Pre-Law

Law schools, while requiring a bachelor’s degree, do not require a specific major. Skills for effective written and oral communication are critical, as well as analytic and critical thinking skills. Beyond these, in selecting a major for law school, students should consider personal interests and areas in which they may wish to practice law. Common majors for Mayville State University students planning to apply to law schools include: Business, Communications, Criminal Justice, English, Psychology, and Social Science. It is recommended that pre-law students pursue a dual major and/or minor(s) in areas of interest and relevance, including areas like history, mathematics, or science.

Each law school has its own undergraduate requirements, and so it is important to identify the law school or schools to which you plan to apply. In addition to working with your Mayville State advisor, you should work with an advisor from your law school(s) of choice for specific requirements.

Students should consider these common requirements during their undergraduate studies:

- Any specific academic prerequisites for your preferred law schools(s).

- Maintaining a competitive GPA.

- Participate in extracurricular, community, and volunteer activities to develop and demonstrate teamwork and leadership skills.

- Work closely with advisors, faculty, and mentors who can help guide you through the process.

- Most law schools require the Law School Admission Test (LSAT). You should begin preparing for the LSAT during your junior year.

Students who declare a Pre-Law area of study are placed into the Criminal Justice major. If you wish to review or change your major or choice of pre-professional area of study, please work with your advisor.