English for Professional Purposes: Law

Available in summer.

An intensive 3-week English for Law program that begins in late July.

This course is designed for lawyers, law school professors, and law school students from outside the United States and other legal professionals from outside the United States with an interest in learning about the American legal system.

Participants improve their English language skills and master the language of law while learning about the U.S. judicial system.

Course curriculum includes:

• Instruction in English in a legal context.
• Special lectures by distinguished lawyers and law professors.
• Visits to institutions important to legal professionals, such as the federal or state courthouse and/or local law firms.
• Legal terminology and concepts.
• Observation of an arraignment hearing and/or trial in progress.
• Private meetings with judges and/or assistant district attorneys.

The program provides opportunity for students to meet and socialize with future law school colleagues from different areas of the world, and enjoy New York cultural and entertainment offerings during out-of-class hours. Having become familiar with the fundamental language and concepts of the American legal system, those students who successfully complete this program should be comfortable discussing legal matters and issues.

Students in the program have access to Columbia University facilities, including the University libraries, language laboratory, computers, and the gym (additional fee required). They also have access to Legal Resources, including such legal databases as LEXIS Academic Universe.

Students must have a minimum TOEFL score of 575 (PBT), or 230 (CBT), or 89 (iBT), or ALP placement at Level 8 for admission to this program.

Students should already hold a university degree or be in the process of finishing their undergraduate degrees in law.

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Program Calendar