Ready to level up your legal research skills and stand out in your legal career? The Excellence in Legal Research Program at Texas Tech University School of Law is here to help you become a research pro!
Our fully online, self-paced program is nationally recognized and designed to give you the hands-on training you need to tackle real-world legal research challenges with confidence. Whether you’re diving into statutes, scouring case law, or mastering advanced search techniques, ELR has got you covered.
How It Works:
What’s In It for You?
Explore the Program:
Don’t wait—your legal research adventure starts now! Sign up today and take the first step toward becoming a research expert who’s ready to tackle anything the legal world throws at you.
As of July 1, ELR is available exclusively on RaiderCanvas. The Blackboard page is no longer in use.
If you're registered for ELR, you should already have access on Canvas. If you don't see the course or have trouble logging in, reach out to Professor Arrington at ashley.arrington@ttu.edu.
Students can join our Excellence in Legal Research classes as early as the spring of their 1L year.
Ready to Get Started?
Click here to register for the ELR Program. Once registered, you’ll be added to the program’s RaiderCanvas page. You’ll receive a confirmation email from Professor Arrington, then you can begin taking ELR sessions at your convenience.
Need Help?
Having trouble? Reach out to Professor Arrington at ashley.arrington@ttu.edu—she’s always happy to help!
Are you ready to become a research pro? Our fully online, self-paced program is here to prepare you for the rigorous, analytical research you'll tackle as a practicing attorney.
With newly licensed attorneys spending 40% to 60% of their time on legal research and the NextGen Bar Exam (starting in 2026) putting legal research skills front and center, now’s the time to master this essential craft!
Here’s the breakdown:
The full list of required and elective courses is below—start building your expertise today!
Become the guardian of ethical legal research!
By the end of this course, you’ll be able to:
Crack complex legal problems with expert research strategies.
By the end of this course, you’ll be able to:
Master cutting-edge tools for the modern legal landscape.
By the end of this course, you’ll be able to:
Take your search skills to the next level!
By the end of this course, you’ll be able to:
Navigate court research with confidence.
By the end of this course, you’ll be able to:
Unlock the power of docket research.
By the end of this course, you’ll be able to:
Master the art of finding and analyzing case law like a pro!
By the end of this course, you’ll be able to:
Crack the code on statutes with advanced research tools.
By the end of this course, you’ll be able to:
Unravel the relationship between statutes and regulations.
By the end of this course, you’ll be able to:
Go behind the scenes of legislative processes to uncover intent.
By the end of this course, you’ll be able to:
Turn data into actionable insights for better legal decisions.
By the end of this course, you’ll be able to:
Everything you need to tackle Texas law like a local expert.
By the end of this course, you’ll be able to:
Ace the research portion of the NextGen Bar Exam!
By the end of this course, you’ll be able to:
Uncover critical facts and records for any legal case.
By the end of this course, you’ll be able to:
Stay informed and ahead of the curve in your legal practice.
By the end of this course, you’ll be able to:
Maximize your budget without compromising your research quality.
By the end of this course, you’ll be able to:
Fine-tune your research by separating the good from the questionable.
By the end of this course, you’ll be able to:
Dive into constitutional law with advanced tools and strategies.
By the end of this course, you’ll be able to:
Did you know the brains behind our online Excellence in Legal Research Program are the same amazing TTU Law Library Faculty who juggle law degrees and graduate degrees in library and information science? These expert legal researchers have designed and teach our ELR classes, bringing their wealth of experience straight to your screen.
But wait, there’s more! When they’re not powering up the ELR program, our Law Library Faculty are teaching for-credit specialty research courses, leading 1L Legal Practice Research Workshops, and guest-starring in doctrinal courses with specialized legal research lectures. They're your go-to superheroes for mastering legal research, whether you're online or in the classroom!
Meet Prof. Jamie J. Baker!
Prof. Baker wears many hats as Associate Dean, Director of the Law Library, and Dean’s Distinguished Service Professor of Law. With a J.D. from Western Michigan University—Cooley Law School and an M.L.I.S. from Wayne State University, she’s your go-to for all things legal research and strategy.
In the spring, she teaches Civil Trial: Practice & Litigation Materials, a course where research and courtroom tactics collide. Reach out at jamie.baker@ttu.edu—she’s here to help!
Meet Prof. Ashley Arrington!
As Associate Director of the Law Library, Prof. Arrington is passionate about guiding students through the ins and outs of legal research. She holds a J.D. from Texas A&M University School of Law, an LL.M. from Northeastern University School of Law, and an M.L.I.S. from the University of Washington Information School.
In the spring, she teaches Advanced Legal Research, helping students sharpen their research skills for complex legal challenges.
Have inquiries or need expert advice? Reach out to Prof. Arrington at ashley.arrington@ttu.edu—whether you’ve got questions or just want to connect!
Meet Prof. Brian Cassidy!
Prof. Cassidy serves as User Services Librarian, coordinating all things user services for both students and faculty. He holds a J.D. from the University of Dayton School of Law, an M.L.I.S. from Kent State University, and a B.S. in Political Science from Southern Connecticut State University.
In the spring, he teaches Criminal Trial Research, focusing on the research strategies and resources needed to support trial practice in criminal cases.
Have questions or need support? Reach out to Prof. Cassidy at brian.cassidy@ttu.edu—he's just an email away!
Meet Prof. Rachel Jorgensen!
Prof. Jorgensen serves as Outreach Services Librarian, leading the Law Library’s outreach programs and building connections with students and the broader Law School community. She holds a J.D. from the David A. Clarke School of Law, an M.L.I.S. from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and a B.A. in Art History and American Studies from the University of Iowa.
In the fall, she co-teaches Texas Legal Research, offering a deep dive into the sources and structure of Texas law.
Need research tips or support? Reach out to Prof. Jorgensen at rachel.jorgensen@ttu.edu—she’s always glad to help!
Meet Prof. Dajiang Nie!
Prof. Nie serves as Electronic & Digital Services Librarian, expertly blending law and technology to support students and faculty. He earned his J.D. from the University of Richmond School of Law, an LL.M. from William & Mary Law School, and an M.L.I.S. from Syracuse University.
In the spring, he teaches Law & Science Legal Research, exploring the intersection of legal research and scientific advancements. This course is geared toward students in the Law & Science concentration but is open to anyone with an interest in this dynamic area of study. In the fall, he co-teaches Texas Legal Research, focusing on the unique aspects of Texas law.
Have questions or need guidance? Reach out to Prof. Nie at dajiang.nie@ttu.edu—he’s always ready to help!
'
Meet Prof. F.J. "Ross" Hinojosa!
Prof. Hinojosa is a proud graduate of Texas Tech University School of Law, where she earned her J.D. before pursuing an M.L.I.S. at the University of Washington Information School. Now a Law Library Fellow and Lecturer, she’s excited to give back to the Red Raider community by teaching and mentoring future lawyers.
Have questions or want to connect? Reach out to Prof. Hinojosa at fj.hinojosa@ttu.edu—she’s always happy to help a fellow Red Raider!
What does it cost to take ELR classes?
Nada! Zip! Zero! ELR classes are completely free for all TTU law students.
Who teaches these classes?
Only the best! Our Law Library Faculty are highly qualified, with both law degrees and advanced degrees in library and information science. They’re seasoned experts, excited to share their knowledge and help you succeed. Want to know more about them? Check out the Faculty tab for all the details!
Who can take these classes?
2Ls and 3Ls, you’re welcome anytime! 1Ls, you can join the fun starting in the spring semester of 1L.
How do I register?
It’s easy! Just sign up here, and you’ll be added to the program’s RaiderCanvas page. Keep an eye out for a confirmation email from Professor Arrington, then you’re all set to dive in!
How do I access course materials?
Once you’re registered, you’ll have full access to the ELR RaiderCanvas page, where all course materials are conveniently organized for you. Just log in, and you’re ready to dive into the content!
What are the requirements for completing the program?
To complete the ELR Program, you’ll need to complete six required classes and at least four electives of your choice. Each class is a dynamic mix of lecture, demonstration, and hands-on skills practice. To earn credit, you must successfully complete all parts of the course and score at least 85% on the final assessment. Curious about the course options? Check out the Courses tab for all the details!
When must I complete the program requirements?
Great news—you’ve got plenty of time! Once you’re eligible in the spring semester of 1L, you’ll have your entire law school journey to wrap up the program. The only deadline? Graduation day!
Will I receive credits for the ELR program?
Nope, but here’s why it’s still worth it: Research is one of the trickiest skills for new lawyers, and employers love seeing candidates who’ve gone the extra mile with training. Looking for for-credit legal research courses? Check out the Faculty tab for offerings from our Law Library Faculty.
Do I receive grades for these classes?
Yes, but don’t sweat it! You’ll need at least an 85% on the final assessment to pass. If you don’t hit the mark, no worries—Professor Arrington will help you review tough concepts, and you’ll get a second chance to shine.
Where do I submit my completed assignments?
All assignments are submitted via the ELR RaiderCanvas page.
When will my submissions be graded?
Submissions are collected at the end of each month and typically graded within 1–3 weeks after that. While most grades are posted earlier, you can expect to receive your grade by the end of the month following your submission at latest. Processing times may vary depending on the volume of submissions.
What electives should I take?
The choice is yours! Explore electives that spark your interest, but keep in mind you’ll need at least four to complete the program. Not sure where to start? We’ve got courses that build on the research skills you learned in 1L, like advanced case law research, statutory research, regulatory research, and more. Explore all your options in the Courses tab and start planning your path to success!
What is the UV Jones Award?
This prestigious award goes to the student with the highest average score on final assessments in the ELR Program. And yes, there’s a $250 prize! Want more details? Check out the UV Jones Award tab.
What is the Bar Prep Award?
Complete the program, and you’re automatically entered into a drawing for $1,500 toward a bar prep course of your choice. One lucky student will win this award each spring semester—could it be you? For more details, check out the Bar Prep Award tab.
Is it true that legal research will be on the NextGen Bar Exam?
Yes! Legal research is a key component of the NextGen Bar Exam, with legal practice skills expected to make up 50-60% of the test. Sharpening your research skills has never been more important!
🏆 U.V. JONES AWARD 🏆
Celebrating excellence in legal research, the U.V. Jones Award honors the incredible career of Texas Tech Law Librarian U.V. Jones. Each year, this prestigious award is granted to the ELR Program student with the highest average score on their final assessments—an achievement that showcases dedication, skill, and mastery in legal research.
💰 Award Amount: $250
The award will be processed through the recipient’s financial aid package. If there’s room under the annual cost of attendance cap, the award will be disbursed. If the cap has been reached, the award will reduce the student loan balance instead.
The winner’s name will be submitted to Lisa Green for processing, and they’ll receive well-deserved recognition at the Law School’s annual Awards & Honors event.
A huge round of applause to Samuel Dick, this year’s U.V. Jones Award recipient! 🎊 Congratulations, Sam—you’ve set the bar high for excellence in legal research!
🎉 Introducing Our New Bar Prep Award! 🎉
We’re thrilled to announce our very first Bar Prep Award winner: Harlan Burk!
Starting in spring 2025, all 3L students who complete the ELR Program requirements by April 1 are automatically entered into a once-per-year spring drawing to win $1,500 toward the bar prep course of their choice.
This award is our way of celebrating your hard work and supporting your journey to becoming a practicing attorney.
Congrats again to Harlan—and to all future ELR grads, you could be next! 🌟