Sustainable International Development LL.M. Indigenous Rights Law Concentration

Sustainable International Development LL.M. and M.J. degrees

Drawing upon the strength of the University of Washington School of Law's Native American Law Center, the Graduate Program in Sustainable International Development (SID) offers concentration tracks in Indigenous Rights Law in both its Master of Laws (LL.M.) and Master of Jurisprudence (M.J.) programs. This allows students with a particular interest in Indigenous Rights and Native (first peoples) issues to avail themselves of the rich curricular offerings available at the law school.

Through a hands-on approach, the Sustainable International Development program provides lawyers with the tools to promote social change and promote a sustainable future for people and the planet. Withing the Sustainable International Development program, the Indigenous Rights concentration track has a robust course curriculum focusing on four key areas:

• Rights of Indigenous peoples and communities
• Indigenous economic development
• Rule of law and human rights
• Environmental and natural resource protection

Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Sustainable International Development – Indigenous Rights Concentration Track Curriculum

Required Courses

• American Indian Law
• Indigenous Economic Development & The Law
• Indigenous Governance Law
• American Legal System and Method (for students who received their first degree in law from a jurisdiction outside of the U.S.)

Sample Required Elective & Elective Courses

• Administrative Law
• Law & Sustainable International Development
• Leadership in Sustainability Colloquium
• Legal Problems of Economic Development Seminar
• Environmental Law
• International Environmental Law*
• International Protection of Human Rights
• International Law
• Natural Resources Law
• Tribal Court Clinic**
• Water Law
• Wildlife Law Seminar
• Women, Poverty & Natural Resources Management*
• Global Development Policy Workshop*
• International Human Rights Advocacy Seminar

*When offered

** Requires application and admission

Please note that required and elective courses for LL.M. students may vary depending on each individual student’s academic and professional background and goals.  The LL.M. requires a total of 40 credits.  Concurrent UW Law J.D. students can count 12 credits toward both degrees, so the LL.M requires an additional 28 credits.

Master of Jurisprudence (M.J.) Degree in Sustainable International Development — Indigenous Rights Concentration Track Curriculum

Foundational Courses: 12–14 credits

• LAW B 505 Introduction to American Law Master of Jurisprudence | Autumn Quarter | 5 Credits
• LAW B 550 American Legal System and Method | Autumn Quarter | 4-6 credits (6 credits with Summer Transnational Institute)
• LAW A 599 Legal Research Methods | Winter Quarter | 3 credits
• One independent major research paper (can be done through a seminar or through Independent Study credits)

Sample Specialty Courses: 31–33 credits

Testimonials

“Working closely with dedicated and knowledgeable faculty, I have learned about the relevant legal framework, as well as critical thinking, analysis and writing skills. I have also learned about myself and my people and have learned to advocate for my people in new ways.”

CHRISTINA LAIGO

M.J., Sustainable International Development, 2018
Enrolled Citizen, Sioux Tribe, Lake Traverse Reservation, Sisseton-Wahpeton, South Dakota

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“The attention and mentorship I received have been pivotal to my success and have helped launch my career as an advocate for Native nations and citizens. Through focused coursework and research on Federal Indian law, I gained knowledge that I am using to serve tribal citizens.”

ANTHONY ARONICA

J.D. 2018, Sustainable Development LL.M. expected 2019
Enrolled Citizen, Confederated Tribes and Bands of Yakama Nation
Legal Fellow, Yakama Nation’s Office of Legal Counsel

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“In the Sustainable Development program, there were people from every continent, and I think that we have formed bonds that are going to last well into the future. The benefits of the experience are going to follow me for the rest of my life. ”

FRANKEY BAIN

Australia, Sustainable Development LL.M. 2017
Senior Community Lawyer, Fitzroy Legal Service, Neighbourhood Justice Centre, Australia