Legal English :: Special Programs :: Programs
Classes typically begin in late June. See the IEP Yearly Sessions calendar for dates.
Overview
This course offers students a unique opportunity to develop English language proficiency specifically for work and study in the legal profession.
- Seven-week course of study
- Five weeks of intensive in-class work
- Two weeks sheltered course in IU School of Law (for students admitted to the IU School of Law)
- Two week simulated law school course (students not admitted to the IU School of Law)
- Faculty with extensive ESL teaching experience in the US and abroad AND training in legal studies at Indiana University
Requirements for Participation
Prospective students must meet the following requirements for participation in the Legal English course:
- Admission to the Indiana University School of Law or another American law school,
- OR have a placement score of Level 6, 7, or 8 in the Indiana University Intensive English Program, and the permission of the instructors
- Recommended TOEFL scores
- iBT: 61 or more
- CBT: 173 or more
- PBT: 500 or more
Course of Study
The legal English classes at the Intensive English Program will enable international LL.M students to participate more efficiently at the Indiana University School of Law, and increase their chances of succeeding in a competitive legal environment. The skills they will acquire are as follows:
- Background of the Legal System, the U.S. Constitution, and Landmark Cases
- Legal Reading and Analysis, Legal Writing and Structure
- The Vocabulary of the Law and English Grammar
- Discussion of Legal Issues and Socratic Method Practice
- Classroom Interaction and Study Skills
- Discussion of Cross-Cultural Issues and Skills Practice
- Critical Thinking and Listening Training
Extra-curricular Activities
The Legal English Course offers several fieldtrips and activities to the students participating. These are unique opportunities to visit law-oriented organizations and institutions, such as the following examples:
- The Monroe County Court at the Judicial Building
- The historic Monroe County Courthouse
- Indiana Legal Services, a non-profit legal aid organization
- The United States District Court for the Southern District of Indiana, and the Federal Building in Indianapolis
- In-class lectures by IU School of Law Professors
- Legal English Course social events
