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Pre-Legal Education
Academic Bulletin
When advising a student interested in Pre-Legal Education, please note the following:
- There is no “Pre-law Major” although the five most common undergraduate Majors for law students are History, Political Science, Economics, English and Psychology. Students should be encouraged to choose a Major that is challenging and interesting, one that compels him/her to develop skills and abilities beyond their current level.
- For intended practice in international law, students are strongly advised to develop fluency in at least one foreign language.
- Internships and job shadowing in the legal field are available in Meadville and through various programs in Washington, D.C. as well as in locations where alumni work and serve as attorneys.
- The basic skills of lawyering include: analysis, synthesis, advocacy, negotiation, writing, counseling/advising, and speaking.
- The Pre-Law Club and Law & Policy program are great ways to explore international and domestic legal/policy issues, network with alumni, and connect with like-minded peers. First-year students are encouraged to enroll in Law & Policy and become a member of the Pre-Law Club to have full access to all events and guest speakers. The Mock Trial team is coached by a local attorney and is another excellent way for first-year students to gain skills in public speaking, critical thinking, and forming a persuasive, cohesive argument which will set a strong foundation for law school.
- The Pre-Law Library, LSAT study materials, and information on law school application processes can be located in the Allegheny Gateway library, in the yellow node near the Career Education and Pre-Professional Studies offices.
- For more information contact Career Education 814.332.2381.
A law student requires three basic qualities:
Skill in the use of language:
Courses such as English 110, 208, 305, intermediate level courses in literature, rhetoric, and COMM 235 (Advanced Public Speaking) all contribute to the development of this skill.
Knowledge of human institutions and values:
Courses such as Political Science 110 and an Economics 100-level course, and ECON 285 are recommended. Psychology courses such as Human Social Behavior, Justice, and Research Design are also valuable.
Creative power in thinking:
Economics, computer science, logic, and math are all beneficial.
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