LLM Program
Welcome to Penn Carey Law
Dear Admitted Student,
Congratulations on your admission to Penn Carey Law’s LLM program!
Here at the Law School, we offer an in-depth curriculum, renowned faculty who are experts in their fields, and a comprehensive Pre-Term Program to give you a strong foundation in U.S. legal study.
Opportunities abound at Penn Carey Law: you can earn a certificate in law and business from the Wharton School, serve real-life clients through our clinical programs, or do pro bono work through our public interest center.
And, most importantly, the Law School’s collegial and collaborative community will be there to support you with a network of colleagues and mentors that will last a lifetime.
This publication includes details about our curriculum, our programs, and life in Philadelphia. Please take the time to review this information, and don’t hesitate to contact our Office of Graduate Programs if you have any questions.
Once again, I offer my deepest congratulations, and welcome to Penn Carey Law!
Sincerely,
Ted Ruger
Dean and Bernard G. Segal Professor of Law
Dear Admitted Student,
We are excited to welcome you into the Penn Carey Law LLM community!
At Penn Carey Law, you will join a class of exceptionally diverse and talented lawyers from around the world who seek to broaden their knowledge of the law and explore a vast array of topics ranging from business to human rights.
Philadelphia is the perfect place to advance your legal education. The birthplace of the United States, Philadelphia is a hub of history, culture, and innovation, as well as one of the most affordable, livable, and vibrant major city in the United States. Founded by Benjamin Franklin in 1740, the University of Pennsylvania is one of the nation’s first universities and is a charter member of the Ivy League. The University and Law School continue as world leaders in academic scholarship and interdisciplinary study.
Please don’t hesitate to contact me if you have any questions about the program, and congratulations on your admission!
Sincerely,
Elise Luce Kraemer L’93
Executive Director of Graduate Programs
Collegial
Community
Penn Carey Law creates a supportive and inclusive environment where collaboration and teamwork are vital. We appreciate diversity and are willing to engage colleagues and faculty in ways that respect and celebrate the many differences that appear in a community as rich in ideas and backgrounds as Penn Carey Law.
LLM students are an integral part of a community that encourages taking intellectual risks. Our belief is that students who learn the law in an encouraging and supportive environment make exceptional leaders.
“The class spirit we were able to build exceeded my expectations. My classmates were all fantastic individuals, and we got along extremely well with impressive ease. The small size of the class was a decisive element and allowed us to discover each other quickly.”
— Marc Diab Maalouf LLM, France
“Our LLM friends here bring so much to the Penn Carey Law community. So much culture. So much experience. So much knowledge. Most of my LLM classmates already have experience in the law, so being able to be in a classroom alongside that experience is amazing.”
— Jamil A. Favors JD
Wharton Business and Law Certificate (WBLC)
“The Wharton Certificate program enabled me to develop very valuable business skills in a unique and stimulating environment. The experience gained will be useful in the future.”
— Philipp Ersfeld LLM, Germany
The practice of law requires superior preparation in conventional areas of legal education and the diverse disciplines intersecting with the law. Wharton Executive Education and the Law School have joined forces to offer the WBLC for students enrolled in Penn Carey Law’s LLM program. The WBLC program is ideally suited for internationally trained attorneys who seek to develop the business skills needed to compete in today’s complex legal environment.
“The Wharton Business & Law Certificate Program offers LLM students the opportunity to learn strategic management, finance, mergers & acquisitions, and private equity from a managerial perspective. Wharton experts guide students through the way in which companies and investors think about basic business subjects in a way that complements their legal education.”
— Mauro Guillén
Dr. Felix Zandman Professor of International Management, the Wharton School
Academic Director, Wharton Business and Law Certificate
Dr. Felix Zandman Professor of International Management, the Wharton School
Academic Director, Wharton Business and Law Certificate
“The Wharton Business & Law Certificate Program offers LLM students the opportunity to learn strategic management, finance, mergers & acquisitions, and private equity from a managerial perspective. Wharton experts guide students through the way in which companies and investors think about basic business subjects in a way that complements their legal education.”
— Mauro Guillén
Dr. Felix Zandman Professor of International Management, the Wharton School
Academic Director, Wharton Business and Law Certificate
Dr. Felix Zandman Professor of International Management, the Wharton School
Academic Director, Wharton Business and Law Certificate
Benefits
- Gain exposure to the expertise of world class faculty
- Acquire insights on business, management, and professional development from colleagues in a range of fields
- Apply academic knowledge to real world business problems
Who Should Attend
Corporate lawyers, in-house counsel, judges, bankers, and other internationally trained legal professionals interested in further developing:
- An understanding of U.S. business culture
- Enhanced skills for the sophisticated presentation of investment propositions and financial projects
- Management concepts for developing or professionalizing a law practice or business enterprise
Program Format
The WBLC program runs concurrently with the Penn Carey Law LLM program calendar. All Penn Carey Law LLM students are automatically eligible to enroll.
Drawing on key faculty and content from the Wharton School, the WBLC will introduce participants to the fundamentals of finance, accounting, strategy, responsible business practices and management. The challenging blend of interactive lectures, case studies, simulations, group discussions, and faculty dialogue immerses participants in these core business concepts.
Sample Classes
- Global Strategic Management
- International Corporate Finance
- Mergers and Acquisitions
- Private Equity in Emerging Markets
Please note that completing the WBLC will not grant a Wharton degree or Wharton alumni status to students.
LLM Pre-Term Program:
Foundations in U.S. Law and Culture
“I cannot over-emphasize the value that the Pre-Term Program adds to the LLM. You really hit the ground running once fall semester starts.”
— Diego Garcia Miron LLM, Mexico
Our innovative Pre-Term Program provides an academic grounding in the U.S. legal system as well as social, cultural, and professional opportunities.
The program includes two introductory courses:
Foundations of the U.S. Legal System (3 credits)
This lecture-format course is an advanced-level survey of certain aspects of American legal thought and practice that are likely to be unfamiliar to international lawyers. Topics covered include American legal history, the Constitution, basic civil procedure, the law of torts, and an introduction to legal theory.
U.S. Legal Research (1 credit) and U.S. Legal Writing (1 credit)
These courses combine learning about sources of law in the U.S. legal system and how to research them with the ability to present a cogent analysis of the research in a written legal document. The legal research portion of the course is taught by Penn Carey Law librarians. The legal writing portion of the course, taught by experienced practitioners, covers basic legal analysis, synthesis, and writing and includes an oral presentation. The class is divided into small sections which allow for individual attention.
Other Programming
You will have the opportunity to meet administrators from various law school and university offices including:
- The Student Affairs Office: making the most of a year of study at a U.S. law school
- The Office of Career Planning and Professionalism: job search strategies, skills, and documents
- Information Technology Services: training on Penn Carey Law technology resources
- Penn Global, International Student and Scholar Services: visa registration and related requirements
And learn more about:
- Taking the New York Bar exam
- Continued study of law in the United States
- Taking exams and preparing for classes
- Pro bono opportunities
There are numerous opportunities to enjoy Philadelphia and for social interaction including:
- Welcome barbeque and campus tour
- Hike along the Schuylkill River Trail
- Team building exercises
- Family and partner appreciation lunch
- Speed networking
- Closing banquet
“This is one thing that separates Penn from other law schools. Personally, this period helped me get a better sense of how I should do things for the whole LLM year.”
— Amal Sethi LLM, SJD, India
Renowned
Faculty
Jill Fisch, Saul A. Fox Distinguished Professor of Business Law and Co-Director of the Institute for Law and Economics, presents her research.
Penn Carey Law faculty are noted scholars and devoted educators.
Penn Carey Law’s faculty members are acclaimed scholars whose research crosses disciplinary boundaries and uses a diverse array of methodologies. In the Law School’s collaborative and collegial community, our faculty serve as mentors, working closely with students on scholarship and research. No matter your legal interests — corporate law, international law, intellectual property, human rights — Penn Carey Law’s LLM program puts you in the classroom with scholars who are leaders in their fields.
“One thing I really appreciate was the human relationship with Penn Carey Law’s distinguished faculty. The faculty with significantly broad and in-depth expertise have kindly guided me, even if they seem really busy conducting their own research.”
— Wataru Aikawa LLM, Japan
“Penn Carey Law offers an extraordinary opportunity for lawyers from all countries to study both the law and the economics of competition policy, with a focus on technology and innovation but careful attention to the basics.”
Herbert Hovenkamp
James G. Dinan University Professor
James G. Dinan University Professor
“There is no better place to enrich a legal career with world class training and interdisciplinary context. Penn is where legal practice meets history, business, policy, and technology for a deeper understanding of not only what we do – but why.”
Beth Simmons
Andrea Mitchell University Professor in Law, Political Science and Business Ethics
Andrea Mitchell University Professor in Law, Political Science and Business Ethics
“Internet Policy must take into account how much the underlying technology and the demands being placed on the network are changing.”
Christopher S. Yoo
John H. Chestnut Professor of Law, Communication, and Computer & Information Science; Founding Director, Center for Technology, Innovation and Competition
John H. Chestnut Professor of Law, Communication, and Computer & Information Science; Founding Director, Center for Technology, Innovation and Competition
The LLM
Curriculum
“Having the opportunity to create Independent Studies with thoughtful professorial oversight was invaluable. I wrote a paper combining aesthetic theory with restorative justice practice and the arts based on an innovative arts organization in Philadelphia. I had never before been afforded total academic liberty. Being encouraged to pursue developments at the vanguard of legal understanding means you develop both as an individual practitioner and thinker.”
— Beatriz Brown LLM, United Kingdom
Penn Carey Law grants a generalized LLM that allows each student to design their own curriculum. In doing so, students may choose to focus on a particular topic or to broaden the scope of their study. Students can select courses from an extensive curriculum of specialized courses and seminars.
After completing the Pre-Term Program, LLM students take their courses alongside upper-level JD students. More than 70 classes in 12 different subject areas are offered each semester, ranging from large lecture courses to intimate seminars. In addition, LLMs can take a class at one of the other professional or graduate schools in the university.
Sample Courses:
- Corporations
- International Business Transactions
- Regulatory Law and Policy
- M&A through the Business Cycle
- Intellectual Property & Corporate Lawyering
- Patent Law
- Mediation Clinic
- International Arbitration
- Constitutional Criminal Procedure
- International Women’s Rights
LLM Public Service Program
LLM Pro Bono at Penn Carey Law
The Toll Public Interest Center (TPIC) is the hub of public interest activity at Penn Carey Law. TPIC is excited to welcome LLM students as participants in Penn Carey Law’s commitment to service. As an integral part of the LLM program, pro bono work provides students with important opportunities to develop their professional skills while learning more about the communities that exist beyond the walls of the Law School. TPIC also supports LLMs seeking to fulfill the New York Bar 50-hour pro bono requirement.
LLMs may participate in more than thirty internal pro bono projects, pursue a self-initiated placement, or perform a Penn Carey Law approved external project. External assignments are sent to LLM students directly from TPIC.
“My year at Penn Carey Law exceeded all my expectations. It has been extremely fruitful and enriching, both personally and professionally, and tremendously expanded my intellectual and cultural viewpoints. As the president of the LLM Organization for International Human Rights, I was proud to represent more than 20 members of our LLM class who were strongly committed to promoting human rights actions and providing pro bono support to NGOs.”
— Cochav Elkayam-Levy LLM, SJD, Israel, Recipient of the Rule of Law and Human Rights Fellowship
Arlene Rivera Finkelstein (center) is the Associate Dean for Justice & Inclusion Initiatives
“I served as the inaugural LLM Director of the International Human Rights Advocates and played an integral role in facilitating our work in Lesvos, Greece, which focused on the current refugee crisis facing Europe. I was deeply impacted as I interacted with those who entered Europe in search of a safe and better life. I investigated the conditions of refugee camps, and I patrolled the Lesvos shores at night to ensure safe landing by refugees arriving by boat. Upon return, we developed an informational website on human rights, refugee law, and European law to fill the information gap in Greece.”
— Suzanne Knijnenburg LLM, JD, the Netherlands
The Gittis
Center for
Clinical
Legal Studies
Practice Professor of Law Praveen Kosuri, Associate Dean for Clinical Education, speaks with his students.
“Working with the Detkin Intellectual Property Clinic has been the highlight of my Penn Carey Law experience so far. At the clinic, we are given full responsibility for client files, which often involve complex legal issues, that as students we know very little about. This may seem daunting, but thanks to the guidance of the amazing supervising attorneys, I was able to advise my clients on needs ranging from drafting licenses, to performing prior art and patent searches! The clinic has already helped me to better understand my legal interests and become a better lawyer.”
— Jacob Jaskiewicz LLM, Canada
The Gittis Center bridges the knowledge learned in traditional classroom study with real-world practical experience on behalf of actual clients. Through our center, LLM students can build relationships with diverse clients, hone essential lawyering skills, enhance their professional development, and apply their talents and creativity in a state-of-the-art office located in the Law School. Under close supervision of the center’s experienced faculty, students refine their skills in a firm environment while serving the community, the nation, and the world.
Detkin Intellectual Property & Technology Clinic
Penn Carey Law’s newest clinic sets a new standard for higher legal education in IP and technology by providing hands-on practical experience in the commercialization of creativity and innovation.
Entrepreneurship Legal Clinic
The Entrepreneurship Legal Clinic is one of the oldest transactional clinics in the nation. Students gain experience in lawyering for entrepreneurs — both for-profit and non-profit — while fostering economic growth in underserved communities by providing legal counsel, community education, and technical assistance.
llm students have participated in several clinical programs
Mediation Clinic
The Medication Clinic teaches conflict resolution and creative problem-solving.
Transnational Legal Clinic
The Transnational Legal Clinic provides students an opportunity to explore the role of the lawyer in settings that cut across cultures, borders, languages, and legal systems.
Career
Planning
Penn Carey Law’s Office of Career Services has experienced career counselors who provide LLM specific programming and resources, along with ample opportunities for individualized counseling.
Due to significant structural barriers, securing permanent employment in the U.S. is a challenge for foreign trained attorneys holding a U.S. LLM degree. Most of our LLM graduates find excellent opportunities internationally with new employers or are given significantly increased responsibilities with their prior employers.
“The career center is certainly one of the best aspects of Penn Carey Law. Students are properly oriented about American professional culture, which is especially valuable for international students. Moreover, in spite of the challenges international students face to work in the U.S. when they finish the program, Penn Carey Law encourages students to participate in different events and opportunities that can enhance their opportunity of entering in the labor market.”
—Gabriella Goncalves LLM, Brazil
“Penn Carey Law offers a welcome blend of sterling academic studies and opportunities for career advancement. My modules and training at Penn Carey Law have indeed enriched my knowledge of law and business, and I am now better equipped to make an informed entry into the market.”
—Frances Emembolu LLM, Nigeria
U.S. Bar Exams
Eligibility to sit for a particular state bar exam varies from state to state. Completion of the LLM degree in itself does not guarantee eligibility to take a bar examination. Moreover, the LLM Program is not intended as a preparation course for any state’s bar exam.
Each year, about half of the LLM class sits for a state bar exam, typically New York, after they graduate. Although LLM students are responsible for meeting the requirements of the bar exam they wish to take, we provide support and guidance regarding eligibility and curricular requirements.
Enjoy
Philadelphia
Things to Do, Where to Live, How to Get Around
Welcome to Philadelphia!
There is no better place to study U.S. law than in Philadelphia, the United States’ first World Heritage City. The Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution both were written here, and learning about rights and responsibilities where the American government took shape is a singular opportunity. But Philadelphia is about much more than history.
Outdoor space at a city restaurant | Photo by Rob Cardillo, courtesy of PHLCVB
We are a “City of Neighborhoods”
Philadelphia, the fifth largest city in the United States, has a well-deserved reputation as one of the most livable cities in the country. It is a major urban center that has retained the feel of a “city of neighborhoods.” Whether you prefer the home-cooked Italian flavor of South Philly; the progressive political climate of Mt. Airy; the quirky, industrial culture of Northern Liberties; or the sophisticated, bustling nightlife of Rittenhouse Square and Old City; Philadelphia has a neighborhood that’s right for you. With world- class museums, the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, and more than 10 professional sports teams in the area, there is always something to see or do. For a little fresh air, head to Philadelphia’s Fairmount Park, one of the largest metropolitan parks in the nation, which offers plenty of scenic jogging, biking, and hiking trails. There’s even a wonderful path along the Schuylkill River from Center City, past the Philadelphia Museum of Art and Boathouse Row, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Philadelphia is just an hour’s drive from the Jersey Shore and the Poconos, providing city residents with ocean waves in the summer and ski slopes in the winter. Though Philadelphia is the second-largest city on the East Coast, it is the heart of the Northeast Corridor, only a 90 minute trip from New York or two-hour trip from Washington, D.C., by train.
PHILADELPHIA IS ALSO A GREAT PLACE TO PLAY
The city has some of the most well-reviewed restaurants in the nation featuring world-renowned chefs. Rittenhouse Square is a great place to spend a beautiful afternoon, and its cafés are fabulous for people-watching over an evening cocktail. Old City is one of Philly’s hot spots, with great restaurants, bars, and clubs. Don’t miss out on “First Friday,” the first Friday of every month on which Old City’s numerous art galleries throw opening parties in the evening, and whose crowds spill out into the streets. Follow any night out with a late-night visit to Pat’s or Geno’s at 9th and Passyunk in South Philly. And be sure to explore every neighborhood’s local gems, such as Frankford Hall or Johnny Brenda’s in Northern Liberties or Pizzeria Vetri in Fairmount.
Philadelphia is one of the world’s most exciting cities — which may be why National Geographic named Philadelphia the “Next Great City.”
Find time to go out and enjoy Philly.
There are countless things to do and places to go in Philly. Philadelphia is consistently rated as one of the best restaurant cities in the country, and bars, concerts, and cultural and sporting events are plentiful. Penn Carey Law students take full advantage of all the city has to offer.
Where to Live
-
Spruce Manor
4529 Spruce Street – 215.476.4787 -
The Axis (University City Axis)
20 S. 36th Street – 215.662.0802 -
Castle Hill (UCH)
4301 Spruce Street – 215.222.1098 -
Chestnut Arms (UCA)
4039 Chestnut Street – 844.674.9195 -
Chestnut Hall (AIMCO)
3900 Chestnut Street – 267.507.3387 -
Concord Hall (Campus Apts)
4418 Spruce Street – 215.382.1300 -
The Courts (Courts Apts)
3500 Powelton Avenue – 215.386.3177 -
Domus
3411 Chestnut Street – 866.962.2350 -
The Fairfax (A.H. Klein)
4247 Locust Street – 215.222.4449 -
Garden Court Plaza (A.H. Klein)
4701 Pine Street – 215.747.2701 -
Hamilton Court (UCH)
101 S. 39th St. – 215.222.2000 -
The Hub (Equinox)
3943 Chestnut Street – 215.349.7155 -
Left Bank (Dranoff Properties)
3131 Walnut Street – 215.987.2614 -
New Horizons (NH)
4101 Baltimore Avenue – 215.386.1236 -
Off-Campus Services (OCS)
3702 Spruce Street – 215.898.8500 -
Old Quaker (Reinhold)
3514 Lancaster Avenue – 215.222.2233 -
Pine Arms (Campus Apts)
305 S. 40th Street – 215.243.7000 -
The Radian (Radian Apts)
3925 Walnut Street – 215.222.4212 -
Royal Palm Ct (Campus Apts)
315 S. 45th Street – 215.243.7000 -
Walnut Hill (Campus Apts)
4111 Walnut Street – 215.382.0931 -
Evo
2930 Chestnut Street
Philadelphia, PA 19104 -
Vue32
3201 Race St.
Philadelphia, PA 19104 -
The Irvine
780 S. 52nd St.
Philadelphia, PA 19143 -
Presidential City
3900 City Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19131 -
The LVL @ 4125
4125 Chestnut St.
Philadelphia, PA 19104 -
Chestnut Square
3200 Chestnut St.
Philadelphia, PA 19104 -
Luna on Pine
400 S. 40th St.
Philadelphia, PA 19104
-
1500 Locust
1500 Locust Street – 215.240.8232 -
1700 Walnut
1700 Walnut Street – 215.546.6700 -
1930 Chestnut
1930 Chestnut Street – 215.600.1968 -
2121 Market
2121 Market Street – 267.507.1501 -
222 Rittenhouse
222 W. Rittenhouse Square – 215.222.7275 -
2400 Chestnut
2400 Chestnut Street – 215.561.2700 -
The Chatham
135 S. 20th Street – 215.563.5751 -
The Dorchester
226 W. Rittenhouse Square – 215.546.1111 -
The Drake Tower
1512 Spruce Street – 866.963.3058 -
Edgewater Apts
2323 Race Street – 215.352.4420 -
Embassy Apts
2100 Walnut Street – 215.567.7488 -
Liberty View
2031 South Street – 215.567.7488 -
Locust on the Park
201 S. 25th Street – 215.735.1810 -
Lofts at 1835
1835 Arch Street – 215.568.1835 -
The Metropolitan
117 N. 15th Street – 215.854.0729 -
Museum Towers
1801 Buttonwood Street – 877.635.1043 -
The Packard
317 N. Broad Street – 215.351.0930 -
Park Towne Place
2200 Ben Franklin Parkway – 267.773.6373 -
The Phoenix
1600 Arch Street – 267.322.5020 -
Rittenhouse Claridge
201 S. 18th Street – 215.546.2525 -
Riverloft Apartments
2300 Walnut Street – 267.773.6374 -
Riverwest
2101 Chestnut Street – 215.563.0995 -
Roosevelt Apts
2220 Walnut Street – 215.640.8880 -
The St. James
200 W. Washington Square – 844.304.8752 -
The Sterling
1815 John F. Kennedy Blvd. – 267.773.6372 -
The Versailles
1530 Locust Street – 215.545.6008 -
Wanamaker House
2020 Walnut Street – 215.561.6955 -
The Wellington
135 S. 19th Street – 215.567.7810 -
The Westbury
271 S. 15th Street – 215.735.8030 -
Westminster Arch
2215 Arch Street – 215.567.4179 -
Lincoln Square
1000 S Broad St,
Philadelphia, PA 19146
ON CAMPUS
Each year some LLMs choose to live nearby in a furnished apartment in the Graduate Towers, known as Sansom Place — the on-campus living quarters for graduate and professional students. Sansom Place is located at 36th and Chestnut Streets, just one block from the Law School.
Sansom Place includes one-bedroom apartments, two-bedroom apartments, and single rooms with a shared bathroom. All units are furnished.
Approximate Monthly Rent for 2020–21:
Single Room w/ shared bath — $1,047
Single Apt (1BR/liv.area/kit/bath) — $1,747
Double Apt (2BR/kit/bath) — $1,164 per person
Graduate plus other (1BR/liv.area/kit/bath) — $1,863 per person
If you are interested in Sansom Place, please be aware that the Graduate Housing Office cannot process a request for housing until a student has a PennKey (typically in May.) However, Sansom Place is aware of this situation and reserves a number of rooms for LLM students. Visit www.business-services.upenn.edu/housing/graduate.html for more information and an application.
You can contact Penn Residential Services:
Phone: 215.898.3547
Email: living@pobox.upenn.edu
You can contact the Office of Off-Campus Services:
Phone: 215.898.8500
www.upenn.edu/offcampusservices/
OFF CAMPUS
You can live off campus, as most graduate and professional students at Penn do. Penn Carey Law students live throughout the city, taking advantage of a wide array of housing options near Penn, or in neighborhoods that are accessible by public transportation. Compared to other metropolitan areas, you will find the rents surprisingly affordable.
This booklet provides an overview of your many options. More detailed information is available on the Admitted Student Website (www.law.upenn.edu/admitted/grad/).
Office of Off-Campus Services (OCS)
The University of Pennsylvania Office of Off Campus Services (OCS), at 3702 Spruce Street, will assist you at all stages of your off-campus living experience, from locating suitable housing, to finding roommates, to reviewing leases and assisting in landlord-tenant matters. You can access all of the office’s information, including an interactive housing search tool, online at http://cms.business-services.upenn.edu/offcampusservices.
When you are in town, you can use the OCS office as your base for your housing search. The user-friendly office has computer terminals for your searches and telephones to call and set up appointments.
For more information www.upenn.edu/offcampusservices | 215.898.8500 | ocliving@exchange.upenn.edu
Transportation
Getting Around
For those of you coming from a city like London, Beijing, or São Paulo, Philadelphia will seem very accessible and manageable. You will be pleasantly surprised at how easy and inexpensive (often free) it is to navigate the city.
Walking
If you are lucky to live within walking distance from the Law School, as most students do, take advantage! Walking one mile at a fairly brisk pace will take about 20 minutes.
Biking
The larger streets in Philadelphia have good, spacious bike lanes, and many Penn Carey Law students take advantage. The City of Philadelphia has an extensive a bike share program called Indego Bike Share. It is an inexpensive and convenient way to get around the city. Visit http://www.rideindego.com for further information.
free penn transportation services
Penn Shuttles
Various shuttle vehicles provide transportation to and from Campus Transit Stops, Center City, West Philadelphia, and Powelton Village, within defined boundaries. Students generally wait for the shuttle to campus for around 5–20 minutes. Penn Shuttle provides “to door” transportation off campus within Penn Transit’s service area every day of the week between 6 p.m. and 3 a.m. From 3 a.m.–7 a.m. a limited on-call service is available. For more information and schedules, please visit http://cms.business-services.upenn.edu/transportation/typesof-services/penn-shuttles.html.
Penn Bus
The Penn Bus East is an evening bus service which runs Monday through Friday between 5 p.m. and midnight, serving Center City. The Penn Bus West is an evening bus service which runs Monday through Friday between 5 p.m. and midnight, serving West Philadelphia. For more information and schedules, please visit http://cms.business-services.upenn.edu/transportation/types-of-services/penn-bus-east-andwest.html.
Lucy
LUCY (Loop through University City) offers free transportation through University City serving 30th Street Station, the University of Pennsylvania, and surrounding areas for riders holding a valid PennCard. LUCY runs every 12–35 minutes Monday through Friday from 6:10 a.m.–7:00 p.m., except major holidays.
free penn transportation services
Penn Shuttles
Various shuttle vehicles provide transportation to and from Campus Transit Stops, Center City, West Philadelphia, and Powelton Village, within defined boundaries. Students generally wait for the shuttle to campus for around 5–20 minutes. Penn Shuttle provides “to door” transportation off campus within Penn Transit’s service area every day of the week between 6 p.m. and 3 a.m. From 3 a.m.–7 a.m. a limited on-call service is available. For more information and schedules, please visit http://cms.business-services.upenn.edu/transportation/typesof-services/penn-shuttles.html.
Penn Bus
The Penn Bus East is an evening bus service which runs Monday through Friday between 5 p.m. and midnight, serving Center City. The Penn Bus West is an evening bus service which runs Monday through Friday between 5 p.m. and midnight, serving West Philadelphia. For more information and schedules, please visit http://cms.business-services.upenn.edu/transportation/types-of-services/penn-bus-east-andwest.html.
Lucy
LUCY (Loop through University City) offers free transportation through University City serving 30th Street Station, the University of Pennsylvania, and surrounding areas for riders holding a valid PennCard. LUCY runs every 12–35 minutes Monday through Friday from 6:10 a.m.–7:00 p.m., except major holidays.
public transportation
SEPTA is the regional public transportation service with train, subway, trolley, and bus service. Each ride on SEPTA costs a flat fee of $2.50 (if you pay by cash), or $2 (if you buy a KeyPass ahead of time), or $25.50 (for a weekly Transpass/$96 for a monthly). Alternatively, Penn students can also purchase a Penn Pass that’s good on SEPTA subway/trolley/buses for one semester, which gives unlimited rides within the City of Philadelphia as well as rides on the R1 line to the airport.
Subway and Trolleys
During rush hour, there’s a train every five minutes or so on the Blue Line, which runs east to west. There is a convenient stop at 34th and Market Streets, one block from the Law School.
In addition, almost every trolley line in Philadelphia stops at 36th and Sansom Streets, right next to the Law School. There are many trolley stops throughout Center City and West Philadelphia.
For more detailed information, see http://www.upenn.edu/transportation/ or http://www.septa.org/
Buses
Many students also take SEPTA buses, especially the 21 and 42, which head westward (from Center City towards West Philadelphia) on Walnut Street, and head eastward (from West Philadelphia towards Center City) on Chestnut Street.
Cabs and Ride Share
Taxis in Philadelphia aren’t too expensive and should be easy to find along the main thoroughfares of Chestnut and Walnut streets. Services such as Uber and LYFT are also plentiful. A one-way ride to Center City (depending on your destination) will run around $5–$9. Taxis run on a meter system, except from the airport where they charge a flat fee of around $28.
Subway and Trolleys
During rush hour, there’s a train every five minutes or so on the Blue Line, which runs east to west. There is a convenient stop at 34th and Market Streets, one block from the Law School.
In addition, almost every trolley line in Philadelphia stops at 36th and Sansom Streets, right next to the Law School. There are many trolley stops throughout Center City and West Philadelphia.
Buses
Many students also take SEPTA buses, especially the 21 and 42, which head westward (from Center City towards West Philadelphia) on Walnut Street, and head eastward (from West Philadelphia towards Center City) on Chestnut Street.
Cabs and Ride Share
Taxis in Philadelphia aren’t too expensive and should be easy to find along the main thoroughfares of Chestnut and Walnut streets. Services such as Uber and LYFT are also plentiful. A one-way ride to Center City (depending on your destination) will run around $5–$9. Taxis run on a meter system, except from the airport where they charge a flat fee of around $28.
For more detailed information, see http://www.upenn.edu/transportation/ or http://www.septa.org/
Trips out of town
Convenient transportation is available if you want to enjoy other cities and destinations:
Amtrak
Only four blocks away at 30th Street, trains run on a regular basis. New York City is only 90 minutes away and Washington, D.C., is two hours away. A Student Advantage Card will save you 10 percent off the ticket price to any Amtrak destination.
Philadelphia Boltbus and Megabus
Located at 30th Street, along the north side of John F. Kennedy Boulevard, the Boltbus and Megabus offer an inexpensive way to get to New York City, Washington, D.C., or Boston. Buses also feature wireless Internet and outlets.
Greyhound
Greyhound also offers various destinations from its Philadelphia headquarters at 1001 Filbert Street and Greyhound Sigler Travel at 5608-10 N. Broad Street.
SEPTA Commuter Trains
SEPTA offers many trains to the Philadelphia suburbs and a line to Trenton, NJ, where you can catch either Amtrak or NJ Transit (much less expensive) to New York City.
Patco
Patco is the commuter line to New Jersey that runs frequently and on-time.
Car-Sharing Services
Most students find owning a car during their LLM unnecessary, but may occasionally wish to access a car. Philadelphia has two options for those interested in the convenience of being able to rent a car for the random day-trip.
Trips out of town
Convenient transportation is available if you want to enjoy other cities and destinations:
Amtrak
Only four blocks away at 30th Street, trains run on a regular basis. New York City is only 90 minutes away and Washington, D.C., is two hours away. A Student Advantage Card will save you 10 percent off the ticket price to any Amtrak destination.
Philadelphia Boltbus and Megabus
Located at 30th Street, along the north side of John F. Kennedy Boulevard, the Boltbus and Megabus offer an inexpensive way to get to New York City, Washington, D.C., or Boston. Buses also feature wireless Internet and outlets.
Greyhound
Greyhound also offers various destinations from its Philadelphia headquarters at 1001 Filbert Street and Greyhound Sigler Travel at 5608-10 N. Broad Street.
SEPTA Commuter Trains
SEPTA offers many trains to the Philadelphia suburbs and a line to Trenton, NJ, where you can catch either Amtrak or NJ Transit (much less expensive) to New York City.
Patco
Patco is the commuter line to New Jersey that runs frequently and on-time.
Car-Sharing Services
Most students find owning a car during their LLM unnecessary, but may occasionally wish to access a car. Philadelphia has two options for those interested in the convenience of being able to rent a car for the random day-trip.
Health and Wellness
Does Penn have a gym where I can work out?
Yes! As a Penn student, you automatically have access to our two gyms. Pottruck Center at 3701 Walnut Street is the largest facility and has a full-service gym with a pool, fitness classes, a climbing wall, a fitness center, locker rooms, a sauna, etc. Hutchinson Gym at 219 S. 33rd Street (next to the Palestra, our basketball arena) contains a fitness center, squash courts, and lockers. Details about memberships and fees for classes and lockers are available at https://recreation.upenn.edu.
Do I have access to tennis or squash courts?
Penn Carey Law students have access to both types of courts. You can play tennis at the outdoor Hamlin courts at Penn Park or play indoors at the Levy Tennis Pavilion at 199 S. 31st Street (across 32nd Street from the Palestra). For information regarding court reservations at Levy, visit http://www.penntenniscenter.com/reservations.html.
Squash courts are available at the Ringe Squash Courts at 219 S. 33rd Street (between Franklin Field, our football stadium, and the Palestra). For information regarding court reservations at Ringe, visit http://www.upenn.edu/recreation/about/facilities/ringe.
Does Penn Carey Law have any student fitness groups?
Absolutely! Among other clubs, there are a boxing group, running club, bowling league, flag football league, basketball league, ice hockey team, and soccer team (an LLM favorite).
Where’s a great place to just go for a run or a bike ride?
How about 26.5 miles that run along the Schuylkill River from Center City, Philadelphia through Valley Forge National Historical Park in Montgomery County? The trail passes Manayunk (a great place for brunch) and leads to the park’s Betzwood Picnic Area.
The 26.5 mile Schuylkill River Trail, a favorite of Penn Carey Law students, runs from Center City, through Valley Forge National Historical Park, and all the way to Phoenixville in Chester County.
Health and Wellness
Does Penn have a gym where I can work out?
Yes! As a Penn student, you automatically have access to our two gyms. Pottruck Center at 3701 Walnut Street is the largest facility and has a full-service gym with a pool, fitness classes, a climbing wall, a fitness center, locker rooms, a sauna, etc. Hutchinson Gym at 219 S. 33rd Street (next to the Palestra, our basketball arena) contains a fitness center, squash courts, and lockers. Details about memberships and fees for classes and lockers are available at https://recreation.upenn.edu.
Do I have access to tennis or squash courts?
Penn Carey Law students have access to both types of courts. You can play tennis at the outdoor Hamlin courts at Penn Park or play indoors at the Levy Tennis Pavilion at 199 S. 31st Street (across 32nd Street from the Palestra). For information regarding court reservations at Levy, visit http://www.penntenniscenter.com/reservations.html.
Squash courts are available at the Ringe Squash Courts at 219 S. 33rd Street (between Franklin Field, our football stadium, and the Palestra). For information regarding court reservations at Ringe, visit http://www.upenn.edu/recreation/about/facilities/ringe.
Does Penn Carey Law have any student fitness groups?
Absolutely! Among other clubs, there are a boxing group, running club, bowling league, flag football league, basketball league, ice hockey team, and soccer team (an LLM favorite).
Where’s a great place to just go for a run or a bike ride?
How about 26.5 miles that run along the Schuylkill River from Center City, Philadelphia through Valley Forge National Historical Park in Montgomery County? The trail passes Manayunk (a great place for brunch) and leads to the park’s Betzwood Picnic Area.
Wellness
Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS)
Counseling and Psychological Services is the university’s counseling center. CAPS offers free and confidential services to all Penn students and helps them adjust to university life, manage personal and situational challenges, develop coping strategies, and grow personally and professionally.
Peace of Mind in Stressful Times Program
Student Health Services offers confidential, individualized stress reduction to students who might be feeling overwhelmed by daily pressures, or who are interested in exploring alternative approaches for coping with stress. Students can develop personalized plans of action and learn self-care methods, such as mindful breathing and guided imagery, self-massage, qigong, and other mind/body techniques. The Law School offers an annual Wellness Week of events and programs.
Mindfulness at Penn Carey Law
Penn Carey Law offers LLMs an optional course during the Pre-Term Program in mindfulness, which is designed to improve academic and professional performance and combat stress. The Law School provides additional programming during the fall and spring semesters, including a weekly community mindfulness session.