Consider the relationship of law within the public sector. Explore our public law program to help shape public laws and policies within the United States.
JD
90
3 Years
Salem Campus
Enhance your research and writing skills throughout your academic years. Our certificate program encourages students to develop a strong understanding of how the law relates to the federal government. Explore all the additional course options to study public law.
Examine the role of federal courts within the constitutional system, focusing on their interactions with other branches of government and state courts. Discuss the fundamental powers and structure of federal courts, congressional control, and procedural safeguards.
Explore the differences between state constitutions and the U.S. Constitution, as well as variations among state constitutions themselves. Examine how courts and lawyers navigate provisions that align with or diverge from federal provisions.
Law is fundamental to supporting democracy. Within our government law program, law students will help preserve the rights and processes of our nation. Learn how the Willamette community is committed to upholding the values of democracy.
Our faculty members have real-world insights into public policies and law. Students interested in public law can gain unique insights through their legal applications and academic scholarship. Learn more about their work in criminal law, public service, and election law.
Professor Diller specializes in state and local government law and public health law. He has written on state preemption of local authority, including partisan gerrymandering, and examined legal issues in state and city COVID-19 responses.
Professor Williams is a nationally renowned scholar in constitutional and election law. Williams has published about federal and state authority under the Commerce Clause and the presidential election process.
Dean Dobbins is an expert in public law with a focus on civil procedure and administrative law. His extensive career includes arguing over 50 cases in federal and state appellate courts.
WUPILP is a student-run organization with a mission to educate future lawyers about the opportunities, rewards, and need for involvement in public interest law. Public interest law covers a wide spectrum of traditional legal practice and covers non-profit and governmental work.
Street Law is a program that educates communities about law, democracy, human rights, and more, using hands-on teaching strategies. Willamette Street Law partners with programs to empower youth to solve problems and actively engage in their communities.
Students are required to complete a total of 14 course hours in addition to a capstone. Students can complete their capstone requirement in one of two ways: (1) complete the graduation writing requirement in a course that is both certificate-approved and GWR-approved; or (2) complete an experiential learning course that is both certificate-approved and experiential-learning-approved.
Only current students can apply to our certificate program. In their online application, students must attest to their academic good standing (i.e. cumulative GPA above 2.30) and provide a 250-word personal statement explaining why they wish to pursue their certificate. The director may cap the size of the program, based on advising capacity and capstone course availability. Please contact the Program Director for further information.
Willamette University