programs, such as the Environmental Law Program and the Food Law and Policy Clinic. These programs provide students with opportunities to study and work on environmental law issues.
5. Stanford Law School
Stanford Law School, located in Stanford, California, has a long tradition of academic excellence in environmental law. The school offers courses in environmental and natural resources law, climate change law, and international environmental law.
Stanford’s Environmental Law Clinic allows students to work on real-world environmental legal issues under the supervision of experienced attorneys. The clinic covers a wide range of environmental law topics, including biodiversity protection and water and air quality.
Conclusion
Attending a law school that specializes in environmental law can provide you with the necessary skills and knowledge to become a successful environmental lawyer. The schools listed here are among the best in the country and offer a range of courses, clinics, and programs that can help you gain practical experience in environmental law.
