Certificate of Studies in Law (CSL) Program

CSL Overview

The CSL program is a 12-credit certificate program for anyone interested in learning legal studies and doctrine. As a CSL student, you may choose to pursue a general course of study or select a focus area.

Certificate Requirements

To earn a CSL, students must complete 12 total units, including: Legal Writing for Masters Students (Fall, 2 units); Introduction to Law (Fall, 3 units); Legal Research (Spring, 1 unit); Introduction to US Legal Systems (1 unit – offered in-person during orientation; optional but highly recommended). The remaining 5-6 units will be used as elective courses chosen with the counsel of a faculty advisor. Students can choose to focus on one specific area of specialization in their electives or pursue a general course of study

Enrollment Options

Full- and part-time enrollment options are available. Full-time students will complete the certificate in one semester. Part-time students will complete the program between 1-3 years. At this time, only a fall start date is available for the CSL.

Program Learning Outcomes

When you have completed the Certificate of Studies in Law (CSL) program, you will be expected to have made substantial progress towards the following skills:

• Identify, explain, and employ basic concepts and rules of law in both core legal areas and in your own chosen coursework.
• Identify relevant legal issues and craft legal arguments and conclusions supported by factual evidence and legal rules.
• Retrieve, organize, analyze, and evaluate legal and interdisciplinary resources, and differentiate the types and importance of these legal resources.

CSL Events & Webinars

Apply to CSL

To Apply to the CSL program, please complete the following items:

• Complete the Online Application Form – check the box for “CSL” on the application
• Official academic undergraduate transcripts
• Application fee ($75)
• Personal essay explaining interest in CSL program
• Two Letters of Recommendation
• Resume/CV
• TOEFL or IELTS if applicable

Learn how to Apply

Transfer to MSL

Students, who wish to continue their studies after completing the CSL, may be eligible to transfer to the Master of Studies in Law (MSL) program. CSL students who wish to transfer to the MSL must:

• Complete a CSL Continuation to MSL Application Form
• Have earned passing grades in all CSL courses
• Receive 2 Letters of Recommendation from UC Law SF faculty members

Contact msl@uclawsf.edu for more information about the transfer process.

Learn more about the MSL Program