How Law Schools Are Fighting Automation
Nearly 23% of law work can be automated by existing technology, a new study finds.
The study by McKinsey analyzed the work activities for over 750 occupations in the US and estimated the percentage of time that could be automated by current technology.
But how exactly are law schools trying to stay ahead of the curve? CNBC recently explored how law schools are addressing the changing workforce.
LOWER COSTS
One way law schools are trying to attract talent is by lowering the cost of the degree.
Back in December, the UCLA School of Law announced it would start a new master of legal studies degree. The degree can be completed in just one year and costs a fraction of what a law degree would cost.
It’s a unique way to meet demand for law especially for those who don’t necessarily plan to practice traditional law.
“We created the M.L.S. program to better serve professionals, entrepreneurs and nonprofit leaders,” Jennifer Mnookin, dean of the law school, said in a press release. “As one of the top law schools in country, we are continually looking for ways to use the phenomenal strength of our school to give people the tools to succeed. While demand for traditional law degrees has been increasing, we also are seeing demand for professionals across several industries to acquire greater fluency with the law.”
INCREASING VALUE
Another way law schools are innovating is in how they position the value of the degree.
To ensure students are ready to enter a tech-dominated workforce, the W. P. Carey Foundation made a $125 million gift to the University of Pennsylvania’s Law School back in November, the largest gift in school history.
In addition to increasing financial aid and expanding pro bono programs, the gift will also help fund the launch of the Future of the Profession Initiative, which aims to examine “new ways law schools can adopt a holistic vision for the formation of lawyers.”
Check out other innovative ways law schools are staying ahead of the curve here.
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