Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Health Law Externship Program?

The Health Law Externship Program (HLEP) is a one semester program where students work between 12-20 hours per week at a biotech, government, non-profit, or public interest health advocacy or health care organization performing legal work.  Through the externship, students are exposed to the realities of health law practice while under the supervision of experienced practitioners at the placement organization.

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Do I need to have an offer from an organization to apply for the HLEP?

No.  Students find placements after being accepted into the program.  Some students apply to the program with a clear idea where they want to work.  Others do not.  We encourage all students to apply.  Mr. Ben Moulton, director of the HLEP, has valuable resources for helping students select what organizations they will apply to, and he is happy to make an appointment with you to discuss what organizations might be a good fit for you. We also encourage you to make an appointment with the CDO to discuss how the HLEP can support your career plans and make you a valuable job candidate.

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Is there a classroom component to the HLEP?

Yes. Students participate in a weekly seminar examining legal practice in the context of representing a health law organization. Guest lecturers will discuss emerging issues in health law practice.

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How many students are accepted to the HLEP?

This is a new externship program. About 6 students are accepted into the HLEP each semester.

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I am not in the top of my class, will that affect my chances of being selected for the HLEP?

No. Students are selected at random, with preference given to 3Ls. However, you must satisfy the health course requirement before you apply (see below).

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How many credits do I receive for the HLEP?

You will receive between 4-6 credits total (3-5 pass/fail credits for the fieldwork depending on how many hours you work, and 1 graded credits for the seminar).  The seminar grade is based on seminar participation, a final paper, and weekly journals documenting students' externship experiences.

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Does the HLEP count toward a concentration?

Yes. The HLEP counts toward the Concentration in Health Law. Litigation based placements count towards the Concentration in Litigation and Dispute Resolution.

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Are there any prerequisites for the HLEP?

Yes. Applicants must have completed the health law course at either BU Law or the School of Public Health.

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How do I apply for the HLEP?

Students apply through the on-line application system which will be available on the Clinical Programs website following the Clinical Programs Open House, which occurs in the beginning of April each year.  Applications will be due at the end of April, 2010 for participation in the 2009-2010 academic year.

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How do I receive more information about the HLEP?

You are also welcome to contact the course director, Mr. Ben Moulton, at bwmoulton@gmail.com.

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