Learning Outcomes for the University of San Diego School of Law

Upon graduation from the University of San Diego School of Law, students will be expected to demonstrate the following legal competencies:

  1. Doctrinal skills. Knowledge of core substantive and procedural legal doctrines, as well as of the specialized legal doctrines relevant to their chosen areas of practice.
  2. Analytical skills. Critical reasoning and problem solving skills, including how to identify legal issues, do legal research, apply the relevant law to the facts, and effectively analyze each aspect of a case or matter.
  3. Ethical and professional skills. Understanding of how to be ethical and responsible attorneys, conduct themselves in a professional manner, and fulfill their obligations to clients and society.
  4. Communication skills. Written and oral communications skills appropriate in the legal context and effective for the intended audience.  
  5. Practice skills. Practical and managerial skills relevant to their chosen areas of practice.