What Are Legal Studies?

"Legal studies" is the study of the legal process.

"Legal studies" is a multidisciplinary academic field that centers around the study of law and justice. Rather than direct preparation for law school, legal studies is applicable to many careers and academic subjects.

Types of Degrees

Legal studies can be included in an undergraduate major, a minor or a Master's degree.

Purpose

Legal studies is involved with legal institutions, legal theories and the legal process. Legal studies encourages critical and analytical skills that are essential in many disciplines and careers.

Law School Preparation

Although law schools do not recommend any specific major as preparation, many students who intend to pursue a law school degree major in legal studies as undergraduates.

Related Subjects

Subjects covered in legal studies include the philosophy of law, politics, the legal history of America, property law and the criminal justice process.

Career Possibilities

Understanding the legal system is key to many careers, including social workers, lobbyists, personnel administrators, librarians and human resource consultants.

References

• University of California, Berkeley: Legal Studies
• University of Illinois at Springfield: Legal Studies
• University of Illinois at Springfield: What You Can Do With This Degree