RWU Law
#Changemakers Welcome
Juris Doctor (JD)
Few degrees are more versatile than the Juris Doctor, whatever your professional interest: private practice, public interest, government, litigation, corporate, marine, educational or elsewhere.
Master of Studies in Law (MSL)
Designed especially for students who want to bring deep legal skill and know-how to their existing career focus, but not actually practice law.
Why RWU Law?
Social Justice
At RWU Law, we believe that lawyers should use their legal skills to serve their communities – and that pro bono service in law school can set the stage for a lifetime of invaluable social contributions.
Zealous Advocacy = Justice for All
Curtis R. Pouliot-Alvarez, RWU Law Class of 2015 Juris DoctorCurtis R. Pouliot-Alvarez L‘15 has always been drawn to the fight against injustice. But once he saw up close how the legal system disproportionately punishes poverty and marginalized communities, he knew he wanted to dedicate his life to help those affected.
Read full storyFeatured News
RWU Law Ranked #11 Nationally for Most Graduates in Public Interest Law Careers
Roger Williams University School of Law has been ranked No. 11 in the nation for the percentage of graduates pursuing careers in public interest law, according to U.S. News & World Report’s Best Graduate Schools 2025 rankings , part of Best Law Schools.
Protecting the Waters
The ocean holds a special place in the heart of current 3L and avid surfer Julia Meskis ‘25. In fact, her love of the waters has completely shaped her career goals, as she plans to ultimately use her law degree to protect the ocean for future generations.
Trailblazing Woman Sailor Cole Brauer to Deliver Roger Williams University Commencement Address
May 16 ceremony to celebrate history-maker in the sports world and leaders in the blue economy, law enforcement, and the law.
RWU Law Teams Earn Top Honors at National Admiralty Moot Court Competition
Coached by Professor Jonathan Gutoff and Adjunct Professor Brody Karn L’19, RWU Law’s 3L and 2L teams stood out in the 2025 Judge John R. Brown Admiralty Moot Court Competition, held in New Orleans, LA.
Champions for Justice: Celebrating Alumni Leaders in Legal Advocacy and Social Impact
On Thursday, March 27, 2025, the Roger Williams University School of Law hosted its annual Champions for Justice event that brought together members of the Rhode Island legal community to honor RWU Law alumni and organizations making significant contributions to social justice.
Upcoming Events
- WedApr30
Integrating Doctrine & Diversity Speaker Series: Expanding Doctrinal Dialogue with Foreign and International Current Events Content
- Virtual Program (Zoom Webinar) - FriMay16
- ThuJun12
Institutes and Programs
Feinstein Center for Pro Bono and Experiential Education
This center connects students and faculty with community organizations to provide pro bono legal services to those in need and to help students to gain valuable practical legal experience.
Marine Affairs Institute
The Marine Affairs Institute prepares law students to enter the exciting field of ocean and coastal law and policy by providing them with strong academic credentials and practical experiences that help them be practice-ready upon graduation.
Institute for Race and the Law
The innovative Institute for Race and the Law aims to transform the landscape of legal education, drive justice reform through legal scholarship, and address root causes of systemic inequality.