The University of Colorado Law School has a proud tradition as a leader in the field of natural resources law, and it consistently ranks among the best programs in that field. The environmental, natural resources and energy law certificate recognizes the strength of the law school's natural resources program by affording law students the opportunity to design an educational program that provides a solid foundation in natural resources law, even while ensuring that they receive a well-rounded legal education. The certificate also offers prospective employers evidence of a student's interest and commitment to the study of natural resources law.

Requirements

At least 92 total credit hours in law school courses or in graduate-level courses approved for the certificate program by the Dean's Office, in consultation with the environmental, natural resources and energy law certificate advisor.

A student who satisfies all of the course requirements for the environmental, natural resources and energy law certificate will be awarded the certificate with honors if the student earned an average of at least an A- for classes designated by the student that satisfy the requirements for the certificate. A grade of C is required for all certificate courses to count towards completion.

At least 18 credit hours in natural resources law and policy courses, in addition to administrative law, as set forth below.

Required Courses and Credits

Required Courses
LAWS 7205Administrative Law3
LAWS 8112Seminar: Advanced Natural Resources Law (or any other natural resources law-related seminar approved by the Program Advisor for the Environmental, Natural Resources, and Energy Law Certificate.)2-3
Electives
Choose at least three of the following:9
Environmental Law
Foundations of American Natural Resources Law
Energy Law and Regulation
Public Land Law
Water Resources
Choose at least two of the following:6
Climate Change Law and Policy
Mining and Mineral Development Law
Energy, Insecurity, Sustainable Law
Seminar: Oil and International Relations
Oil and Gas
Environmental Litigation
International Environmental Law
The Law of Toxic and Hazardous Wastes
Wildlife and the Law
Land Use Planning
Natural Resources and Environmental Law Clinic
Journal: CO Natural Resources, Energy & Environmental Law Review
Extern Program (externship with Natural Resources law focus)
Any environmental, natural resources, or energy-related course in a non-law department (e.g. ENVS) approved for the certificate program by the Certificate Advisor.
Optional fourth and/or fifth course from the first set of elective courses (under "choose at least three" above).
Total Credit Hours20-21