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International J.D. Dual Degree Programs

J.D./Master I/Master II
WCL & Université Paris Ouest Nanterre la Défense (UPX)
Paris, France

This dual degree program is offered jointly by the Washington College of Law and the Université Paris Ouest Nanterre la Défense (UPX) in Paris, France. Students enrolled in the Program will have the opportunity to study law for two years at WCL and two years at UPX. Upon the completion of their studies, students will obtain a JD degree from WCL, and a Master I (JD equivalent) and a Master II in any of the subject areas offered by UPX.

Each year WCL will select up to three students to enroll in this program. Students enrolled in the JD/Master I/Master II will be prepared to understand and work in the continental legal system used in most of Europe, Latin America, Asia and Africa. Participants will not only be trained in the common law (U.S. legal system) and civil law tradition (continental legal system), they will also be immersed in two diverse cultures, study in two languages, and will gain an understanding of the systems as local practitioners see and practice law.

Graduates from this program will have full understanding of the law as developed and practiced both in the United States and in France. They will also be prepared to work in different legal areas in both countries, and potentially in other countries of the European Union.


The J.D. / Master I / Master II Program

Academic Requirements:

Courses at WCL:

At WCL, outgoing students will complete a minimum of 59 credits, including all first year and upper level required courses as well as the Intro to French Law class, generally offered in the Spring. The first two (2) years of law school must be completed at WCL. All incoming students must complete a minimum of 57 credits, including all mandatory classes and additional requirements.

Please note: If you are an International JD student at WCL and will be applying for Optional Practical Training (OPT), contact the Director before applying. A modified timeline may apply.

Courses at UPX:

UPX offers a variety of options on Master I and Master II programs.  WCL strongly encourages students to obtain a Master I in Private Law and choose a Master II according to her professional interests.  Each year, UPX publishes the current program of study for the Master I and the Master II.  They are available at http://www.u-paris10.fr/61128059/0/fiche___pagelibre/  

First year at UPX

To pursue a law career in France, students must complete a four year program. WCL students will enroll in the last year of the Master I program. This degree is intended for students who want to be fully qualified to practice law in France as it provides in-depth French legal training.

Students may choose any of the Master I offered at UPX:

  1. Master I, mention Droit Privé
  2. Master I, mention Droit des Affaires
  3. Master I, mention Droit International et Européen

Dual degree graduates will be eligible to meet the requirements for the bar in both jurisdictions as any other law graduate from WCL and UPX. Students may decide to take the bar exam in the United States first and then apply in France to take the equivalency exam to gain entrance into the French bar.

Second year at UPX

Students will have the opportunity of enrolling in the Master II Program in any of the areas offered by UPX. The Master II, formerly known as DESS (Diplôme d'études supérieures spécialisées), is a highly prestigious specialization. The regular application process is highly competitive. Dual degree students from WCL, however, are immediately accepted, prior to the authorization of the Director of the dual degree program at UPX.

The Master II program includes an internship in a law firm or similar company, pre-arranged by the University. Students not only specialize in a particular area, but also gain beneficial experience and network locally.

For details regarding the program of study and the courses involved, please contact: intdualdegree@wcl.american.edu .

Tuition & Expenses:

Application Process:

Students must be admitted to WCL's regular JD program before applying to any international JD dual degree program.

This program is open to first year (1L) WCL students in good academic standing who are bilingual (French and English), or have excellent written and oral French skills. WCL students will spend the first 2 years at their home institution and begin the program during the 3rd year. All International JD students should contact the Director before applying.

Students must take the AU Language Placement Exam and qualify in the most advanced level or provide proof of sufficient study in French. Upon review of the application package, students will be contacted for an interview in both English and French.

Once accepted to the program, the Program Director will issue the UPX application and other required forms.

When to Apply:

DEADLINE: Friday, January 29, 2010 at 5pm EST.

Application Package:

  1. 2011-2013 Paris Program Application
  2. Statement of Interest: Please provide a brief (no more than one page, single spaced) statement both in English and French detailing your objectives on pursuing the program and the reasons for applying.
  3. Current resume or CV
  4. Letter of Recommendation: Please include a letter from a professional or academic reference. No relatives.
  5. Updated WCL academic transcripts.
  6. Proof of French proficiency:
    • Students with undergraduate or graduate studies in a French speaking country must show the certificate or degree obtained within the last five years.
    • Students with French majors (in the US) must show their undergraduate transcripts and a copy of their degree.
    • Students who are not in the conditions mentioned above may be required to take a French proficiency exam through the Language Department at AU. Students must test into the highest level.

Submit Applications to:

International JD Dual Degree Programs
American University Washington College of Law
4801 Massachusetts Ave, NW, Office of the Dean
Washington, DC 20016
intdualdegree@wcl.american.edu / Fax: 202-274-4005

Students with special needs must contact the Program Director prior to applying to the program.

 

 
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