Pre-Law Pathway

Majoring in English or History is excellent preparation for law school. While no specific major is prescribed, pre-law education should prepare students to understand the world around them, to express themselves effectively, and to reason accurately and logically. The American Bar Association offers this advice about what to look for in an undergraduate major: "you are encouraged to pursue an area of study that interests and challenges you, while taking advantage of opportunities to develop your research and writing skills. Taking a broad range of difficult courses from demanding instructors is excellent preparation for legal education." (https://www.americanbar.org/groups/legal_education/resources/pre_law/)

English and history both require students to interpret intellectually challenging texts; hone their writing abilities; marshal evidence to make persuasive arguments; and practice defending their positions orally in class. History majors interested in preparing to attend law school should complete the Pre-Law Pathway by adding an English minor; taking some optional, but recommended cognate courses; and developing and completing a pre-law internship (ENG-5019). Students who follow the Pre-Law Pathway will be prepared to succeed on the LSAT and in law school.

While law schools do not prescribe a preparatory curriculum, they seek students who have demonstrated certain proficiencies and potential. High GPA and Law School Admission Test (LSAT) scores are vital. Admission committees typically consider non-quantifiable factors such as work experience, extra-curricular activities, letters of recommendation, and community service. The more well-rounded the applicant is, the better are the chances of acceptance. Specific questions about law school may be answered by Dr. William Wantland or by Dr. Dorothea Hawthorne, the English and History Department Chair.

Note: The Pre-law Pathway is not an MVNU degree option. It is a recommended course of study for students wanting to further their academic careers by going to law school.