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Oxford Pre-Law Program

The Ohio State University and the University of Oxford have partnered since 1993 to offer their Summer Pre-Law Program at the University of Oxford in Oxford, England. The program, which is the oldest overseas pre-law program in existence, takes place from late June to late July every year. It is generally known that the American legal system developed out of Great Britain’s legal system, and the strong influence of English law is still apparent in our system of law. Studying in a university that, for some 900 years, has had a major role in developing the current Anglo-American legal system, is valuable preparation for students who are contemplating studying law in America. In addition, we specifically devote time to helping pre-law students hone the skills necessary for success in American law schools.

Students usually are in class for about two and a half hours each day and, in addition to the class work, will write a substantial term paper under the supervision of a tutor, usually a member of the Oxford faculty or an associate of the Socio-Legal Centre. In the last week, each student leads a seminar on his or her paper topic.

Students will take field trips –which are included in the program’s fee – to several places of importance in the development of our legal system. Typically these include trips to places like Windsor Castle (the Queen’s official home), the fields of Runnymede (where the Magna Carta was signed in 1215), the Houses of Parliament, the Old Bailey, and the Inns of Court. There are also trips to places of cultural interest, such as Stratford-upon-Avon to see a Royal Shakespeare Company production, and Blenheim Palace (birthplace of Winston Churchill).

All participants in the Ohio State/Oxford Pre-Law Program will receive six hours of graded Ohio State Pre-Law credit.

All interested and qualified sophomores, juniors, and seniors are encouraged to apply. The Oxford Pre-Law Program uses an online application process available from the Office of International Affairs, which can be accessed through this link.

You can learn more about the program by viewing program information online at the Study Abroad section of the Office of International Affairs.

If you have questions, please contact Sara Ireland at ireland.76@osu.edu.