New York Law School Now Able to Offer New Innovative Graduate Programs
New York Law School (NYLS) is proud to announce that it has received institutional accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).
With this action by the Commission, NYLS is now accredited by both the MSCHE and American Bar Association. The NYLS accreditation team was led by Matt Gewolb, Senior Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and Institutional Strategy, and Professor of Law.
Dean and President Anthony W. Crowell said, “This is a landmark moment in the 134-year history of New York Law School. Dual accreditation allows us to expand our educational offerings at a time of profound economic, legal, technological, and regulatory transformation. It reaffirms our commitment to delivering exceptional legal education while empowering us to innovate in ways that meet the evolving needs of our students and the broader community. I am grateful to Dean Matt Gewolb for leading the diligent work of achieving this accreditation, which will benefit our institution for years to come.”
The new MSCHE accreditation will provide new avenues for NYLS to develop educational programs not only for legal practitioners, but also for professionals who work alongside lawyers or in law-adjacent fields. As an independent institution, NYLS now also has the flexibility to create robust interdisciplinary programs and degrees typically available at law schools within larger universities. This expanded capacity will provide new educational opportunities for working professionals seeking to advance their skills and serve their communities.
Arthur Abbey ’59, Chair of the NYLS Board of Trustees, said: “The Board is grateful to Dean Crowell, Dean Gewolb, and the entire team who made this possible. This additional accreditation reflects New York Law School’s innovative spirit and legacy of academic excellence. We are positioned to create exciting programs that will further serve lawyers and other professionals in a rapidly transforming economy.”
Senior Associate Dean Matt Gewolb said, “Our Middle States accreditation is the result of years of work that demonstrated that New York Law School is well positioned to offer cutting-edge programs to serve a wide range of professionals. We look forward to providing new opportunities for crucial knowledge and skill development that will make a meaningful difference in their careers. I thank my colleagues William LaPiana, Jill Bezel, Joan Fishman, Florence Hutner, Rachel Munson, and Michael Siller for their work to help make this happen.”
In addition, the accreditation enables LL.M. students and those in other programs beyond the J.D. to access federal financial aid. It also provides greater assurance for all students amid ongoing changes in the regulatory environment for higher education.