Study Abroad

The United States’ legal system is based on common law, but did you know that most countries use a civil law system, or that some base their legal system on religious law? There is no better way to understand American law than to contrast it with the law from a different country and culture. In an increasingly global, interconnected world, learning about other legal frameworks not only enhances understanding of our own legal system, but helps to promote a more cohesive global community. 

Wake Forest Law offers summer study abroad opportunities in London, Venice, and Vienna for course credit. In addition, we also offer a Micro-Trade Clinic in Nicaragua during the winter break each year. Studying abroad can help enhance resumes and differentiate students to potential employers.

Each summer abroad program runs for four weeks during the summer—London in May/June, and Vienna or Venice in July. The locations alternate each year between these options. In 2025, the summer abroad program will take place in Venice (July 7-31). Our overseas law programs introduce students to various topics of comparative and international law, depending on the expertise of the Wake Forest Law professors who teach in the program. The London program focuses on the history of the common law as well. European law students also attend the programs in Venice and Vienna.

Why Participate in Study Abroad?

Study Abroad provide significant cultural and educational advantages for our JD students. In addition to immersion in the legal culture of a foreign country, students have the opportunity to develop relationships with foreign legal professionals.

Upon completion of the summer study abroad program, students will:

1. Demonstrate basic familiarity with a body of law taught in a foreign country
2. Understand comparative approaches to law
3. Distinguish the business and social environment of a foreign country from their home country
4. Distinguish the cultural expectations of the placement country from their home country

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