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Connecting education to practice

Washburn Law’s Externship Program offers students a remarkable opportunity to immerse themselves in real-world legal practice. Whether you’re passionate about family law, corporate law, criminal defense, or any other specialized field, our externship program provides diverse placements that cater to a wide range of interests. Externships allow students to gain invaluable hands-on experience, working on actual cases and issues, and developing practical skills that are essential for a successful legal career. By participating in our externship program, you’ll not only enhance your legal education but also build a professional network and gain a clearer understanding of the type of law you wish to pursue.

Why participate in an externship?

Student sitting at a couch studying.

Externships are a vital part of your legal education, offering numerous benefits that extend beyond the classroom. Here's why you should consider joining:

  • Practical Experience: Gain firsthand experience by working on real cases and legal issues, allowing you to apply what you've learned in class to actual practice.
  • Professional Development: Work alongside experienced legal professionals, learning from their expertise and gaining insights into the daily workings of the legal field.
  • Networking Opportunities: Build connections with practicing attorneys, judges, and other legal professionals who can serve as mentors and references as you begin your career.
  • Career Exploration: Explore different areas of law to discover what truly interests you and identify the type of law you want to practice.
  • Skill Enhancement: Develop essential skills such as legal research, writing, and client interaction, which are crucial for your future success as an attorney.
Examples of past externships

Federal Agencies

  • U.S. District Court for the District of Kansas
  • National Labor Relations Board
  • Environmental Protection Agency
  • United States Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces

Public Interest

  • The Midwest Innocence Project
  • ACLU
  • Kansas Legal Services
  • Disability Rights Center

State Offices

  • Kansas Court of Tax Appeals
  • Kansas Department of Commerce
  • Kansas Corporation Commission Oil & Gas Conservation Division
  • Kansas Attorney General's Office

One-of-a-kind opportunities

Third Year Anywhere®

Starting in their final year, Washburn Law students can complete their education through the Third Year Anywhere® program. This innovative opportunity allows you to extern in the geographic area where you plan to practice after graduation, gaining significant practical experience and building a local professional network. Whether you aim to work in a corporate setting, government, higher education, judicial roles, law firms, or public interest, this program equips you with the skills and connections needed for a successful career.
Third Year Anywhere®

Rural externship program

Washburn Law’s Rural Externship Program, funded by a generous grant from the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, offers students an incredible opportunity to experience life and law practice in rural Kansas. This program aims to spark interest in rural legal careers by immersing students in the communities they serve. The program places students in one of the 26 counties supported by the Hansen Foundation in northwest Kansas. Participants can enroll in six credit hours of externship work during the summer, with the program covering full tuition costs. Additionally, students receive a $5,000 living stipend to cover travel, housing, and related expenses. This immersive experience involves partnering with practicing attorneys or judges, providing students with hands-on experience in rural legal practice.
Rural externship program