Oregon enjoys a national reputation for pioneering laws that protect the environment, provide health care, and increase dignity and independence for the elderly. For more than a century and a half, Willamette University has graduated leaders in government. The Law in Government program at the College of Law helps continue this proud tradition. The College of Law also subsidizes a variety of public interest law jobs, both in Salem and beyond, with government agencies, public interest groups and nonprofit organizations. D.C. Appellate Externships Externships with the Oregon Supreme Court, the Oregon Court of Appeals and the federal courts enhance academic learning through experience with the judiciary.
Academic credit is granted for appellate externships.
Internships Students may volunteer as interns with state legislators, legislative committees such as the House and Senate Judiciary Committees, the governor's office, state agencies, and nonprofit organizations. A limited number of paid internships are available. Clinics Students work with faculty to serve the legal needs of individuals and nonprofit organizations. Opportunities for experiential learning exist in domestic violence issues, housing issues, arbitration, mediation and dispute resolution, tax, environmental law, administrative law, immigration law and Native American tribal law. Government in Residence Fellows Government in Residence fellows are members of the legislature, executive branch or judiciary who come to the College of Law to share their expertise, experience and personal contacts with students and faculty.