American University Washington College of Law, also known as WCL, is a renowned institution located in the nation’s capital, Washington D.C. As one of the most diverse law schools in the United States, WCL is dedicated to providing exceptional legal education, innovative research opportunities, and impactful community engagement.
With a wide range of programs and concentrations, WCL offers students the chance to pursue their legal interests in various areas, including international law, human rights, environmental law, and more. In this article, we will explore the different programs and opportunities available at WCL, highlighting the unique features and advantages of each. Whether you are a prospective student or a current WCL member, this guide will provide valuable insights into the exciting opportunities that await you at American University Washington College of Law.
Degree Programs and Concentrations
Juris Doctor Program
The Juris Doctor (J.D.) program at American University Washington College of Law is designed to prepare students for successful careers as attorneys in a wide range of legal settings. The program provides a comprehensive legal education with a focus on practical skills and experiential learning. Students can specialize in various areas of law, such as business law, criminal law, environmental law, intellectual property law, international law, and public interest law. The J.D. program also offers joint degree options, such as J.D./LL.M. and J.D./MBA programs. Admission to the J.D. program is competitive, and applicants must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
Master of Laws (LL.M.) Program
The Master of Laws (LL.M.) program at WCL is designed for students who have already earned a law degree from a U.S. or foreign law school and wish to further specialize in a particular area of law or pursue an academic career. The LL.M. program offers several areas of concentration, including international human rights law, environmental law, intellectual property law, and international business law. The program can be completed in one or two years, depending on the concentration and the student’s prior legal education. Admission to the LL.M. program is selective, and applicants must have a law degree from an accredited institution.
Dual Degree Programs
WCL offers several dual degree programs that allow students to earn two degrees simultaneously in a shorter period than if they pursued each degree separately. Examples of dual degree programs include J.D./LL.M., J.D./Master of Public Administration (MPA), J.D./Master of Arts (MA) in International Affairs, and J.D./Master of Science (MS) in Justice, Law, and Criminology. These programs provide students with the opportunity to gain specialized knowledge and skills in multiple areas and increase their career prospects.
Certificate Programs
Certificate programs at WCL are designed to provide students with specialized knowledge and skills in a particular area of law. These programs are open to both J.D. and LL.M. students and can be earned in addition to a student’s degree. Examples of certificate programs include the Certificate in International Human Rights Law, Certificate in Environmental Law, and Certificate in Law and Government. Certificate programs typically require the completion of a certain number of credits in specific courses and may also involve participation in related extracurricular activities.
Concentrations in Various Areas of Law
WCL offers a wide range of concentrations in various areas of law, allowing students to specialize in a particular field of interest. Concentrations are available for both J.D. and LL.M. students and typically require the completion of a certain number of credits in related courses. Examples of concentrations at WCL include Business Law and Finance, Criminal Justice, Gender and the Law, and Intellectual Property Law. Concentrations provide students with in-depth knowledge and skills in a specific area of law and can enhance their career prospects in related fields.
Experiential Learning and Clinical Programs
WCL Externship Program
The WCL (Washington College of Law) Externship Program is a unique opportunity for law students to gain real-world experience and develop practical skills in a variety of legal settings. Through the program, students can earn academic credit while working in a government agency, non-profit organization, or private law firm. The program offers students the chance to apply legal theory to real-world situations and develop study aids for the bar exam. Additionally, the program provides networking opportunities that can lead to future employment.
Clinics and Practice Programs
Washington College of Law offers a range of clinics and practice programs that provide students with hands-on experience in various areas of the law. These programs allow students to work on real cases and interact with clients under the guidance of experienced faculty members. The clinics and practice programs cover areas such as intellectual property, human rights, and immigration law, among others. These programs help students develop practical legal skills, gain exposure to different practice areas, and make a difference in the lives of clients.
Public Interest/Public Service Programs
Washington College of Law is committed to public interest and public service, and it offers a range of programs that reflect this commitment. These programs include pro bono opportunities, community service projects, and public interest law fellowships. The law school also has a public interest law center that provides resources and support to students interested in public interest law careers. The public interest/public service programs at WCL give students the chance to make a difference in their communities and develop a commitment to social justice.
Moot Court, Mock Trial, and Alternative Dispute Resolution Programs
Washington College of Law offers a range of programs that focus on developing advocacy skills, including moot court, mock trial, and alternative dispute resolution programs. These programs provide students with opportunities to develop their legal writing, research, and oral advocacy skills, as well as their ability to negotiate and mediate disputes. Through these programs, students can gain practical experience in simulated legal proceedings and develop confidence in their abilities as advocates.
Pro Bono and Volunteer Programs
Washington College of Law has a strong tradition of pro bono and volunteer service, and it offers a range of programs that encourage students to give back to their communities. These programs include pro bono legal clinics, volunteer projects, and public service fellowships. Through these programs, students can develop a sense of social responsibility and gain practical legal experience while making a positive impact in the community.
Career Services and Professional Development
Washington College of Law’s career services office provides students with a range of resources and support to help them prepare for their legal careers. These services include career counseling, job search assistance, and networking opportunities. The law school also offers professional development programs that help students develop their leadership, communication, and teamwork skills. These programs help students build a strong foundation for a successful legal career.
Career Services Office
Professional Development Programs
Professional development programs are designed to help law students develop the skills they need to succeed in their legal careers. These programs can include workshops, seminars, and training sessions on topics such as legal writing, negotiation, and time management. The goal of these programs is to provide students with practical skills that they can apply in their future legal work. Additionally, professional development programs can help students build relationships with other professionals in the legal field, which can lead to job opportunities and career advancement.
Alumni Network and Mentoring Programs
Law schools often have strong alumni networks, and many offer mentoring programs to help students connect with alumni who can provide guidance and advice as they navigate the legal profession. These programs may include networking events, mentorship programs, and career counseling services. Alumni can offer valuable insights into the legal profession and may be able to help students find job opportunities or make valuable connections.
On-Campus Recruitment Programs
On-campus recruitment programs bring employers to the law school to meet with students who are interested in pursuing legal careers. These programs may include interviews, job fairs, and informational sessions with employers from law firms, government agencies, and other legal organizations. On-campus recruitment programs allow students to learn about different legal career paths and make connections with potential employers. At USC Gould School of Law, on-campus recruitment programs play an important role in helping students connect with legal employers and explore different career paths in law.
Bar Exam Preparation Programs
The bar exam is a critical step for law students who want to become licensed attorneys. Bar exam preparation programs help students prepare for this exam by providing them with study materials, practice tests, and other resources. These programs may also include workshops on test-taking strategies and time management. The goal of these programs is to help students pass the bar exam and become licensed attorneys so they can begin their legal careers.
