Law school requires an intensive educational experience that develops key traits like research proficiency, effective writing techniques and reading comprehension. Prospective lawyers can prepare themselves for its rigors by seeking educational, extra-curricular and life experiences which build these traits.
Aspiring lawyers often pursue undergraduate programs that will assist in their success in law school. Examples include:
Criminal Justice
Criminal justice fascinates us, which explains our fascination with true crime podcasts and documentaries. However, roles within criminal justice may not be suitable for everyone; they require physical fitness, excellent problem-solving abilities and upholding ethical standards even under trying circumstances.
The top law schools for criminal justice offer a diverse curriculum with opportunities to specialize in areas like juvenile or white-collar crime. Furthermore, their faculty approach criminal justice issues holistically from historical, political, and philosophical angles; students can collaborate on time sensitive cases that advance reforms such as cash bail reform, mass incarceration reform and alternative policing methods.
Criminal justice programs provide students with the skills needed to protect and serve communities effectively. When selecting your law school, pay particular attention to whether it offers courses and programs related to your field of interest as well as externships, competitions or other experiential learning opportunities that could enhance both your resume and professional growth.
English
English classes provide the foundation necessary for lawyers to develop strong written communication skills, while mathematics develops problem-solving abilities which may prove invaluable in legal research, while philosophy and ethics courses cultivate more ethical, thoughtful students.
While some pre-law students might think studying English has less to do with law, recent data demonstrates otherwise; English majors have consistently scored among the highest LSAT scores of any major. Further, multiple interviewees noted that most lawyers’ jobs require reading and writing as their main task.
USIU provides an intensive English for Legal Professionals program designed to strengthen non-native English speakers’ language abilities in preparation for law school or careers in legal fields, open to students starting studies at any accredited U.S. law school this fall. Click for more details.
Political Science
Political scientists use research methods rooted in social sciences to investigate political campaigns and their results, as well as uncovering causes for social change. A degree in this field provides students with an excellent foundation in which to play an active role as citizens of a democracy or world community; whether law school, government work or non-profit careers in advocacy, business journalism or education are possible options for future study or employment.
Although political science majors can pursue various paths into this career field, it is crucial that they select an academic program that matches both their interests and long-term career objectives. Consider programs offering specialization tracks or concentrations and pay attention to faculty reputation.
Not only can some programs offer coursework, but some also provide research assistantships and honor theses support as well as conference travel grants through Murray Weidenbaum Center Scholars Program. Other programs may facilitate internship opportunities at state or local agencies like WA Legislature and Whatcom County Office of Public Defenders.
History
Studies of law require an understanding of its history and context, which is why many students pursuing legal degrees also choose to major in history. A major in history demonstrates to law schools that you possess the necessary research skills for communicating complex facts and ideas effectively.
History graduates find success across a range of professions, from teaching and publishing to government policy development and administration, and journalism and media work.
A joint JD/PhD program at Harvard Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (GSAS) allows you to combine your legal studies with an advanced doctorate degree in History at GSAS. Faculty from Law School and GSAS collaborate closely on courses related to both law and history that are taught by faculty from both institutions. As of now, nine credits from History can count towards your JD degree!
