If you have a passion for the complex interaction between government and the law, then Widener’s Law & Government Institute might be just the opportunity you’re looking for. The school’s location in the capital of Pennsylvania offers a stimulating environment in which to study and research how legal topics interact with governmental concerns.
Since 2000, Widener Law students interested in earning a certificate of proficiency in four different government law areas have been able to undertake a course of study and receive certification through the Law & Government Institute. In 2009, the directors of the L&G Institute began several important changes to improve the certificate programs. These changes will be implemented beginning in 2010 for RD and ED students who matriculated in August 2009 and later. The L&G directors and faculty believe that these improvements, undertaken with the guidance of the latest Carnegie Report and Best Practices for Legal Education, will significantly increase the quality of the educational experience for students in the L&G Institute. They will prepare students to practice law effectively immediately after graduation by teaching professional skills through simulations, clinics, internships and externships, and other activities that teach practice skills. These changes involve new courses, changes to existing courses, and changes to the requirements for most L&G certificates. The L&G Institute offers three different certificate courses:
Administrative/Constitutional Law Certificate Program The Law & Government Institute confers an
Administrative/Constitutional Law Certificate to students who complete a concentrated course of study. This program studies the operation of, and limitations on, the branches of government and agencies. Law & Government fellows working in this area have access to many diverse legal internship and externship opportunities with government branches and agencies.
Environmental Law Certificate Program You can explore the impact of the legislative process on environmental law and earn an
Environmental Law Certificate. Learn how to defend environmental interests through the legislative process or prosecute those who commit environmental crimes. In addition to classroom instruction, you will gain practical experience through an externship with an environmental agency such as the Pennsylvania Clean Air Council or the State Game Commission.
Legislation Certificate Program In partnership with the National Conference of Commissioners on Uniform State Laws (Uniform Law Commission), the Law & Government Institute offers a special legislative program in which students research conflicts between a uniform or model statute proposed by the Uniform Law Commission and existing state statutes. If legal examination of legislation or the drafting of new legislation appeals to you, the
Legislation Certificate Program is just the opportunity you’re looking for.
Contact Information Director: John Gedid
Phone: (717)-541-3902
Email: jlgedid@mail.widener.edu Associate Director: Jill Family
Phone: (717) 541-3911
Email: jefamily@widener.edu