M.A. in Nonprofit Leadership
The M.A. in Nonprofit Leadership at OCU is a 36-credit-hour program that can be complet...
Juris Doctor
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The J.D. program at Oklahoma City University School of Law is a 90-credit-hour curriculum designed to train students to "think like a lawyer" and develop essential legal skills. Students build a strong foundation in core legal subjects while having ample flexibility to explore specialties through elective courses and certificate programs in areas like American Indian Law, Public Law & Criminal Law, and potentially others. OCU Law emphasizes a practical approach, integrating hands-on experience through clinics, externships, and other experiential learning opportunities. The school also offers accelerated options, such as a "3+3" program for select undergraduates, and dual degree options like J.D./MBA and J.D./M.A. in Nonprofit Leadership, allowing students to gain interdisciplinary expertise and often reduce total credit hours.
Curriculum: The J.D. curriculum is comprehensive, beginning with foundational courses in the first year covering core subjects such as Civil Procedure, Criminal Law, Legal Research and Writing, Contracts, and Torts. In the second and third years, students delve deeper into their legal studies, selecting from a wide array of electives to focus on specific practice areas. Beyond traditional coursework, the curriculum emphasizes practical skills development through an upper-class writing requirement (which can include participation in Law Review, Moot Court, or Directed Research) and experiential learning opportunities like clinics and externships. This blend ensures graduates are not only knowledgeable about the law but also possess the practical abilities required for legal practice.
Research Focus: Oklahoma City University School of Law has a strong commitment to applied legal research and scholarly contribution. Students in the J.D. program are actively involved in preparing and publishing the Oklahoma City University Law Review, a scholarly journal that features articles from professors, practitioners, judges, and students. This provides invaluable experience in legal research, writing, and editing. Beyond the Law Review, OCU Law supports various centers and programs that engage in specialized research and provide direct legal services, such as the Oklahoma Innocence Project (the only Innocence Clinic in the state, focused on rectifying wrongful convictions), the American Indian Law & Sovereignty Center (addressing complexities of American Indian and tribal law, including an American Indian Wills Clinic), and The Collaborative: Law Clinic for Business and Innovation (providing legal assistance to startups and nonprofits). These initiatives highlight an active research agenda aimed at addressing contemporary legal and societal issues.
Industry Engagement: Oklahoma City University School of Law places a high priority on industry engagement, ensuring its graduates are well-connected and prepared for the legal profession. The Law Career Services office provides year-round support, including an On-Campus Interview (OCI) program, an annual Job & Externship Fair, and various specialized recruitment programs (e.g., public interest, diversity, military). OCU Law actively collaborates with law firms, businesses, non-profits, and government sectors to create opportunities for students and alumni. Furthermore, faculty members often bring extensive practical experience from their professional backgrounds, offering real-world insights and mentorship. The vibrant alumni association also plays a crucial role in fostering networking and career advancement opportunities within the legal community.
Global Perspective: Oklahoma City University School of Law integrates a global perspective by acknowledging the increasing interconnectedness of legal systems and the importance of international law. The school offers a Study Abroad program, providing students with the unique opportunity to experience global legal issues, international tribunals, and diverse foreign cultures while pursuing their legal education. This broadens their perspective on political movements and legal systems beyond the U.S. While specific courses in international law are part of the broader curriculum, the emphasis is on preparing graduates to navigate an increasingly globalized legal landscape and contribute to justice both locally and internationally, fostering empathy and understanding across diverse cultural and legal backgrounds.
Location
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Score
IELTS 7
Tuition Fee
USD 37500
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: $60
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 70% or above in their bachelor's degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 83 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 53 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 105.
Oklahoma City University (OCU) offers a variety of scholarship opportunities designed to attract and support talented international students. These scholarships help reduce the financial burden of studying abroad and reward academic excellence, leadership, and artistic achievement.
Merit-Based Scholarships: OCU provides merit-based scholarships to international students who demonstrate outstanding academic records, leadership potential, and community involvement. These scholarships are automatically considered during the admission process, and amounts vary based on academic achievement and program of study.
Performance and Talent Scholarships: Students applying to OCU’s renowned performing arts programs, including music, dance, and theater, may be eligible for performance-based scholarships. These awards recognize exceptional artistic ability and provide financial support to help students pursue their creative passions at a professional level.
Transfer Student Scholarships: International students transferring from other accredited institutions may qualify for transfer scholarships. These awards acknowledge previous academic success and help make the transition to OCU more affordable.
Graduate Scholarships and Assistantships: Graduate students, especially those in business, law, and healthcare fields, can access scholarships and assistantships that offer tuition remission and stipends in exchange for teaching or research support. These opportunities provide valuable experience and financial relief.
Oklahoma City University's Juris Doctor (J.D.) program is designed to produce well-rounded, ethical, and practice-ready legal professionals. Its emphasis on practical skills, diverse experiential learning opportunities (through clinics and externships), and a supportive learning environment ensures that graduates are prepared for a wide array of legal careers. The strong alumni network and career services support at OCU Law further enhance employment prospects.
Attorney (Private Practice): The most common path for J.D. graduates, working in law firms ranging from large international firms to small local practices or even starting their own solo practice. They can specialize in numerous areas such as corporate law, family law, criminal defense, personal injury, real estate, environmental law, intellectual property, or bankruptcy.
Prosecutor / Public Defender:
Prosecutor: Represents the government in criminal cases, aiming to prove the guilt of the accused. They work for district attorney's offices at the local, state, or federal level.
Public Defender: Represents individuals who cannot afford legal counsel in criminal cases, ensuring their constitutional rights are protected. OCU Law's Center for Criminal Justice and its Innocence Clinic directly contribute to training future professionals in this vital area.
Corporate Counsel / In-House Counsel: Works directly for a corporation or organization, providing legal advice on a wide range of business issues, including contracts, regulatory compliance, mergers and acquisitions, employment law, and intellectual property. This role blends legal expertise with business strategy.
Government Attorney / Agency Counsel: Works for various government agencies at federal, state, or local levels (e.g., Department of Justice, EPA, IRS, state attorney general's office). Their work can involve litigation, policy development, regulatory enforcement, or providing legal advice to the agency.
Judicial Law Clerk: Typically a one or two-year position after law school, working directly for a judge (at trial courts or appellate courts). Clerks conduct legal research, draft opinions, and assist the judge with courtroom proceedings. This provides invaluable insight into the judicial process.
Judge / Magistrate: After significant experience as a practicing attorney, a J.D. graduate may pursue a career on the bench, presiding over legal proceedings, interpreting laws, and rendering judgments. This is a long-term career goal for many in the legal field.
Legal Aid Attorney / Public Interest Lawyer: Works for non-profit organizations or government-funded programs to provide legal services to underserved populations, advocating for social justice, civil rights, or representing individuals in areas like housing, immigration, or domestic violence.
Legislative Aide / Policy Analyst: Works in government (e.g., for legislators or congressional committees) or for think tanks, researching, analyzing, and drafting legislation or policy proposals. This role leverages legal research, analytical, and writing skills.
Mediator / Arbitrator: Instead of litigation, these professionals help disputing parties resolve conflicts outside of court. Mediators facilitate communication and negotiation to help parties reach a mutually agreeable settlement, while arbitrators hear evidence and make binding decisions.
Compliance Officer / Regulatory Affairs Specialist: In highly regulated industries (e.g., finance, healthcare, pharmaceuticals), J.D. graduates ensure that organizations adhere to relevant laws, regulations, and internal policies. They develop compliance programs, conduct audits, and mitigate legal risks.
