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A Place for Thought and Action


From the first small group class meeting to the final gathering at Commencement, Yale Law School is an extraordinary community in which to study law. In addition to a rich history and an accomplished student body, our unmatched faculty-student ratio allows us to offer a vast array of courses, an average class size of approximately 20 students, and countless opportunities for independent research, writing, and student-organized seminars.

With its world-renowned faculty, fascinating students, and distinguished speakers, Yale Law School is an invigorating place to think about the law. Some students choose to focus on traditional “black-letter law” classes, while others experiment with cutting-edge legal theory or interdisciplinary courses. Students may undertake independent writing projects following their own academic interests or organize reading groups around a specific topic. Conferences and panels throughout the year continue to explore ideas about the law and its role in society.

YLS students sitting in the courtyard

YLS by the Numbers


Yale Law School offers an unmatched intellectual environment with numerous opportunities for students to immerse themselves in the law and make a positive impact on society. Learn more about what sets Yale Law School apart as a leader in legal education.

YLS front of building

Take a Virtual Tour of YLS


Explore our campus and learn more about academics, student life, clinics, admissions, financial aid, and more.

Student and Alumni Profiles


Geneva Smith headshot
’24

Geneva Smith

A student perspective on YLS’s support for the BALSA and YLW+ communities, and how Yale Law School’s professors are preparing her to become a legal academic.

This place has always been imbued with a restless spirit, the assumption that being the finest law school in the world is never enough, and a deep belief that you, our students, can do anything.”


Heather Gerken

Dean and Sol & Lillian Goldman Professor of Law