Miami Law offers an unusually large number of courses that help students learn by engaging in the kind of real-world lawyering that normally takes place outside the classroom. Under the guidance of full-time faculty and distinguished practitioners, students gain hands-on training through clinics, externships and field placements, and simulation courses.

Miami Law’s comprehensive approach to skills training includes a variety of courses that simulate practice and integrate both the theoretical and practical aspects of a well-rounded legal education.

With one of the nation's leading experiential learning programs, Miami Law ensures students graduate with the skills they need to succeed in their chosen field.

• What is a Clinic?

  It is a law school program that gives students training in advocacy and the practice of law through work on real cases and projects. Under faculty supervision students work directly on cases and projects by engaging in legal research and writing, collaborating with others interviewing clients, witnesses, and other stakeholders, gathering evidence, drafting legal documents, and appearing in court or other legal venues.  

• What is an Externship / Field Placement?

  An externship allows students to obtain academic credit while working in a real-world legal setting nationally or internationally with corporations, government agencies, public interest organizations and the judiciary. It offers the opportunity to leave the traditional classroom setting and, under supervision of a clinic faculty member and a licensed attorney at an approved site, engage directly in the practice of law.

• What Are Simulation Courses?

  These are courses that simulate lawyering activities to allow students to practice and reflect on specific skills that prepare them to enter the legal profession with confidence. A simulation course involves students being in-role as an attorney for a significant part of the class. These courses combine expert practice, analytical thinking, and the development of professional identity. Some of the courses focus on litigation or transactional practices, while some help hone abilities that support success in any area. Simulation courses differ from clinics and externships because they do not involve real clients or cases.