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Law and Government Certificate

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.

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Earn a Law and Government Certificate

Experience a hands-on curriculum packed with externships and simulation courses. Our unique location across the capitol provides opportunities for students eager to influence public policies and laws.

Why pursue a certificate in law and government at Willamette?

  • Career options. Our certificate program helps Willamette law students prepare for a specific career path in public service. Consider a career as a government attorney, a lobbyist, a public interest lawyer, or a regulatory affairs specialist. Consider a career as a government attorney, a lobbyist, a public interest lawyer, or a regulatory affairs specialist.
  • Located across from the Oregon State Capitol. Due to our location, students have a unique opportunity to build connections in public service. Secure externships with the Oregon Appellate Commissioner or the Public Defender of Marion County.
  • Use on-campus resources. Public service is one of our signature strengths. Take advantage of a wide range of resources on campus. Join a student group or participate in one of our Centers of Excellence like the Center for Constitutional Government.
Curriculum

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. Our program curriculum changes from semester to semester, so follow up with our program director for specific course information.

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Our Faculty

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 public service and constitutional law.

View All Faculty and Staff

Steven K. Green, law professor and program director at Willamette, is a leading expert on First Amendment law with extensive litigation experience, including U.S. Supreme Court cases. A prolific author, his works include Separating Church and State: A History.

Meet Professor Green

Headshot of Steven Green

Get Involved with Law and Government

Students can pursue a variety of academic options on campus. Join student groups or participate in research. The Center for Constitutional Government conducts symposia and conferences to help students get involved in public law and policies.

  • American Constitution Society

    The American Constitution Society advocates for using the law to improve lives and uphold constitutional values. ACS fosters change by promoting impactful ideas, building networks of legal professionals, and challenging efforts that undermine these principles.

  • Willamette Law and Political Economy

    The Law and Political Economy group promotes the study of how law shapes economic power, inequality, and democracy. The group creates opportunities for the community to explore policies and strategies to address today’s critical challenges.

Program Requirements

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.

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Admission Details

Only current students can apply to our certificate program. In their online application, students must attest to their academic good standing 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.

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FAQs

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