Experiential Learning at the Law School
Transforming legal education through hands-on training, real client work, and professional advocacy.
From Classroom to Courtroom: Real-World Law in Action
At the University of Mississippi School of Law, learning goes far beyond the textbook. Our renowned experiential programs—ranging from in-house clinics and immersive externships to championship-winning advocacy teams—give students the chance to work alongside licensed attorneys and represent real clients. By tackling real-world cases before graduation, our students build the confidence, skills, and professional readiness to step seamlessly into their legal careers.
Championing Student Advocacy
The School of Law promotes interscholastic competitions by allowing all student groups to seek funding for advocacy efforts. For more information, contact our director of advocacy programs, Matthew Hall.
Matthew Russell Hall
Associate Professor of Law and Jesse D Puckett Jr Lecturer
Skill Session
The Session is a two-week long professional skills training program. Students can take a 3-credit course focused not on substantive doctrine, but on the performance of lawyering tasks – drafting transactional documents, arguing motions, interviewing clients, preparing expert witnesses, etc. The classes meet four to five hours per day for ten days.
All 1Ls are required to take Contract Negotiation and Drafting. Upperclassman have the option to take a class during the Skill Session and can choose from the courses that are offered.
Advocacy Programs
Ole Miss Law’s nationally recognized advocacy programs, including Moot Court, Trial Advocacy, and Negotiation, provide students with opportunities to compete at the highest levels. Through rigorous training and national competitions, students sharpen their oral advocacy, litigation, and negotiation skills. These programs cultivate confidence, professionalism, and a spirit of excellence in future lawyers.
Externship Programs
The Externship Program allows second- and third-year students to earn academic credit while gaining real-world experience in public service, government, or judicial placements. Working alongside licensed attorneys, externs apply classroom learning to practical legal work while serving diverse communities. With placements across Mississippi and beyond, the program prepares students for seamless entry into their professional careers.