J.D. Program


Become a Jayhawk Lawyer

The Juris Doctor (J.D.) program at KU Law prepares students to be outstanding members of the legal profession, well educated in the law, with a commitment to public service and professional achievement.
Two students talk in the KU Law courtroom

Program Overview

KU Law students develop expertise in the classroom and in the field. Students perfect legal analysis and writing in the classroom. Then, they put their knowledge to work on real cases through extensive clinical and field placement programs.

The First-Year Experience

Students take a core first-year curriculum that includes Contracts, Constitutional Law and other key subjects. The first-year Lawyering Skills Program covers writing and training in negotiation, mediation and other skills.

First-year students take about half their courses in small sections, allowing for personal interaction with professors and in-depth classroom discussions. Learn more about first-year courses.

Upper-Level Courses and Concentrations

Second- and third-year students have access to more than 100 upper-level courses in a variety of practice areas. Many are seminars, simulations, directed research or clinics.

KU Law offers clinical and field placement programs, eight certificate programs and 10 joint degrees. Learn more about upper-level courses


Certificates & Areas of Study

KU Law prepares students for practice in almost every field of law. For students who would like to hone their expertise in a specific area, the school offers eight certificate programs and more than a dozen curriculum guides.

A female student shakes hands with a colleague.

Hands-On Learning

KU Law's experiential learning program includes a mix of live-client clinics, field placements and skills simulations that help students sharpen professional skills and gain practical experience. Students can also participate in moot court, mock trial, student-edited journals or pro bono service.

Two male students discuss a case in the KU Law courtroom

Admissions Events

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Ready to discover the value of a degree from KU Law? Start your application, schedule a visit and learn why KU Law is a great place to be.