A New Path to Public Service Starts Here
Cleveland State University College of Law is launching a comprehensive Prosecutor Program designed to prepare the next generation of practice-ready Ohio prosecutors.
Beginning in Fall 2026, a select cohort of students will engage in immersive, hands-on training that integrates academic rigor with real-world prosecutorial experience. Through direct mentorship, clinical work, and statewide partnerships, students will develop the skills, judgment, and professional identity required to serve as ethical and effective prosecutors.
As part of the inaugural cohort, students will have the opportunity to help shape a new model for prosecutor training in Ohio - one grounded in experience, mentorship, and a commitment to justice.
Program Overview
The Prosecutor Program is a selective, multi-semester program open to upper-level law students. Students apply in the spring of their 1L year and begin the program in the fall of their 2L year.
The program combines:
- Specialized academic coursework
- Hands-on clinical and externship experiences
- Structured mentorship and professional development
- Financial and career support for public service pathways
Students who complete the program will earn a certificate in criminal prosecution, recognizing their advanced training and preparation for prosecutorial careers.
Key Features of the Prosecution Program
Immersive Clinical Training
At the center of the program is a new Criminal Prosecution Clinic, in which students will work directly with prosecutors’ offices on active cases. Under supervision, students may assist with legal research, motion drafting, case preparation, and courtroom proceedings. Students with an Ohio Legal Intern Certificate may have opportunities to appear in court.
Externship Opportunities
Students will gain additional experience through externship placements with local, state, and federal prosecutors’ offices. These placements provide exposure to a range of prosecutorial environments and case types.
Specialized Coursework
Students will complete coursework focused on prosecutorial practice, including criminal procedure, trial advocacy, ethics, and the role of the prosecutor. New courses will be introduced to further support skill development specific to prosecution.
Skills Development and Assessment
Throughout the program, students will develop and demonstrate proficiency in key prosecutorial competencies, including legal analysis, courtroom advocacy, ethical decision-making, and case strategy.
Mentorship and Professional Development
A structured professional development program will support students throughout their time in the program.
Prosecutor Mentorship Program
Each student will be paired with a practicing prosecutor mentor by their 2L year, providing individualized guidance and career insight.
Prosecutor Career Skills Series
Students will participate in seminars led by prosecutors, judges, and legal professionals on topics such as trial strategy, victim advocacy, and career pathways.
Professional Identity Development
Students will be introduced to prosecutorial career pathways during their first year through existing professional development programming. This early exposure allows interested students to explore the field before applying to the program in the spring of their 1L year.
Statewide Networking Opportunities
Students will have opportunities to connect with prosecutors and legal professionals across Ohio through events, partnerships, and a planned prosecutorial conference.
Financial Support and Fellowships
The program includes financial support designed to make public service careers more accessible and sustainable.
Program Completion Scholarship
Students who complete the program will be eligible for a $5,000 scholarship award in their final semester.
Post-Graduate Fellowships
Funding is available to support graduates working in prosecutors' offices between graduation and bar admission.
Rural Practice Fellowships
Financial support is available for students who pursue opportunities in rural and underserved communities across Ohio.
Professional Development Funding
Students may receive support to attend conferences, training programs, and professional events related to criminal law and prosecution.
Admissions and Timeline
- Eligibility: Open to all CSU Law students, with priority for those with a demonstrated commitment to serving as an Ohio prosecutor
- Application Timing: Spring semester of 1L year
- Program Start: Fall semester of 2L year
- First Cohort Launch: Fall 2026
Students will be selected based on academic performance and demonstrated interest in pursuing a career in criminal prosecution, with special consideration given to those committed to serving communities across Ohio.