Zero-L by Harvard Law School
As you prepare to begin your studies at UB School of Law, we’re pleased to offer you access to Zero-L, an innovative online program developed by Harvard Law School. Zero-L is designed to help incoming students transition smoothly into law school by introducing key concepts and foundational skills essential for academic success.
What is Zero-L?
Zero-L features concise video lessons and interactive materials covering:
- An overview of the U.S. legal system
- How to read and interpret cases and statutes
- Introductions to core 1L subjects
- Insights into the legal profession and foundational legal theory
The program also includes periodic comprehension checks—ungraded exercises that reinforce your understanding of the material. The goal is to familiarize incoming law students with the expectations and assumptions they'll encounter in law school.
Enrollment
Students will be automatically enrolled in Zero-L by the law school. Please do not register for the course as an “individual learner.” Additional details regarding course enrollment will be shared with students by July 1.
Participation Requirements
All incoming law students are encouraged to complete Zero-L. However, for some students, successful completion is a condition of admission. Please refer to your admission email to determine whether this requirement applies to you.
Zero-L is such a useful and energizing program. When you walk into your first law school class assured that you are prepared, ready for the challenges your professor will lay down, and excited to know about the range of opportunities that will be available to you in law school and beyond, you will feel confident knowing that you are on track for success."
- Assistant Dean for Academic & Bar Success, William MacDonald
Completion Deadline
Students for whom Zero-L is a condition of admission must complete all modules by Friday, August 8th. All other participants are strongly encouraged to complete the modules by the same date.
- Module 1: Introduction to Law and the Legal Profession
- Module 2: Structure of U.S. Government and Law
- Module 3: How to Read a Case
- Module 4: Common Law and Statutory Interpretation
- Module 5: A Preview of 1L Courses
- Module 6: Legal Education and Career Paths
- Module 7: Legal Theory and Thinking Like a Lawyer
- Module 8: Preparing for the First Weeks of Law School
Students will retain access throughout their first year and are encouraged to revisit the content as needed.
Questions?
Please contact Professor William MacDonald, Assistant Dean for Academic and Bar Support, at wmacdona@buffalo.edu.