Courses
Our public interest-focused courses cover a diverse array of legal matters. From an emphasis on governance in classes such as Jurisprudence and Constitutional Law, to a focus on family and health law in courses like Elder Law and Tort Law, we aim to provide the education the next generation of public interest lawyers require to build a great career. Sample courses related to public interest include:
- Animal Law
- Climate Change and Corporate Accountability
- Feminist Legal Theory
- Poverty & the Law
- Race, Society, & the Law
- Spanish for Lawyers
Clinics
We believe the best education comes from experience, and we have developed a wealth of engagement opportunities at the College of Law. With experienced, committed, and passionate directors, our clinics provide an incredible resource for our students and for those they serve.
Dedicated Public Interest Clinics
Field Placements
In addition to our clinics, students are encouraged to participate in externships while at the College of Law to help connect the classroom to legal practice and explore different areas of law. Our work with the State Appellate Prosecutor, in which an attorney from the Champaign County State’s Attorney’s Office advises and supervises students in the preparation of briefs to the Illinois Appellate Court, is another innovative way we provide hands-on experience for students. Likewise, our Racial Justice Practicum provides education on the legal system and its effects on people of color as well as a work experience with legal aid agencies representing populations affected by racism.
Fellowships
To financially assist students in building careers in the public sector, the College of Law offers support to current students as well as graduates in the form of fellowships. Learn more.
Loan Repayment Assistance Program
Because the burden of law school debt can hinder students from choosing careers in public service, government, and non-profit organizations, we have created the Loan Repayment Assistance Program (LRAP), which offers partial loan forgiveness to qualifying applicants. Learn more about eligibility for LRAP and apply.