James
What should I major in if I want to go to Law School?
I've heard you can major in anything since GPA is most important, but what about majoring in the specialization field you hope to work in? #law #lawyer #political-science #policy
3 answers
Genevieve Cawthorn
Genevieve’s Answer
Law schools don't require a specific major. This is a good thing because it allows you the opportunity to major in what you're actually interested in versus what is "required." There are some majors that are common among people who go to law school. These majors include political science, philosophy & english. Although these are popular majors among law students, this does not mean law schools "prefer" these majors. In fact, law schools like to admit a class of students with different majors and experiences. Some colleges also offer a pre-law minor as well as mock trial or debate programs.
In terms of the GPA being the most important factor, this is not necessarily true. The more selective, higher ranked law schools may pay closer attention to your GPA, but they generally focus on 3 main things - GPA, LSAT Score, and Personal Statement. Law schools will also look at references and your resume. Each law school is different - some may put more weight on your personal statement while others might put more weight on your LSAT score. The LSAT Score is probably the most important factor law schools look at when determining scholarship packages.
It's always a good idea to explore a major that relates to the career or industry you want to work in. Since every field has an area of law that relates or applies, you can likely find a major that is associated with that industry. However, there are some areas of law that might not directly relate to any major. For example, employment law, family law or insurance defense don't really relate to any specific type of major.
Do you know what specialization you're interested in? I might be able to provide a better answer for what to major in based on this.
Thank you so much. For more specific details, I am really interested in Constitutional Law
James
Got it. If Constitutional Law is your interest, Political Science would be a good major. Other government related majors you might come across are American Studies and Public Policy. When you reach college, if there is more than one subject area that interests you, you can always major in one and minor in another. For example, you could major in Political Science and minor in American Studies (if this is offered). Some students also double major in two areas - this might require an extra year or taking summer and winter classes.
Genevieve Cawthorn
That is very helpful. I am also curious about corporate law, what duties are covered and also what majors would be helpful?
James
Some people who are interested in business/corporate law might think a business major would be helpful- but corporate law is one of those areas of law that covers a lot of subareas - securities, contracts, mergers & acquisitions, intellectual property, tax, etc. (all areas you are unlikely to touch in college - except for maybe contracts in a business law course). There is no major that directly correlates with corporate law, but taking a business law course can help.
Genevieve Cawthorn
Quinci Smith Slater (she/her)
Quinci’s Answer
