Preparing for life outside the classroom

At Washburn Law, career planning is an integral part of your education. Our supportive environment is designed to help you achieve your ultimate goals: passing the bar and finding a fulfilling job. We understand the balance of mastering legal principles while preparing for your professional future. Our comprehensive support ensures that you’re well-equipped for success in both areas.
Achieving your career goals
Reaching your career goals starts with a strong curriculum focused on learning legal principles and gaining practical skills. From there, you'll take the next steps by working with our Professional Development Office to enhance your resume and cover letter, find and land summer positions and eventually landing your dream post-graduate employment.

On campus interviews

Our on-campus interviews, or OCI, program brings potential employers directly to you twice a year. Through OCI, you can find your first-year summer legal job, placements while you're in law school and even your first job outside of your legal studies.
Law students shake hands.

Post-graduate fellowship program

Our unique post-graduate fellowship program offers valuable experience right after graduation. This program is designed to give you a competitive edge as you transition into your professional career.
Two law students chat in the lobby.

Preparing for the bar exam

Passing the bar exam is a pivotal step in your legal career. Washburn Law partners with BARBRI, the leading bar prep company, to provide you with top-notch preparation. Our comprehensive program supports you from your first day of law school, ensuring you’re ready to succeed on exam day.

Career advice every step of the way

A student talks with a professor about career..

The Professional Development Office at Washburn Law offers a wealth of resources to both students and alumni. The office serves as a central hub for information on legal employment and postgraduate opportunities. Throughout the year, they provide workshops where you can learn about different legal careers and tips for navigating applications and interviews. They also provide access to Symplicity, where you can search for employment opportunities and access numerous career resources. 

For students, the PDO can help with:

  • assessing career goals
  • exploring various legal career paths and
  • transitioning into professional roles.

For alumni, the PDO provides assistance in

  • identifying career strengths and interests,
  • exploring alternative career paths and
  • evaluating options during career transitions.
Whether you are needing help with document preparation and job search skill development or you'd like individual counseling to determine the next steps in landing your dream job, Washburn Law's PDO has you covered.

Practical training at Washburn Law

Getting the hands-on experience you need
A student talks with a professor about a clinic case.

Washburn Law’s curriculum is renowned for its practical training, giving you a significant advantage with prospective employers.

You’ll participate in a broad range of hands-on learning opportunities that let you explore different career paths and learn about the practice of law. These opportunities include our legal clinics, competition teams, and externships, where you’ll improve your research, writing, and analysis skills. They also help you develop a deeper understanding of various legal issues and the types of challenges that arise daily.

Participating in these experiences gives you the ability to discuss substantive legal topics knowledgeably with potential employers. And in our externship program, this can even lead to paid internships and permanent post-graduate positions with the supervising agency or company. These real-world experiences are crucial in preparing you to be practice-ready upon graduation, all within a supportive environment designed for your success.

Contact PDO

Robert J. Dole Hall
Room 104
785.670.1185
info@washburnlaw.edu
1700 SW College Ave.
Topeka, KS 66621