Advocating for a sustainable future

Washburn Law’s Natural Resources Law program equips you to navigate the intricate legal landscape of energy, environment, and natural resources. Whether you are passionate about environmental protection, resource management or energy policy, our program offers a comprehensive education and practical experience to prepare you for a successful career in this vital and dynamic field.

Why study natural resources law at Washburn?

Two students study next to a window in Dole Hall.

At Washburn Law, our Natural Resources Law program stands out for its exceptional curriculum, distinguished faculty and extensive hands-on learning opportunities. Here are some unique advantages of our program:

  • Expert faculty: Learn from nationally recognized faculty members with expertise in water law, oil and gas law and environmental regulation. Our professors are dedicated mentors, providing insights into the latest legal developments and practical skills.
  • Innovative curriculum: Our curriculum covers essential areas such as energy law, environmental protection, natural resource management and land use. This broad and deep approach ensures you gain a comprehensive understanding of the field.
  • Real-world experience: You will gain practical experience directly applicable to your future career. Our connections with prominent organizations provide valuable networking opportunities and real-world legal practice.
  • Supportive community: We offer resources and support tailored to law students, ensuring your success in a challenging academic environment. Our inclusive community is committed to your growth and professional development.
Curriculum designed to shape future experts

Our natural resources law curriculum is designed to provide you with a robust foundation in energy, environmental, and natural resource law. From the complexities of oil and gas law to the intricacies of water rights and environmental regulation, our courses offer a thorough grounding in both theory and practice.

Earning a certificate in natural resources law demonstrates your specialized knowledge and commitment to this critical area. This credential can enhance your resume, making you a more competitive candidate in the job market and providing a deeper understanding of environmental and resource issues.

Course of study

Required: Environmental Law and one of the following:

  • Public Land Law
  • Water Law 

Optional Courses: Choose 9 hours from any of these courses: 

  • Commercial Law
  • Administrative Law
  • Advanced Oil and Gas Law
  • Agricultural Law
  • Directed Research 
  • Energy Regulation
  • Environmental Regulation of the Oil and Gas Industry
  • Externship I
  • Externship II
  • Federal Indian Law 
  • Independent Readings in Natural Resources Law
  • Mineral Title Examination 
  • Mining Law
  • Natural Resources Law and Policy 
  • Oil and Gas Law
  • Public Land Law
  • Renewable Energy Law: Wind and Solar
  • Water, Environmental, and Regulatory Law lmpacting Agriculture
  • Water Law

Writing requirement

Students complete the upper level writing requirement (or equivalent writing project) on a pre-approved Natural Resources Law topic.

 

Our extensive course list allows you to tailor your education to your interests and career goals. Detailed descriptions of each of these courses, can be found in the academic catalog

  • Advanced Oil and Gas Law
  • Decedents’ Estates and Trusts, and Future Interests
  • Energy Regulation
  • Environmental Law
  • Environmental Regulation of the Oil and Gas Industry
  • Independent Readings in Natural Resources Law
  • Oil and Gas Law
  • Public Land Law
  • Real Estate Transactions
  • Rural Development Law
  • Water Rights
Extracurricular activities to strengthen your education

Student organizations

Join student organizations to build relationships with peers, develop leadership skills and deepen your understanding of natural resources law. Our active groups include:

  • Climate Action Group
  • Environmental Law Society
  • Oil, Gas, and Energy Law Society

Speakers & symposia

Engage with experts through our regular events and symposia through our Oil and Gas Law Center. These gatherings feature prominent speakers and cover cutting-edge topics in natural resources law, providing valuable insights and networking opportunities.

Externships

Gain practical experience through externships with a variety of organizations. Some past externships include:

  • Environmental Protection Agency
  • Kansas Department of Health and Environment