Advance Your Legal Studies Studies
Western New England University will inspire and support you to become a true student of law and a skilled practitioner. In the JD program, you will learn the science of legal study as a methodology to analyze legal and social issues.
Why Choose Juris Doctor (JD)?
You will develop the ability to perform careful research and write thorough and precise legal memoranda and scholarly papers. You will be prepared to artfully articulate persuasive legal arguments and apply them in a professional context through clinics, externships, and moot court experiences. In small classes, you will be taught by full-time faculty who teach all required day and evening courses. You will graduate prepared to use your law degree to make an impact on your profession and society.
What Will You Study?
The JD program is structured to prepare you for the practice of law in any American jurisdiction. You will begin with several required courses that form the foundation for more advanced legal studies. Lawyering Skills is a required first-year course that teaches the basic techniques of legal research, writing, and analysis. While students are not required to pursue a concentration, you may choose to do so to focus your studies on a specific practice area. The experiential learning requirement provides opportunities to gain real-world legal experience. All students are required to complete 20 hours of pro bono legal work prior to graduation. Study options include full-time, part-time day, or part-time evening.