Mitchell Hamline is able to accommodate a limited number of visiting scholars each year to engage in significant independent legal research projects. Visiting scholars may apply or occasionally Mitchell Hamline will invite candidates to become visiting scholars.
Application process
Prospective visiting scholars must first submit an application. The application process includes the following:
- Resume/C.V. showing education and professional background.
- Personal statement, in English, of 500 to 1,000 words a) describing previous law study and professional experience; b) outlining the research and study plans for the scholarship; c) reasons for choosing Mitchell Hamline; and d) any other relevant information.
- One letter of recommendation focused on academic ability, scholarship potential, motivation and self-discipline, and personal knowledge of the candidate’s academic or professional qualifications.
- Any necessary information required for VISA processing or other governmental approval (upon admission). This could include original financial documents that show sufficient funds for the cost of living expenses connected to the program. We will send additional information concerning the financial information once you are admitted to the program.
- Visiting Scholar Application
Request an application from Ann.Gemmell @mitchellhamline.edu.
All applicants accepted into the visiting scholars program are considered “in residence” scholars and are expected to conduct their proposed research at Mitchell Hamline and not be enrolled in other academic programs. Completed applications may be e-mailed to the address below or mailed to:
Mitchell Hamline School of Law Visiting Scholar Program
Attn: Ann L. Gemmell
875 Summit Avenue
St. Paul, MN 55105 USA
Phone: 651-695-7601
Fax: 651-290-6414
The number of applications may exceed the number of scholars Mitchell Hamline can accommodate. A faculty committee reviews each application and takes into account each applicant’s academic background, research interests, scholarly achievements and English-language proficiency. The committee normally makes its decisions shortly after the application deadline.
Research
Visiting scholars have access to a wealth of research services on the Mitchell Hamline campus. Most important, they have full use of the law library’s extensive collection of legal material, which includes U.S. and other common law jurisdictions as well as the law of jurisdictions of the world, and an extensive collection of international and comparative law. Visiting scholars may use the library any time the library is open. They may borrow any regularly circulating material from the law library.
Due to space and budget restrictions, Mitchell Hamline cannot guarantee offices or library carrels for visiting scholars.
Visiting scholars may be able to consult with law school faculty members in their specialized field of study, and they may audit law school classes with the professor’s permission. Be aware, however, that academic credit is not given for audited courses.
Financial aid
The law school does not have funds to assist visiting scholars with their living expenses, travel costs, or any other financial matters. Visiting scholars are responsible for all of their expenses associated with the program.