JD PROGRAMUBC LAW | AT ALLARD HALL

Admissions Guide

UBC Law is one of Canada’s leading Law schools. We offer an inspiring environment that combines rigorous professional legal training with a comprehensive awareness of the role of law in society. We are committed to being one of the world’s great centres for legal education and research.

Welcome from the Dean

It is a great honour and privilege to be the Dean of the Faculty of Law at the University of British Columbia – one of Canada’s leading law schools.

For the past 69 years, UBC Law has educated leaders in both the community and the profession. Our incoming students join a distinguished family of graduates that have excelled in all areas of law and government and have made a significant impact on some of today’s most pressing issues around the world.

Every year we attract some of the brightest minds across the country and around the globe. Our students are academically outstanding and intellectually curious, and our faculty members are passionate, innovative and internationally recognized.

What brings these individuals to UBC Law? The opportunity to learn and teach at one of the most beautiful campuses in the world while joining a community that has produced outstanding scholarship with local, national and global impact.

This is an exciting time to be considering a legal career. The national and world economies are becoming increasingly interconnected by complex rules governing matters that range from international trade to human rights, while new methods of commerce and advances in science and biotechnology challenge traditional legal categories and policies. Our faculty, students and graduates look forward to taking leadership roles in responding to these global challenges while also helping shape the future of our society.

Sincerely,

Mary Anne BobinskiDean and Professor of Law

We are proud of our outstanding JD program. Our students receive a first-rate legal education that balances traditional areas of practice with emerging fields of specialization. First year consists of a common curriculum with classes in Canadian Constitutional Law, Contracts, Criminal Law and Procedure, Property Law, Torts, Legal Research and Writing, Public Law and Transnational Law. Most classes are taught in groups of approximately 45, providing students with more opportunities to receive detailed feedback from their professors than is possible in larger classes. Diverse evaluation methods are used to accommodate a broad range of learning styles. We offer a wide range of courses and many opportunities for specialization, international exchange and experiential learning.

LEARNING 

Career Services OfficeOur Career Services Office is dedicated to providing support to students in their individual career-related goals. Their services include one-on-one counselling, professional development workshops, recruitment and networking events, a resource library and an online careers portal. Learn more by visiting: law.ubc.ca/career-services.

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pictured aboveright: The Richards Buell Sutton Reading Room is located on the second floor of the UBC Law library.

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Environmental and Natural Resources LawOur internationally recognized program draws on the talents of a highly distinguished and dedicated team of faculty. We offer a broad array of core and specialty courses, and the opportunity to obtain a specialization in Environmental and Natural Resources Law.

Business LawUBC Law is home to the Centre for Business Law, which provides a robust, interdisciplinary and empirical research environment for research and scholarship in business law and finance policy, focused on both domestic and international comparative law. Our faculty are leading scholars in many areas of business law. Students have the option of graduating with a Business Law Concentration.

Aboriginal LawUBC Law is a leader in Aboriginal legal education in North America. The Indigenous Legal Studies Program offers a broad range of courses covering Aboriginal law and Indigenous legal issues, taught by distinguished faculty. Students can gain valuable experience through the Indigenous Community Legal Clinic which serves urban Indigenous clients in Vancouver’s downtown eastside, build oral advocacy skills through participation in the national Aboriginal moot, or become involved with the vibrant UBC Indigenous Law Students’ Association. UBC Law also offers a Specialization in Aboriginal Law, a course of study open to all JD students that thoroughly prepares them for a demanding practice in Aboriginal law.

Feminist Legal StudiesThrough a dynamic curriculum that engages in leading socio-legal feminist research, a regular lecture series, a monthly publication and a student-run club, this program provides opportunities for students, scholars and the wider feminist legal community to come together, build networks, collaborate on research and exchange ideas.

Law and Social Justice Students have the opportunity to take a variety of courses relating to the use of law to achieve social justice, or pursue a Specialization in Law and Social Justice. Courses included in this field examine the role of law in constructing and maintaining social, economic and political inequalities.

International OpportunitiesOur Joint Legal Education programs allow students to start their studies at UBC Law and complete them in another jurisdiction. At the end of the program, students are able to pursue professional qualifications in both jurisdictions. UBC Law currently has arrangements with the University of Hong Kong and the University of Hawai’i. UBC Law students also have opportunities to spend a term abroad on exchange, with more than 60 law schools worldwide to choose from.

Dual JD / MBAThe four-year JD/ MBA program allows students to graduate with a JD from the Faculty of Law and an MBA from the Sauder School of Business.

Professor Emma Cunliffe

“I find it very exciting to teach intelligent and articulate people, to introduce students to new ideas and to listen to their perspectives. I learn a lot from teaching and it’s a great privilege for me to be able to discuss difficult legal and moral questions with students while they are learning foundational legal principles. I start from a position of respect for how much they already know and try to find ways in the classroom to connect what they’re learning with what they are already good at.”

Professor Nikos Harris

“Our students will soon play a critical role in decisions which will have profound impacts on individuals and our entire society. My challenge is to teach them two things to prepare them for this onerous responsibility: an understanding of the law of today, and the tools they can use to shape the more just laws of tomorrow. I am privileged to teach the diverse and creative group which arrives on our campus each fall.”

UBC Law is committed to recruiting outstanding teachers and scholars who are leaders in their fields of research. With over 45 full-time professors, we are home to a remarkably dynamic, accomplished and diverse group of faculty who produce innovative and influential legal research. Many are globally recognized for their groundbreaking work in numerous areas of law, from human rights and sustainability to Aboriginal and family law. They are also dedicated teachers, committed to equipping our students with the skills that will enable them to become productive and socially responsible lawyers and citizens. In addition to our full-time faculty, each year we invite industry-experienced practitioners to teach in their areas of expertise. These passionate and inspiring adjunct professors offer students a valuable connection to the profession.

INSPIRATION

“I chose UBC Law because it offered everything I was looking for – top notch faculty and staff, incredible co-curricular activities, and a supportive group of students. But my most positive experience was that I fell in love with the law. My first reading in constitutional law class opened my eyes to just how important the legal system is – a judicial decision can change the lives of millions. It was so exciting! I had similar experiences in my other classes, and my professors encouraged my love of the subject matter. They were clearly passionate about teaching, and just as excited about the cases we read as I was. I couldn’t be happier that I chose UBC Law, and that I will spend my career learning about such an exciting subject.”

Rachel Lehman / JD student

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Law school is much more than classes and seminars. It offers incredible opportunities to get involved outside of the classroom through student-run publications, student government, community advocacy and outreach and numerous social and academic events and activities held throughout the year. There is a strong sense of community here and UBC Law is committed to creating a supportive and respectful environment for its students. Our orientation program is designed to ensure that first-year students enjoy their introduction to the study of law and to all that UBC has to offer. Additionally, small class sizes allow students to get to know their fellow classmates better, receive the support they need to succeed and ensure their law school experience is an enjoyable one.

COMMUNITY

“The thing that has impressed me most about UBC Law is the collegiality of the students, faculty and staff. The collaborative and open nature of the Faculty has made it an exceptional place to study and grow as a student. It provides an inclusive and supportive community where students are supported by faculty, staff and fellow students to achieve their personal goals. Students not only receive a world class legal education but are also prepared to practice in the real world. Students should choose UBC Law because it is a world class institution with world class professors; the student body is diverse and accomplished; and the resources available to ensure academic and professional success are unparalleled.”

Yvan Guy Larocque / JD student

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pictured above right: Meet the 2014 – 15 Student Ambassadors.

Competitive Mooting UBC Law has an exceptionally strong competitive mooting program, with numerous teams participating in competitions at the regional, national and international levels. These competitions cover a broad range of legal topics. The local bench and bar actively contribute to the mooting experience by acting as advisors, coaches and judges for our teams. With this strong support, our students have enjoyed great success in competitive moot competitions.

In the CommunityThere are many opportunities for students to get involved in the community and apply their learning from law school. The Law Students’ Legal Advice Program is a student-run organization providing free legal advice to those who would not otherwise be able to afford it. It is the largest provider of free legal services in BC and advises 5,000 clients each year at clinics located throughout the Lower Mainland. Other clinical experiences can be obtained through Pro Bono Students Canada, the Indigenous Community Legal Clinic and the Innocence Project. The Judicial Externship Program provides students with the opportunity to serve as interns to the judges of the BC Provincial Court.

Student GovernmentThe Law Students’ Society is the elected government for the JD student body and represents students’ interests, both socially and academically. The group hosts numerous social

events throughout the year and members sit on various Faculty committees to represent the student body on issues such as curriculum, admissions and examinations.

Academic PublicationsThe UBC Law Review and The Canadian Journal of Family Law are journals produced by UBC Law to which students can contribute. Contributing to these publications is both a rewarding experience and an opportunity to meet leading scholars and work with members of the judiciary and legal community.

Student Clubs and Organizations There are many opportunities to get involved in student clubs and organizations. Whether it is the Asia Pacific Law Club, Law Revue, Environmental Law Club or Women’s Caucus, students are sure to find a club or organization that matches their interests.

Student AmbassadorsThe Student Ambassador Program assists prospective and admitted students in making an informed decision about applying to or accepting an offer from UBC Law. The student ambassadors are second and third year students from diverse backgrounds and experiences, and provide information and impressions about the law school experience, life at UBC Law or living in Vancouver. Find out more at: law.ubc.ca/ambassadors .

Degree Offerings and Part-Time Program

Each year the UBC Faculty of Law admits approximately 180 to 190 students to first-year law, for a total population of approximately 550 students in the JD program.

JD ProgramIn order to graduate, students must complete 92 credits consisting of a variety of compulsory and elective courses, seminars, workshops and directed research projects. The JD is a three-year degree program with a compulsory first-year curriculum (32 credits) and broad course selection available in second and third years (60 credits over two years).

Indigenous Legal Studies ProgramUBC Law has a strong Aboriginal law curriculum that attracts a high number of Aboriginal law students each year. Applicants with Aboriginal ancestry and demonstrable Aboriginal community connections may apply as discretionary applicants in the Indigenous category. For more information, please contact the Associate Director of the Indigenous Legal Studies Program at ilsp@law.ubc.ca or 604.822.2177. JD/ MBA ProgramThis four-year program is administered jointly by the Sauder School of Business and the Faculty of Law. The program prepares students for the practice of law and / or a career in business administration. Interested applicants are required to apply directly to both Faculties, indicating their desire to be considered for the combined JD/ MBA Program.

Joint Legal Education ProgramsUBC Law has Joint Legal Education programs with the University of Hong Kong and the University of Hawai’i. Students may apply to these programs in their second year at UBC. Upon completion of these programs, students are able to pursue professional qualifications in Canada and Hong Kong, or Canada and the United States.

Part-Time JD programThere are opportunities to attend law school on a part-time basis for students who have family responsibilities or other barriers preventing them from full-time studies. Learn more at: law.ubc.ca/admissions.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the application deadline? The application deadline for first year is December 1st. The deadline for those applying in the upper level categories is April 30th.

How much is the application fee? The application fee is $85.00 and is non-refundable. It can be paid either by cheque or credit card (credit card if you are applying online and cheque if you are sending in a paper application).

How much does it cost to attend law school? Tuition for domestic students starting first year in 2014 / 2015 is $357.75 per credit ($11,448.00 for first year and $10,732.50 for each of second and third year – note that the amount for upper years can vary depending on how many credits are taken in each year). For international students, it is $776.93 per credit. Student fees are approximately $880 per year. Tuition and fees are subject to change. For current tuition information, visit: law.ubc.ca/tuition.

What is the minimum CGPA I require to apply to UBC Law? What about the LSAT? There is no specific minimum LSAT score or CGPA for students applying to UBC Law. Over the years, successful applicants within the Regular Category had an average CGPA of 83% – approximately 3.8 – with an LSAT score of 165. The CGPA and LSAT are given equal weight and the personal statement is also factored into the admissions decisions. CGPAs have ranged from 73% to 93% and LSAT scores can range from 156 to 179.

Do I have to have a four-year undergraduate degree prior to applying to law school?To be considered for admission, applicants must have successfully completed three years (minimum 90 credits) of an approved course of studies leading to an undergraduate degree at an approved university no later than the end of April in the year of entry. Please note, when applying with three years, a full year (30 credits) of upper-level courses must also be completed by the end of the spring semester.

What are other categories that I can apply under?There are other degree-granting admissions categories, one of which is the Discretionary Category. Because of special circumstances, an applicant may not satisfy the regular admissions requirements but may have other relevant achievements and experience. The Admissions Committee has the discretion to respond to this

type of situation by taking into account factors such as disability or special needs, financial disadvantage, age, membership in a historically disadvantaged group and any other factors that the applicant wishes the Admissions Committee to consider. Learn more about this and other admissions categories at: law.ubc.ca/jdadmissions.

Can I transfer from another law school?Applicants who have started their JD at another Canadian law school may apply to transfer to UBC Law after completing their first year. If the first year curriculum differs from that offered at UBC Law, an applicant may be required to complete one or more first year class(es) in conjunction with their upper level classes. Applicants who are currently attending law school elsewhere may apply to attend for one year or one term for credit back to their home law school within the Letter of Permission category. If you have a law degree from a foreign jurisdiction and have been reviewed by the National Committee on Accreditation, you may apply to our NCA Category and will not be permitted to enroll in any first year law courses. Foreign-trained lawyers also have the option of taking the Master of Laws Common Law Program (LLM CL), a full-time, year-long, course-based master’s program that provides foundational training in Canadian common law for foreign or non-common law trained lawyers. Please see the graduate program admissions guide for more information on the LLM CL or visit law.ubc.ca/graduate.

What about awards, bursaries and financial aid? Each year we distribute more than $800,000 to incoming and current students in recognition of their achievements as well as to those who demonstrate financial need. All accepted applicants are automatically considered for entrance scholarships based on academic merit. If you require further information about government student loans or grant programs, or if you have general questions, please contact an Enrolment Services Professional at es.lawsupport@ubc.ca.

For more information on admissions, please visit: law.ubc.ca/admissions. International students, please visit: connectionsforlife.ubc.ca. For all other inquiries, please contact our Admissions Office at admissions@law.ubc.ca or 604.822.6303.

Admissions Information

Consistently rated one of the best places in the world to live, Vancouver offers wonderful balance between bustling city life and the great outdoors. Bordered by mountains and beaches, Vancouver is a city of energy and new ideas.

Our stunning Vancouver campus is situated in a park-like setting of over 1,000 hectares across a forested peninsula overlooking the Pacific Ocean and Coast Mountains. The university is easily accessible by public transit. To learn more about housing options at and around UBC, visit: housing.ubc.ca .

LIVING IN VANCOUVER

Faculty of Law at Allard Hallthe university of british columbia1822 East Mall · Vancouver BC · Canada · v6t 1z1admissions@law.ubc.ca

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