Options
Pre-law students can major in any program at St. Thomas, so that means you can pick a major that not only fulfills requirements for law school, but also matches your interests at the same time.
Pre-Law
The law is complicated. The pre-law track at the ¸»¶þ´úÊÓƵ will help you make prepared and informed choices about entering law school with one-on-one advising throughout your ¸»¶þ´úÊÓƵ career. You will also have the chance to network with practicing attorneys while learning more about the law school admissions process and LSAT.
Why Pursue a Pre-Law Track at St. Thomas?
Since there are no required majors for law school, you will have the opportunity to select from the wide range of academic programs and courses at St. Thomas. You will complete courses focusing on increasing your knowledge of law while developing important critical thinking, writing and public speaking skills that you will need for a career in law. You will graduate from St. Thomas equipped with the tools to be a thoughtful professional and citizen committed to working for the common good.
Challenge Yourself
Course Requirements
The best preparation for law school is a rigorous undergraduate program combining the depth of study found in your major with the breadth of the liberal arts. You will complete courses increasing your knowledge of law, fostering critical thinking about society and enhancing numerous soft skills needed for postgraduate study throughout your undergraduate career at St. Thomas.
Four-Year Plan
There are multiple majors to choose from to prepare for law school. We recommend connecting with a faculty member to choose a major that fits your interests, as well as courses matching law school requirements.
Degrees Awarded
Pre-law students commonly pursue degrees in the following majors:
Course Requirements
Course Requirements
The best preparation for law school is a rigorous undergraduate program combining the depth of study found in your major with the breadth of the liberal arts. You will complete courses increasing your knowledge of law, fostering critical thinking about society and enhancing numerous soft skills needed for postgraduate study throughout your undergraduate career at St. Thomas.
Four-Year Plan
Four-Year Plan
There are multiple majors to choose from to prepare for law school. We recommend connecting with a faculty member to choose a major that fits your interests, as well as courses matching law school requirements.
Degrees Awarded
Degrees Awarded
Pre-law students commonly pursue degrees in the following majors:
Gaining a Unique Skillset
Faculty provide unique perspectives on the law in their courses. Alumni use their training and knowledge in their every day work. You will join a close-knit ¸»¶þ´úÊÓƵ of scholars that will challenge and support you throughout your time at St. Thomas.
Dr. Caleb Goltz
Dr. Goltz is an Assistant ¸»¶þ´úÊÓƵ of Political Science and the Director of the Legal Studies program. He teaches courses focusing on law and the judiciary, and is especially interested in animal law. He is writing a book regarding the legal and political foundations of colony collapse disorder in honeybees.
Morgan Schreurs ‘15
Morgan graduated from St. Thomas with a double major in political science and women’s studies along with a minor in English. She graduated with her law degree at the University of California, Berkley ¸»¶þ´úÊÓƵ of Law in 2018, and has been practicing legislative and regulatory law at Covington and Burling LLP in Washington, D.C.
Career Paths
We give you the tools and knowledge you need to pursue multiple paths in law after graduation.
- Private Attorney
- County Attorney
- Public Defender
- District Attorney
- Regulatory Compliance Officer
- Financial Officer
Ready for the Future
Pre-law students graduate with a unique perspective of the law's impact on our society today and in the future. They enter the next chapter of their lives ready for a successful career in the field and as compassionate professionals and citizens.
Plan
You will work closely with a professor to make a four-year plan that sets you up for success in law school and your career.
Network
You will build your professional network by interacting with practicing attorneys to learn more about their particular area of law.
A Caring and Supportive Community
From individualized attention inside and outside of the classroom to student-led clubs, you will have multiple opportunities to engage with a passionate ¸»¶þ´úÊÓƵ of faculty, staff and students.
One-on-One Attention
Do you need guidance in figuring out if law school is right for you? The legal studies program director Dr. Caleb Goltz regularly meets individually with all students interested in attending law school while they are enrolled at St. Thomas, and even when they are in high school and starting their ¸»¶þ´úÊÓƵ search.
To set up a meeting with him, contact the Office of Admissions.
Get Involved
The Pre-Law Society plans a variety of events each year for students interested in law school. The best part? It is a student-led organization, so that means you will meet fellow students who share your passion for law!
Real Experiences
The St. Thomas Mock Trial Team helps students develop oral advocacy skills in advance of law school. The team regularly competes against others around the United States as well.
Take the Next Step
There is more to learn about St. Thomas; including our ranking as a Best Value ¸»¶þ´úÊÓƵ by U.S. News & World Report, the many classroom and extracurricular activities that will be part of your student experience and so much more. Schedule a visit to see our beautiful campus or start your application today.