Visiting International Researchers (VIR)

The Visiting International Researcher (VIR) program at Wake Forest Law offers scholars from around the world the unique opportunity to engage in advanced legal research, collaborate with expert faculty, and integrate into the academic community. 

The Visiting International Researcher (VIR) program at Wake Forest Law offers scholars from around the world the unique opportunity to engage in advanced legal research, collaborate with expert faculty, and integrate into the academic community. 

Specifically designed for international lawyers, professionals, and PhD students who seek to deepen their knowledge of international and US law, VIRs have access to numerous resources and support. VIRs can audit courses, access Wake Forest’s extensive library system and research databases like Westlaw and Lexis, and consult with professors who are experts in their fields. VIRs use their time in the program to complete research for dissertations, bolster curricula vitae, prepare dissertation proposals, and benefit their current positions.

Program Structure

Participants pay a non-matriculation program fee based on the length of their visit. They do not earn a degree, but can receive certification of their participation in the program, including proof of courses audited. Participants receive no compensation and are not eligible for employment or financial aid. 

Once accepted for a visit, each VIR is responsible for making all travel and living arrangements related to the visit. The Wake Forest University Center for Immigration Services and Support provides assistance with the visa process and the Graduate Programs Manager can provide information about finding accommodations in Winston-Salem.

The VIR program provides international lawyers and legal scholars the opportunity to pursue legal studies and research at Wake Forest University School of Law for up to one year, but the typical duration is one semester. Longer or shorter visits may be arranged under reasonable circumstances. 

Researchers are provided a reserved library carrel for research purposes, subject to availability.

Requirements

Visiting International Researchers are typically required to audit at least one class of their choice per semester, though they may choose up to a maximum of two courses unless circumstances warrant a heavier course load. Though auditors are not tested, required to write papers, or given grades or credits for these courses, they will be required to abide by the instructor’s attendance policy. Classes typically meet 2-3 times per week on campus. 

It is the expectation of Wake Forest University School of Law that each Visiting International Researcher will actively participate in the program through consistent attendance in all audited courses, frequent visits to campus to utilize available resources, and timely response to all communications. Students who fail to fulfill the expectations of the program may be subject to dismissal.