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School of Law and Division of Continuing Education Launch New In-House Counsel Certificate Program

Registration is open for the 12-week online program — which equips attorneys with the leadership, business, and strategic skills needed for in-house roles — launching August 2026

Irvine, Calif. (June 1, 2026) - The University of California, Irvine School of Law, in collaboration with the University of California, Irvine Division of Continuing Education, have announced the launch of the In-House Counsel Certificate Program: From Lawyer to Leader — Road to the GC Seat . The new 12-week online program is designed for junior and mid-level law firm attorneys seeking in-house positions, and in-house attorneys seeking to advance into senior in-house leadership roles.

Participants will work through the full scope of responsibilities, including corporate governance, strategic business advising, team building, financial acumen, ethics and compliance, and crisis management.

Instruction is delivered through a hybrid online format combining live, faculty-led synchronous sessions — 60 to 90 minutes per week — with asynchronous learning activities including articles, case studies, and peer discussions. The live sessions are designed to foster meaningful professional networking while allowing participants to engage directly with course concepts in real time.

The program features a faculty of experienced General Counsel, CPAs, and corporate executives from industries including healthcare, technology, entertainment, consumer goods, mortgages, and finance. Faculty members bring decades of leadership experience from organizations such as loanDepot, ASICS, Deloitte, CBRE, and Cottage Health, ensuring the curriculum is practical, relevant, and grounded in real-world application.

"The in-house legal profession is evolving rapidly, and this certificate program reflects UC Irvine School of Law's commitment to preparing attorneys not just for where the profession is today, but where it is headed,” said Dean and Chancellor’s Professor of Law Austen Parrish. “We are delighted to partner with UC Irvine’s Division of Continuing Education to offer this rigorous, practical opportunity for in-house attorneys to advance in their careers.”

“We help professionals advance their careers through accessible, real-world education,” said Kristine Collins, Dean of Continuing Education. “Our partnership with UC Irvine School of Law for the In-House Counsel certificate program gives us the opportunity to equip attorneys with the leadership skills and strategic acumen to step confidently into senior roles. Together, we are creating opportunities for these attorneys to elevate their careers and growth for the organizations and communities they serve.”

To enroll, participants must hold a license to practice law in any U.S. jurisdiction and have at least five years of post-bar experience. Those who successfully complete the program will earn a specialization certificate and three continuing education units (CEU). An application for California MCLE credit is pending approval.

Who Should Enroll

The program is designed for:

  • Junior and mid-level law firm attorneys seeking to move into in-house legal positions,
  • Current in-house counsel aspiring to expand their strategic, managerial, and business capabilities,
  • Aspiring General Counsels preparing to transition into senior level corporate roles, and
  • Experienced legal professionals seeking a deeper understanding of risk management, compliance, financial acumen and corporate governance.

Program Details

  • Format: Online
  • Duration: 12 weeks
  • Start: August 2026
  • Tuition: $1,250
  • MCLE: Pending California approval

Registration is now open. For more information or to enroll, visit the registration page. Have Questions? Talk to an enrollment coach at (949) 824-5414, Monday-Friday, 9 am–4 pm PST, or visit ce.uci.edu/inhousecounsel.

About the University of California, Irvine School of Law

The University of California, Irvine School of Law is a visionary law school that provides an innovative and comprehensive curriculum, prioritizes public service, and demonstrates a commitment to equity within the legal profession. At UC Irvine Law, we are driven to improve our local, national, and global communities by grappling with important issues as scholars, as practitioners, and as teachers who are preparing the next generation of leaders. The collaborative and interdisciplinary community at UC Irvine Law includes extraordinary students, world-renowned faculty, dedicated staff, engaged alumni, and enthusiastic supporters. Connect with us on Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, Bluesky, and sign up for our monthly newsletter for the latest news and events at UC Irvine School of Law.

About the University of California, Irvine Division of Continuing Education

About UC Irvine Division of Continuing Education: UC Irvine Division of Continuing Education (UC Irvine DCE) was established in 1962 and has served the lifelong learning and career development needs of individuals, organizations, and the community on a local, regional, and global scale. Through a wide range of educational opportunities, including certificate and specialized studies programs, short courses, and strategic partnerships, UC Irvine DCE provides learning pathways for those seeking career advancement or personal enrichment. For more information, visit ce.uci.edu.