Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find course schedules and academic calendars?
The most current academic and exam calendars and course schedules will be found here.

How and when do I register for classes?
Registration dates, forms, and instructions can be found here.

For more information, contact Student Records Specialist Lori Richman or Dean Liz Battles.

Where can I find information about final exams?
Find information, rules, and procedures for Drake Law School final exams here.

Contact Dean Liz Battles for more information.

Where can I find information about Drake Law Certificate programs?
You will find a complete list of available certificate programs here. Students interested in completing a certificate program must submit a Certificate Notification Form.

Contact Krista Magill, Student Records Specialist, for more information.

I am interested in earning a master’s degree and JD at the same time. Where can I find more information about joint degree programs?
Drake Law School offers several joint degree programs in cooperation with other Drake University departments, Iowa State University, University of Iowa, and Des Moines University. Learn more here.

Professor Jeremy Kidd is the academic advisor for students pursuing a joint degree.

Who do I speak with if I have questions about academic advising?
Each student is assigned an academic advisor. Your academic advisor's name and contact information can be found on myDrake. For more information, email law.advising@drake.edu.

Additional advising contacts:
3+3 students - Dean Liz Battles 
COP students - Dean Erin Lain 
International students - Professor Ellen Yee 
Joint degree programs - Professor Jeremy Kidd
Students on Special Academic or Probation status - Dean Liz Battles 
Transfer students - Dean Liz Battles 

FACILITIES

How do I reserve a room in Cartwright Hall?
To reserve a room in Cartwright Hall or Opperman LL19, submit a request via Virtual EMS.

Where can I find more information about Drake Law facilities?
Questions about facility usage can be directed to Lori Richman or Emily Fleming. 

Am I eligible for academic support services?
Drake Law offers individual academic support to all first, second and third year students, as well as recent graduates taking the bar exam. Everyone needs help sometimes, whether it’s learning how to read a case, improving exam writing skills, or finding balance in time management. There are no requirements for GPA, rank, or year of study.

What kind of academic support is available to law students?
Drake Law offers individual academic support in topic areas including study skills, time management, practice exams, exam writing, etc.

All first-year students participate in the Integrated Study Groups (ISG) program. ISG is an interactive program that focuses on helping first-year students develop the reading, synthesizing, and analytical skills necessary for success in law school and practicing law. ISG strives to foster students’ professional identity, including meaningful connections with other law students and sustainable wellbeing practices.

In addition, the Academic Success team holds programs throughout the year on subjects ranging from exam preparation to mindfulness.

Contact Liz Battles, Director of Academic Success Programs, for more information.

What mental health support is available to law students?
Law School is stressful, and life can throw you curves. Drake Law provides a variety of services and resources to support your mental health and well-being. 

The Drake Law Library faculty have assembled a complete guide to managing stress, finding help, and succeeding in law school. Find it here. 

For information and referrals to services, contact Dean Liz Battles.

Drake Law students have a designated counselor at the Drake University's Counseling Center.

Uwill provides telehealth therapy, a 24/7/365 crisis hotline (833.646.1526), and various wellness resources and videos (i.e., improving sleep, stress management, self-esteem and MORE). Register or log in here.

** If you are in crisis and need to speak with a licensed counselor immediately, contact the helpline at 833.646.1526.

Does the Law School provide any emergency financial support?
The Drake Law Women Emergency Fund is available to students who encounter unexpected financial stress or need. Find application information here.

For more information contact Dean Liz Battles.

How can I learn more about academic accommodations related to disability?
ADA (American with Disabilities Act) accommodations are arranged through Drake University Access and Success. Final arrangements must be approved by Access and Success Director Michelle Laughlin, and must be made two weeks before the beginning of the final examination period or a midterm. 

Contact Dean Liz Battles for more information and to initiate the approval process.

Does Drake Law provide any support or information about the bar exam?
Find information about the bar exam, requirements, and applications here.

For more information about bar exam registration, contact Career Development Office Director Carole Tillotson.
For information about support services available to recent alumni preparing to take the bar exam, contact Liz Battles.

Where can I find information about student organizations?
You will find a complete list of student organizations with contact information here.

Can I start a new student organization at the Law School?
Yes! If you are interested in forming a new organization contact Dean Liz Battles.

Where do I go for support with technology issues?
Drake Information Technology Services (ITS) supports the innovative use of technology to enhance the experience for students, faculty, and staff in support of Drake’s mission. ITS uses a ticket system for reporting issues and requesting assistance.
Click here to open a support ticket.

How do I access podcasts of classes I am enrolled in?
Drake Law School uses Panopto to record and post podcasts for courses and public lectures. Find information about accessing your class podcasts here.

For more information, contact Kristi Longtin or Dean Liz Battles.