The Best Majors for Law School
If you’re considering a legal career, these are probably some of the best majors for law school!
A unique aspect of law school is that there really isn’t any type of major requirement or even course requirement to apply. The only two requirements are a Bachelors degree and the LSAT.
While this allows you the flexibility to practically major in anything, some majors might provide a more relevant skillset and knowledge.
From some more common majors to more specialized ones, here’s a closer look at these majors for law school!
Why Choose A Specific Major?
Law school doesn’t really require any specific major during undergrad, unlike some other grad school tracks (like pre-health).
However, choosing one that aligns with your interests and career goals can provide advantages.
Certain majors can offer a strong foundation for legal concepts such as political science or journalism. Not to mention, specific majors can help develop essential skills needed in law school such as writing, research, critical thinking, analytical skills, etc.
Furthermore, choosing a specific major with legal fields in mind can open you up to so many different opportunities.
For example, a degree in business can be beneficial for those interested in corporate law or intellectual property, while engineering or science majors may be well-suited for patent law or environmental law.
Best Majors for Law School
English:
English is often considered one of the best majors for law school due to its emphasis on critical thinking, analytical skills, and effective communication. These skills are essential in the legal field, where the ability to draft concise, well-reasoned arguments is crucial.
The study of English literature involves a deep analysis of language, structure, and argumentation. This academic curriculum equips students with the tools to dissect legal texts, understand the nuances of legal reasoning, and construct compelling legal arguments. English majors develop a keen eye for detail and a critical mindset, both of which are very valuable in legal analysis.
Furthermore, English majors are exposed to a wide range of literary genres, including fiction, poetry, drama, and non-fiction. This diverse exposure broadens their understanding of human experience, culture, and society. These insights can be applied to legal cases, helping lawyers to understand the broader context of legal issues.
History:
When considering going to law school, history is a valuable major.
A history major consists of a wide range of topics from ancient civilizations to contemporary events. They study political, social, economic, and cultural developments, examining how these factors have shaped the world we live in today. This broad exposure to historical events and trends provides a valuable foundation for understanding the complexities of legal issues.
History is often considered one of the best majors for law school due to its emphasis on critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep understanding of legal history and historical context.
In addition to these foundational skills, history majors often have an advantage in law school due to their familiarity with historical figures and events. This knowledge can provide valuable insights into the development of legal principles and the motivations behind legal decisions.
Political Science:
For those interested in law, political science is a major to definitely consider.[
Political science majors delve into a wide range of topics related to government, law, and political systems. They study political theory, American politics, comparative politics, and international relations, examining how these factors shape political decision-making and legal frameworks.
Another reason why political science is one of the best majors for law school is that students develop strong writing and communication skills. They are trained to articulate complex ideas clearly and persuasively, which is essential for success in the legal field.
In addition to these foundational skills, political science majors often have an advantage in law school due to their familiarity with legal terminology and concepts. Many political science courses delve into legal issues and the political processes that shape them. This exposure can provide political science majors with a head start in understanding legal principles and their historical context.
Philosophy:
Philosophy is yet another major within this list of best majors for law school.
This is a useful major to have on the pre-law track as it sharpens your critical thinking and logical reasoning skills.
The coursework teaches you how to break down complex arguments, spot fallacies, and build solid arguments of your own. These skills are super handy for the LSAT and will help you tackle the analytical challenges that come up in law school.
Most philosophy programs offer a diverse curriculum, covering topics like logic, ethics, political philosophy, and the history of philosophy. Many also let you focus on areas that match your legal interests, such as political or moral philosophy.
Additionally, the legal world is full of ethical gray areas and philosophy helps you get comfortable analyzing those dilemmas.
On top of that, philosophy isn’t just about legal skills. It encourages intellectual curiosity, strong writing and communication skills, and the ability to think critically about complicated issues. All of these traits are invaluable for any lawyer, no matter what field you choose.
Economics:
An economics major can definitely be a smart choice if you’re on the pre-law track in undergrad.
Most economics programs feature a curriculum including microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and various specialized areas like international economics, environmental economics, and behavioral economics. Some programs also offer concentrations that allow you to focus on a niche within the broad field of economics.
Studying economics also gives you a deep understanding of economic principles and how they intersect with legal issues. You’ll dive into topics like supply and demand, market structures, and economic policy, all of which are crucial for grasping the economic context behind legal disputes.
Moreover, economics can be applied to a variety of legal issues, from antitrust law to environmental regulation. By studying this field, you’ll learn to analyze legal problems through an economic lens.
Engineering:
Beyond the traditional pre-law majors, engineering offers a very unique skillset that can set you apart.
Most engineering programs offer courses in mathematics, science, engineering fundamentals, and specialized areas like mechanical, electrical, or civil engineering.
Moreover, engineering majors offer a range of specializations, including mechanical, electrical, civil, chemical, and biomedical engineering. Each field focuses on unique applications—mechanical deals with systems and machinery, electrical with circuits and technology, civil with infrastructure and construction, chemical with materials and processes, and biomedical with healthcare innovations.
Engineering provides a solid understanding of scientific and technological advancements, which are increasingly relevant to many legal issues. You’ll explore topics like intellectual property, technology law, and environmental law, all crucial for grasping the legal implications of technological innovation.
Additionally, engineering can be applied to a wide range of legal challenges, from patent law to product liability. Studying engineering helps you analyze legal problems from a technical perspective.
Criminology:
With consideration of a legal career, criminology might be a major to consider.
Criminology equips you with a deep understanding of criminal law, criminal procedure, and the justice system.
Much of the coursework for the major involves learning about the criminal justice process, legal theories, and the rights of the accused, all of which are essential for grasping the legal framework and the challenges faced by the justice system.
The major also fosters the development of research and analysis skills that are invaluable for law school and legal practice. You’ll learn to conduct research, analyze data, and evaluate evidence—crucial skills for understanding legal arguments and developing effective strategies.
Journalism:
Journalism can be a strategic choice if you’re considering a career in law.
While journalism is just one of the several best majors for law school, one of the key benefits is that students will develop strong writing and communication skills.
A journalism major typically features a diverse curriculum, including courses in news writing, reporting, editing, and specialized areas like investigative journalism and political journalism.
Moreover, studying journalism provides a unique perspective on legal issues, particularly the intersection of law and media. You’ll delve into topics such as freedom of speech, defamation, and privacy law, gaining insights into the legal framework that governs the media industry and its implications for broader societal issues.
In essence, a journalism major equips you with essential writing, communication, and research skills for success in law school and the legal profession
Environmental Studies and Policy:
For those interested in making a meaningful impact on pressing global issues, majoring in environmental studies and policy can be a powerful choice.
This field not only equips you with a solid foundation in environmental law but also provides you with the skills needed to tackle complex legal challenges related to sustainability and environmental protection.
One of the primary advantages that makes this one of the best majors for law school is understanding environmental law, policy, and sustainability.
An environmental studies and policy major typically includes a courseload of courses in environmental science, policy analysis, and law, along with specialized areas such as climate change, environmental justice, and sustainability.
Many programs also offer concentrations that allow you to align your studies with specific legal interests, such as environmental law or energy policy.
International Relations:
If you’re drawn to the complexities of global affairs and their intersection with the law, majoring in international relations could be an excellent path.
One of the key advantages of an international relations major is the extensive knowledge it provides about international organizations, foreign policy, and global issues.
Much of the coursework for an international relations major includes topics in international relations theory, international law, foreign policy analysis, and specialized areas like international security and political economy.
This major also fosters strong analytical skills that allow you to examine pressing legal and political issues on a global scale. You’ll learn how to analyze complex international problems, evaluate policy options, and craft effective legal arguments, all of which are invaluable in legal practice.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Major
When selecting a major for law school, several factors should be considered:
- Aligning your major with personal interests and passions can significantly enhance motivation and enjoyment throughout your studies. A major that excites and inspires you is more likely to lead to academic success and a fulfilling career.
- Evaluating your academic strengths and weaknesses can help you choose a major that leverages your skills and minimizes challenges. By selecting a field where you excel, you’ll have a better chance of achieving academic success and building a strong foundation for your future.
- Remember, while it’s important to choose a major that aligns with your strengths, don’t be afraid to challenge yourself. Taking on courses outside your comfort zone can help you develop new skills and broaden your perspectives
Your career goals should also influence your choice of major. Different majors can lead to specialized legal fields or career paths. For example, those interested in business law might consider majors like business, finance, or economics, while those interested in intellectual property law might benefit from majors like science, engineering, or technology.
Ultimately, the most important thing is to demonstrate your ability to think critically, communicate effectively, and succeed academically.
As long as you have a bachelor’s degree and a strong LSAT score, you’ll be eligible to apply to law school.
In conclusion…
Remember, the best major for law school is going to be different for each student!
The most important factor is finding a major that challenges and inspires you. By carefully considering your interests, strengths, and goals, you can choose a major that sets you up for success in law school
