Unlike the case in nearly all other countries of the world this required degree program must follow a basic four year college or university degree. In the United States there are 175 law schools accredited by the American Bar Association. Most states do not accept bar applications from graduates of law schools not on that list. In the first year of law school students generally are required to take broad introductory topics. These may include torts, contracts, criminal law, civil procedure, property, and constitutional law.
Many schools also require courses in legal writing and legal research.
The second and third years of law school allow a student to concentrate on particular areas of the law such as business, litigation, international, or family law. A number of courses may still be recommend or required such as federal income taxation, corporations, commercial law, and professional ethics. In addition, the second and third years often provide the student with the chance to get some legal experience through legal aid clinics and internships. Law students usually participate in extra-curricular activities that provide them with further useful experience. Law reviews are legal academic journals edited and in part written by students.