Program Overview
Shenandoah University's Law and Legal Systems minor prepares students for law school by emphasizing the interdisciplinary nature of law and legal practices. It requires students to take core courses in public law and electives from various disciplines, fostering critical thinking, research, and writing skills essential for success in legal education.
Program Outline
Law and Legal Systems (Pre-Law) Minor at Shenandoah University
Degree Overview
Objectives:
- Prepare students for law school by emphasizing the interdisciplinary nature of law and legal practices.
- Develop critical thinking, research, and writing skills necessary for success in legal education.
- Provide a foundation in public law and legal culture.
Program Description:
The Law and Legal Systems minor is a concentration within the Political Science major. It requires students to take three core courses in public law and three electives from various disciplines, including Media & Communication, Criminal Justice, and Business.
Emphasis:
- Pre-law students are encouraged to take challenging courses from demanding instructors to prepare for the rigor of law school.
- Students are encouraged to pursue an area of study that is both engaging and develops strong research and writing skills.
Interdisciplinary Approach:
The minor emphasizes the interdisciplinary nature of law, drawing upon courses from various programs within the College of Arts & Sciences and the School of Business.
Outline
Required Courses:
- PSCI 210 – American Legal Systems and Practices
- PSCI 360 – Constitutional Law I
- PSCI 361 – Constitutional Law II
Electives:
Students must choose three electives from the following list:
- BA 471 – Healthcare Law
- BA 457 – Entrepreneurial Law
- BA 453 – Human Resources Management and Business Ethics
- BA 303 – Legal Environment of Business
- CJ 343 – Law for the Criminal Justice Professional
- CJ 360 – Criminal Procedure
- CJ 390 – History of Criminal Law
- SM 450 – Sports Law
- MCOM 411 – Media Law
Teaching
Faculty:
Students will be taught by experienced professionals with expertise in their respective fields.
Teaching Methods:
The text mentions engaging professors who utilize a discussion-based approach to learning. This suggests that classes are likely interactive and focus on student participation.
Unique Approaches:
The program emphasizes the development of critical thinking, research, and writing skills. This suggests that students will be actively engaged in these areas throughout their coursework.
Careers
Career Paths:
- Attorney/Lawyer
- Legal Assistant
- Paralegal
Career and Salary Examples:
- Attorney/Lawyer: $72,500
- Legal Assistant: $34,500
- Paralegal: $33,838 – $74,382
Career Development Support:
Career & Professional Development provides a comprehensive range of services and resources to assist Shenandoah students in their career search.
Other
Learning Support Services:
Learning support services are available to all students in every course at Shenandoah. These include peer tutoring, writing assistance, and math assistance.
Minor Declaration:
Students must work with their Academic Advisor to declare the minor.
Incoming Students:
Incoming students should not indicate their intended minor on their Shenandoah application.
Internship Opportunities:
Career & Professional Development helps students search and apply for internships related to their major and career goals.
Faculty Testimonials:
The text includes a testimonial from a former student who highlights the benefits of the program, particularly the emphasis on discussion-based learning and preparation for law school.
