About

Students earn 13 credits while in residence in Washington, D.C. Students extern 448 hours over the semester and attend class twice a week.  Placements include a wide range of offerings, including federal, state and local government agencies, private non-profits and judicial chambers. Placements provide an opportunity for substantive legal work under a lawyer’s supervision with regular feedback and mentorship.

Housing
Students are responsible to find their own housing.

Financial Aid
Increased financial aid is available for those participating in the D.C. Semester in Practice program.

Course Information & Requirements

Classes are held at the University of California Washington Center near Dupont Circle at 1608 Rhode Island, Ave., NW, Washington, D.C., 20036.  

  • Lawyering in the Nation's Capital A 3 credit seminar designed to explore the role of the Washington lawyer.  Through readings and guest lecturers, you will learn about the process of federal law and policy-making.  We also will also investigate the unique role Washington lawyers in play in affecting, making and changing federal law and policy.

  • D.C. Externship Clinic:  A 10-credit course, consisting of a 2-hour weekly seminar focusing on professionalism, career development and the various roles of Washington lawyers and 8 credits for work at the placement.  Students receive a grade for one-half of these credits and receive a pass-fail designation for the other half.

How to Apply

Students must submit an application form using the link below as well as a statement of interest, and résumé to Jessica Heywood.

Clinic and Externship Application Schedule

Unified Application Form (Spring 2020) (Portal login required)

Placements

Placements include a wide range of offerings, including federal, state and local government agencies, private non-profits and judicial chambers.  Because students receive academic credit, they may not receive monetary compensation. Placements provide an opportunity for substantive legal work under a lawyer’s supervision with regular feedback and mentorship.