American Internship Programme

BCU has one of the UK’s longest-running student internship programmes in the USA.Each year, we prepare students for remote and in-person internships with organisations working across US legal practice.Our host organisations include public defenders, private attorneys, law schools and death penalty defence charities, with locations including New York, Texas and Arizona.

Undergraduate placements last for between six and eight weeks, and count as a fully accredited part of the LLB degree. 

Undergraduate internships typically last for between six and ten weeks, and count as a fully accredited part of the LLB degree. Every year our students are commended for their professionalism, compassion and excellent legal practice skills, and the School of Law and Social Sciences is proud not only of them but also the programme’s ability to unleash this potential.

The internship programme provides a unique opportunity for students to excel as academics and potential practitioners, by providing an environment where they can put their legal knowledge into practice and simultaneously experience the dynamics of real life in the legal profession and practicing in an international context. It is a priceless addition to any CV.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can participate in this opportunity?

Eligible undergraduate students can select the Law in Practice International module as an option during the third year of their degree. To be eligible, students must have achieved an average mark of 60% or above across Years 1 and 2 of their studies.

The module is a fully accredited part of the LLB degree, meaning the internship forms an integrated part of your undergraduate programme.

When will I take part in the Programme?

Students undertake their internships during the summer at the end of their third year, typically between June and August.

If I am successful, how do I prepare for the internship?

The Law in Practice International module includes a comprehensive training programme designed to equip you with the knowledge, practical skills and professional confidence you need to thrive as an intern in a US legal environment. It is taught by experts who have experience of working and living in the USA.

You will also receive guidance on practical matters, including travel, accommodation, costs and other requirements for undertaking an international internship.

How much will it cost?

Students are responsible for self-financing their internship and associated costs. Based on recent student experiences and individual circumstances, we estimate that the total cost of an internship will typically be between £4,000 and £7,000.

What work will I be involved in?

All students undertake pro bono internships, contributing their time and skills as a volunteer.

The experience varies depending on your host organisation, but activities may include:

• legal research and writing;
• drafting legal documents;
• analysing case files and evidence;
• meeting and communicating with clients;
• attending court proceedings;
• participating in prison visits;
• assisting with case preparation; and
• attending professional events, conferences and meetings.

What will I get out of it?

The programme provides invaluable first-hand experience of legal practice in an international context, giving you the opportunity to apply your legal knowledge to real-world cases and professional challenges.

You will develop a wide range of transferable and employability skills, including legal research and analysis, written and oral communication, problem-solving, teamwork, professional judgement, client communication, adaptability and working independently. You will also gain experience of working across different legal and professional cultures — an experience that can help you stand out to future employers.

Where do our students go?

Since the 1990s, BCU students have undertaken internships across the USA, including in Arizona, Texas, Illinois, New York, Washington DC, Idaho, Oklahoma, Florida and California.

Our host organisations have included public defenders, innocence projects, private attorneys, libraries, law schools and charitable organisations.

Testimonials

Maja Markowska

I spent my summer interning at the Public Defender’s Office in Phoenix, Arizona, and it was an incredible experience! I learnt a lot about the criminal justice system in the US and the work of a criminal defence attorney. I also developed new skills relevant to my future employment, and I am considering returning to the US to study a master’s degree!

Jake Wilson

Choosing to do the internship was the best choice I made during my time at BCU. I spent the summer working for the Maricopa Office of the Public Defender, and it was an experience I will value for the rest of my life. I was able to learn so much in such a short space of time, both about the legal world but also about myself. The opportunity also confirmed to me that I wish to pursue my ambition of living and working in the United States.

Georgia Lines

The summer I spent interning with the Arizona Justice Project was the best experience I have ever had the privilege of taking part in. I am grateful to BCU American Legal Practice for giving me the opportunity to experience the American legal system first-hand, work on real cases and learn from such passionate and inspiring legal professionals. It was an experience I will never forget and one that taught me so much, both personally and professionally. The experience confirmed my desire to pursue a legal career in the States and American Legal Practice has both prepared and inspired me to take the next step by undertaking a JD, to begin my legal career in America.

How to apply

Take a look at our Law courses