No particular undergraduate major is expected of pre-law students. Instead, students should choose a course of study that is challenging and that encourages the formation of strong foundational skills. Beginning early in their academic career, students interested in studying law should work with a pre-law advisor to develop an understanding of pre-law coursework opportunities, as well as the timetable for taking the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) and requirements associated with the law school application process. Courses selected from the list below will help students ascertain their interest in the study of the law and will prepare them for the LSAT.
The pre-law program at Concordia is grounded in the college’s strong liberal arts tradition. Preparatory courses are drawn from across the disciplines, and help instill the skills and habits of mind that are beneficial to the study and practice of the law. This means there is no single undergraduate major for pre-law students. While some may major in history or political science, others may choose business or chemistry. Whatever their major, interested students should take liberal arts courses that encourage critical reading, careful argumentation, strong research skills, and intensive writing.
A number of opportunities beneficial to students who are considering applying to law school are offered that provide an enhanced understanding of the law school experience and the legal profession. These include:
Law schools primarily consider an applicant’s Law School Admission Test (LSAT) score and undergraduate GPA when making admission decisions. Pre-law advising is, therefore, instrumental in understanding how to approach LSAT preparation, and it can also be helpful in identifying which law schools to apply to. Students generally take the LSAT in the spring or summer prior to their senior year so they have time to retake the exam should they wish to improve their score. Application deadlines vary by school but are often in the spring semester prior to fall enrollment. Law schools typically follow a rolling admission policy, which means they assess and accept applications continuously as they are received. As a result, the earlier a student can complete a quality application, the better. Students should be sure to work with a pre-law advisor throughout the application process.
Concordia’s pre-law advisors will help students craft individual programs of study that fit their strengths and interests. While students may approach a pre-law advisor for assistance at any time during their Concordia careers, they are encouraged to do so early, as pre-law advisement helps students select courses and discern whether they have an aptitude for the study and practice of the law.
Supporting coursework and activities – Because there is no defined course of study for pre-law students, a pre-law advisor can help students identify which of the following courses and activities best fit their specific needs.
Foundational courses – These courses address the foundations of law and the justice system, and will assist students assessing whether to pursue law as a vocation.
Courses to enhance skills and capacities – The courses listed in this section develop skills in critical analysis and persuasive speaking and writing. They will also help students succeed on the Law School Admission Test.
Contextual courses – These courses provide broad contextual knowledge instrumental to understanding the application of the law.
Activities – The following activities develop foundational skills and expose students to law-related content:
Debate team
Mock trial team
Job shadow opportunities with area law firms
Concordia College Pre-Law Lecture Series
Pre-Law Society student organization