15 Best Majors for Law School: A Complete Guide

Are you wondering which undergraduate major is best for your path to law school? Choosing the right major can be a daunting decision, especially when you’re aiming for a career in law. The wrong choice could mean struggling with irrelevant coursework, missing out on crucial skills, or even lower chances of getting into your dream law school. To help you navigate this decision, seeking guidance from experienced law tutors can provide valuable insights and support.

But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. This article will list and discuss the best majors for aspiring law students, highlighting how each can enhance your legal education and career prospects. From developing critical thinking skills to understanding complex legal systems, find out which majors will set you up for success in law school.

Understanding Law School Admission

Embarking on the journey to law school requires a clear understanding of what admissions committees prioritize. Law schools look for a combination of academic excellence, skill development, and competitive standardized test scores.

Here’s a breakdown of these key factors:

Academic Rigor

Law schools seek students who have demonstrated the ability to handle challenging coursework. Majors that are known for their rigor can show admissions committees that you are prepared for the demanding nature of legal studies. Choosing a major that challenges you intellectually is crucial. According to the American Bar Association (ABA), rigorous majors help develop critical thinking and analytical skills necessary for law school success. Here are some majors that are typically viewed as rigorous:

Majors known for Academic Rigor

Skills Development

Beyond academic rigor, law schools value the development of specific skills that are essential for success in the legal field. These skills include:

• Critical Thinking: The ability to analyze complex issues and arguments.
• Writing and Communication: Strong written and verbal communication skills are essential for drafting legal documents and presenting arguments.
• Research: The capability to conduct thorough and precise research.
• Logical Reasoning: The ability to reason logically and construct coherent arguments.

Each of these skills can be honed through various undergraduate majors, making your choice of study critical in developing a well-rounded skill set for law school. According to the Law School Admission Council (LSAC), students should focus on developing these core competencies during their undergraduate studies.

GPA and LSAT Scores

Your GPA and LSAT scores are critical components of your law school application. High academic performance and strong LSAT scores can significantly enhance your chances of admission. Below is a table illustrating the average GPA and LSAT scores for top law schools:

Maintaining a high GPA and excelling on the LSAT are crucial. According to U.S. News & World Report, these metrics are among the most important factors considered by law school admissions committees. Consulting with law tutors can help you achieve high scores by providing targeted preparation and strategies.

Law schools look for applicants who have excelled academically, developed essential skills, and achieved strong GPA and LSAT scores. By understanding these requirements, you can better prepare yourself for the application process and choose an undergraduate major that aligns with your strengths and career goals.

Best Majors for Law School

The following are the 15 best majors for law school. Let's have a detailed look at each.

1. Political Science

Political Science is one of the most popular undergraduate majors for students aspiring to attend law school. This major provides a comprehensive understanding of governmental systems, political theories, and public policies, all of which are foundational to the study and practice of law.

The coursework often includes subjects such as constitutional law, international relations, and political philosophy, directly correlating with the topics covered in law school. Understanding how government institutions function and the intricacies of legislative processes prepares students for the complexities of legal studies and a career in law.

Skills Acquired

Students majoring in Political Science develop several critical skills highly valued by law schools:

• Analytical Thinking: The ability to critically analyze political systems and public policies sharpens analytical skills, which are essential for legal reasoning.
• Research Skills Political Science programs require extensive research, helping students learn how to gather, evaluate, and synthesize information, a key component of legal practice.
• Writing and Communication: Crafting detailed essays and participating in debates enhances writing proficiency and verbal communication skills, both crucial for success in law school.
• Understanding of Legal Systems: Courses in constitutional law and civil rights provide a strong foundation in the legal principles that govern society.
• Persuasion and Argumentation: Debating political theories and defending viewpoints develops the ability to construct and present arguments effectively, a core skill for any lawyer.

2. History

Majoring in History is an excellent preparation for law school due to the strong analytical skills it develops. History students are trained to scrutinize events, interpret evidence, and understand various perspectives. This analytical approach is crucial in legal studies, where students must dissect case law, evaluate legal precedents, and construct logical arguments.

History majors often engage in in-depth research projects that require them to gather and analyze data, draw conclusions, and present their findings coherently. This process mirrors the analytical tasks lawyers perform when building cases and interpreting statutes. Key analytical skills developed include:

• Critical Analysis: Evaluating historical events and sources to understand underlying causes and effects.
• Research Proficiency: Conducting thorough research using primary and secondary sources.
• Evidence Evaluation: Assessing the reliability and relevance of historical evidence.
• Logical Reasoning: Drawing coherent conclusions from complex data and historical narratives.

Contextual Understanding

A deep understanding of historical contexts is invaluable for aspiring lawyers. History majors study the evolution of legal systems, the impact of landmark cases, and the socio-political factors that influence lawmaking. This background provides a nuanced understanding of how laws develop and change over time, helping law students appreciate the broader context of legal principles and judicial decisions.

For instance, studying the civil rights movement offers insights into current debates about equality and justice, while understanding the historical foundations of constitutional law aids in interpreting modern legal challenges. Key aspects of contextual understanding include:

• Legal Evolution: Understanding how legal systems and principles have developed over time.
• Socio-Political Context: Recognizing the impact of historical events on contemporary law.
• Case Studies: Analyzing historical cases to draw parallels with modern legal issues.
• Writing and Discussion: Engaging in significant writing and discussions to refine communication skills.

3. English

An English major is highly beneficial for law school preparation due to its emphasis on writing and communication skills. Lawyers need to be adept at drafting clear and persuasive legal documents, and an English degree provides rigorous training in this area. Key benefits include:

• Writing Proficiency: Extensive practice in writing essays, research papers, and creative pieces helps students develop clarity, precision, and style in their writing.
• Argumentation: Crafting compelling arguments in essays teaches students how to construct and defend a position effectively.
• Presentation Skills: Many English programs include opportunities for presenting and discussing literary analyses, honing verbal communication skills that are essential for courtroom arguments and client interactions.
• Literary Analysis: Analyzing literature involves interpreting complex texts, identifying themes, and understanding subtext, which are directly applicable to legal analysis.

Critical Thinking

English majors also develop strong critical thinking skills, essential for success in law school and legal practice. The study of literature and rhetoric involves evaluating texts, constructing arguments, and engaging in thoughtful debate. Important aspects include:

• Analytical Reading: Close reading of texts to uncover deeper meanings and implications, similar to how legal documents must be scrutinized.
• Logical Reasoning: Formulating coherent arguments and identifying logical fallacies, which is crucial for building legal cases.
• Research Skills: Conducting literary research and synthesizing information from various sources teaches students to gather and integrate evidence effectively.
• Creative Problem-Solving: Interpreting complex narratives and resolving ambiguities fosters innovative thinking and problem-solving abilities.

4. Philosophy

Philosophy is an excellent major for law school preparation due to its rigorous emphasis on logical reasoning. Law requires the ability to analyze arguments, identify logical fallacies, and construct coherent, persuasive arguments. Philosophy students spend considerable time honing these skills, making them well-prepared for the LSAT and legal studies. Key aspects of logical reasoning developed in philosophy include:

• Critical Analysis: Evaluating complex texts and arguments to understand and critique their logical structure.
• Argument Construction: Learning to build clear, logically sound arguments, essential for legal writing and oral advocacy.
• Deductive and Inductive Reasoning: Practicing various forms of reasoning that are foundational in legal reasoning and case analysis.
• Analytical Skills: Developing the ability to dissect arguments and assess the validity of different claims and evidence.

Ethical Debates

Philosophy also trains students in the art of ethical debate, which is particularly relevant for law, where ethical considerations often play a crucial role in case deliberations and decision-making. Through studying various ethical theories and engaging in moral discussions, students gain a nuanced understanding of ethical issues that arise in legal contexts. Important components include:

• Moral Philosophy: Exploring different ethical frameworks and theories, such as utilitarianism, deontology, and virtue ethics, which inform legal principles and decision-making.
• Case Studies: Analyzing real and hypothetical scenarios to apply ethical theories to practical situations, mirroring the ethical dilemmas faced by legal professionals.
• Debate Skills: Participating in structured debates to defend ethical positions, enhancing the ability to articulate and justify moral judgments.
• Perspective-Taking: Understanding and evaluating different viewpoints, fostering a balanced and comprehensive approach to ethical issues in law.

5. Economics

Economics is a strong preparatory major for law school because it develops robust analytical skills. The study of economics involves understanding complex data, identifying trends, and applying theoretical models to real-world scenarios.

These skills are directly transferable to legal studies, where precise analysis and logical reasoning are paramount. Key analytical skills acquired in economics include:

• Data Analysis: Interpreting statistical data and economic indicators, which is similar to analyzing evidence and case facts in law.
• Problem-Solving: Applying economic theories to solve problems, fostering a methodical approach to legal issues.
• Quantitative Skills: Utilizing mathematical models and quantitative methods, beneficial for areas of law like tax and corporate law.
• Critical Thinking: Evaluating economic policies and their impacts, enhancing the ability to critically assess legal arguments and policies.

Understanding of Markets and Policies

A major in Economics provides a deep understanding of how markets operate and the policies that regulate them. This knowledge is particularly useful for careers in corporate law, antitrust law, and regulatory law. Key areas of understanding include:

• Market Dynamics: Learning about supply and demand, market structures, and economic competition, which are crucial for business and corporate law.
• Policy Analysis: Understanding how economic policies are formulated and their effects on society, aiding in the comprehension of regulatory frameworks and legal reforms.
• Economic Theory: Studying theories of economic behavior and market regulation, providing a foundation for interpreting economic legislation and legal principles.
• Global Economics: Gaining insights into international trade and finance, which is valuable for international law and cross-border legal issues.

6. Business

A Business major is highly beneficial for law school, especially for those interested in corporate law, commercial law, and entrepreneurship. Business programs teach management skills that are crucial for running a law firm or managing legal departments within corporations. Key management skills include:

• Leadership: Developing leadership abilities through courses on organizational behavior and management, essential for leading legal teams.
• Strategic Planning: Learning to create and implement business strategies, which is useful for strategic decision-making in legal practice.
• Financial Acumen: Understanding financial statements, budgeting, and financial analysis, important for managing legal budgets and financial aspects of legal cases.
• Communication: Enhancing interpersonal and communication skills, critical for client relations and effective teamwork in legal settings.

Legal Aspects of Business

Business majors often include coursework on the legal aspects of business, providing a foundational understanding of the intersection between law and commerce. This includes:

• Business Law: Studying laws that govern business operations, such as contracts, corporate law, and employment law.
• Regulatory Compliance: Learning about regulatory requirements and compliance issues, essential for advising businesses on legal matters.
• Intellectual Property: Understanding the basics of intellectual property law, important for protecting business innovations and advising clients.
• Corporate Governance: Exploring the legal responsibilities of corporate officers and boards, aiding in the comprehension of corporate law and ethics.

7. Psychology

A major in Psychology provides a profound understanding of human behavior, which is incredibly valuable for a career in law. Lawyers often need to interpret client behavior, understand witness testimony, and negotiate settlements, all of which benefit from a psychological perspective. Key aspects include:

• Behavioral Insights: Studying how and why people behave the way they do, which aids in understanding clients and opponents.
• Mental Health Awareness: Gaining insights into mental health issues, beneficial for areas like family law, criminal defense, and personal injury law.
• Communication Skills: Learning effective communication strategies, important for client interactions and courtroom presentations.
• Conflict Resolution: Understanding psychological principles of conflict and cooperation, aiding in negotiation and mediation.

Research Skills

Psychology majors are trained in rigorous research methodologies, which are directly applicable to legal studies and practice. These skills include:

• Data Collection: Learning to design studies and collect data, similar to gathering evidence in legal cases.
• Statistical Analysis: Analyzing quantitative data, essential for interpreting case statistics and research findings.
• Critical Evaluation: Critically evaluating research studies and their methodologies, important for assessing the reliability of evidence.
• Experimental Design: Understanding how to construct experiments, which helps in developing case strategies and testing legal theories.

8. Sociology

Sociology is an excellent major for law school preparation due to its focus on social dynamics and structures. Understanding the societal context in which laws operate is crucial for many areas of legal practice, such as civil rights, family law, and public policy. Key aspects include:

• Group Behavior: Studying how groups interact and influence individual behavior, important for jury selection and understanding community impacts.
• Cultural Awareness: Gaining insights into different cultures and societal norms, aiding in cases involving diverse populations and international law.
• Social Inequality: Understanding issues of social justice and inequality, which is essential for advocacy and public interest law.
• Institutional Analysis: Examining how institutions like the family, education, and government impact society, relevant for various legal contexts.

Research and Analysis

Sociology majors are trained in both qualitative and quantitative research methods, providing a strong foundation for legal research and case analysis. These skills include:

• Survey Design: Learning to design and conduct surveys, useful for gathering client information and public opinion.
• Statistical Techniques: Applying statistical techniques to analyze social data, important for case studies and demographic analysis.
• Ethnographic Research: Conducting in-depth qualitative research, which is valuable for understanding client backgrounds and case contexts.
• Data Interpretation: Interpreting complex social data to draw meaningful conclusions, aiding in the development of legal arguments and strategies.

9. Criminal Justice

A major in Criminal Justice offers a comprehensive understanding of the legal system, which is invaluable for law school preparation. Students learn about the intricacies of criminal law, the judicial process, and the various components of the criminal justice system, such as law enforcement, courts, and corrections. Getting support from law tutors can enhance your understanding of the criminal justice system and its legal applications. Key aspects include:

• Criminal Law: Gaining knowledge of substantive and procedural criminal law.
• Judicial Process: Understanding the steps from investigation to trial and sentencing.
• Law Enforcement: Learning about policing strategies and the role of law enforcement in society.
• Corrections: Exploring the correctional system, including rehabilitation and punishment.

Practical Knowledge

Criminal Justice majors acquire practical knowledge that is directly applicable to legal practice. This includes:

• Case Studies: Analyzing real-world cases to understand legal principles in action.
• Internships: Gaining hands-on experience through internships in law enforcement agencies, courts, and legal firms.
• Field Work: Engaging in fieldwork to observe the criminal justice system firsthand.
• Problem-Solving: Developing problem-solving skills to address complex legal issues.

10. Communications

Communications majors are well-prepared for law school due to their training in public speaking. Lawyers must be effective public speakers to present arguments, question witnesses, and persuade juries. Key skills developed include:

• Oral Presentation: Mastering the art of delivering clear and compelling presentations.
• Debate: Engaging in debates to practice articulating and defending positions.
• Audience Analysis: Understanding how to tailor messages to different audiences, which is crucial in the courtroom.
• Confidence Building: Developing confidence to speak persuasively in front of groups.

Persuasion Techniques

Communications majors also learn various persuasion techniques, which are essential for legal practice. These include:

• Rhetorical Strategies: Studying rhetorical techniques to craft persuasive arguments.
• Negotiation Skills: Learning negotiation tactics to resolve disputes amicably.
• Media Communication: Understanding how to communicate effectively through different media channels.
• Message Framing: Mastering the art of framing messages to influence opinions and decisions.

11. International Relations

A major in International Relations provides students with a global perspective, which is increasingly important in today's interconnected world. This major is particularly valuable for those interested in international law, human rights, and global policy. Key aspects include:

• International Law: Studying treaties, international agreements, and the legal frameworks governing international relations.
• Global Issues: Understanding global issues such as human rights, environmental policy, and international trade.
• Cross-Cultural Communication: Learning to communicate and negotiate across different cultures.
• Diplomacy: Exploring diplomatic practices and strategies.

Political Systems

Understanding various political systems is another crucial component of International Relations. This knowledge helps future lawyers navigate different legal landscapes and international cases. For a deeper understanding of international law, law tutors can offer specialized knowledge and resources. Key areas include:

• Comparative Politics: Comparing different political systems and their legal frameworks.
• Government Structures: Learning about the structures and functions of various governments.
• Policy Analysis: Analyzing policies and their impacts on national and international levels.
• International Organizations: Studying the role and functioning of international organizations like the UN and the WTO.

12. Environmental Science

A major in Environmental Science provides a solid foundation for those interested in environmental law. This field is growing in importance as global concerns about climate change, conservation, and sustainability increase. Key aspects include:

• Regulatory Frameworks: Understanding national and international environmental laws and regulations.
• Case Studies: Analyzing landmark environmental cases to understand legal precedents and implications.
• Conservation Principles: Learning about ecological principles and how they influence environmental policies.
• Legal Applications: Exploring how scientific knowledge is applied in legal contexts to protect the environment.

Policy Analysis

Environmental Science majors also gain skills in policy analysis, crucial for developing and evaluating environmental policies. These skills include:

• Policy Development: Learning how environmental policies are formulated and implemented.
• Impact Assessment: Conducting environmental impact assessments to evaluate the effects of proposed projects or policies.
• Data Analysis: Utilizing scientific data to inform policy decisions and legal strategies.
• Advocacy: Understanding the role of advocacy in shaping environmental policy and law.

13. Foreign Languages

Majoring in Foreign Languages is particularly beneficial for students interested in international law, immigration law, and any legal field that requires cross-border communication. Key benefits include:

• Language Proficiency: Achieving fluency in one or more foreign languages, which is valuable for communicating with clients and colleagues globally.
• Legal Terminology: Learning legal terminology in different languages, essential for interpreting international legal documents.
• Translation Skills: Developing the ability to translate legal documents accurately and effectively.
• Cultural Insights: Gaining insights into the legal systems and cultural contexts of other countries.

Cross-Cultural Communication

A Foreign Languages major also enhances cross-cultural communication skills, which are crucial for effective legal practice in a globalized world. By focusing on multilingual skills and cross-cultural communication, a Foreign Languages major prepares students for the global dimensions of modern legal practice. This background is particularly advantageous for careers in international law, where language proficiency and cultural understanding are key to success. Key aspects include:

• Cultural Competence: Understanding cultural nuances and how they impact communication and legal processes.
• Negotiation Skills: Learning to negotiate across different cultural contexts, important for international diplomacy and legal agreements.
• Intercultural Awareness: Developing sensitivity to cultural differences, which is essential for client relations and courtroom dynamics.
• Global Networking: Building a network of contacts from diverse backgrounds, facilitating international collaborations and legal practice.

14. Anthropology

Anthropology is an excellent major for students interested in law due to its emphasis on cultural awareness and understanding human societies. This major provides insights into the diverse cultural backgrounds and practices that influence people's behavior and interactions, which is particularly valuable in legal contexts involving human rights, immigration, and family law. Key aspects include:

• Ethnographic Studies: Understanding different cultures through immersive fieldwork and ethnographic research.
• Cultural Sensitivity: Developing the ability to navigate and respect cultural differences in legal practice.
• Human Rights: Gaining insights into the cultural dimensions of human rights issues.
• Legal Anthropology: Studying how laws are interpreted and applied in various cultural contexts.

Research and Observation

Anthropology majors are trained in research and observation methods, which are directly applicable to legal studies and practice. These skills include:

• Qualitative Research: Conducting in-depth qualitative research to understand complex social issues.
• Participant Observation: Using observation techniques to gather detailed information about social interactions and behaviors.
• Data Analysis: Analyzing qualitative data to draw meaningful conclusions and inform legal strategies.
• Fieldwork Experience: Gaining hands-on experience through fieldwork, which enhances the ability to investigate and understand legal cases.

15. Public Administration

A major in Public Administration is highly beneficial for students aiming for careers in public interest law, administrative law, and governmental roles. This major provides a comprehensive understanding of government operations and public sector management. Key aspects include:

• Public Policy: Learning how public policies are developed, implemented, and evaluated.
• Government Structures: Understanding the structures and functions of various levels of government.
• Administrative Law: Studying the legal frameworks that govern public administration.
• Budgeting and Finance: Gaining knowledge of public budgeting and financial management, crucial for managing public resources.

Policy Implementation

Public Administration majors also develop skills in policy implementation, which are essential for ensuring that laws and policies are effectively executed. These skills include:

• Program Management: Learning how to design, implement, and manage public programs and initiatives.
• Regulatory Compliance: Understanding how to ensure compliance with laws and regulations.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Developing strategies for engaging with stakeholders and the public to support policy implementation.
• Evaluation Techniques: Using evaluation techniques to assess the effectiveness of policies and programs.

Is Pre-Law the Best Major to Prepare for Law School?

The notion of majoring in Pre-Law as the best preparation for law school is a common misconception. While Pre-Law programs offer an overview of legal concepts and the legal system, they might not necessarily provide the best preparation compared to other majors.

What Are the Best Majors for Students Planning to Attend Law School?

Lack of Depth in Specific Skills: Pre-Law programs often cover a broad range of legal topics but may lack depth in developing specific skills crucial for law school success. For instance, law schools highly value critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and strong writing abilities. Majors such as Philosophy, English, and Political Science are renowned for fostering these skills through rigorous coursework and in-depth analysis of complex texts and theories.

No Competitive Edge: According to the American Bar Association (ABA), law schools do not require or prefer a Pre-Law major. They seek students who excel academically and demonstrate a capacity for critical thought, regardless of their undergraduate major. This means that a student with a high GPA in History or Economics might be just as competitive, if not more so, than a Pre-Law major. Admissions committees often look for a diverse educational background, which can offer unique perspectives and problem-solving approaches in the study of law.

Broader Knowledge Base: Majoring in a field other than Pre-Law can provide a broader knowledge base and skill set that can be advantageous in law school and beyond. For example, a degree in Psychology can offer insights into human behavior, which is valuable in areas such as criminal law and family law. An Economics major provides a solid foundation for understanding market regulations and corporate law.

Flexibility and Interest: Finally, choosing a major based on personal interest and strengths can lead to better academic performance and a more enjoyable undergraduate experience. Passion for the subject matter often translates into higher grades and a deeper engagement with the material, both of which are beneficial for law school applications.

Best Pre-Law Schools - The Top 9 Schools in 2024

While Pre-Law can provide a basic understanding of the legal field, it is not necessarily the best major to prepare for law school. Students should consider majors that develop critical skills, align with their interests, and offer a broader educational background to enhance their law school readiness and future legal careers.

Conclusion

Numerous undergraduate majors effectively prepare students for law school, each offering unique benefits and skill sets. Whether it's Political Science, History, English, Philosophy, or other fields like Economics, Business, Psychology, Sociology, Criminal Justice, Communications, International Relations, Environmental Science, Foreign Languages, Anthropology, and Public Administration, each provides essential skills for legal studies. Students should choose a major that aligns with their interests and strengths, focusing on developing critical thinking, analytical abilities, and strong communication skills to build a solid foundation for law school and beyond.