Student Education and Activities

The Capital Center offers both a J.D. Certificate and a master's degree (LL.M.) in Public Law & Policy. Students earn a J.D. Certificate in Public Law & Policy during their second and third years of law school by completing a series of courses, including an optional field placement, specially designed to train lawyers to draft and argue the interpretation of statutes and regulations, to make or contribute to policy making in the local, state, federal or global arenas, and to assume leadership positions in legislatures, executive branches, government agencies or the judiciary.

In the one or two-year program that yields an LL.M. in Public Law & Policy, students receive comprehensive, real-world training in the knowledge and skills of law practice in or with government entities. Capital Center graduates enter the legal marketplace with a credential that demonstrates that they understand how government works and are ready to practice effectively and successfully in the modern, regulatory and rule-based legal environment.

Capital Center students can enrich their Public Law & Policy education by participating in the many public law and career activities hosted in combination with the Capital Center student groups and the Capital Alumni Chapter, and by publishing analyses of current ballot measures and pending legislation by participating in the California Initiative Review seminar and Greensheets Law Review solicitation.

In addition, the Capital Center's Capital Commendation for Public Service Program encourages and rewards Pacific McGeorge students who choose to engage in voluntary public service during law school above and beyond the course work necessary to obtain their degrees.

Scholarships are available for students with a demonstrated interest in public service.

Learn more about our student education programs and activities: