2011–12 William Mitchell Student Handbook

7. ADDITIONAL ACADEMIC PROGRAMS 7.1 Academic Support Programs William Mitchell is committed to helping students achieve their full academic potential. In addition to the Writing & Representation (WRAP) tutors, there are a number of resources available to students who seek academic support. The courses listed below are managed by the College’s Academic Achievement Program (AAP). The mission of the AAP is to help all students master the analytical and communication skills necessary to succeed in law school and on the bar exam. For more information on the APP see: http://www.wmitchell.edu/current 7.1.1 Legal Reasoning Workshop I Legal Reasoning Workshop I is a one-credit course required for selected first-year students during the fall semester. The course focuses on learning strategies, case reading, case briefing, synthesis, outlining, and exam-taking skills. Because the curriculum uses torts doctrine, students are not required to prepare additional legal materials. There are frequent written assignments. Students also receive individualized feedback on every assignment. Instructors also meet with each student one-on-one to discuss the assignments and any concerns they may have. Students enrolled in Legal Reasoning Workshop I are not allowed to add courses in the Spring semester of the first year.

7.1.2 Legal Reasoning Workshop II - Constitutional Law Powers (Intensive) Legal Reasoning Workshop II is a one-credit course offered in the fall semester to second-year students.

It provides in-depth focus on performance of legal analysis as well as strategies for preparing for and taking law school exams. Completion of the workshop is required for students ranked in the bottom 15% of the class after the first year but is open to all students if space is available. The course involves small group work and one-on-one meetings with the instructor.

7.2 Semester-Long Independent Study Abroad Program An independent study abroad program undertaken at a foreign law school provides an excellent opportunity for students to expand their knowledge of comparative and international legal issues.

Credits for an independent study abroad program are governed by the rules of William Mitchell College of Law and the American Bar Association (ABA). William Mitchell works with students to assist in developing a viable plan and in applying for ABA approval.

7.2.1 Requirements 1. Students who have completed their first year or equivalent, if part-time, may submit applications for independent study abroad programs. Generally, students should complete all of their required courses at William Mitchell before seeking to study abroad, so students are generally in their third or fourth year before undertaking this independent study program.

2. Students may transfer up to 15 elective credits toward the William Mitchell J.D. through studying law at a foreign institution. Credits earned abroad may not be used to satisfy required courses at William Mitchell.

3. Credit is given for grades earned of “C” or better, “Pass” or the equivalent. Grades that satisfy criteria set forth in the Student Handbook may be transferred to William Mitchell. See §4.10 on Credits Earned at Other Law Schools, Student Handbook.

4. The granting of residency credit shall comply with the requirements of ABA standard 304. See http://www.abanet.org/legaled/standards/Criteria%20for%20Approval%20of%20Student%20St udy%20at%20a%20Foreign%20Institution.pdf