Academics
In addition to the J.D., the law school offers the LL.M. and Ph.D in Asian law. Students may take relevant courses in other programs and apply credit toward the J.D.; a maximum of 15 quarter credits may be applied. (Joint degree programs can be set up with 90 other graduate programs at the school).
The School of Law offers concentrations in corporate law, criminal law, environmental law, family law, international law, labor law, litigation, securities law, tax law, and torts and insurance. In addition, clinics open to second- and third-year students for 7 or 8 credits are available in mediation, child advocacy, unemployment, criminal law, low-income taxpayer, immigration, refugee and immigrant advocacy law, and Indian law. Seminars earning 3 to 6 credits and internships worth 1 to 15 credits are also open to second- and third-year students. Also available are independent research programs earning 1 to 6 credits. The most widely taken electives are Trial Advocacy, Payment Systems, and Evidence.
To earn the J.D., candidates must complete 135 quarters, of which 49 are for required courses. The following first-year courses are required of all students: Basic Legal Skills, Civil Procedure, Constitutional Law, Contracts, Criminal Law, Property, and Torts. Required upper-level courses consist of 60 hours of pro bono legal work, Advanced Writing, and Professional Responsibility. The required orientation program for first-year students is 8 days (4 days per week for 2 weeks prior to first regular class day).
In order to graduate, candidates must have completed the upper-division writing requirement and 9 quarters in residence.