Experiential Learning Program
Experiential Learning
The case method and teaching by Socratic dialogue have been around for 160 years. And Colorado Law still use them effectively to teach critical analysis—thinking like a lawyer. However, the greatest change in legal education has been the introduction of multiple opportunities for practical experience. Experiential education encompasses lawyering activities in which students receive experience outside the classroom—clinics, externships, appellate and trial competitions, and voluntary public service work. The Experiential Learning Program gives greater coherence to our entire curriculum and fulfills the school’s mission of providing a well-rounded learning experience. It builds linkages with faculty involved in experiential education and those involved in traditional classroom teaching.
Clinics
Colorado Law’s Clinical Education Program started in 1948 and now serves 700 clients each year. They provide practical learning experiences for our students, much-needed assistance to those less fortunate in our community, and invaluable service to the public good.
Externships
Externships involve substantive legal work with a government agency, private non-profit or public interest institution, or other private sector employer such as a law firm. Students develop professional lawyering skills, gain insight into various aspects of the legal system and profession, and cultivate a sense of professional responsibility.
Appellate and Trial Competitions
Law students compete in appellate and moot court competitions to develop skills in appellate brief writing and oral argument, and gain valuable trial practice experience. Colorado Law teams have consistently been extremely competitive and the law school participates in and hosts more competitions each year. Selection of teams varies by competition.
Public Service Pledge Program
In this voluntary Public Service Pledge Program, Colorado Law students pledge to volunteer a minimum of 50 hours of law-related service during their time at the school. For those students who complete the hours, their public service is recognized on the students’ transcript. Faculty help connect law students with organizations and lawyers who need pro bono assistance. In addition, the program became one of four collaborative model projects for CU's Institute for Ethical and Civil Engagement.
