Students are admitted into the JD program after successfully completing at least 60 units (10.0 full-course equivalents) in a program of study leading to a degree at a university in Alberta, or its equivalent. Almost every JD student has completed at least one university degree prior to beginning his or her JD studies.
The first year of the JD program is common to all students, and consists of intensive courses in Foundations of Law and Justice (in September and January) as well as courses in Legislation, Constitutional Law, Crime: Law and Procedure, Property, Torts and Contracts.
In the second and third year of the program students complete required courses in Civil Procedure, Administrative Law, Ethical Lawyering, Evidence, Negotiation and Advocacy. They will also take one course within the areas of international law and theoretical perspectives on the law, and fulfill an upper year writing requirement. Students choose the remainder of their courses from their area or areas of interest.
Students in joint degree programs will complete all of the required elements of the JD program.
Students at the Faculty have the opportunity to participate in extra-curricular activities related to the study and practice of law including the Student Legal Assistance legal clinic and Pro Bono Students Canada. In addition, many courses at the Faculty incorporate performance-based learning or have a clinical component.
Courses at the Faculty cover the breadth of the substance and process of law, but also reflect the Faculty’s specialties in natural resources, energy and environmental law, and legal practice.