Curriculum - Juris Doctor (JD) | USC Gould School of Law

With our customizable curriculum, no two JD students will follow the same course of study at USC Gould. After the first year's foundation, you'll seamlessly transition from theory to practice through the second and third years' interdisciplinary and experiential education options, while having the opportunity to take courses outside of the law school at other top-rated USC schools and departments.

Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to gain unparalleled real-world experience by focusing in a particular area of concentration, earning one or more of six certificates, working with clients in a clinic and/or externship, pursuing a dual degree, studying abroad, serving as an editor or staff member of a student journal, or participating in moot court.

USC Gould cultivates analytical ability, ethical values, and a spirit of collegiality that prepare our students for meaningful careers benefitting society. In our diverse, interdisciplinary, collaborative learning environment, and through a variety of pedagogical methods, students will prepare for the practice of law.

Graduates of USC Gould will:

possess knowledge and understanding of substantive and procedural law
demonstrate the ability to engage in thorough legal analysis, reasoning, research and problem-solving, and to conduct effective written and oral communication in the legal context
exercise proper professional and ethical responsibilities to clients and the legal system
have experience working in and collaborating with a diverse community of students, faculty, and/or clients
be aware of life-work balance and wellness issues, and of strategies and resources for addressing them