Areas of Focus

Public Interest Law and Policy

Our robust program in public interest law and policy provides the training, skills and opportunities for students to become leaders in public service and social justice.

The robust and dynamic public interest community at UCLA Law is sustained by passionate students and world-class faculty and staff dedicated to supporting students’ public interest and public service career goals. 

UCLA Law is proud to be a public law school with a deep commitment to public interest and public service. This commitment is supported and sustained by the Public Interest Law and Policy Program, which houses the Office of Public Interest Counseling, the Judge Rand Schrader Pro Bono Program, and the prestigious and competitive David J. Epstein Specialization Program in Public Interest Law and Policy.  

Our commitment is found in every facet of student life. There are numerous cutting-edge academic courses, including an excellent clinical education and externship program, taught by faculty with deep expertise in major social issues, including immigration, the criminal justice system, environmental law, and international human rights. All students can access public interest career counseling, academic advising, and other programs organized by the Office of Public Interest Career Services. As early as their first year, UCLA Law students can participate in volunteer opportunities through the Schrader Pro Bono Program. UCLA Law provides direct financial support for students pursuing public interest careers with a generous post-graduate loan repayment program, summer public interest stipends, and post-graduate fellowships. 

For students who are interested in delving deeply into public interest lawyering with a curricular focus, the Epstein Specialization Program in Public Interest Law and Policy provides specific classes, faculty and alumni mentorship programs, and community-building events designed to educate, train, and nurture the next generation of visionary public interest lawyers.  

Centers of Excellence
Centers of Excellence

David J. Epstein Program in Public Interest Law & Policy

The David J. Epstein Program in Public Interest Law and Policy believes a more just world is possible and supports students and alumni in pursuit of that goal.

Learn More
Centers of Excellence

Schrader Pro Bono Program

The Judge Rand Schrader Pro Bono Program supports a vibrant pro bono culture at UCLA School of Law.

Learn More
News
See All
Jun 26, 2025

Gary Blasi discusses homelessness with the LA Daily News

Read More
Jun 23, 2025

Joanna Schwartz is quoted by the Austin American-Statesman about lawsuits over police misconduct

Read More