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

Chanae Humes

Chanae spent her internship in New York with corporate firm Spears & Imes LLP. She worked on cases relating to securities enforcement and contractual disputes, and also contributed to a drug and tax fraud case.

"As well as the legal experience, it's important to emphasise that I was able to embrace another culture and lifestyle. Spears & Imes LLP was not only amazing for the experience the firm gave me with regards to my legal skills, but they ensured I enjoyed my time in ‘the city that never sleeps.’ From authentic Japanese food to the best French mac and cheese New York could offer, everyone took me to best restaurants, recommended the top places, introduced me to the New York addiction of iced coffee and made me feel at home from my very first day."

"My experience in New York is one I will never forget. It has already made an impact on my legal career with a result of further opportunities gained and increased my desire to obtain a job in the legal profession. I have now completed one of my lifetime goals thanks to the opportunity Birmingham City University offers to their students."

Lorna Arnold

Lorna Arnold was placed at the Arizona Justice Project for her internship, an organisation which helps inmates overturn wrongful convictions.

During her time at the Justice Project, Lorna undertook a variety of tasks. These ranged from attending a conference to carrying out research on my own assigned case. She made legal calls with the inmate, and also accompanied two volunteers on a visit to prison to see an inmate.

"I would definitely recommend a student to undertake the internship programme. In addition to me gaining many unique and useful skills which I know I will use within University and later on in life, the experience is rewarding, fun and is an amazing opportunity to work in a legal environment and contribute to a case."

Radha Chauhan

Radha worked at a Judge's Chambers in Chicago during her internship. She specialised in Mechanics Liens - an area of law relating to the security interest in the title to property for the benefit of those who have supplied labour or materials to improve the property.

"My internship will have a lasting effect on me. It has refined my research and analytical skills, given me the confidence to engage with legal professionals and has improved my oral and written communication. It has also broadened my horizons as I had the opportunity to live and work in a different country and I have gained first-hand experience in the largest legal system. It was a challenging and unique experience; however it has confirmed my desire for a career in law and has shown me that I am capable of achieving it."

How to apply

Take a look at our Law courses