Groundbreaking Partnership with Syracuse University for LL.M. Students
撰文：黃喬暐
Syracuse University(SU) held an online LL.M. information session to introduce the partnership with the College of Law, National Chengchi University (NCCU Law) on 28th November, 2023.
The College of Law at NCCU is thrilled to announce a groundbreaking partnership that will enhance the educational experience for our law students. In collaboration with the College of Law at Syracuse University, one of the leading institutions in legal education, this strategic alliance aims to provide unparalleled opportunities for students pursuing advanced degrees.
Andrew S. Horsfall, Assistant Dean of international programs at SU College of Law, shared some details about the program with students and faculty. ‘The LL.M. program is two semesters, and enrolled students will be required to complete a minimum of 24 Law credits, which include 2 mandatory courses covering legal writing and the American legal system, totaling 6 credits.” explained Andrew. “There will be 80 elective subjects across various fields such as technology law, international trade law, etc. Students who enrolled in should complete a minimum of 9 credits per semester.”
SU Law has a curriculum called CASTLE designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of technology law. Students will have access to a broad range of courses taught by esteemed faculty members from the institutions. The CASTLE curriculum consists of a minimum of 12 credits, featuring a foundational course in entrepreneurship offered at the Martin J. Whitman School of Management and an applied capstone course provided at the College of Law through its Innovation Law Center (ILC). Participants in this certificate program can select from a variety of courses in areas such as intellectual property, patents, venture capital, and startup advising, among others.
Andrew, in response to a question posed by Prof. Te-Fang Chu, Professor of Law at NCCU, clarified, “This is a course-based degree, and there is no requirement for a thesis.” Later in the conference, Andrew provided a brief introduction to the English for Lawyer courses offered by the English Language Institute, which was established in 2013 and trained 100+ international students from 17 countries in the past 10 years. “They offer a 6-week legal English training program, exposing students to legal terminology and phrases, and the contextual background of the American legal system to enhance their textual communication abilities. The program provides 25 instructional hours per week. “Andrew continued. “We also invite guest speakers of judges and law professors to engage with participants. Additionally, a mock trial is conducted in a courtroom at the College of Law, Syracuse University, simulating a legal environment. “
The English Program will commence during the summer, aiding participants in acquiring legal English knowledge before the start of the new semester. “I believe it would be beneficial for all of you to come to Syracuse during the summer as you can take care of logistics such as housing and phone numbers before the semester begins. “suggested Andrew. “We anticipate having 30 to 40 students from 12 to 18 different countries registering for this Master of Law program, providing an opportunity for students to broaden their international perspectives. “
SU College of Law provides a wide range of student support. Each student will be assigned a peer student J.D. mentor and grouped with faculty members to help students adapt to campus life. College of Law offers career services for students, encompassing mock interviews, resume writing guidance, and cover letter workshops. Moreover, there are pro bono and volunteer programs available for students to engage in actual legal work. Most importantly, this program is approved by the New York State Board of Law examiners and we provide free bar review courses for graduates. “
At the end of the session, Yvonne Chen, assistant of International Cooperation at NCCU, College of Law shared the information of the LL.M. Program. SU College of Law will reserve up to 4 spaces for individuals from NCCU Law, undergraduate seniors and graduate students are eligible to apply. Participants can receive a fifty percent discount on tuition fees. Interested students are welcome to visit the NCCU Law website for more information or directly contact her to inquire about specific details.
Professor Te-Fang Chu encouraged law students can seize this opportunity to learn more about dynamic learning opportunities to enhance or expand their practice and skills.
For more information about the dual degree LL.M. program, please go to: https://www.law.nccu.edu.tw/zh_tw/International/DDPFA or contact Ms. Yvonne Chen at yvonne.c@nccu.edu.tw
