03/24/2025
The legal system touches virtually every aspect of our daily lives, from business transactions and employment relationships to civil rights and court function. A legal studies program introduces students to the inner workings of the justice system, how laws shape society, and how those laws are practically applied.
Legal studies combines elements of criminal justice, sociology, and politics to help students gain an understanding of legal concepts and applications. Unlike traditional law school programs, which focus specifically on preparing attorneys, legal studies offers a broader perspective on how legal systems function and influence society.
Key Learning Areas in Legal Studies
Legal studies is an interdisciplinary field that examines the principles and practices of law in various contexts. A legal studies program seeks to give students a strong foundation of legal knowledge and may also provide opportunities for hands-on learning through internships and practical experience.
Coursework for this degree program typically focuses on helping students develop fundamental skills in legal research, concepts, and legal writing, although specific program requirements may vary.
The field of legal studies explores fundamental aspects of legal knowledge and practice, including:
- Law: Classes may examine the structure and relationships of federal, state, and local laws and the court system.
- Political Science: Students may study how laws are created and enforced.
- Sociology: The study of sociology explores how laws affect different communities and demographics.
- Business: Business law considers how organizations operate within legal frameworks
- Philosophy: Philosophy courses typically address questions of justice and ethics in legal practice.
Students in legal studies programs typically gain a broad knowledge of the legal field and its application in different settings. Courses may also focus on research and writing skills, analytical skills, communication, and ethical conduct.
Many programs also recognize the growing influence of technology in the legal field. Some programs may incorporate training in legal databases, case management software, and other digital tools relevant to legal professions. This technological integration helps prepare graduates for the evolving demands of the legal profession.
Potential Career Paths with a Legal Studies Degree
The field of legal studies is relevant in many industries as organizations face increasingly complex regulatory environments. Understanding legal applications and regulatory compliance is crucial for navigating challenges in business and building successful careers in law-adjacent fields.
Graduates in legal studies may explore a variety of career options in areas like:
- Law
- Government
- Business
- Non-profit organizations
- Justice system
Specific requirements for roles in these industries vary based on job responsibilities, market needs, credentials, and other factors. Depending on their unique circumstances, legal studies graduates may consider pursuing a variety of potential roles, such as paralegal, legal assistant, law enforcement officer, compliance officer, social worker, or court clerk.
What Skills Are Needed in Legal Studies?
Most legal studies programs aim to give students a strong foundation in legal thought, principles, and practices. They also typically teach a range of practical skills, including analytical thinking, research, and writing, although specific coursework varies by program. Essential knowledge areas include:
- Constitutional Law - Students typically examine the framework of American government, civil rights and liberties, and the Supreme Court's role in interpreting these fundamental laws.
- Criminal Justice - Coursework typically explores the principles of criminal law, court procedures, and the complex relationships between law enforcement, courts, and corrections. Classes aim to provide insight into how criminal cases move through the courts from investigation to resolution.
- Civil Litigation - Programs may cover the processes and procedures of civil law, including contract disputes, property rights, and tort law. This includes teaching how private parties resolve legal conflicts through the court system.
- Business Law - Courses usually cover legal issues in commercial transactions, corporate structures, and employment relationships. This knowledge is particularly valuable as organizations face increasing regulatory and compliance requirements.
Professional Capabilities
The field of legal studies typically emphasizes a versatile set of professional skills that may be needed in a future job, though specific coursework varies from program to program. Students may learn:
- Legal Research and Writing Skills - Students typically study how to navigate legal databases and primary sources, analyze case law and statutes, draft clear, concise legal documents, and present complex concepts in accessible language.
- Critical Thinking - A legal studies program usually seeks to prepare students to evaluate complex legal arguments, identify key issues in legal disputes, apply legal principles to new situations, and develop logical solutions to legal problems.
- Professional Ethics - Courses typically explore how to recognize ethical dilemmas in legal contexts, understand professional responsibility requirements, apply ethical principles to decision-making, and maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries.
- Project Management - Project assignments may focus on helping students develop organization and time management skills, attention to detail, collaboration abilities, and leadership capabilities.
Legal Studies vs Law School
A legal studies major is not the same as law school, but it can prepare a student to pursue a career in law. The skills and knowledge gained through legal studies may help prepare students to attend law school or seek employment in a related field.
If you are interested in the legal field, understanding the difference between legal studies and law school will help you choose the best path to pursue your goals.
Legal Studies Programs: A Foundation in Law
A legal studies degree typically takes four years to complete at the undergraduate level, depending on the program and your unique circumstances. It seeks to provide a broad understanding of the legal system and a strong foundation of legal knowledge. Advantages of majoring in legal studies may include:
- Degree Versatility: Graduates may be able to pursue a wide variety of law-adjacent positions without additional education.
- Diverse Career Paths: This degree often opens doors to various fields where legal knowledge is valuable.
- Flexibility: A legal studies degree is not required for law school but may provide foundational knowledge for students considering further legal education.
Law School: The Path to Becoming an Attorney
Law school coursework typically delves deeper into legal theory, case law, and specific practice areas, preparing students to become attorneys. Law school represents a different educational trajectory:
- Requires completion of a bachelor's degree first (in any field)
- Takes additional years of study
- Focuses specifically on training future attorneys
- Culminates in a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree
- Requires passing the bar exam to practice law
Exploring a Career in Legal Studies
The field of legal studies can provide a foundation for students who wish to pursue careers in business, government, or law.
Whether you are interested in a potential future in a law firm, corporate environment, government agency, or nonprofit organization, legal studies can help you develop critical skills that may be valuable to future employers. The combination of theoretical knowledge and practical experience provides a solid foundation that may open opportunities for career growth and professional development across multiple sectors. Advanced roles may require additional education or qualifications.
As organizations navigate complex regulatory environments, employers often seek qualified job candidates who understand legal regulations and compliance requirements. Legal studies graduates may explore various roles across multiple sectors. Salaries and career trajectories vary based on industry, experience, and other factors.
Take the Next Step to Explore a Legal Studies Degree Program
The decision to pursue legal studies can open a pathway to a meaningful career where legal knowledge can make a lasting difference in organizations and communities. Many programs offer flexible learning options, including online and hybrid formats, which may help students balance educational goals with other commitments.
Are you interested in learning more about the field of legal studies? Take the next step by researching programs to learn about program requirements, learning formats, and prerequisites.
