Pre-Law

It is the student’s responsibility to meet all requirements for their chosen degree.

Admission to most law schools requires a baccalaureate degree.

How to prepare for a law school education

Law schools want students who can think critically and write well, and who have some understanding of the forces that have shaped the human experience. These attributes can be acquired in any number of college courses, whether in the arts and humanities, the social sciences, or the natural sciences.

An undergraduate career that is narrowly based or vocationally oriented may not be the best preparation for law school. As long as you receive an education including critical analysis, logical reasoning, and written and oral expression, the range of acceptable college majors is very broad. What counts is the intensity and depth of your undergraduate program and your capacity to perform well at an academically rigorous level.

What does a legal education cover?

Although you may choose from several different paths to a good legal education, whether the law school you choose is public or private, large or small, faith-related or independent, or affiliated with a university, you’ll find that the basic curriculum focuses on certain legal skills required of all lawyers.

A legal education is designed to develop your analytic, creative, and logical reasoning abilities. Going to law school will also straighten your reading and debating skills.

Lawyers must know how to analyze legal issues in light of the constantly changing state of the law and public policy. They must be able to advocate the views of individuals and diverse interest groups within the context of the legal system. They must be able to synthesize material that relates to multifaceted issues. They must give intelligent counsel on the law’s requirements. Moreover, lawyers must write and speak clearly and be able to persuade and negotiate effectively.

How can I find out more about law schools?

Visit law school websites or write to law schools for their bulletins, catalogs, or other materials that include complete and current information. A complete list with addresses for all LSAC-member schools in the US and Canada is included at this website: https://www.lsac.org

IMPORTANT NOTE: Read the AA or AS guide sheet carefully to be sure you meet all course requirements for the Associate degree. Students should also be aware of “Graduation Requirements” listed in the IVCC catalog.

3/18/2021