In a recent webinar hosted by Lewis & Clark Law School, prospective students explored the value and return on investment (ROI) of pursuing an online LLM or MSL degree in environmental law. Featuring alumni Patrick Canning, LLM ‘24 a practicing lawyer and environmental advocate, and Teri Tracy, MSL ‘25, Eastern Sierra Policy Coordinator at the Mono Lake Committee, along with program directors Janice Weis and Tess Jacobsen, the session provided a comprehensive overview of the curriculum, format, and real-world applications of the school’s online MSL and LLM programs.
Balancing Career and Education
Both Patrick and Teri shared insights into how the program enhanced their legal careers while juggling professional and personal responsibilities. Canning emphasized that the rigorous nature of the program prompted him to become more efficient and effective in his practice, underscoring that the effort was well worth it. He advised against waiting for the “perfect time” to start, instead choosing to invest in yourself and your future. Tracy highlighted the program’s flexibility and encouraged prospective students to take advantage of live Zoom meetings and study reviews to enrich their experience.
Comprehensive Curriculum Designed for Real-World Impact
Associate Dean Janice Weis walked attendees through Lewis & Clark’s curated curriculum, designed to prepare advocates for real-world challenges in environmental law. The core required courses include Administrative Law and Environmental Law, with additional options such as:
- Ocean and Coastal Law
- Wildlife Law
- Hazardous Waste Law
- International Environmental Law
- Water Law
- Environmental Justice
- Emerging Topics in Environmental Law (a dynamic course addressing current events and legal challenges)
Weis also announced the introduction of new courses, including Environmental Impact Assessment (focusing on NEPA and its international counterparts) and expanded climate and energy law offerings, ensuring that the curriculum evolves with emerging global issues.
Flexible Online Learning Format
For many attendees new to online education, Weis outlined how the program’s structure accommodates busy schedules. Each course is divided into modules featuring prerecorded lectures, assigned readings, and interactive discussion boards. These components allow students to engage with the material at their own pace within specified timeframes. Regular quizzes and discussion posts ensure comprehension and keep students consistently engaged with the material, promoting a more effective learning experience compared to traditional formats.
Assistant Director Tess Jacobsen highlighted the importance of the introductory course for students without a legal background or those unfamiliar with the U.S. legal system. This course provides essential tools to navigate law school, from understanding legal terminology to mastering skills like outlining and legal writing. Electives are also offered to expand upon the foundational courses, allowing students to create their ideal online experience for future success.
Practical Experience and Lifelong Learning
For those seeking hands-on experience, the program offers externship opportunities. These placements provide students with practical skills and exposure to roles within NGOs, government agencies, or private sector entities. Weis emphasized how these experiences can be transformative for students looking to pivot into environmental law or enhance their professional qualifications.
A standout feature of the program is the lifelong benefit for alumni. Graduates can audit courses for a reduced fee, keeping their knowledge up to date as the field evolves. Both Canning and Tracy expressed their enthusiasm for this unique perk, highlighting its value for continued professional development.
Building Connections in an Online Environment
One of the challenges of online learning is maintaining a sense of community, but the program’s interactive elements help mitigate this. Weis and Tracy both noted that features like discussion boards, live Zoom sessions, and peer interactions foster meaningful connections among students. These tools remind participants that they’re not alone in their journey, creating a supportive and engaging educational experience.
Additional Perspectives
The webinar concluded with a reminder of the program’s accessibility and support. Weis encouraged prospective students to reach out with questions and connect with alumni for additional perspectives. As Tracy aptly summarized, the live components and collaborative opportunities make the program’s online format both enriching and manageable.
Whether you’re a seasoned professional or someone looking to pivot into environmental law, Lewis & Clark’s online MSL and LLM programs offer the tools, flexibility, and community to help you achieve your career goals. For more information or to schedule a consultation, visit the program website today.