Externships
If you want to graduate practice-ready, there’s no place better than OCU Law. Over 80 externship opportunities are available, and many are within walking distance of campus. Externships let students receive academic credit while working under the guidance of supervising lawyers from the bar and judiciary. They’ll help you gain practical experience and develop professional connections. Browse our externship options to find the perfect opportunity for you.
Externship Program Info (Requirements, FAQs)
Externship Requirements
- Enroll in your preferred Externship Course.
- Contact Law Student Services to take an interview skills session.
- Once step 2 is confirmed by Law Student Services, you will receive a list of contacts for the placement sites. Contact the person listed at your preferred placement site to secure your placements.
- If you have another site in mind, please contact your course instructor as soon as possible.
- Once you secure your placement, please notify your course instructor.
Externship FAQs
Is the externship offered every semester?
| Course Name | Fall Semester | Spring Semester | Summer Semester |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corporate Counsel | Yes | Yes | No |
| Government Practice | Yes | Yes | No |
| Judicial Externship | Yes | Yes | No |
| Litigation Practice* | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Native American* | Yes | Yes | Yes |
*These classes will meet together until further notice.
When is a student eligible to take an externship course?
Students must complete the “required” curriculum before enrolling in an externship program.
What are the prerequisites for externship courses?
Prerequisites are “placement site” specific. Please see the course syllabus and review the requirements for each placement site.
Does the professor assign students to a placement site?
No. Students select a placement site.
Can I do more than one externship?
Yes. Students may earn a total of 9 credit hours in externship programs. See “Limitations on Credit for Certain Categories of Courses” in the online Academic Handbook. However, you can only do one externship per semester.
Do I need a Legal Intern’s License for the externship program?
No, but some placement sites strongly recommend a Legal Intern’s License. Click here for more on the Licensed Legal Intern Program.
Can I get paid while doing an externship?
No. The externship is a course, not employment.
Can I extern at a private law firm?
No. Students can gain experience with private firms through regular employment.
Can I add a placement site that is not included on the approved site list?
Yes, with the approval of the instructor and if it is consistent with program guidelines.