Independent Research and Writing

Note: Law 7606 and 7608 both provide credit for independent writing projects; the difference is that 7606 satisfies the Upper Division Writing Requirement, while 7608 does not. The Registrar will assign students to 7606 or 7608 based on whether the student seeks and the supervisor approves upper division writing credit.

Students may earn 1 or 2 credits (and in exceptional circumstances 3 credits) for researching and writing a note, article, memo or other paper on a legal topic. At least 5,000 words are required for one credit, at least 7,500 for two credits, and at least 11,250 for three credits. Students must consult with their Faculty Supervisor on their topic and research plan and receive feedback from their Supervisor on the drafting process. To register, the student should confer with a supervising faculty member, draft a description of the proposed project, and complete the online Independent Research form.