What is a Bachelor's Degree in Legal Studies?

A bachelor's degree in Legal Studies is an undergraduate program that provides students with a broad understanding of the legal system, legal research, and legal writing. The curriculum covers a range of topics, including civil and criminal law, constitutional law, legal ethics, and alternative dispute resolution. The program is designed to prepare students for careers in law, government, non-profit organizations, and the private sector, or to continue their education with a master's or doctoral degree.

Pros and Cons of Pursuing a Bachelor's Degree in Legal Studies

Pros

• Comprehensive understanding of the legal system and legal processes
• Develops critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills
• Prepares students for a variety of career paths, including law, government, and non-profit organizations
• Opportunity to continue education with a master's or doctoral degree

Cons

• The program may not provide the same level of specialized legal training as a Juris Doctor (JD) program
• Graduates may need to complete additional coursework or certifications to meet specific job requirements
• The job market for legal studies graduates can be competitive, depending on the location and industry

How to Get a Bachelor's Degree in Legal Studies

1. Meet the admission requirements: To be admitted to a bachelor's degree program in Legal Studies, you typically need to meet the following requirements:

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Minimum GPA (usually around 2.5-3.0)
• Standardized test scores (SAT or ACT)
• Transcripts from previous educational institutions
• Personal statement or essay
• Letters of recommendation

2. Apply to the Legal Studies program: Once you have met the admission requirements, you can apply to the Legal Studies program of your choice. This usually involves submitting an application, transcripts, and any other required materials.

3. Explore financial aid options: Financing your education is an important consideration when pursuing a bachelor's degree. Fortunately, there are various financial aid options available, including:

• Scholarships: Offered by the university, private organizations, or government agencies based on academic merit, financial need, or other criteria.
• Grants: Need-based financial assistance that does not need to be repaid, such as the Federal Pell Grant.
• Student loans: Federal loans (e.g., Direct Subsidized Loans, Direct Unsubsidized Loans) or private loans that must be repaid with interest.
• Work-study programs: Part-time employment opportunities provided by the university to help cover educational expenses.

4. Enroll and complete the program: Once you have been accepted and secured funding, you can enroll in the Legal Studies program. The program typically takes four years to complete and includes a combination of general education courses, core Legal Studies courses, and electives. Throughout the program, you will develop a strong foundation in legal research, writing, and analysis, as well as an understanding of the legal system and various legal specialties.

List of Online Bachelor’s Degree in Legal Studies

If you're exploring online bachelor's degree options in Legal Studies, Florida offers several choices. One notable website is Dreambound, which provides a flexible and economical Legal Studies degree program.

Dreambound is an online educational platform that teams up with accredited universities to offer high-quality and affordable degree programs. Their online bachelor's degree in Legal Studies caters to students seeking a flexible and accessible learning experience.

Programs and schools available through Dreambound include:

Liberty University Online

Program:

• BS: Paralegal Studies: E-Discovery
• BS: Paralegal Studies

Cost Range: $20,000 - $45,000

University of Maryland Global Campus

Program:

• Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies

Cost Range: $30,000 - $40,000