Program Overview
St. John's University's dual BS/JD program allows students to earn both an undergraduate degree and a Juris Doctor in six years. The program provides a comprehensive legal education, emphasizing experiential learning, diversity, and professional ethics. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in various legal fields, with a high success rate in passing the bar exam and securing employment.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Overview:
The dual Bachelor of Science and Juris Doctor program at St. John's University allows students to enter the School of Law before completing their bachelor's degree, earning both an undergraduate degree from the College of Professional Studies and a Juris Doctor degree from St. John's Law in six years.
Objectives:
- Provide students with a comprehensive legal education that prepares them for a successful career in law.
- Offer a rigorous academic program that challenges students intellectually and develops their critical thinking, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
- Foster a supportive and collaborative learning environment that encourages students to engage with faculty and peers.
- Prepare students for the challenges of legal practice in the 21st century.
Program Description:
The dual degree program consists of 188 credit hours, including up to 27 credits earned during the first year at St. John's Law that can be applied towards the completion of the bachelor's degree. Students must complete all the requirements for their B.S. degree, except for the 27 credits that can be transferred from St. John's Law. Students interested in the program should consult with the Pre-Law Advisors in the College of Professional Studies for guidance on selecting relevant majors, completing prerequisite courses, and applying to law school.
Outline:
Program Content:
The program covers a wide range of legal topics, including:
- Constitutional law
- Criminal law
- Civil procedure
- Torts
- Contracts
- Property law
- Evidence
- Legal writing and research
- Professional responsibility
Program Structure:
The program is typically completed in six years, with students spending the first three years completing their undergraduate studies and the final three years in law school.
Course Schedule:
The course schedule varies depending on the student's major and the specific courses required for their B.S. degree.
Assessment:
Assessment Methods:
Students are assessed through a variety of methods, including:
- Exams
- Quizzes
- Papers
- Presentations
- Class participation
Assessment Criteria:
Students are evaluated based on their:
- Knowledge of legal concepts
- Analytical skills
- Writing ability
- Oral communication skills
- Professionalism
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
The program utilizes a variety of teaching methods, including:
- Lectures
- Discussions
- Case studies
- Simulations
- Role-playing
Faculty:
The program is taught by a distinguished faculty of legal scholars and practitioners who are experts in their respective fields.
Unique Approaches:
The program offers several unique approaches to legal education, including:
- A focus on experiential learning through internships, externships, and clinical programs.
- A commitment to diversity and inclusion, with a diverse student body and faculty.
- A strong emphasis on legal ethics and professional responsibility.
Careers:
Potential Career Paths:
Graduates of the program are prepared for a wide range of careers in law, including:
- Litigation
- Corporate law
- Criminal law
- Public interest law
- Government
- Academia
Opportunities:
The program provides students with numerous opportunities to gain practical experience and build their professional networks, including:
- Internships with law firms, government agencies, and non-profit organizations.
- Externships with judges and other legal professionals.
- Clinical programs that allow students to represent clients under the supervision of experienced attorneys.
Outcomes:
Graduates of the program have a high success rate in passing the bar exam and securing employment in the legal field.
St. John's University
Overview:
St. John's University is a Catholic and Vincentian institution that emphasizes a holistic approach to education, focusing on six core values: Truth, Love, Respect, Opportunity, Excellence, and Service. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with flexible options for online, hybrid, and in-person learning.
Services Offered:
St. John's University provides students with various services, including:
Academic Service-Learning (AS-L):
Students can participate in service projects that integrate academic learning with community engagement.Nondegree Programs:
The university offers nondegree programs in areas like English language, American culture, professional development, and exchange programs.High School Student Programs:
Through the College Advantage Program, high school students can earn college credit at a discounted rate.Student Life and Campus Experience:
St. John's University offers a vibrant campus experience with:
Diverse Student Body:
The university welcomes students from all over the world, fostering a multicultural environment.Global Opportunities:
Students can study abroad in locations like Rome, Paris, and Limerick, immersing themselves in different cultures.Campus Location:
The main campus is located in Queens, NY, offering a blend of suburban tranquility and urban excitement.Key Reasons to Study There:
Holistic Education:
St. John's University emphasizes a well-rounded education that combines theoretical knowledge with practical experiences.Focus on Service:
The university encourages students to engage in service activities and make a positive impact on the world.Global Citizenship:
St. John's University fosters global citizenship by providing opportunities for students to study abroad and interact with diverse cultures.Academic Programs:
Undergraduate Programs:
St. John's University offers over 100 undergraduate majors and programs of study.Graduate Programs:
The university provides a range of graduate programs designed to help students advance their careers or explore new avenues of study.Fine Arts Program:
The Fine Arts program at St. John's University offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree with a minor in Psychology.Other:
St. John's University is a Catholic and Vincentian institution with a strong emphasis on service and social justice. The university's core values are woven into every aspect of its operations, creating a supportive and inclusive environment for students.
Entry Requirements:
- 3.5 cumulative GPA (including transfer credits)
- Acceptance to St. John's Law
- Completion of all necessary requirements for a B.S.
