As future leaders, students in this major will become critical thinkers able to apply and understand various legal concepts in their interaction with real-world issues locally, nationally and globally. This program is particularly appropriate for students interested in pursuing a career that integrates legal concepts with other disciplines — or that requires familiarity with extensive aspects of the legal system.
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Internship and Research Opportunities
Undergraduate students majoring in Legal Studies have the opportunity to intern as part of their degree requirements.
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The B.S. in Legal studies is a major designed for students who are looking to become future leaders in the community, the city, the state, the nation and the world. It is also suitable for students wanting to pursue graduate education in various disciplines, including economics, humanities, social science, political science, business, health care, public service and many more, and for anyone who wants to obtain a general understanding of the place of law in contemporary society.
Yes, currently enrolled USC students in good standing may request to change their major at any time, preferably before they reach 65 units.
Students who wish to change their major must submit a Change of Major Request Form.
The BS in Legal Studies offers foundational knowledge in law. Students gain early exposure to legal concepts. This could help a student identify if law school is the right next step for them. Law schools accept students from a variety of majors. Undergraduate students should feel empowered to choose the major that they are genuinely interested in.
Legal Studies takes a deep dive into the legal framework and teaches students what goes into creating and carrying out law. Students will gain an in-depth understanding of the legal system including the infrastructure, the reasoning process and the substantive commitments that the legal system has made. The major requirements are all law courses through the USC Gould School of Law.
As part of your academic learning experience, we strongly encourage students to seek out internships on their own; however, if students need assistance in attaining an internship, we have dedicated staff to help and support their needs.
In recent years, the legal field has been diversifying and employing many individuals in new and exciting roles. As the field has grown and evolved, so have the employment interests and objectives for college graduates who are interested in working in law but may not want to become practicing attorneys. USC Gould's bachelor's degree in Legal Studies provides students with a strong foundation that will prepare them for innovative and emerging employment opportunities or graduate studies.
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View program and university requirements for the B.S. Legal Studies degree, as well as a sample four-year course plan.
Our student ambassadors are available to answer any of your questions about undergraduate student life at Gould and USC. Email them anytime at UGambassadors@law.usc.edu
Diego is a first-year majoring in Legal Studies. His areas of interest are corporate law and the private sector. This past year, he has been working at Operation New Hope helping at-risk youth. He is a part of Latino Students in Law, La CASA, Latin dance, and Trojan Boxing. In his free time, he likes to go hiking, biking, exploring, and gaming.
Mia is a second-year majoring in legal studies. She is on the general track, exploring sectors such as criminal law, corporate law, and more. She is a part of and one of the directors of BreakThrough hip-hop. In her free time, she likes to dance, read, and go hiking.
Amani is a second-year student majoring in Legal Studies. His area of interest is private law, particularly the intersection of law and business. He is passionate about understanding how these two fields shape the workings of our country and believes that a strong education in both will be key to making an impact. This year, Amani is looking forward to working with JusticeCorps, providing legal assistance to self-represented litigants in the surrounding South Central area. He is also involved in the Trojan Review, Black Pre-Law Student Association, Southern California Moot Court, Blackstonians, and LSSA. Additionally, he holds an executive position in USC’s Political Student Assembly. In his free time, Amani enjoys playing tennis, board games, and spending time with friends.
Norgenia is a second-year student majoring in Legal Studies with an interest in the intersections of law, international relations, intellectual property, and business. She plans to attend law school and pursue a career in intellectual property or corporate law. On campus, she is a member of the Blackstonians Pre-Law Honor Society. Outside of academics, Norgenia enjoys baking, hiking, and listening to music.
Learn more about admissions and financial aid for the BS Legal Studies or click the button below to apply now.
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