Lewis & Clark Law School recently hosted an informative webinar to discuss their advanced degrees in environmental law. Led by Janice Weis, Associate Dean and Director of the Environmental Law Program, the session provided a comprehensive overview of the school’s offerings, financial aid opportunities, and the unique advantages of pursuing these degrees. Tess Jacobsen, Assistant Director of the Environmental Law Program, and Kelsey Nussel, Senior Assistant Director of the Financial Aid Office, contributed valuable insights to help attendees navigate their educational and financial planning.
Janice Weis began by outlining the two advanced degrees available:
LLM (Master of Laws): Designed for individuals who already possess a JD or LLB, this program is ideal for those looking to deepen their expertise or transition into a specialty within environmental law. Membership in a bar association is not required to enroll.
(Master of Studies in Law): Tailored for professionals who hold a bachelor’s degree and want to gain legal knowledge without becoming lawyers. This program benefits individuals working in NGOs, journalism, government, or other fields where understanding environmental law and policy is advantageous.
Both degrees are available in person and online, offering flexibility for students balancing work, family, or other commitments.
Financial Aid Insights
Tess emphasized that Lewis & Clark is committed to making advanced education affordable. She introduced key funding options:
Discounted Tuition for Online Students: Online students benefit from a reduced tuition rate of $1,696 per credit for the current academic year, billed on a per-credit basis.
Payment Plans: For fall and spring semesters, students can spread tuition costs over five interest-free monthly payments, with a nominal enrollment fee of $40.
Tuition Awards: Based on merit and need, these awards provide a percentage discount on tuition. Awards typically range from 10% to 50% and remain adjustable if life circumstances change during the program.
Tess also highlighted resources beyond the institution, such as:
Government Scholarships: Many local, state, and foreign governments offer scholarships for higher education in environmental law.
These can provide information about scholarships and other funding opportunities for professionals pursuing advanced degrees.
Kelsey shared her expertise on federal aid and loan options, offering practical advice on managing financing effectively. Her guidance aimed to reduce the stress often associated with securing funds for higher education.
Online Learning Experience
Tess also discussed the advantages of online learning at Lewis & Clark, highlighting how the programs are designed to provide a rich, interactive educational experience without requiring students to relocate or pause their careers. The online platform includes live sessions with faculty, peer discussions, and access to extensive digital resources. Students can directly apply what they learn in real-time to their current professional roles, making the education immediately impactful.
Additionally, Tess explained that faculty members are committed to fostering a supportive learning environment. Professors are not only experts in environmental law but also bring a wealth of practical experience to their teaching, ensuring students gain both theoretical and applied knowledge.
Advantages of Earning an Advanced Degree
Both Janice and Tess highlighted the broader benefits of earning an advanced degree in environmental law. These degrees prepare professionals to tackle complex challenges in climate policy, energy regulation, wildlife conservation, and sustainable development. Whether advocating for policy reform, leading nonprofit initiatives, or advising corporations on regulatory compliance, graduates of Lewis & Clark’s programs are equipped to make meaningful contributions in their fields. One notable feature of the programs is their strong alumni network. Graduates join a community of professionals actively shaping the future of environmental law and policy. This network provides career support, mentorship opportunities, and a platform for collaborative projects that drive real-world impact.
Dedicated to Supporting Students
Planning ahead is essential for managing educational expenses, and Lewis & Clark’s team is dedicated to supporting students every step of the way. Attendees left the webinar with actionable steps and resources to make informed decisions about how to finance their legal master’s degree. Prospective students are welcome to schedule one-on-one meetings to discuss their unique circumstances. Lewis & Clark’s environmental law programs continue to empower professionals to make meaningful contributions to environmental advocacy and policy. Whether you’re aiming to advance your legal career or broaden your professional expertise, these programs provide the tools and knowledge to succeed.
