California School of Law Program Objectives and Student Learning Outcomes for the Juris Doctor Curriculum
What are student learning outcomes?
Student learning outcomes and program objectives describe what students should know, be able to do, and value by the end of law school.
The Law School focuses substantial attention on the learning objectives aimed at passing the bar examination and to practice law ethically and effectively.
The Student Learning Outcomes are to obtain a legal education through a curriculum that develops:
1. Mastery of the theory, philosophy and role of legal institutions.
2. Mastery in legal analysis, reasoning, problem solving.
3. Mastery in legal written and oral communication.
4. Mastery in legal research.
5. Mastery of fundamental professional practices necessary to participate effectively in the legal profession.
6. Mastery of substantive law as is necessary to effectively and responsibly participation in the legal profession through completion of the required curriculum.
7. Mastery of the ability to identify and understand key concepts of procedural law.
8. Mastery of the students’ critical thinking skills and other intellectual tools that serve their life-long learning needs, and enable them to provide contributions in research and practice.
9. Mastery of effective collaboration with others in a variety of legal settings and contexts.
10. Mastery of the ethical responsibilities as representatives of clients, officers of the court, and citizens responsible for the quality of justice.