Academic Programs
Courses
Willamette University College of Law is known for its challenging and rewarding curriculum. We provide our students with a solid foundation in the basics of the law, yet allow them the flexibility to investigate interests and develop specialties. During the first year, a solid core curriculum gives students the essentials of the law. The second and third years round out those studies and allow students to explore their individual interests.
Legal Research and Writing
Writing and research are an integral part of any legal education. Willamette’s program is unique in that Legal Research and Writing is taught in small sections to ensure students receive personal attention and support.
In the first semester of Legal Research and Writing, students are introduced to the basic principles of legal analysis, research and effective legal writing. They prepare case briefs, research assignments, and both closed- and open-universe research memoranda. In the second semester, students write more sophisticated memoranda and are trained in persuasive writing. The first year ends with a required appellate brief and moot court oral argument.